0191 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
AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 8-U-T2
"Put It All Together" "by building a package that will increase and vividly illustrate the value of Legion membership, Joe. L. Matthews, a member of the National Commander's Advisory Committee, told American Legion membership workers at the workshop banquet here.
* * #
American Legion National Commander John H. Geiger, speaking as a war veteran and an engineer, has questioned the competency of a "left wing radical" and well-known actress with respect to her evaluation of American military tactics and alleged damage effects on the enemy's canals and dikes.
* * *
Sweeping proposals, on veterans' legislation, foreign policy, national security and Americanism will be presented to the Republican Party's Platform Committee by American Legion National Commander John H. Geiger on Monday, Aug. lU in Miami Beach, Fla. * * *
****** * WASHINGTON—(ALMS)—The United States Senate, in action late Thursday, Aug. 3, * passed the Vietnam-era Veterans Readjustment Act of 1972 (under the House Number of HR 12828) by a unanimous roll call vote of 89-0.
The bill generally satisfied American Legion Resolution 3^2, passed at the 53rd National Convention held in Houston, Aug. 31-Sept. 2, 1971, to increase the * allowance a veteran will receive by an average of k3%.
Under HR 12828, if it becomes law, the single veteran will receive $250 per * month instead of the $175 he is currently receiving; a veteran with one dependent * $297 instead of $205; and, a veteran with two dependents $339 instead of $230. A * veteran with more than two dependents will receive $339 plus $21, instead of $13, * for each additional dependent.
The Senate-passed bill also calls for advance payment, tuition loans and other * improvements over the existing "G.I. Bill."
************* *****************************
******************** ********************** * * * There will be no American Legion News Service on Aug. 11, the week prior to I the National Convention in Chicago, 111., Aug. 18-2U. Two mailings of ALNS will * be made from the Convention City. Normal ALNS operations will be resumed from * Indianapolis on Sept. 1.
*********** ***** ****** *********** ****** -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0192 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 8-4-72
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"Put It All Together" by building a package that will increase and vividly illustrate the value of Legion membership.
That was the challenge placed before American Legion membership workers attending I the Ninth Annual Membership Workshop here Aug. 3-k by Joe L. Matthews of Texas, a [ member of the National Commander's Advisory Committee and the Legion's National Internal Affairs Commission.
Addressing the workshop banquet, Matthews told more than 200 membership workers I from practically every Department: "We want to build a package that will inspire and motivate our Legion membership teams to tell what your post is doing for our present and potential members - a package that will give these teams the enthusiasm, sincerity and dedication that will insure a greater membership and stronger posts - a package that will show that 'Reach Out - In Service For America' is still the ideal, the | objective for which each of us is striving."
He further challenged all Legionnaires to have "specific objectives" for this coming year. "I don't think we should be satisfied that any of our programs have reached their ultimate effectiveness. We should be looking for new ideas - new ways to improve what we are already doing and new ideas for accomplishing what we know is necessary," he said. ' -alns-
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Alisa Faye Greer of Kansas City, Kan., running as the Federalist Party nominee, won the presidency of the American Legion Auxiliary's 1972 Girls Nation here over the Nationalist Party nominee, Patricia Shelly of Middleport, N.Y.
Miss Greer, who will be a senior at Rosedale High School this fall, won on a platform which favored an extensive educational drive to inform persons of the dangers of over-population-, more stringent enforcement of laws concerning pollution; more federal financial aid to elementary and secondary schools and reformation of the welfare system to include those not presently being served and to eliminate "those now unnecessarily included."
Federalist nominee, Aldine Canha, of Honolulu, Hawaii, was elected Girls Nation vice president over Bonnie Johnson of Valley City, N.D., running on the Nationalist ticket. -alns-
INDIANAP0LIS—(ALNS)"We may know what is good for the Legion, but do we know what is good for the Legionnaire?" Dr. Edgar G. Williams pointedly asked over 200 American Legion membership workers attending the Ninth Annual Membership Workshop at National Headquarters here.
In the keynote address of a series of lectures on a program entitled, "Let's Put It All Together," the Indiana University Graduate School professor and Legionnaire said, "Emphasis should be on participating in the Legion as well as on joining. We should find out what interests the veteran...as a leader, you cannot influence someone unless you know his interests and needs." -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0193 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 8-U-72
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—American Legion National Commander John H. Geiger has issued the following statement with respect to alleged U.S. bombing of North Vietnamese dikes:
"The North Vietnamese communists have launched a major propaganda effort to convince the world that the United States is deliberately destroying their crucial dike system.
"Recognizing the extensiveness of the dikes in North Vietnam, it is normal that some damage is inevitable in spite of the care exercised by American pilots when attacking adjacent military targets.
"We suggest to these people, who have wantonly invaded all of the countries on their borders, that their soldiers might perform a better service at home repairing the dikes rather than inflicting misery, suffering and death on others through their aggressive ventures into foreign territory. Such a move would soon bring the bombing to a halt since this American action is intended to stop Hanoi's capacity for aggression.
"In their effort to support claims of deliberate bombing, the North Vietnamese have enlisted the aid of one of their favorite American left wing radicals, a well- known actress. This woman has attracted considerable attention here and elsewhere with her concern for a nation that has killed 50,000 American men. As a war veteran and an engineer, I question her competency to evaluate the military tactics of our men or the damage effects on the enemy's canals and dikes.
"As a further recommendation to critics of United States policy, I would recommend to United Nations Secretary General Waldheim that he personally organize an inter- national team of expert hydraulic engineers and military observers to inspect the North Vietnamese dike system and related military targets and report in detail on any damage observed. This approach would do much to separate propaganda from fact as concerns this issue."
-alns-
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—Secretary of the Navy John Warner will be a featured speaker during a special business session of The American Legion's National Security Commission Aug. 22 during the Legion's 5Uth Annual National Convention here. The meeting will be in Parlor B, 3rd Floor, the Conrad Hilton Hotel.
One of several special business sessions scheduled for the morning of Aug. 22, the National Security meeting will be open to all Legionnaire delegates, and will address questions in the national security area designed to assist the delegates in forming opinions for later floor discussion and voting.
In addition to Secretary Warner, Mr. G. Warren Nutter, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs,* Mr. James J. Reynolds, President of the American Institute of Merchant Shipping and Mr. T.H. Eberle, Member of the Board of Governors of the American National Red Cross, will appear on the program.
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0194 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 8-^-72
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The National Commander of The American Legion, John H. Geiger, of Des Plaines, 111., will appear before the Republican Party's Platform Committee Monday, Aug. ik in Miami Beach.
Commander Geiger will appear before the full platform committee of the Republican Party to discuss national security, foreign policy and Americanism.
Commander Geiger will reiterate The American Legion's long-standing belief that active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during a state of war or national emergency constitutes a special service to our country and entitles those who have served to special recognition, and that the cost of such recognition is a delayed cost of the war or emergency.
The Commander will, among other things, recommend:
1) The continuation of the Veterans Administration as the single agency vested with the sole responsibility of administering all programs for veterans and their dependents;
2) A meaningful education, job training and employment program for Vietnam-era veterans;
3) That we pursue a defense and foreign policy based on the proposition of peace through strength;
U) The continuation of military and economic assistance to the peoples of Southeast Asia;
5) That we remain receptive to peace talks with the North Vietnamese while insisting on the enemy's full compliance with the Geneva Convention on the treatment of POWs;
6) Support for law enforcement agencies at all levels, along with improved training facilities, better equipment and adequate compensation for the personnel of these agencies;
7) Continued support for those government agencies for our internal security,
8) Ask to change Veterans Day back to Nov. 11; and,
9) Ask for Congressional review of postal rate increases especially for non- profit publications. -alns-
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Maj. Gen. Daniel (Chappie) James, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, was promoted to his present grade on July 31. The promotion makes him the highest ranking black officer on duty with the United States Air Force. James was the 1971 winner of the National Commander's Public Relations Award presented to him by then National Commander Alfred P. Chamie.
-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0195 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION ■THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. 0 Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-U-72
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALUS)—Lincoln Post 3, Lincoln, Neb., has regained the title of the largest post of The American Legion, with a reported membership of 7,103 as of June 30, 1972.
Legion National Commander John H. Geiger also announced that the Lincoln Post is one of 31 posts with 2,000 or more members in the National Organization.
Richfield Post U35, Minneapolis, Minn., with 6,768 Legionnaires, was runner-up for top membership among the 2,000-plus posts.
The complete list of king-size posts follows:
1. Lincoln Post No. 3 Lincoln, Neb. 7,103 2. Richfield Post No. 1+35 Minneapolis, Minn. 6,768 3. Wayne E. Marchand Post No. 28 Okinawa, Hawaii 5,797 h. Leyden-Chiles-Wickersham Post No, 1 Denver, Colo. k,563 5. Omaha Post No. 1 Omaha, Neb. i+,386 6. Westphal Post No. 251 Robbinsdale, Minn. fc,173 7. Lowe-McFarlane Post No. 1*+ Shreveport, La. U.163 8. Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 Milwaukee, Wis. 3,666 9. Gilbert C. Grafton Post No. 2 Fargo, N.D. 3,H82 10. Hanford Post No. 5 Cedar Rapids, Iowa 3,01k 11. Adam Plewacki Post No. 799 Buffalo,' N.Y. 3,0lt5 12. East Liberty Post No. 5 Pittsburgh, Pa. 3,002 13. M.M. Eberts Post No. 1 Little Rock, Ark. 3,000 1U. Nicholson Post No. Ik Baton Rouge, La. 2,802 15. Harvey W. Seeds Post No. 29 Miami, Fla. 2,6Ul 16. Los Angeles Police Post No. 38l Los Angeles, Calif. 2t62k 17. Hickory Post No. U8 Hickory, N.C. 2,566 18. Parkville Post No. 183 Parkville, Md. 2,555 19- Lloyd Spetz Post No. 1 Bismarck, N.D. 2,396 20. Nashville Post No. 5 Nashville, Tenn. 2,311 21. Memphis Post No. 1 Memphis, Tenn. 2,229 22. Oklahoma City Post No. 35 Oklahoma City, Okla. 2,202 23. Saigon Post No. 3*+ Vietnam, Hawaii 2,162 2k. Austin Post No. 91 Austin, Minn. 2.1U3 25. Hammond Post No. 3 Kingsport, Tenn. 2,111 26. Commonwealth Edison Post No. 118 Chicago, 111. 2,091 27. Carson-Wilson Post No. 1 Tulsa, Okla. 2,087 28. William G. Carroll Post No. 26 Minot, N.D. 2,07U 29. Luke-Greenway Post No. 1 Phoenix, Ariz. 2,01*7 30. Lafayette Post No. 11 Lafayette, Ind. 2,031+ 31. James Dickey Post No. 23 Portsmouth, Ohio 2,015
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS B3 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 8-^-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—Art Linkletter, radio, television and movie star, will speak on drug abuse at a special "Youth and The Legion" business session Tuesday, Aug. 22, during the 5Uth Annual American Legion National Convention in Chicago.
Mr. Linkletter's daughter, Diane, died two years ago from the use of LSD and since then he has been on a crusade against drug abuse. He has appeared on radio and television and given numerous talks across the country. In addition he has attended numerous drug seminars and spent considerable time with top drug authorities. His principal concern is with education and prevention.
The "Youth and The Legion''' session will consist of a six-member panel - three youths and three adults. All of the youths will be American Legion or American Legion Auxiliary Youth Champions and each will make a presentation on the subject, "the world as I see it. :
In addition to Mr. Linkletter, other adult participants include the Rev. Paul J. Schwaab, National Chaplain of The American Legion, who will speak on the subject "Responsibilities of Citizenship at Age 18"; and Dr. Jack Mears, Professor at Highland University, Las Vegas, New Mexico, who will speak on "Career Education."
Following the presentations by the panelists, there will be a dialogue between the adult and youth participants, with questions from the audience to follow.
The "Youth and The Legion" session will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Conrad Hilton Hotel at 9:30 a.m.
-alns-
WASHINGTON--(ALNS)--American Legion National Commander John H. Geiger climaxed a busy three-days in the nation's capital Thursday, July 27, when he called on Senators Mike Mansfield and Vance Hartke to discuss current veterans' legislation pending before the Congress.
In particular, Commander Geiger discussed with the majority leader and the chairman of the Senate committee for Veterans Affairs the status of the Vietnam era veterans' readjustment act of 1972 (Senate Bill S-2l6l) , which calls for, among other things, a proposed k3% increase in the monthly allowance for veterans attending school.
Commander Geiger and the Senators also discussed legislation pending on national cemeteries and on expansion of veterans health care.
Commander Geiger also paid a courtesy call on the speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Carl Albert.
Wednesday evening, at American University here, Commander Geiger addressed the 100 delegates to the 26th annual Girls Nation.
-alns- 0197 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 8-J+-72
COOPERSTOWN, N.Y.--(ALNS)—Randolph Gregory Haas, of West Covina. Calif., 1971 American Legion Baseball Player of the Year, will he honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and The American Legion during a plaque presentation before a crowd of nearly 10,000 fans at Doubleday Field here, Monday, Aug. 7. Randy was an outfielder on the 1971 American Legion National championship team sponsored by West Covina Post I y U •
John H. Geiger, American Legion National Commander, will present the plaque to the West Covina, Calif., Legion star just prior to the New York Yankees-Los Angeles Dodgers Hall of Fame game.
By virtue of a special arrangement with officials of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, an American Legion Baseball player is selected each year from competing teams at the Legion's World Series as the "American Legion Baseball Player of the Year. ' The player's picture is mounted upon a plaque and placed in the Game's Shrine. The selection is made on the basis of playing ability, integrity, mental attitude, cooperation, citizenship, sportsmanship and general good conduct.
Selection committee members include representatives of the Baseball Writers Association of America, The American Legion, Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, American Association of College Baseball Coaches and the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues.
American Legion Baseball will be represented by 3*+ of its roster of most famous graduates in the 1972 Hall of Fame Game, according to Daniel J. O'Connor, Jackson Heights, N.Y., chairman of The American Legion's National Americanism Commission.
Of the National League Los Angeles Dodgers, 16 players came to major league fame via Legion Baseball. They are: Jim Brewer, Bill Buckner, Chris Cannizzaro, Dick Dietz, Al Downing, Steve Garvey, Bill Grabarkewitz, Tommy John, Pete Mikkelsen, Claude Osteen, Wes Parker, Frank Robinson, Duke Sims, Bill Singer, Mike Strahler and Bob Valentine.
On the American League New York Yankees, 18 Legion Baseball representatives will include: Fred Beene, Wade Blasingame, Ron Blomberg, John Callison, John Ellis, Mike Kekich, Jerry Kenney, Steve Kline, Hal Lanier, Al Lyle, Lindy McDaniel, Gene Michael, Thurman Munson, Bobby Murcer, Fred Peterson, Jim Roland, Mel Stottlemyre, and Rov White. J
American Legion Baseball's 1972 World Series will be played at Blues Stadium, Memphis, Tenn. , Aug. 31-Sept. 5.
•-alns-
PHOENIX, ARIZ.—(ALNS)—I.A. Jennings, 76, former Arizona National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (193)4.40), died here recently. A World War I veteran, he served as Arizona Department Commander in 1933-3)+, and as Legion National Legislative Committee Chairman in 1939-1+1.
-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION THE AMERICAN LEGION
C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director
HEADQUARTERS G3 P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington. D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-U-72
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The Administrator of the Veterans Administration, Donald E. Johnson, announced Aug. 1, 1972, that the VA's home loan program, an important program for veterans for 28 years, is currently experiencing a major upsurge.
During the fiscal year which ended June 30, 1972, the VA granted 359,000 home loans, the highest number in the last 15 years, with a total value of $7.8-billion. The 359,000 loan total was an 8l# increase over Fiscal Year 1971. The VA forecasts that again a new record in the number of loans made will be established for Fiscal Year 1973.
The G.I. home loan program is also helping nearly nine million older veterans again because all cutoff dates were erased by a law signed by President Nixon Oct. 23, 1970.
The popularity of the G.I. home loan program is due to several factors. Besides the removal of expiration dates and the increase of men leaving the service, the low interest rate of, currently, 1%; the inc.usion of mobile homes and condominiums within the provisions of the law, the granting of loans to refinance existing mortgages; the eligibility of servicemen after only six months in uniform, and the establishment by the VA of a Home Counseling Service have contributed significantly to the upsurge of applications for home loans.
Also, wives of servicemen who are prisoners of war or missing in action are now eligible for loans, and widows of men who died in service or from service-connected conditions have full eligibility.
According to Administrator Johnson, the G.I. home loan program has come so far during the last 28 years that many of the young veterans now getting their own loans grew up in homes bought with G.I. loans.
-alns-
WASHINGTON—!ALNS)—The veterans plank of the 1972 National Democratic Platform, as published in the Congressional Record of July 2U, contains a slight but significant editorial change in an area of great interest to The American Legion. The text of the "Rights of Veterans'" section now calls for ;'future coordination of health care for veterans with the national health care insurance program'' instead of "integration" of such medical care with a national health insurance program as previously reported.
On July 11, National Commander John H. Geiger sent a telegram to the Democratic Platform Committee, re-emphasizing the Legion's opposition to the merger of the VA medical care program with any national health insurance program. Commander Geiger also pointed to an inconsistency in the platform which in one paragraph called for expansion and improvement of VA facilities, "preserving the independence and integrity of the VA hospital program" and then in the very next paragraph called for "integration" of veterans medical care with the national health insurance program.
-alns- 0199 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
For release 8-U-72
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—President Richard M. Nixon has issued the following proclamation for American Education Week, initiated by The American Legion 52 years ago:
"Daniel Webster said: 'On the diffusion of education among the people rest the preservation and perpetuation of our free institutions.'
"Webster was right. Not only will the quality of our young people's future be determined by the quality of the education they receive, but a nation of free institutions depends for its greatness on the knowledge and understanding of its people. Therefore, nothing matters more to the future of America than the strength, the vitality and the success of its educational system.
"Throughout the Nation, citizens are engaged in a massive effort to maintain and improve the quality of our education, and to ensure that it keeps ahead of the growing challenges it faces in an ever more complex society. Our continued success as a Nation will depend in large measure on the readiness and capacity of our schools to meet their new tasks in new ways, while holding fast to the fundamental virtues of our democracy and the integrity of the learning process.
"NOW, THEREFORE, I, RICHARD NIXON, President of the United States of America, do hereby designate the period of October 22 through October 28, 1972, as American Education Week."
-alns-
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)— Sunday through Saturday, Oct. 8-lU, is Newspaper Week. Founded in 1939 and sponsored annually since by Newspaper Association Managers, Inc., Newspaper Week provides the opportunity for newspapers, daily and weekly to 1) Focus attention on the fundamental importance of our First Amendment freedoms; 2) Explain that the liberty exercised by the press belongs to ALL people not to the press alone; and, 3) Stress their essential role of community service and their vital contributions to the social, religious, educational and economic lives of their communities.
Newspaper Week has been observed in past years not only by a majority of America's 9,300 daily and weekly newspapers, but also by public libraries, schools, civic and service clubs, government officials and many public and private business firms to express support of a Free Press in a Free Enterprise system.
-alns-
INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—To assure mail delivery to APOs the address must include the Social Security number of the addressee, according to a recent memo issued by The American Legion's Internal Affairs Division. The memo referred to some direct dues notices returned to National Headquarters by the Post Office because the APO address did not include the member's Social Security Number.
In submitting Department Record Cards, Post Adjutants are asked to add the Social Security Number of the member to the address if the information is available or can be obtained, the memo noted. -alns- 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 8-U-T2
WASHINGTON—(ALUS)—The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has opened up three new areas of financial help and management training to Vietnam-era veterans, according to SBA Administrator Thomas S. Kleppe.
These Vietnam-era veterans will now be eligible for business loans. Federal Government contracts and management assistance under SBA programs which previously were restricted to socially or economically disadvantaged persons.
"Vie have broadened our directives in order to give veterans the best possible break as they return to civilian life and enter the business community," Kleppe said.
"They now can take advantage of the most liberal financing programs that we have," he added.
Veterans interested in taking advantage of any SBA program may apply in person, or telephone or write, to their nearest SBA office. There are 85 such offices located in the principal cities of all 50 states plus Puerto Rico and Guam.
The SBA action satisfies in part or in full American Legion Resolutions #550 of the 50th Annual National Convention, held in New Orleans in 1968; #515 of the 51st Annual National Convention held in Atlanta in 1969- #5 of the Spring 1971 National Executive Committee, and #318 of the 53rd Annual National Convention held in Houston in 1971.
The SBA announcement was made at a press conference held jointly with the Administrator of the Veterans Administration and Past National Commander (I96I+-65) of The American Legion, Donald E. Johnson.
-alns-
BIG RAPIDS, MICH.—(ALNS)—A unique veteran counseling program at Ferris State College here is receiving assistance from two American Legion Posts in its quest to solve some of the problems of the unemployed veteran.
The college offers a continuing program of week-long Veterans Career Workshops at no cost to the veteran and financed by a grant from the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare and contributions from friends of the college, including Saginaw Post 22 and East Lansing Post 205 of The American Legion. The weekly workshops are limited to ten veterans in order that each may receive highly personalized counseling and assistance.
The Veterans Career Workshop offers intensive vocational ^reference and aptitude testing, counseling, information about GI Bill benefits, financial aid and career opportunities, and a chance to visit classrooms and laboratories to gain firsthand knowledge of what occupational education programs are like.
-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0201 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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILLo—(ALNS)—"The American Legion believes that the communists have launched a major propaganda effort to convince the world the United States is deliberately destroying the crucial dike system of Worth Vietnam," American Legion National Commander John H0 C-eiger said at a press conference held on the opening of the Legion's 5>l|.th National Convention here0
"The American Legion strongly endorsed the decision to resume bombing of the north following the renewed invasion of South Vietnam by the North Vietnamese," he saido
Geiger said the Legion has recommended that a United Nations team of hydraulic engineers and military observers inspect the dike system and report on any damage«
"The Legion has spoken out against blanket amnesty for draft dodgers and deserters," Geiger told the assembled newsmen, ''Truly concerned Americans should direct their attention to the plight of the returning veteran and the prisoners of war instead," he saido
"There is absolutely no partisan political motivation behind Legion endorsements of any particrfLar action/' Geiger said* "The Legion endorses only that which satisfies, wholly or in part, the intent of American Legion mandates and, those mandates are based on what The American Legion believes to be in the best interest of America," he saido
-alns-
!, CHICAGO, ILL6—(ALNS)—■- 0ne of the factors that contribute to victory, not the least of which, is a loyal, dedicated Federal Civil Service," UrS0 Representative Richardson Preyer (D-N.iC-), said here,
Preyer, a member of the House Internal Security Committee, was speaking to The American Legion's Americanism Commission during the 5*Jth Annual National Conventions
Preyer was reviewing for the commission members his committee^ work toward devising a federal security program applicable to Civil Service employees«
Applicants for federal service did not have to state political affiliations or beliefs until 1939 when the Hatch Act was enacted,, After World War II changes were made until present day rules require this information only from those persons applying for sensitive positions4
Preyer said that devising a program that is effective, economical toadminster, and constitutional, is another problem entirelyr "This is the problem my subcommittee has been struggling with for so many months^" he saido
-alns- HMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0202 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 0 For release 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALMS)—"The support of the Legion throughout the country has been most important to the Jobs for Veterans program—particularly the assistance rendered by the Legion in the conduct of 220 Job fairs," James P, Oates, Jr., national chairman of the President's Jobs for Veterans Committee, reported to The American Legion £i;th National Convention here,
Oates told the Legion's National Economic Commission that the Jobs for Veterans National Committee still strongly supports the Job Fair concept of assistance to veteranso
"We feel that Job Fairs are the best means of bringing veterans and employers together," Oates stated.
He pointed out that participation of local Legion post members in Job Fairs "have given these events the essential boost which has made them a success."
Oates cited the huge June, 1971} Legion sponsored Job Fair in Oklahoma City which was attended by over 6,000 veterans and said that it "remains one of the largest and most effective on record,"
The Jobs for Veterans chairman said that some 153 Job Fairs or Veterans Assistance Days have been held so far this year and over 96,000 veterans were introduced to approximately 7,700 employers at these fairs,
"I need hardly remind you that President Nixon clearly recognizes the vital importance of solving the employment difficulties which our Vietnam Era veterans are facing and correspondingly anxious to make certain that our nation and all of its component parts meets the situation and makes sure that our veterans are given their rightful place in our civilian life," Oates stated,
Oates reviewed the Six-Point Program developed by President Nixon which contain the mandatory listing requirements for federal contractors. "This particular provisio took affect in late September of 1971 and has been primarily responsible for the 65 percent upsurge in the placement of Vietnam Era veterans by the United States Employment Service," Oates added.
Oates said that the steady decline in the unemployment rate for younger veterans aged 20-2U over a period of accelerated separations from military service indicates an improved job situation for veterans—despite the relatively constant number of veterans who are unemployedc
"It is inescapable," Oates said, "that the President*a new and accelerated Six- Point Program for fiscal year 1973 w3.ll substantially improve our country's veteran employment record in the next twelve months. Still, we cannot afford complacency or anything resembling smug self-congratulation.
"Newspapers and radio and television stations should be requested to do all they can do to trigger the conscience of all employers and to make sure that training and job opportunities are provided to all of our deserving servicemen," Oates emphasized. "We must never forget that the veteran is entitled to 'the edge' and must be given priority in filling appropriate jobs as they become available» America's veterans must come first. I am sure that you will do your utmost for them,-." -alns- 0203 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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALMS)—"We have begun to make gains in reducing the unemployment rate of veterans and the employers in our country have got the message," Herbert R. Rainwater, Director of the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans Employment Service, told the Legion's National Economic Commission here. Citing the mission and accomplishment of Veterans Employment Service, Rainwater said the veteran unemployment rate has been lowered from 8.9 percent to 7*2 percent in the past twelve months. "We have moved in the direction of reversing the trend of higher unemployment among veterans versus non-veterans," Rainwater added.
Rainwater said that President Nixon, on May $, indicated by executive order that the Veterans Employment Service must continue the fight on veterans' unemployment at an accelerated rate, even if it meant diverting resources in other local government offices to do it. "We want to insure that the veteran is not buried and forgotten, as he has been in past wars," Rainwater continued. Turning to future goals of the Veterans Employment Service Rainwater said, "We have called for training money to study the need of women veterans and World War II veterans who need to change skills to gain employment." Rainwater emphasized that the Veterans Employment Service "has not done this alone," referring to the reduction in the veterans unemployment rate. "The American Legion has carried on an extensive Job Fair program throughout the country. Your organization has delivered." -alns- WASHINGTON—(ALNS)— Veteran newsman Wayne C. Oliver, of U.S. News & World Report, has been cited by The American Legion for providing useful information to parents, teachers and students in "News lou Can Use" section of the weekly newsmagazine.
Oliver, editor of the News You Can Use section, has more than once recommended the Legion publications, "Need A Lift?" and "Guide To Parents and Students." Also, he has frequently presented information of use to veterans and their dependents. The citation was presented to Oliver by The American Legion National Adjutant, William F, Hauck, August 10, 1972, at the Legion's Washington Headquarters building. -alns- CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—A new national champion junior band has been crowned at The American Legion's 5Uth National Convention here, as the Milwaukee Area Youth Band sponsored by Post U72, Milwaukee, Wis., took top honors. Complete unofficial results of the competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE 1 Milwaukee Area Youth U72 Milwaukee, Wis. 83.36 2 Green Beret Marching Band 205 Janesville, Wis. 60.10 3 Los Angeles Police Post 381 Los Angeles, Calif. 59.86 k Herscher High School 795 Herscher, 111. 59*33 5 American Legion Kadet (Vigo Co. Cncl-6th Dist) Terre Haute, Ind. 39.11 -alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 204 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 8-22-72
WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Donald E. Johnson, Administrator of Veterans Affairs and former American Legion National Commander, has been appointed a member of the n«m»stin Council, the body "charged with advising the President on the total range of domestic policy,"
The appointment vras announced at the White House on Aug. 11, following a meeting between President Nixon and Administrator Johnson.
The Domestic Council is chaired personally by the President. Top advisers to the President are members of the Council, They include the Vice President, eight Secretaries in the Presidents Cabinet, the Attorney General, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers,and ■ Robert H. Finch and Donald Rumsfeld, Counsellors to the President.
In commenting on his appointment, the head of the Veterans Administration said, "I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve with such a prestigious group of national leaders, but the main thing, it seems to me, is that the appointment really highlights the importance of veterans affairs in the conduct of the nation's business It is a tribute to America's 29-million veterans who, together with their families and dependents of deceased veterans, constitute nearly one-half of our national population."
In his message to Congress of March 12, 1970, concerning establishment of the Domestic Council, the President said the Council would be responsible for these five specific policy functions:
1. Assessing national needs, collecting information and developing forecasts, for the purpose of defining national goals and objectivesj
2. Identifying alternative ways of achieving these objectives, and recommending consistent, integrated sets of policy choicesj
3. Providing rapid response to Presidential needs for policy advice on pressing domestic issues5
U. Coordinating the establishment of national priorities for the allocation of available resources, and
5. Maintaining a continuous review of the conduct of on-going programs from a policy standpoint, and proposing reforms as needed.
In addition to this latest appointment, Administrator Johnson serves on the President's National Drug Abuse Strategy Council, the President's Committee on Consumer Interests, the President's Domestic Council Committee on Aging, and the Advisory Board of the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. He is also Chairman of the President's Veterans Day National Committee.
-alns- 0205 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 FbrjreleggeJ^-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALMS)—Oscar Wenstrand, of Red Oak, Iowa, was elected national president of the Society of American Legion Founders, LtcU, at its annual meeting here, He succeeds Hugh P. Haugherty of Oklahoma City* Jc Edward Radley of Peorxa, 111., was chosen national president-elect,, The membership of the society is made up of those who attended either the Paris or St, Louis caucuses, when the Legion was organized in 191?e The following were elected national vice presidents? David L. Shillinglaw, Chicago; 111,3 Samuel R, Todd, Chicago, Hl«,j Charles R. Tips, Dallas, Tex*; and Lloyd St, John, Las Vegas, Nev. Re-elected; Rev,, Alpha Kenna, Topeka, Kan, chaplain; Joseph A* Bernard, St, Louis, Mo„, secretary-treasurerj Earl L. King, Shalbeyville, Tenn„, service officer; Angelo Gangemi, St. Petersburg, Fla„ sergeant- at-arms« The following were elected members of the executive committee: Bruno Zingrone^ Oak Lawn, Hl0; Herbert Allyn Payne, N.Y,; Gray Ie Morriss, Houston, Tex,; h. Hansexj. Hillyer, Savannah, Gaa; Richard E, Davis, Morgantown, W,Va0; EcSc Sammous, Fortiana, Ore*; Harry L„ Foster, San Diego, Calif,,; William J.B, Simmons, Sandstone, WrVa0; Rodger D. Flory and John Fite Robertson, both of Sarasota, Fla. -alns- CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALUS)—The Department of Delaware was a repeat winner of the Hearst Americanism Trophy for 1972 based on department Americanism activity as determined by a percentage point system reported on Americanism and Post Activities report forms,,
The James A0 Drain trophy, awarded for the most consisted service to community, state and nation, went to the Department of Iowa*
South Dakota was declared the winner of the Frank N. Belgrano, Jr., trophy as the department having the most outstanding record of service to the program of Boy Scouts of Americas The Ralph T. O'Neil education trophy, going to the department reporting the most outstanding participation in the school medal award program, went to the Department of Arizona for 1972o -alns-
GHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—The American Legion National Convention Commission, in its report to a pre-convention meeting of the National Executive Committee here, recorcraended a tentative award for the 1976 National Convention to Seattle, Wash.
Proposed dates are Aug, 13-19 or Aug. 20-26. Honolulu, Hawaii, Jj^ «*** ff the 1973 convention; Miami, Fla. will host the 197k convention; and Fftiladfllp&la is set for 1975. -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0206 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- -THE AMERICAN LEGION
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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILLo—(ALNS)—"If there's one group of people in the country who can keep the spirit for hard work alive, it is America's veterans," U,S0 Civil Service Commissioner L.J. Andolsek informed the Legion's National Economic Commission heree
"In this world of soft jobs and easy money, the veteran has a lot of things going for him," Ansolsek added. "For one, he hasn't had it easy. He knows a lot about hard work. He has learned self discipline. He has gained maturity., He often has valuable technical skill acquired by years of training. And—most important of all—he has the motivations He knows he has time to make up—and he is willing to work hard to do it,"
He said that the Federal Government, as the world's largest employer prefers veterans. "Experience has shown us that they do good work—and that they are not afraid to do hard work, We feel that hiring the veteran is good government policy. That's why we have—and intend to keep—veteran preference in the Civil Service," Ansolsek added*
Andolsek said that the Federal agencies, during the past fiscal year, hired li|8,970 veterans. "Veterans today make up more than half of the Federal work force," Andolsek pointed out. -alns-
CHICAGO, ILL,—(ALNS)--Jack R,C„ Cann, long-time secretary of The American Legion Press Association, was honored here during the 51|th Annual National Convention.
At the annual ALPA banquet, Public Relations Commission Chairman, CD. "Deke" DeLoach, presented Cann with The American Legion Public Relations Citation which read:
"In appreciation for his nearly k$ years of devoted service to The American Legion as a staff member of the Department of Michigan and of National Headquarters. His tireless efforts on behalf of American Legion public relations and The American Legion Press Association constitute a remarkable record of service. In addition to his three decades a3 secretary of The American Legion Press Association, he also served a term as its president in 1935»"
Cann, who has been retired for several years, still devotes a considerable amount of his time to the Press Associationo
-alns- 0207 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 6-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.--(ALNS)--Here are the results of the preliminary competi- tion of the junior drum and bugle corps contest at the 54th Annual National Convention of The American Legion:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY & STATE SCORE
1 Bleu Raeders 307 New Orleans, La. 33.60 2 Cavaliers 935 Chicago, 111. 83.40 3 St. Andrews CYO Bridgemen 165 Bayonne, N.J. 82.60 4 '(nights of Kewannee 31 Kewanee, 111. 79.65 5 Commodores 16 Stockton, Calif. 79.40 6 Magnificent Yankees 229 Utica, N.Y. 78.50 7 Marion Cadet 162 Marion, Ohio 77 .45 3 St . Paul Explorers 577 St. Paul, Minn. 75.75 9 Argonne Rebels loO Great Bend, Kan. 71.35
The order of finish for other entries in the junior drum and bugle corps preliminary contest follows: Thunderbolts of Cedarburg, Post 233, Cedarburg, Wis., 75.90; Imperials of Pembroke, 10th Dist., Sryantville, Mass., 75.70; Oshkosh Warriors, Post 70, Oshkosh, Wis., 75.00; Colt 45, Post 6., Oubuque, Iowa, 74.75; Sky Ryders, Post 68, Hutchinson, Kan., 74.70; Wichita Continental Ambassadors, Post 4, Wichita, Kan., 73,70; Dukes of Marlborough, Post 132, Marlboro, Mass., 72.40; Imperials, Post 320, Skokie, 111., 72.35; Syracuse Marauders, SAL Sqdn. 41, Syracuse, N.Y., 72.00; Percussion-Naut Patriots, Post 9, Spokane, Wash., 71.65; Alabama Charioteers, Post 70, Troy, Ala., 71.40; Argonne Rebels, Post 150, Great Bend, Kan., 71.35; Chevaliers, Post 13d, Waterloo, Iowa, 70.75; Mariners Post 416, Greendale, Vis., 70.65; Blue Notes, Post 53, Ishpeming, Mich., 70.05; Miami Vanguards, Post 29, Miami, Fla., 70.00; Marquis, Post 75, Fond du Lac, Wis., 69.10; Royals, Post 237, Cedar Falls, Iowa, 67.80; Precisionnaires, Post 273, Osage, Iowa, 67.50 and Northernaires, Post 146, Menominee, Mich., 65.70.
Also: Ottawa Crusaders, Post 33, Ottawa, 111., 65.70; St. Francis Xavier Sancians, Post; 401, So. Weymouth, Mass., 65.45; Flint Guardsmen, Post 413, Grand 31ancs, Mich., 63.15; Nee Ax's, Post 190, Clinton, Iowa, 62.10; FToridians, Post 257, No. Miami Beach, Fla., 60.75; Stardusters, Post 360, Chalmette, La., 60.70; Page Park YMCA Cadets, Post 77, St. Louis, Mo.. 60.60; Silhouettes, 9th Dist., Carol City, Fla., 57.65; Emerald Knights, Post 5, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 56.30; Sundowners, Post 53, Eau laire, Wis., 55.50; Slue Knights, Post 5, Ironwood, Mich., 54.00; Emporia, Post 5, Emporia, Kan., 52.40; Southern Rebels, Crusader Post 300 Carmel, Edge, Post 30.35.
-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 208 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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL, —(AINS)—The Rochester Crusaders of Post I486, Rochester, N.Y,, are the new American Legion senior drum and bugle corps champions and the Argonne Rebels of Post 180, Great Bend, Kan., retained the junior drum and bugle corps crown. Both corps emerged victorious in the combined final round of competition., the Parade of Champions, before a crowd of some 20,000 people at Chicago's Soldier Field, at the American Legion's Sbth National Convention here. Unofficial results of the finals are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO, LOCATION SCORE
1 Rochester Crusaders U86 Rochester, N.Y. 82.85 2 Hawthorne Caballeros 199 Kawthome, N.J. 82.65 3 Yankee Rebels 20 Baltimore, MD. 79.35 1* Pittsburgh Rockets 351 Pittsburgh, Pa. 63.70 Junior Drum and Bugle Corps
PUCE UNIT POST NO. LOCATION PLACE
1 Argonne Rebels 180 Great Bend, Kan. 83.10 2 Cavaliers 985 Chicago, 111. 81.10 3' Bleu Raeders 307 Nextf Orleans, La. 77.75 b St. Andrews CY0 Bridgeman l65 Bayonne, N.Jo 77.55 5 Knights of Kewanee 31 Kowanee, 111. 7$. bo 6 Commodores 16 Stockton, Calif. 73.80 7 St. Paul Explorers 577 St. Paul, Minn. 71.35 8 Magnificent Yankees 229 Utica, N.Y. 69.05 9 Marion Cadet 162 Marion, Ohio 66.35 -alns- CHICAG0, ILL. —(AINS)— Only two 1971 National Champions among The American Legion's uniformed groups were successful in defending their national titles during the 1972 competition at the 5Uth annual National Convention here.
The Argonne Rebels, of Post 180, Great Bend, Kan., retained their Junior Drum and Bugle Corps crown and Indianapolis Police Department Post 56 again won the motorcycle drill team contest.
Here are the 1972 National Champions in all categories of uniformed group competitions
Senior Drum and Bugle Corps, Rochester Crusaders, Post U86, Rochester, N.Y, Junior Drum and Bugle Corps, Argonne Rebels, Post 180, Great Bend, Kan. Senior Band, Tonawanda Post 26b, Tonawanda, N.Y. Junior Eand, Milwaukee Area Youth, Post b72r Milwaukee, Wis. Firing Squad,"First National Bank of Chicago, Post 985. Junior Color Guard, Lancers, Post 326, Bellwood, 111, (More) f\10 309
Final Uniformed Groups Competition, page 2 Senior Color Guard, Greece Post U68, Rochester, H»Y« Junior Drill Team, Webster Vanguards, Post 9U3, Webster, N-.Y. Senior Drill Team, Urban Klister Post Ho, U36, Wrightstown, WLsc Motorcycle Drill Team, Indianapolis Police Department Post 56, Indianapolis, Ind. Mini Cycle Drill Team, Hancock Po*st"ll9. Greenfield, Ind0 -alns- CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)— In close competition, Greece Post U68 of The American Legion, Rochester, N.Y., captured the championship senior color guard title during the Legion's 5Uth National Convention here* Scoring 89.00 points in the senior color guard contest of the convention's uniformed groups competition, Greece Post edged out, by «20 point, the Littxe Bllijs of Commonwealth Edison Post 118, Chicago, 111,, which wound up with a total of BBctfO points a Complete unofficial results of the senior color guard competition are as follows: PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORL 1 Greece Post U68 Rochester, N*Y. 89.00 2 Little Bills 118 Chicago, 111. 88c80 3 Jersey Chevrons ko Ridgefield Park, K.J. 88 60 k First National Bank of 985 Chicago, 111. 88.35 Chicago 5 Rogers Rangers 18 Bloomington, Ind. 81°95 6 Springfield Rifles 6 Springfield, Ohio 83-95 7 Longmont Buckhorns 32 Denver, Coloc 31.15 8 Vietnam Veterans 1 Omaha, Neb. 77.80 9 Lakeshore Post 137 Jacksonville, Fit. 73.90 -alns- CHICAGO, ILL.-~(ALNS)—Here are the results of the preliminary competition of the senior drum and bugle corps contest at the &th National Convention of The American Legion: PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Rochester Crusaders 486 Rochester, NeYc 36ol5 2 Hawthorne Caballeros 199 Hawthorne, N0J. 85*75 3 Yankee Rebels 20 Baltimore, Md. 82*20 k Pittsburgh Rockets 351 Pittsburgh, Pa0 71o60 (First five places qualify for finals of senior dram and bugle corps competition,
5 Brass, Inc, 5th Dist„ Sta Paul, Minn, '^20 6 Legion of Brass 29 Miami, Flao 59. B 7 Spirit of St. Louis 77 St.> Louis, MOe <0»65 -alns- 0210 □ MERICAN 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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—"If we blend the old traditions, with new concepts, we can establish a value for The American Legion on wMch we can move this nation," Henry- King, President of the U.S. Brewers Association, said here. King, a Legionnaire, was the guest speaker at the Legion's Public Relations Commission luncheon during the 5Uth Annual National Convention. Citing a changing society - an accelerating society, King said the hope of the Legion was the younger veteran. He urged younger Legionnaires be given leadership roles in the Legion at an earlier age than previous Legionnaire veterans. "An intelligent approach to patriotism should be developed," King said, "rather than accepting the value of blind patriotism. The American Legion should be the defenders of this concept," he said. -alns-
CHICAGO, ILL.— (ALNS)— Thomas W, Joiner, The American Legion's 1972 National Oratorical Contest winner, led the delegates to the 1972 Republican National Convention in the Pledge of Allegiance at the opening session of the GOP Convention, Monday, Aug. 21, in Miami Beach, Fla.
Young Joiner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson M. Joiner, of Rock Hill, S.C,, and the winner of en $8,000 cash scholarship to the college or university of his choice as winner of the Legion's oratorical contest, received his invitation from Bob Flanigan, of the GOP Convention program committee. Because of the new Convention format limiting addresses wherever possible, young Joiner did not deliver his award winner oration as previous oratorical champions have done, but was introduced to the delegates as the Legion's 1972 national oratorical contest champion. -alns- CHICAGO, ILL. —(ALNS)—A new champion reigns over the realm of American Legion senior bands as the result of the competition during the Legion's 51*th National Convention here. The Tonawandas Post Senior Band, sponsored by American Legion Post 26[j., Tonawanda, N.Y., took the title from Joliet Legion Band, Post 1281*, Joliet, 111., which had been the senior band champion 23 of the past 26 years. Complete unofficial results of the competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATS SCORE 1 Tonawandas Post 26h Tonawanda, N.Y. 90.06 2 Joliet Legion 1281* Joliet, 111. 89.95 3 American Legion Band of Aurora 8k Aurora, 111. 78.11 h South Shore Post 388 Chicago, 111. 67.15 5 Gen, Geo. A. Custer Post $k Battle Creek, 61*. 90 6 Greater Kansas City 5th Dist. Kansas City, Vi 63.98 -alns- 0211 MERICAN 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 8-22-72 CHICAGO, ILL,—(ALNS)—The Lancers of American Legion Post 326, Bellwood, 111*, have captured the national championship crown of junior color guards during the Legion's 5bth National Convention here. The snappy color guard unit posted a score of 95.85 to top 17 other competitors.
Complete unofficial results of the junior color guard competition are as follows:
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 Lancers 326 Bellwood, Ill<. 95.85 2 Sky Ryders 68 Hutchinson, Kan. 9b.50 3 Mariners hl6 Greendale, Wis. 93.90 u Eaglettes 83 Sandusky, Ohio 93.15 5 Third Battalion 326 Bellwood, 111. 91.80 6 Emooria Plainsman 5 Emporia, Kan, 91.25 7 Citations of Racine 171 Union Grove, Wise 88.80 8 First Illinois Volunteers 1968 Wheeling, 111. 85.95 9 Crusader Gladiators 537 Milwaukee, Wis. 85.35 10 Floridians 257 No. Miami Beach, Fla. 85.00 11 Regal Cadettes 310 Racine, Wis. 8b. 90 12 Praesidium 389 Riverview, Mich. 81;. 80 13 Silhouettes 9th Dist. Carol City, Fla. 83.95 lb Mukwonago Indianettes 375 Mukwonago, Wis. 82.20 15 Highland Lassies 201 Louisville, Ky. 82.10 16 Marchettes lb3 Bristol, Ind. 79.UO 17 Paradettes 7 Huntington, Ind. 78.00 18 Marching Tigers 111 Bluffton, Ind. 76.95
-alns-
CHICAG0, ILL.—(ALNS)—First National Bank of Chicago, 111., Post 985 has won the national championship in firing squad competition during The American Legion's 5bth National Convention here.
Complete unofficial results of the competition are as follows!
PLACE UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE SCORE
1 First National Bank of 985 Chicago, 111. 86,75 Chicago 2 Little Bills 118 Chicago, 111. 86,00 3 American Legion Post 70 70 Wellsville, Ohio 85.75 b Black Hawks 1612 Big Flats, N.Y. 8lo05 5 Urban Klister Post b36 Wrightstown, Wis. 76 .bo
-alns- CHICAGO, ILL,—(ALMS)—Arm Miller, lbth Dist. Historian, Department of Florida, and delegate to the Legion's National Convention here, reports that Florida's newly formed lbth District is now the southern most Legion District within the continental United States, The new Distrit was formed during the Florida Department convention in St, Petersburg. -alns- 0213 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 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—"During the past year a quarter of the more than two million new jobs created in the United States have gone to our returning servicemen," Assistant Secretary of Labor Malcolm H, Lovell Jr., said here.
Speaking before a joint session of the Legion's Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation-Legislative-and Economic Commission, Lovell said, "This single accomplishment is a reflection of both the President's Veterans Program and his economic policy. During the last fiscal year we not only were able to surpass the goal of 1,038,000 Vietnam-era veterans placed in jobs or training but we gained the momentum we need to make the second year of the President's program even more successful than the first."
A most important factor, he said, is "the President's personal concern and leadership as expressed in a six-point program that cut red tape, harnessed government agencies in a concerted effort, and produced such innovative ideas as requiring employers with government contracts to list job openings with the public Employment Service to assure priority for veterans."
In reviewing action on each of the President's six points, Lovell gave a special accolade to the National Alliance of Businessmen. It exceeded by over one- third its initial pledge to find jobs for 100,000 veterans during the first 12 months of the program. Lovell added that the NAB has now pledged from 125,000 to 150,000 more jobs before mid-1973.
Lovell told the special session that the Department of Labor has ordered absolute preference to Vietnam-era veterans for most manpower training, job placement and related programs whenever legally possible.
In addition, Lovell said, "not only is there a priority for veterans, but there is a priority within the veteran population—a priority for disabled veterans.
"With military hospitals separating disabled servicemen at rates of up to 160 a month, there is an obvious, as there must be an over-riding, requirement for employment assistance."
Lovell cited the special servicemen's unemployment compensation benefits as reflecting the beneficial impact of the President's program. He said this is an often overlooked index of the employment situation of veterans.
"Such jobless claims by veterans had been increasing," Lovell said, "with kh ,000 Vietnam-era veterans filing jobless claims in fiscal 1970s 615,000 in fiscal 1971; and 528,000 in fiscal 1972.
"But the signs are clear that this upxtfard thrust has been reversed. We estimate that claims this year by Vietnam-era veterans will decline to some 550,000 —and that the duration of benefits will decrease frcm an average of li+,2 weeks last year to 12.5 weeks this year."
-alns- 0213 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
For release 8-22-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)--A quarter of a million people (by estimate of the traffic division of the Chicago Police Department), crowded the sidewalks along Chicago's Michigan Street to witness the seven-hour parade of The American Legion's f&th Annual National Convention,
In 90 degree-plus temperatures, the world's largest veterans organization paraded its finest uniformed groups and marching delegations from every department before an appreciative crowd of Chicagolanders that exceeded that of any National Convention parade crowd in recent history,,
The Chicago newspaper "Chicago Today," saids "Today's Americsa Legion parade down Michig:;-i Avenue was a pageant of patriotism, a forest of flags streaming in cadenced ranks between thronged curbs."
The mile and one-eighth parade route was lined three to five deep along its entire length and office workers from buildings along the parade route took long breaks to view the passing procession that stepped off promptly ai 10 a.m„ and cleared the reviewing stand at JpsOl p„m<>
National Commander John H, Geiger was joined on the reviewing stand by Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, senior military officers of the Chicago area and distinguished guests to the convention as well as D0D officials and visiting dignitaries from other countrieso
With the oppressive heat and bright sun bearing down on the parade route, Red Cross and Chicago police first aid units had a more than ordinarily busy day treating everything from blistered feet to the administering of oxygen to marchers and spectators alike.
The parade was led by the military escort division which took nearly an hour to pass the reviewing stand, followed by the honorary parade officials, including immediate Past National Commander Alfred Pe Chamie, who was honorary grand marshal«,
Foreign and outlying departments were next in the line of march, followed by the marching units of the $0 states, with the host department of Illinois the last to pass in review.
An estimated 10,000 marchers provided Chicago with one of the city's largest parades to the delight of spectators from babes in arms to senior citizens.
Captioning a parade photograph of a Legionnaire saluting the passing colors, a Chicago newspaper captured the spirit of the occasion with these words: "The spirit of The American Legion—love of country—is epitomized by snappy salute of Legionnaires as parade of the veteran organization's 51;th Annual National Convention marches down Michigan Avenue,"
-alns- 0214 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 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release 8-2U-72
-N-0-T-I-C-E-
DUE TO THE LATENESS OF THE APPEARANCE OF PRESIDENT
NIXON ON THE PLATFORM OF THE CHICAGO NATIONAL CONVENTION,
AND THE LACK OF AN ADVANCE TEXT, WE REGRET THAT WE WERE
UNABLE TO COVER THE PRESIDENTIAL APPEARANCE IN THIS ISSUE
OF ALNS. COVERAGE OF THAT EVENT TOLL 3E PROVIDED IN OUR
NEXT ISSUE, AS WILL REPORTS OF THOSE COMMISSIONS - NATIONAL
SECURITY AND FOREIGN RELATIONS - WHICH DID NOT COME TO THE
FLOOR UNTIL THE FINAL DAY'S PROCEEDINGS. 0215 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 8-2I4-72
CHICAGO, ILL. — (ALNS)--Joe L. Matthews, 59, of Fort Worth, Texas, was elected National Commander of The American Legion for 1972-73, by action of the 51*th annual National Convention of the Legion in Chicago, 111., at the Convention's closing session here today,
Matthews succeeds John H, Geiger, of Des Plaines, 111., as head of the world's largest veterans organization, and will serve for a period of one year until the Legion's 1973 National Convention.
Born at Wick, Pa., Dec. 30, 1912, he received his early education in Grove City, Pa., and attended Slippery Rock State Teachers College, Slippery Rock, Pa.
He is a veteran of two tours of duty with the U.S. Navy. He served his first enlistment from 1932 to 1936. In 19^3, he re-enlisted and became a member of the Navy's famous Seabees. He was attached to a Naval Construction Battalion which saw service in the Marshall Islands, Okinawa and Hawaii. He was discharged in 19h& with the rank of Chief Boatswains Mate and holds two battle stars.
After his first duty with the Navy, he became a manager of a business firm in Fort Worth, Texas. Following his World War II service, he returned to his position as manager until he began his own Linemens Equipment Company, which he still owns and operates.
After he returned to Fort Worth following World War II, he joined Blackstone American Legion Post No. 1+82. He served his Post in many capacities, including adjutant, vice commander and commander.
He has served the Department of Texas as Department Commander in 1956-57 and as membership chairman. He also served on the finance and budget committee and for four years was Texas' National Executive Committeeman. He was vice president of The American Legion 1971 National Convention Corporation of Texas, planning the Houston National Convention.
He has held various positions of leadership at the national 3evel which have moved him steadily forward through the ranks of the Legion membership, culminating in his election to the office of National Commander.
From 1958-61, he was the Liaison to the National Security Commission, and from 1958-60 was a member of the National Executive Committee Resolutions Subcommittee. He was also chairman of the National Liaison Subcommittee to the Civil Defense Committee from 1961-62.
Just prior to his election to the Legion's top position of leadership, he served on the Legion's National Internal Affairs Commission and was a member of the National Commander's Advisory Committee.
Throughout his Legion membership, he has been active in youth programs, such as the Legion's Oratorical Contest, School Awarus Program, American Legion Baseball and Boys State. (More) 0216 National Commander Joo L. Matthews, page 2
Commander Matthews' activities with Legion youth programs is natural since he himself was active in Scouting. He attained the coveted rank of Eagle Scout. He later became a Scoutmaster, swimming instructor and camp director.
He is a member of Masonic bodies, including Chapter & Council, Knights Templar and Moslah Temple Shrine. He is also a member of the University Baptist Church and Fort Worth Elks Lodge.
Other service and veterans organizations in which Commander Matthews holds membership include the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Disabled American Veterans.
He is married to the former Alberta Thompson who has had a distinguished career of her own in the American Legion Auxiliary. They have two children and five grandchildren.
-alns-
For release 8-2lj.-72
CHICAGO, ILL.--(ALMS)—The slate of National Officers, five National Vice Commanders and the National Chaplain to serve with new National Commander Joe L. Matthews, of Fort Worth, Texas, for the 1972-73 American Legion year is as follows:
National Vice Commanderss Tim T. Craig, of Charlotte, N.C.j Sam Gray, 1927 W. 26th Street, San Pedro, Calif.', Donald L. Gruenbaum, 605 West Fifth Street, Marysville, Ohio," Albert J. Moeller, 1293 Rahway Avenue, Westfield, N.J., and Raymond J. Novak, ll|01 N. Perm. Aberdeen, South Dakota, and National Chaplain, Rev. L.P. Fitzpatrick, of Coin, Iowa.
-alns- CHICAGO, ILL, —(ALNS)- -The 1972 National Convention of The American Legion gave its approval to 2\\ resolutions as presented by the Legion's Committee on Economics.
Resolution 197, recommending that the annual observance of "National Employ the Older Worker Week" be changed from the first full week in May to the second full week in March commencing in 1973, noted that "...since state and local offices of the Employment Service are heavily involved in preparations for summer employment of youth during the spring months, necessary emphasis cannot be placed on employment of the older worker during that period and puts the Employment Service in the position of promoting two diverse groups at the same time.
The resolution pointed out further that each year the President of the United States issues a proclamation designating the month of May as senior citizen month. The Legion will encourage departments to select an outstanding employer of the older worker for recommendation to the National Economic Commission to receive the authorized national citation award.
In approving other Economic resolutions, The American Legion called for legislation to the effect that the Director of the Veterans Employment Service be an Assistant Secretary of Laborj action by legislation or executive order to extend veterans' preference to wives of military members missing in action or prisoners of ■ar and opposition to any action to circumvent veterans preference in the postal service. -alns- □ MERICAN 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 8-2U-72
CHICAGO—(ALNS)—Mrs. Thomas Gerald Chilton of Superior, Ariz., was elected National President of the American Legion Auxiliary at its 52nd annual National Convention Wednesday, Aug. 23, at the Palmer House Hotel, here.
Mrs. Chilton succeeds Mrs. Robert L, Parker of Tahlequah, Ohkla.
Also elected were National Vice President, Mrs. B.M. Jarrett of Shelby, N.C., and five Divisional National Vice Presidents, Mrs. Louis Unfer, Champaign, 111., Central Divisionj Mrs. Edward W. Wellman, West Springfield, Mass., Eastern Divisionj Mrs. Pierce J. Clark, White Bear Lake, Minn., Northwestern Divisionj Mrs. Norville D. Johnson, Alva, Okla., Southern Division, and Mrs. Elliott W. Burdett, Seattle, Wash,, Western Division. Mrs. Elizabeth Fisher of Flemington, N.J., was elected National Historian, and Mrs. Oscar Nelson of Fresno, Calif., was chosen National Chaplain.
All new officers, who were installed during the final session of the Convention Thursday, Aug. 2k, will serve a one-year term and will go out of office following the 1973 National Convention next summer. -alns- CHICAGO—(ALNS)—"American Legionnaires have answered this country's call to bear arms in four wars in recognition of the principle that freedom is not free," Adm. Thomas Ifoorer, USN, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has told The American Legion.
Speaking before the Legion's 5Uth National Convention here, Adm. Moorer said The American Legion is and has been dedicated to preserving American will and determina- tion to seek peace through strength. "You can take great pride in your concern for and in your contributions to the strength this nation now enjoys," Moorer -added.
The speaker reviewed the nation's military strategic balance and the implications of the arms limitations treaty with the Soviet Union.
"With Congressional approval of the treaty on the limitations of anti-ballistic missile systems—a treaty of unlimited duration—and the interim agreement with respect to strategic offensive arms—an agreement of five years duration—the world's two greatest Powers have taken an unprecedented initial step to place their most powerful arms under limitation and restraint. In that respect it is a milestone, but let me emphasize that it is but a first step—a beginning, not an end," Moorer stated. -alns- CHICAGO—(ALNS)—The Singing Legionnaires of Post 1$, Sioux Falls, S.D., have regained their title as the national champion chorus at The American Legion's 5Uth National Convention here. Complete unofficial results of the chorus contest are as follows? , „-„„- PLACE UNIT POST CITY/STATE SCORE 1 Singing Legionnaires 15 Sioux Falls, S.D. 'Q9.96 2 Champions of Song 23 Milwaukee, Wis. §£'§2 3 Balladiers 183 Parkville, Md. 69.20 -alns- 0218 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
—Fo ■! r■■« —re ■■! HleaI.III!II rte»PW»* 8~2li»-72*,H»«I I »'!■ CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALMS)—Robert Howard Faust, 20, Sherman Oaks, Calif., has been unanimously elected the first National Commander of the Sons of The American Legion. The son of Dr. and Mrs. Robert M. Faust, the youthful leader of the 18,000-member SAL organization is presently a junior at U.C.L.A.
Long active in the Sons of The American Legion, National SAL Commander Faust served as commander of Arcadia Squadron 2jj, back in 1962-63. He served as Detachment Commander of California in 1967-68, National Vice Chairman of the SAL in 1970-71 and 1971-72. He has been a member of The American Legion's Sons of The American Legion Committee since 1970.
Nominated for "Man of the Year 1972" at Mb. San Antonio College, Faust also served as the 1971-72 A.S.B, president at Mb. San Antonio. Ernest Wilson, Jr., 20, East Orange, N.J., a member of Squadron lf>2 in Newark, won out over NECman Grant M, Jamieson, Detroit, Mich., for the office of National Vice Commander (East). Bryan Raymond 0«Boyle, 18, San Antonio, Texas, defeated NECman Terry R. Kelley, Denver, Colo., for the office of National Vice Commander (West). For the office of National SAL Chaplain, James Robert Hartman, Jr., 23, Laurel, Md., won out over Robert Duesdieker of Hannibal, Mo.
National Vice Commander Wilson is presently studying to be a certified accountant; National Vice Commander 0'Boyle is planning to become a lawyer, while National Chaplain Hartman is now a branch manager for a public finance firm in Silver Spring, Md.
The newly elected National SAL Commander has announced the following appoint- ments for the 1972-73 SAL Year: National Adjutant Eric Smith, Jr., Broadview, 111.5 National Sergeant-at-Arms Fred Hartline, Akron, Ohio; Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms Larry Moreland, Wabash, Ind.j Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms John E« Webster, Monroe, Wis.
Committee chairmen for 1972 include: Ways end Means - Gregory Reis, Broadview, 111.; Finance - Tony Carter, Bayonae, N»J«; Resolutions - Grant Jamieson, Detroit, Mich; Activities/Americanism - Richard L. Gooch, Peoria, Ill.j Aide to National SAL Commander, Dan Harper, Salinas, Calif.; and Convention City, Verne Win. Coolman, Indianapolis, Ind, The second annual National SAL Convention is scheduled to be held in Honolulu, Hawaii, and will b© held in conjunction with the 1973 National Convention of The American Legion.
A total of 2k detachments were represented at the highly successful first National Convention of the Sons of The American Legion. Delegates from the various detachments included: Indiana, Illinois, Massachusetts, Colorado, California, New Jersey, Philippines, Kentucky, Florida, New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Ohio, Maryland, Wisconsin, Texas, Connecticut, Minnesota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, New Hampshire and Georgia. More than 1*00 delegates, distinguished guests and SAL advisors were on hand for the historic first National SAL Convention, held at the Conrad Hilton Hotel here. (More) 0219
SAL First National Convention, page 2
NBC and CBS television covered the historic Convention, chaired by National SAL Chairman John Smolinsky of Tewksbury, Mass. The keynote address was made by Anthony Rigoni, Chicago Police Department, assigned to the narcotics section of the Vice ConSoi Division. Other distinguished speakers included: National Commander John H. Geiger of The American Legions Mrs. Robert L. Parker, national President of ™e American Legion Auxiliary! Joe L. Matthews, Fort Worth, Tex., a member of the Legion Internal Affairs Commission; Claide Carpenter, Jr., Little Rock, f^™^^.*0 the Legion's National Legislative Commission! James M. Wagonseller, Lancaster, Ohio, chairman of the Legion's Merchant Marine Committees Soleng Tom, Tucson, Ariz., ana Cleary Pelletier, Closter, N.J., members of the SAL Committee. National SAL Commander Faust in his acceptance speech as leader of the J-M00 member organization said, "We must build and expand our programs. ?^^on f st, to his best ability, develop himself and our programs within the best traditions of The American Legion." The Commander's goals for the year include: 1. A Sons organization in every department. 2. An increase in membership to a total of 22,000 members. 3. Expansion of Americanism and other patriotic programs. k. Development of expanded squadron programs„ £. Raising of adequate funds to carry out plans for the future of the SAL.
-alns- CHICAGO, ILL. ~(ALNS)-Four new 1972 Fords have been presented to African Legionnaires during the 26th annual Seagram Posts Ford Awards at The American Legion's fttb National Convention here. Recipients of the new cars are as follows:
Jeremiah J. Creeden - Post 1^0, Newburyport, Mass. Clarence Linenfelser - Post 2U7, Clidden, Wis. Arthur L. Rogers - Post 27, Sallisaw, Okla. Harry J. Lutz - Post l£6, Kirkwood, Mo. *alns- CHICAGO, ILL.--(ALNS)—The American Legion, by National Convention action, voted to declare null and void any rules, regulations or policies aimed at regulating the length of hair, hair style, and besrds of any young men participating m American Legion sponsored youth programs. Noting that over the past f*w years some Legion programs have had rules imposed to regulate the personal aproar<.nce of participants, pnrbicnlnrly with regard to hair, the resolubion stated th*t all snoh regulation* as may have been instituted at any level of the organisation are null and void and that in the future, not such rules, written or unwritten, shall be adopted or enforced. The resolution furthf^ stated that action in no way abrogates the authority or eliminates the responsibility of the Legion, to adopt and enforce regulations necessary to the health and safety of participants in American Legion programs. -alns- 0220 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 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811
For release B-24-72 CHICAGO—(ALNS)—Presidential candidate George McGovern, a long-time Legionnaire, told the delegates to The American Legion's 54th Annual National Convention, held here Aug. 18-24, 1972, that we should be rebuilding the dikes and homes in the devastated flood zone of eastern Pennsylvania instead of bombing the dikes of Vietnam.
Speaking at McCormick Place here Wednesday morning, Aug. 23, Senator McGovern told a packed hall of Legionnaires, who received the Senator cordially, that General Thieu is ". • cnot worth one more drop of American blood or one more ounce of suffering and anguish on the part of our prisoners and their loved ones,"
While declaring that his military budget would give us enough fire- power to destroy Russia and China simultaneously 20 times over, Senator wcGovern decried that our military spending is ". » .riddled with waste and inefficiency."
"We need an invincible and invulnerable defense, but we also need to rein in the high-flying military spenders who think the sky is the limit and have flagrantly abused the blank checks given them in the past by Congress and the people," the Senator said. Candidate McGovern said that he was opposed to the bombing of Vietnam not only because it is wrong and militarily ineffective, but also because it is so wasteful.
"It will cost $2% billion to rebuild Pennsylvania," McGovern said. "That is what we have spent bombing Vietnam in the ten weeks since the Pennsylvania flood," he addedn "For God's sake and for the sake of humanity, let's stop bombing Asia and begin building America," the Senator declared. In other matters of deep concern to members of the world's largest veterans organization, Candidate McGovern said that, if elected, he would push for a new G,I, Bill that would assure all Vietnam-era veterans the same level of benefits and opportunity afforded those veterans of World War II.
The Senator also said that he would do his utmost to ", . .restore the capability of the Veterans Adm-ini strati on hospital and medical programs to give all eligible veterans the care they have the right to expect." -alns- 0221 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 8-21^-72
CHICAGO, ILL.~(ALNS)~The 5Uth National Convention of The American Legion, assembled in Chicago, 111., has urged that "an appropriate investigation be made by the Attorney General of the United States regarding adverse statements made by Jane Fonda on the official position of the United States in Vietnam."
After a voice vote from the convention floor, the resolution (UQ8) was adopted. Originally received and recorded by. the Convention Committee on Americanism, the resolution was placed before the entire convention as a single resoliion by a California delegate. The resolution noted that Jane Fonda has been quoted as statings "We know what U.S. imperialism has done to our country...so we know what lies in store for any Third .World country that cculd have the misfortune of falling into the hands of a country such as the United States and becoming a colony."
The resolution further pointed out that Jane Fonda had made a recent visit to Hanoi and made other public statements adverse to the official position of the United States in Vietnam. Other Americanism action taken by the Legion's National Convention called for the President of the United States and the Department of Justice to make a complete and detailed investigation of "certain individuals reported to have been engaged in activities in North Vietnam that are detrimental to the safety of our remaining forces and to the interests of the United States, i.e., giving aid and encouragement to the forces of North Vietnam." The resolution further called for prosecution of each individual providing, after investigation, the law of the land has been violated,
In another Americanism resolution, the National Convention reconfirmed the Legion's support of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and its acting director, Patrick Gray III.
-alns- CHICAGO, ILL. —(ALNS)—First place in The American Legion Senior Drill Team competition was won by Urban Klister Post U36, Wrigfttstowm,.Wms Following are the unofficial results of the contest: SCORE PLACE UNIT POST NO, CITY/STATE 1 Urban Klister Post Wrightstown, Wis, B272T 2 Continental Kangaroos 383 Chicago, 111. 78.25
-alns-
CHICAGO, ILL.--(ALNS)—The Indianapolis Motorcycle Drill Team sponsored by American Legion Post 56, Indianapolis, Ind., has retained its national championship_ during comletition at the Legion's 5Uth National Convention here. Complete unofficial results of the Motorcycle Drill Team compebit-i.nij follows: UNIT POST NO. CITY/STATE Indianapolis Police Dept, Indianapolis, Ind. Hancock Post 119 Greenfield, Ind. -alns- 0222 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 8-21+-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—Senator John C. Stennis, of Mississippi, in accepting The American Legion 1972 Distinguished Service Medal, along with DeWitt Wallace, founder and Co-Chairman of Readers Digest, told the Legion's National Convention here that one of his foremost objectives in the U.S. Senate was to preserve and augment, if possible, the physical and moral strength of America.
"One of the great themes of American history, as personified by The American Legion, has been peace through military strength and preparedness. That philosophy has never really varied since it was first announced by General George Washington," said the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who also is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee,
The Senator noted the recent Senate debate to come up with an adequate military preparedness bill and said he was "satisfied that it is sufficient, in terras of effective weaponry, to provide us with a powerful, overall military defense second to none."
Limiting his comments regarding Vietnam, Senator Stennis said our men "had to fight without the vital confidence that come from knowing that a fully united nation was completely behind them. For fighting under that handicap they deserve all the more credit," he said.
Regarding the issue of Prisoners of War and Missing in Action, Senator Stennis said: "We will not leave a single American, either a prisoner, or unaccounted for, in | Vietnam. We have not forgotten you. We will never desert you. America will never turn its back on its own."
The Senator noted that America has experienced the high oost of military unpreparedness, that we seemingly have not learned from those lessons, and on those occasions "only time and the strong will of the American people have saved us."
He continued to say that "today we are concluding yet another war in Vietnam but even before it has ended we are hearing calls for cutting foreign ties and greatly reducing defense spending, and therefore, our military strength. We must be wary of | such toughtless action. Those who fail to heed the lessons of history must pay the j price," he continued.
The Senator noted the Legion's own contributions to the strength of the nation through its citiss«nship-leadership training programs. "I cannot let this occasion pass," he told the Legionnaires, "without mentioning Boys Nation and Girls Nation, the twin programs for teaching citizenship and responsibility to our new generation of youthful leaders.
"These programs, founded and sponsored by The American Legion, have, like The American Legion Baseball program, already become veritable institutions in America. These youths, and the Legion which sponsor them, are glowing examples of what is right about America," the Senator said. -alns- 0223 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 3-24-72
CHICAGO—(ALNS)—The Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Policy Plans and National Security Council Affairs, Lawrence Eagleburger, told Legionnaires assembled here for the Legion's 54th Annual National Convention that ". . .while we may no longer be prepared to be the world's policeman, neither do we intend to be the world's cop-out." Eagleburger, soeaking before members of the Legion's National Security Commission Tuesday morning, Aug. 22, 1972, said that "Ours is not the way of empire; it is the way of partnership, the only way to a generation of peace. This is the fundamental message of the Nixon Doctrine," he said. Mr. Eagleburger filled in as a substitute for the Honorable G. Warren Nutter, Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, who was unable to appear due to illness. He delivered the same message Mr. Nutter had been slated to give. Eagleburger also said that we should not make the mistake of believing that the other side has everything going for it. "We do not, for example, face a neighbor of some 300 million people with a growing nuclear capability and a one million man army on our borders, nor do we head an alliance of reluctant associates most of whom would change their political and economic systems in a moment if given a chance," he said. Complimenting the Legion for its traditional advocacy of a strong and viable national security policy, Eagleburger said the Legion's support on the vital issue of national security is needed ". . .now more than ever before." -alns- CHICAGO—(ALNS)—The Administrator of Veterans Affairs, Donald E. Johnson, a Past National Commander of The American Legion (1964-65), told the assembled delegates at the opening session of the Legion's 54th^Annual National Convention here Tuesday evening, that the largest veterans organization faces ". . .one of the severest tests in its history." The nature of the test will be in the preservation of the independent, viable, quality VA hospital and medical care program which we know today as the 93rd Congress faces the imperative of fashioning a national program to insure adequate health care at reasonable cost for all Americans. "This test can be met if yon legionnaires will tell the positive, dynamic story of the VA hospital and medical care program to the American people," Johnson said. -alns- □ MERICAN 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 8-2U-72
CHICAGO, ILL. —(ALNS)—The American Legion will petition the Congress for relief from "exorbitant postal rate increases" for second class mailers,, increases that threaten to push the mailing costs of The American Legion Magazine from about $325,000 in 1972 to more than $1,000,000 a year by 1980 or an increase of 235 percent within a decade.
The resolution calling for Congressional action in the postal rate matter said the increase would create a financial crisis for The American Legion, and asked for amendments to the Postal Reorganization Act to provide relief for second class mailers from the excessive rate increases.
-alns-
CHICAG0, ILL. —(ALNS)—The American Legion through National Convention action has renewed its opposition to legislative and administrative proposals that would authorize hospitalization of non-veterans in VA hospitals.
The resolution, aimed at blocking any weakening of the VA hospital-medical system, notes the increased demand on VA hospital-medical facilities created by the growing veteran population and points out that the burden of treating non-veterans would expand upon already existing problems.
It calls for treatment in civilian medical facilities, at government expense, of surviving dependents of war veterans who die of a service-connected disability after discharge from active duty in the armed forces, as well as the wives and children of permanently and totally service-connected disabled veterans.
In other Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation matters, the convention voted reiteration of the Legion's position that the VA hospital-medical program be continued as a separate entity apart from any future national health insurance programj to sponsor and support legislation providing mustering out pay for members of the armed forces who served honorably on active duty during the Vietnam eraj urged legislation to authorize accredited representatives to review veterans drug treatment and rehabilitation records, and called again for legislation to improve death and disability pension programs for veterans, their widows and children.
-alns-
CHICAG0, ILL.—(ALNS)—The Webster Vanguards, sponsored by Post 9h3, Webster, N.Y., have taken the junior drill team championship at The American Legion's 5Uth National Convention here. Complete unofficial results of the contest follows? SCORE PLACE UNIT POST CITY/STATE
1 Webster Vanguards 91*3 Webster, N.Y. 89.95 2 Elevenettes 11 Lafayette, Ind. 83.05 80.90 3 American Legion Kadet (Vigo Co. Cncl 6th Dist) Terre Haute, Ind. k La Quieniean 639 Los Angeles, Calif. 80.85 Karchettes lH3 Bristol, Ind. 80.1*0 5 79.00 6 Paradettes Huntington, Ind. Redettes Niagra, Wis. 73.UQ Dubuquettes >28_ Dubuque, Iowa 70.15 i-alns- 0225 □•MERICAN 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 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811 For release 8-24-72
CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—Navy Secretary John Warner, told The American Legion's National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions, meeting in business sessions on the opening day of the 54th Annual National invention that: "Until we can approach through negotiation an acceptable disarmament agreement we've got to keep this country strong." Secretary Earner explained the terms of the SALT agreements, but apparently not to the satisfaction of some members of his Legionnaire, defense oriented, audience who did not fully accept explanations of why those agreements allowed the Soviet Union to have more missiles and sub- marines than the United States. The Secretary covered in some detail two major areas of interest to the Legion when he spoke on the Strategic Arms Limitations Agreement and the Incidents at Sea Agreement. The latter, he said, records the mutual recognition of both the U.S. and the Soviet Union that an unintentional^ accident between our two navies could have disastrous consequences, serious loss of life, property damage, possible nuclear pollution, and a marked increase in tensions between our two countries. To avoid such consequences, the two navies agreed upon practical procedures aimed at enhancing safety when units of our two navies operate in close proximity. "Although the Incidents at Sea Agreements is far from solving all our problems with the Soviet Union, it should help decrease tensions on or over the high seas," he declared. -alns- CHICAGO, ILL.—(ALNS)—Declaring that "The American Legion has long advocated the use of preventive medicine to protect children from many child- hood ailments, "The American Legion has called for action to fight Sickle Cell disease. By its adoption of the report of the Committee on Children & Youth, the Legion's 54th National Convention here, called for maximum dissemination of information presently known about sickle disease; adequate counseling for victims of the disease; sufficient public funds to provide treatment for medically indignant children and urged Congress and State Legislatures to enact legislation at its 1973 session to make screening for sickle cell disease among potential victims a requirement for admission into public schools. Other child welfare action by the convention included a continuance of Legion efforts to fight communicable diseases and a reaffirmation of the Legion's Policy Statement on Drugs and Drug Abuse. -alns- 0226 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 8-24-72
CHICAGO—(ALMS)—Agustin Edwards, former publisher of El Mercurio, a Spanish language newspaper of Santiago, Chile, became the first newsman from outside the continental United States to receive The American Legion's Fourth Estate Award for outstanding service in the field of communication. The award was voted to the former South American Publisher by the Legion's National Public Relations Commission for his firm stand against the take over of Chile by a Marxist government, a posture which eventually made it necessary for him to leave his country.
In accepting the award presented from the platform of the Legion's 54th Annual National Convention by National Commander John 1-2. Geiger, Fix, Edwards recognized that he accepted under unusual circumstances in that he no longer lives in his own country, but was "placing a heavy burden of responsibility on a nucleus of friends and colleagues who, I am proud to report, continue to fight with the same vigor. "Our struggle in Chile was, and is., I believe, representative of the struggles of free people everywhere to maintain and to expand upon our individual and collective freedoms. This is a never ending struggle, as you people of the United States well know," he said.
Mr. Edwards commended the Legion for its recognition of the value of a free public press to the maintenance of all freedom, and suggested to news people in the audience that the preservation of freedom is not a one-way street and reminded news personnel that "you too must discharge diligently the responsibilities of your profession.
"Full, fair and factual reporting of the important events of the day is as essential to the maintenance of freedom as is the very existence of freedom of the press. You have a great trust, always keep yourselves worthy of it," he said. -alns- CHICAGO—(ALNS)—"For sake of God and Country, turn our country back to God," was the theme of a memorial service conducted by National Chaplain Father Paul J. Schwaab at the Legion's 54th National Convention, Legion National Commander John H. Geiger and Auxiliary President Mrs. Robert L. Parker, led their respective organizations in the Convention's traditional "Patriotic Program" in Chicago's Conrad Hilton Hotel. In addition to Legion National Chaplain Schwaab, who delivered the main address, Dr. Harvey Goodling, Department Chaplain, The American Legion of Oregon; Mrs. Lester L. Nimon, National Chaplain, American Legion Auxiliary; and Father Jerome ICLingsporn, Past Chaplain, Franklin D. Roosevelt Post 923 of Chicago, participated in the program.
-alns-