LEGIONN E W Y O R K SUMMER July 2016 Vol. 3 No. 2

Your American Legion in Action

LEGION NEW YORK • 1 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 www.nylegion.org RENDER A BLUE STAR SALUTE

LEGION By James V. Yermas, commander NEW YORK Throughout our country’s history, our The American Legion armed forces have fought and sacrificed Department of New York, to achieve and maintain our freedom. The 112 State Street, Suite 1300, Albany, New York 12207. fight continues today in our war on ter- 518-463-2215 rorism. These men and women, and their [email protected] families are being asked do more than ever for all of us. COMMANDER James V. Yermas This past Armed Forces Day (May 21), ADJUTANT the members of The American Legion James Casey rendered what we call a Blue Star salute VICE COMMANDERS – because it not only hails our men and Districts 1 & 9 women in uniform, but also their families fought in bloody battles on Iwo Jima. He Nicholas V. Kleszczewski and the companies in our communities even escorted the Marines who raised Districts 2 & 10 Vincent J. Calimano who support them. the first flag atop Mount Suribachi – a Districts 3 & 4 If you see a Blue Star banner hanging flag raising that drew cheers from the A. Fred Vandebogart at a , you’ll know that’s a military Americans below. They didn’t just raise a Districts 5 & 6 family and their loved one may be away flag; they raised the spirit of the American Michael H. McDermott fighting force. Districts 7 & 8 protecting us. So please join us in person- Robert J. Wenzel ally thanking our servicemen, our service- After the war Al joined the American NATIONAL EXEC. women and especially their families for Legion. He believed in youth and the COMMITTEEMAN all of their sacrifices. promise he saw in them for America’s fu- William H. Burnett ture. Al became an icon at American Le- ALT. NAT. EXEC. A TEAR AND A SMILE gion Boys State – bonding with thousands COMMITTEEMAN upon thousands of high school youth. Edward Bertrand We had a lot to reflect on this past Memo- TREASURER rial Day. Veterans who are no longer with Like the flag-raising on Iwo Jima, Al’s John C. “Jack” Clancy us. Veterans who made the ultimate sacri- life raised the spirit of America’s future. JUDGE ADVOCATE fice. Veterans who had an impact on us. Charles G. Mills For those veterans who personally MASTER-AT-ARMS Richard F. Calbo touched us, Memorial Day allows us to CHAPLAIN savor their memory. To smile. And then, Rev. Robert J. Sweeney inside, to render a tearful salute. HISTORIAN Al Paviglianti is an example of a vet- Frank Carletta eran who brings both a smile and a tear. PHOTOGRAPHER This World War II Marine, who went to Doug Malin his eternal rest last year at the age of 92, EDITOR Robert Stronach To submit photos, news, ON THE COVER: AMERICAN LEGION COLOR GUARD articles, email the editor at: [email protected] Legionnaires and their color guards have been out in force this spring and summer, from Memorial Day to Flag Day to the Fourth of July. Color guards like this one from 5th Volume 3, No. 2 District’s Utica Post 229 (with SAL member Dave Valentine in front) presented the colors at Summer July 2016 Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremonies and marched in parades. Photo by R. Stronach.

LEGION NEW YORK • 2 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 NATIONAL COMMANDER VISITS NEW YORK ‘YOU STAND UP TO DO THE RIGHT THING’ “You stand up to do the right thing” and “make a dif- ference” in people’s lives. That’s why American Legion National Com- mander Dale Barnett said he is excited about what the Legion does for community and nation. Barnett spoke to members of the Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion (SAL) who packed banquet halls in his four-day swing through the eastern half of New York State. He began his visit in the Herkimer County City of Little Falls National Commander Dale Barnett addresses the Legion Family during his swing through Herkimer County. Photo by Bob Stronach. April 13, then headed to the Capital Region April 14, and In his estimation, the Legion America. Freedom is not tree’s in Floral Park. In the finally downstate to Queens Family is not just members free. Our country needs us evening he spoke at a dinner April 15. of the Legion, Auxiliary right now.” in his honor at Antun’s in Look at the Legion in and SAL, but everyone the The April 13th banquet Queens Village. Selma, Alabama, for an Legion touches through its was at the Little Falls Trav- He wrapped up his New example of standing up for programs – such as young elodge, followed April 14 York tour Saturday morn- what is right, Barnett said Legion ball players, and Boy by a tour of the Watervliet ing, April 16, with a visit to in recounting a recent visit and Girl Staters. Arsenal in Watervliet and his alma mater -- the U.S. there. He has fond memories of a banquet at the Holiday Military Academy at West Decades before Selma attending Boys State himself. Inn in Saratoga Springs. Point. Barnett was an army became the heart of a civil “I learned I could make a On April 15 Commander infantry officer from 1974 rights , the Amer- difference.” Barnett headed downstate to 1996 and served in both ican Legion sued the Ku His motto, he said, con- for lunch with local Legion Operation Desert Shield and Klux Klan over a World War sists of three simple, yet Family members at Crab- Operation Desert Storm. I monument that neglected powerful words – “duty, to include the names of honor and country.” veterans of color. A veteran “You have a duty to your is a veteran, they argued. The community, you have a duty Legion won and the names to yourself to make this were added. country better.” “We need to stand up for Honor comes from “wear- our military, we need to ing the uniform” and from stand up for our veterans.” “wearing the Legion cap.” In The national commander other words, “it’s an honor to said he likes to walk with the s e r v e .” American Legion Family – He added: “There is no National Commander Dale Barnett in Queens with wife Donna, Past to hear stories about how the greater country in the world Department Commander V. James Troiola and Department Adjutant Legion changed their lives. than the United States of James Casey. Photo by Doug Malin. LEGION NEW YORK • 3 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 ALTERNATIVE PTSD THERAPY IS NO. 1 PRIORITY HILL DAY COVERS NY LEGION’S TOP LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

ALBANY -- Declaring the health and welfare of veter- ans as “first and foremost,” New York State American Legion Legislative Chair- man Harvey McCagg said the Legion’s number one legislative priority in the state is non-drug, alternative therapy for post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) – particularly, HyperBaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Speaking at the annual Harvey McCagg, Sen. Thomas Croci, Assemblyman Michael DenDekker, Sen. Joseph Addaboo Jr. “Hill Day” legislative break- fast March 1 at the Empire as medical conditions, which on the SUNY Morrisville Military Affairs) committee.” State Plaza, McCagg told may be healed by providing campus. He described his approach some 140 Legion Family extra oxygen to the brain in • $1.1 million in funding for to working on veterans is- members and legislators a hyperbaric chamber. the Veterans Defense Program sues with legislators of both that the American Legion Other legislative priori- (VDP), created two years parties and houses this way: was asking the governor and ties, McCagg said, include: ago to assist veterans in the “I don’t care what uniform state legislature to create • establishing veterans cem- criminal justice system strug- you’re wearing as long as and fund a TBI and PTSD eteries in underserved areas. gling with service-connected we’re shooting in the same Biological Repair Treatment • mandating that school behavioral health issues. direction.” and Recovery Law. districts hold a public forum Several veterans affairs “Every legislator in our With 22 veteran suicides a on whether to provide a vet- legislative leaders also spoke, conference,” he added, “rec- day, the signature wounds erans tax exemption. While with Sen. Thomas D. Croci ognizes the service of our of veterans who served in some districts have provided pointing out that his month- veterans.” Iraq and Afghanistan are an exemption, many have ly drills as a reservist provide Assemblyman Michael G. TBI and PTSD, for which refused to even bring it up a perspective that “helps me, DenDekker, chairman of the the Department of Defense for discussion. I think, in my role as chair- Assembly Veterans Affairs (DOD) and Department of • a $150,000 grant for man of the (Senate Veterans, Committee, also referred Veterans Affairs (VA) refuse American Legion Boys State Homeland Security and to the cooperative spirit on to provide all known effec- veterans issues. tive treatments. Among the He noted that “900,000 most promising, he said, is veterans in the State of New HBOT. Traditionally mild York” “make up 5 percent of TBI and PTSD have been the population.” treated as psychiatric disor- “When you make up five ders with drug therapy, but percent of the population, growing evidence suggests I think you should propor- that mild TBI and PTSD tionately get five percent” of may be the result of multiple the state budget, he said to concussive exposures and applause. should therefore be treated Some of the Legionnaires participating in Hill Day. Another Senate veterans LEGION NEW YORK • 4 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 Legionnaires from Staten Island discuss the need for alternative therapy for post traumatic stress with Assemblyman Michael Cusick (left) following the Legion’s Hill Day legislative breakfast. The Legionnaires are, from left, Fred Lamarsh, 2nd District legislative chair; Anthony Pergola, 2nd District commander; Mary and Dennis McLoone (who conducted the POW/MIA remembrance ceremony at the legislative breakfast); and Past Department Commander Frank Peters. committee member, Sen. Legionnaires, “and you’re donned his American Le- Joseph Addaboo Jr., pointed making it heard.” gion cap and launched into to post traumatic stress, There are a “ton of people a history lesson on the num- suicide, homelessness and advocating for many things” ber of veterans who fought unemployment as top veter- with the state legislature. “In or stood watch from World ans issues. my opinion, the veterans go War II to the present. He “The suicide rate among to the head of the line.” also pointed to TBI/PTSD, our veterans is far too high. Assemblyman Kieran homelessness and suicide as We can lower that.” He also Michael Lalor, a member “real priorities.” said they should be able of the Assembly Veterans “The suicide rate among to decrease the number of Affairs Committee, referred veterans is astronomically homeless and unemployed to the fact he had been a high. We need to address vets. social studies teacher before that in a way that brings “You have a voice,” he told he joined the Marines, then healing.” Assemblyman Kieran Michael Lalor

Dept. Adjutant Jim Casey introduces staffers on a rotating basis. In MEET YOUR STAFF this issue he spotlights Ann Brown, Boys State program coordinator. One might say that Ann Brown is certifications along with other head- the face of Boys State – or at least, one quarters duties. She is a member of of the most familiar staff faces at the Auxiliary Unit #731, currently serving annual week-long affair that immerses as first vice president. Ann attended high school students in citizenship Stillwater High School and then Cos- and leadership. mology school to become a licensed She is the Department’s Boys State beautician. She went to work for the program coordinator, which means State Department of Corrections, she works year-round planning for retiring after 37 years, and then came the annual event held at Morrisville to work for The American Legion. State College, and then is present to Ann enjoys baking, cooking and assist the Legion leadership running spending time at her camp in the the on-campus operation. And when Adirondacks with her dog Turbo. Ann is not working on Boys State She has a son and daughter, and four Ann Brown Jim Casey stuff, she handles post and officer grandchildren.

LEGION NEW YORK • 5 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 FEBRUARY-MARCH BUSY WITH OFFICIAL VISITATIONS ROCHESTER’S VIETNAM MEMORIAL AMONG MEMORABLE STOPS American Legion state leaders made official visits to a number of counties in February and March, dining with Legion Family mem- bers and visiting local sites. One of the memorable stops, arranged by Monroe County Legion, was the Greater Rochester Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Roch- ester, which was followed by dinner at Rick’s Prime Rib House in the suburb of Gates. The dinner attracted Le- gion Family members from across the county and the Legion Family leaders at the Greater Rochester Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Photo / R. Stronach. 7th District. SAL Detachment Com- which meets at the restau- on the district level. Connie swing through the district. mander Joseph L. Santa- rant. Interestingly, Post Corwin is 7th District Le- They have been moving Croce Jr. and Department Commander Chuck Zeiner gion chaplain, Sharon Beeke up the ranks in both orga- Auxiliary President Janet explained, the facility was is 7th District Auxiliary nizations. “We’re both going Mahoney described the me- originally the post home chaplain and Jim Daly is 7th through it at the same time morial tour as “outstanding.” before it was sold to restau- District SAL chaplain. so it’s working out well,” Department Commander rateurs. There were signs of an Charlie said. “Yeah!” Maret James Yermas echoed that One might ask whether active Legion Family. For concurred. sentiment and noted that the post members that pray example, Wayne County The 7th District SAL, by tour also was emotional for together, stay together – Auxiliary President Maret the way, sponsored a big Vietnam vets like himself. because among the dinner Rose was accompanying her “welcome home” event May “When you walk down attendees were three people husband, 7th District SAL 22 for post-9/11 veterans and that path and read all the from Chili Post 1830 who Commander Charlie Rose, their families, with the assis- names (of area veterans all hold chaplaincy positions on the March visitation tance of VA Medical Centers killed in Vietnam), it’s in Bath and Canandaigua. tough to go through it.” The The next day on the 7th winding path is lined with District swing, the visitors stanchions, or bollards, bear- lunched at Bradley-Jessup ing the names of the fallen, Post 660 in Dundee, where along with stone markers they got to meet a family telling the history of the that the Department and Vietnam war. County Auxiliary assisted. “You should be proud of The Department and what you have here in Roch- Yates County Auxiliaries ester,” Yermas told banquet raised $15,000 to provide a attendees. service dog to a child prone The dinner was hosted to suffering seizures, noted 7th District Chaplains (from left) Connie Corwin, Jim Daley by William Doud Post 98, and Sharon Beeke are all from Chili Post 1830. Continued on next page.

LEGION NEW YORK • 6 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 HOME-SCHOOLER IS ORATORICAL CHAMPION 5 STUDENTS COMPETE IN STATE-WIDE FINALS ALBANY — Melissa Woodford, a home-schooled graduating senior from New City, NY, is The American Legion New York State oratorical champion for 2016, Oratorical Chairman Anthony Paternostro an- nounced. Melissa competed against four other finalists from a cross section of the state in the 79th Annual American Legion Department of New New York Oratorical Champ Melissa Woodford is shown with National Commander Dale Bar- York Oratorical Contest. nett and National Americanism Chairman Richard Anderson. She was one of 53 contestants Melissa won a $6,000 schol- competing for national honors in the Legion’s oratorical contest held in Indianapolis, Indiana arship and represented New in April. While she didn’t make the final round, she said the competition was an opportunity for her to “perfect” her speaking skills and “give respect to the veterans who served our country.” York in the National Oratori- She spoke on the 26th Amendment and how it gave veterans a right to vote at the age of 18. cal Contest in Indianapolis, IN “I found that such a privilege and joy to be able to talk about.” in April. She was sponsored by Moscarella Post 199 (Rock- ville, won a $4,000 scholar- Falls Post 1160 & Philm- 8th District. land County, 9th District). ship. He was sponsored by ont Post 252 of Columbia • Dylan Kernehan, a The “Constitutional the Greenlawn Post 1244 of County, 3rd District. senior at Alexandria Bay Speech Contest” took place Suffolk County, 10th District. • Meredith Patterson, a Central School, won a March 5 at Sand Creek • Joseph Giulian, a senior senior at Charles D’Amico $2,000 scholarship. Dylan Middle School in Colonie. at Taconic Hills High School High School, was awarded a was sponsored by John B. The other finalists: in Columbia, received a $2,000 scholarship. Meredith Lyman Post 904 of Jefferson • Nicholas Honor, a junior $2,500 scholarship. Joseph was sponsored by Sheret County, 5th District. at St. Pius V School in Mel- was sponsored by Copake Post 35, of Orleans County,

Continued from previous page. Department President Jan Mahoney. The girl, Claire Dillon, whose father is a veteran, received the dog two years ago when she was two. The dog, Sebastian, somehow senses when a seizure might occur, and alerts the family so they can be ready to provide medical intervention to arrest an active seizure, explained the girl’s mom, Nicole. The dog also comforts Claire, helping to keep her calm. “You guys are wonderful,” said Nicole. “We couldn’t have done this without your support.” Coincidentally, Department President Jan Mahoney and Yates County President Charlotte Ridley were Department and County Children Department Commander James Yermas pets service dog while Department and Youth chairs, respectively, when they learned President Janet Mahoney chats with Nicole Dillon, Claire’s mom. Behind of the girl’s plight and decided to do something them are SAL Detachment Commander Joseph SantaCroce Jr. and Yates about it. County President Charlotte Ridley.

LEGION NEW YORK • 7 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 WWII VET IN SPOTLIGHT AT CAYUGA COUNTY VISIT KOREAN WAR-ERA TANK FINDS ITS WAY TO AUBURN POST AUBURN -- A World War II Navy veteran was in the spotlight March 22 at the Cayuga County Legion luncheon for American Legion state leaders making an official visitation swing through the 7th District. When it was Depart- ment Commander James Yermas’ turn to speak, he left the podium to recog- nize Warren Carpenter, an 88-year-old member of Weedsport Post 568 who served aboard the heavy cruiser USS Los Angeles in . Yermas thanked Department Commander James Yermas thanks World War II veteran Warren Carpenter. the WWII vet for his service and presented him with a ered by crane and truck to few personal gifts – a chal- S-K (Swietonoiwski-Kopec- lenge coin, a commander’s zek) Post 1324 in Auburn. pen, and because Carpenter “It’s going to be a land- had recruited more than mark for our post,” noted a few members during his First Vice Commander Ed years with the Legion, the King, who coordinated commander’s membership the move. He said the tank recruiting pin. came from Fort Drum in Carpenter had two 1964, and that members of Marine escorts from the the Cayuga Post decided to Weedsport Post – Korean find the tank a new home. War vet and Post Com- Post Commander Mark mander Charlie Kreplin, Barrett said they planned to and Vietnam war vet and repaint the tank and hold a Past Post Commander Bob dedication ceremony later Jorolemon. in the year. The Korean war-era M41 Walker Bulldog tank also was a topic of conversation among luncheon attendees Korean war-era – because in February the M41 Walker M41 tank that had been on Bulldog tank at display for over half a cen- S-K Post 1324 in tury at Donald R. Ward Post Auburn. 1259 in Cayuga was deliv-

LEGION NEW YORK • 8 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 LEGIONNAIRES OUT IN FORCE FOR MEMORIAL DAY The American Legion led or co-sponsored Memorial Day ceremonies across the state May 30 as well as over the weekend. They joined in numerous community parades, too. Past Utica Post 229 Com- mander Chris Urban was typical of those leading or addressing crowds gathered around flag and wreath-lay- ing ceremonies in honor of the fallen and other veterans no longer with us. “All veterans share a com- mon bond,” Urban told the crowd at Utica’s Soldiers and Sailors Monument – the first of six stops at monu- ments across the city. That bond, he continued, Utica Post 229 Color Guard presents the colors at the city’s Memorial Day ceremonies. is the oath they take “to de- BELOW: Chris Urban renders salute after speaking in Utica while Chenango County Court Attor- ney Barry Fitzgerald speaks of absent loved-ones in Oriskany Falls. Photo by Brighid Fitzgerald. fend something greater than themselves – the Constitu- tion of the United States of America.” “All of us who served in the military take this oath.” South of Utica in the Vil- lage of Oriskany Falls, an- other speaker spoke of the sacrifices that families make in the defense of freedom. In ceremonies at the village park, following an Ameri- can Legion-led parade, Chenango County Court Attorney Barry Fitzgerald spoke of the absence of lo- In another example, 5 quoted veteran Daniel American Legion Rid- cal fathers, sons, husbands, American Legion Post 20 Kaifetz. ers also were out in force brothers, and the what-ifs. up north in Plattsburgh at- The TV station also to honor the memory of Fitzgerald, whose family tracted nearly 100 people to quoted local American veterans. In Lima, NY, for is involved in the American ceremonies. Legion Auxiliary President example, some 27 mem- Legion’s Kelley Phillips Post “Those who served in our Joyce Hinds: “Today is not bers of Riders Chapter 282 569 in Oriskany Falls, has military and, in particular, just a day off from work, a participated in a parade five brothers who served those who sacrificed their day at the beach, a parade or from Lima School to the multiple tours in Iraq and lives deserve our undying a family picnic. It’s a time to Town Hall, where a service Afghanistan. gratitude,” News Channel remember.” took place.

LEGION NEW YORK • 9 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 STATE DIRECTORY IN THE OFFING NEW CITY POST HONORS 2 The Department of New York POLICE OFFICERS is working with Publishing Concepts to produce a state- New City American Le- wide directory of Legion- gion Post 1682 honored two naires. Clarkstown police officers To accomplish this, Pub- in April for their roles in lishing Concepts is con- stopping a shooter during tacting members via mail, a standoff with police last email and telephone to year. see who would like to be The incident involved included in the directo- a man who threatened to ry. For those interested kill family members and in participating, the fire shots at the public directory can include and police. After negotia- photo and biographi- tions failed, a tactical team cal info. stormed the house and Those wishing to exchanged gunfire with the purchase a copy of man, fatally wounding him. the directory may Post Commander Mau- pre-order it so reen Morgan presented the publisher will the awards to Clarktown know how many to print. officers Robert Fortune and Thomas Flanagan.

NYALPA AWARD NAMED AFTER PNC FANG WONG

The New York American Le- gion Press Association (NYAL- PA) has named one of its awards after Past National Commander Fang Wong, who is also a past department commander. During a meeting at the De- partment Mid-Winter Confer- ence in Albany, NYALPA mem- bers approved the Fang Wong Public Relations Person of the Year Award. President Robert Stronach announced the honor to a sur- prised PNC Wong when he later showed up at the meeting, and Secretary Kevin Harrington, who proposed the award nam- ing, read aloud the resolution PNC Fang Wong is congratulated by Press Association Secretary Kevin Harrington after naming the PR Person of the members of the association voted to name the Public Relations Person of the Year Award Year Award after PNC Wong. after Wong.

LEGION NEW YORK • 10 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 LEGION RIDERS GATHER AT SPENCERPORT WALL

Members of American Legion Riders Chapter 1830 were out in force for the opening of the Vietnam Moving Wall June 16 in Spen- cerport. Ferris-Goodridge Post 330 sponsored the Moving Wall, which was in Spencerport until June 20. Photo by Jerry Ketchum. FERRIS-GOODRIDGE POST 330 HOSTS ‘MOVING WALL’ SPENCERPORT — Pa- the 50th anniversary of the cerport in 2000. respects to their fellow triotism was on full display Vietnam War. Post 330 Commander and comrades. Their ages, they’re here in June, as Time War- It’s a half-size replica of the Moving Wall Chairman Joe up in their 70’s now...late 60’s ner Cable News put it. Vietnam Veterans Memo- Laucht told TWC News: early 70’s, so they might not The American Legion’s rial in Washington D.C. “To me, and I hate to say get another chance to see it. Ferris-Goodridge Post 330 Organizers say this visit may it this way, but this may be And it’s easy for people who hosted the Moving Wall mean more than the last the last time that Vietnam can’t go to Washington, to June 16-20 to commemorate time the wall was in Spen- era veterans get to pay their come here and see it.” Spencerport Post 330 photo Post Spencerport

FORT ANN POST GETS FEDERAL BATTLEFIELD GRANT PROJECT AIMS TO STUDY, PRESERVE REVOLUTIONARY WAR SITE FORT ANN – The of Fort Anne. In July 1777, searchers, the Park Service to be able to continue on American Legion Post here early in the Saratoga Cam- announcement said. with further research of is one of 20 groups across paign, a larger British army The Glens Falls Post Star this historic site. I am sure the country to receive a defeated a Continental reported that determining we will succeed in our goal 2016 American Battlefield force that was retreating the major features of the of preserving this site and Protection Program grant from a loss days earlier at land where the battle was honoring those who made from the National Park Fort Ticonderoga. fought is crucial, because the ultimate sacrifice on Service. Through an archeologi- a developer has proposed that battlefield.” Raymond W. Harvey cal study and development mining land on Battle Hill. This is the second Na- Post 703 is being awarded of an overall preservation The newspaper quoted tional Park Service grant the $80,000 to conduct an plan, the project will en- Post Commander Chris- Post has received. In 2013 a archaeological study to gage the public and present tine Milligan, who has led $47,700 grant made possible define the borders of the a history of the battle for the effort to preserve the a preliminary archeological Revolutionary War’s Battle future visitors and re- battlefield: “We are excited survey of the site.

LEGION NEW YORK • 11 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 LEGION, SAL DONATE GIRL SCOUT COOKIES TO BATH VA

Mikayla and Birgit Lee get ready to unload boxes of Girl Scout cookies at the VA Medical Center in Bath, NY. Photo / .

The American Legion Bath VA Medical Center in ered to the VA on March 5 their Girl Scout daughter, Department of New York Steuben County. by Sons of the American Le- Mikayla. David serves as purchased Girl Scout cook- The boxes of cookies were gion (SAL) member David finance officer for the SAL ies to give to veterans at the loaded into a car and deliv- Lee and his wife, Birgit, and Detachment of New York. DEPT. KICKS OFF JOINT LEGION FAMILY HOMECOMING

In the spirit of coming together as American Legion Family, the New York State American Le- gion held a joint “Homecoming” celebration May 13-14 in honor of Department Commander James V. Yermas, Department Auxiliary President Janet Mahoney and Sons of the American Legion Detach- ment Commander Joseph L. Santa- Croce Jr. This inaugural “Legion Family Homecoming” took place at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany. The highlight event was the Homecoming dinner Saturday eve- ning. Friday evening and Saturday afternoon featured hospitality. In the spotlight at the inaugural Legion Family Homecoming were, from left, Department All members of New York’s Le- Commander James Yermas, Department President Janet Mahoney and Detachment gion Family were invited. Commander Joseph SantaCroce Jr. Photos by Doug Malin.

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USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. USAA products are available only in those jurisdictions where USAA is authorized to sell them. 1 Offer subject to approval. As of 12/1/15, regular APRs on purchases, cash advances and balance transfers are 10.90% to 25.90%, depending on your credit h istory and other factors. APRs vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. There is a transaction fee of 3% on cash advances ($200 maximum on each bala nce transfer and each convenience check) and 1% on foreign transactions. Rates and fees subject to change. If you transfer a balance or write a convenience check with this offer, all purchases will be charged interest until you pay the entire balance in full, including any transferred/convenience check balances. After that, you will have a grace period on purchases wh en you pay your entire statement balance each month by the payment due date. 2 Earn 1 point for every $1 in purchases plus 1 additional point on every $1 in purchases that the merchant properly codes as gas and grocery purchases. Grocery purchases at warehouses, discount stores, department stores or other non-grocery store locations are not eligible for the additional 1 point reward. Rewards points terminate if account is closed or delinquent or program ends. Other restrictions appl y. USAA Rewards Program terms and conditions will be provided w ith your card. Purchase of a product other than USAA auto or property insurance, or purchase of an insurance policy offered through the USAA Insurance Agency, does not establish eligibility for, or membership in, USAA property and casualty insurance companies. American Express is a federally registered service mark of American Express and is used by USAA Savings Ba nk pursuant to a license. The American Legion receives financial support from USAA for this sponsorship. This credit card program is issued by USAA Savings Bank, Member FDIC. © 2016 USAA. 225674-0116

LEGION NEW YORK • 13 • SUMMER • JULY 2016

225674_0116_0021DI-UIP 7.5 10 15UIQ0018 BK TAL Dept. State Ad-NY 138718 New Close: 11/30, Insert: 1/2/16 11/24/15 11:21 AM BK 4C Magazine Internal 1/0 1 of 1

T. Mierendorf J. McHargue D. Usteski L. Lubanski

LEGION RIDERS CRUISE IN AVON ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AVON– American Legion Riders from Bath, Lima and Springwater came together March 12 to ride in Livings- ton County’s 2nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Avon, reports state Vice Director Jerry Ketchum. They were among a num- ber of groups, floats and marching units participat- ing in the parade, which got underway at 1 p.m. at Avon High School and proceeded down Clinton Street to the circle and the Avon fire hall. American Legion Riders in Avon Parade. Photo by Jerry Ketchum. GREENLAWN POST ERIE CO. LEGION DONATES EQUIPMENT COLLECTS ITEMS FOR VETS IN NEED

Greenlawn American Legion Post 1244 has been collecting pubiic donations of personal care items and non-perishable food for veterans in need and their families being served at United Veterans Beacon House at the Northport VA Medical Center. The effort has been led by Legionnaire Al Statton.

6TH DISTRICT TAPS SCOUT AND OFFICER OF YEAR

Troop 14 Eagle Scout Gannon Frisbee of Downs- ville and Roxbury constable Stephen Williamson were honored as Eagle Scout of Erie County American Legion donated and donated equipment. Buffalo VA staff in the Year and Law Officer exercise equipment to the Buffalo VA Car- the picture are Brian Stiller, director, VA WNY of the Year, respectively, diac Rehab program. “Donation was from Healthcare System, and Cardiac Rehab Nurse on June 12 at the Annual our 2015 Buffalo Department Convention Nicole Braun. Legionnaires are, left to right: Committee,” reports 2015 Convention Marty Moot, Bill Miskell, Wayne Sorrentino, Convention of the Ameri- Chairman Jim Bojanowski. Erie County Tim Van Patten, Paul Steward, Jim Bojanows- can Legion, Sixth District, legionnaires are shown with hospital staff ki, and Joe Porempski. Department of New York, held at Post 465 in Homer.

LEGION NEW YORK • 14 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 LYNBROOK POST HONORS 70-YEAR MEMBER Lynbrook American Legion Post 335 hon- ored World War II veteran Francis X. Becker Sr. on April 7 for 70 years of devoted mem- bership in The American Legion. A month later the 90-year-old Legionnaire passed on to Post Everlasting. Becker was a former Lynbrook mayor and retired State Supreme Court justice. “I can’t thank the American Legion enough for the wonderful honor bestowed upon my dad, Francis X. Becker,” said Vil- lage Trustee Hilary Becker, the Long Island Herald reported. “The American Legion was one of the first organizations in our great country’s history to make sure that Family, friends and Legionnaires gathered to honor Francis X. Becker Sr. (center) our veterans are being properly cared for...” for 70 years of devoted membership in The American Legion. LEADING CANDIDATE INDUCTED INTO VETS HALL OF FAME ALBANY – A number of Legionnaires were inducted into the New York State Sen- ate’s Veterans Hall of Fame this past May. Among them was Vietnam-era veteran John B. Sampson, the lead- ing candidate for 2016-2017 commander of the New York State American Legion. Sampson was nominated by Senator Catharine Young (R,C,I- 57th District), who Leading Candidate John Sampson with State Sen. Catharine Young. noted: “John Sampson has a dis- APA 44 and at Randolph Air son became an accredited nearly 100-year history. tinguished service record and Force Base in San Anto- Veteran Service Officer for In addition, Sampson has time-and-again has proven nio, Texas, as part of a joint Cattaraugus County, a posi- served as national chair- himself dedicated to his fel- military command. He was tion he held for over two man for Veterans Education, low veterans. Members of the honorably discharged with decades. During that time Other Benefits and Home- Navy often use the phrase the rank 2nd Class Person- he developed protocols and less; vice chairman, National ‘Non sibi sed patriae’, which nel Man (E5). He earned a procedures that are now used Americanism Commission; in Latin means ‘Not for self number of awards, including statewide. department chairman, Reha- but for country,’ and I can an Air Force Commenda- In the American Legion, bilitation Committee; depart- think of no better description tion, a Navy Good Conduct, Sampson has held positions ment chairman, Resolutions for how Mr. Sampson has a National Defense Service at post, county, department Committee; dean, American lived his life.” Ribbon, and following his and national levels. If elected Legion College of New York; Sampson served in the U.S. service, a New York State department commander, he and past Department Service Navy from August 1967 to Conspicuous Service Medal. will become the first person Officer of the Year. He is also February 1972 with assign- After completing his from Cattaraugus County to a member of the Sons of the ments on the USS Freemont, military service, Samp- hold the title in the Legion’s American Legion.

LEGION NEW YORK • 15 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 ARSENAL NOT LIKE THE MOVIES LEGION COMMANDER AMAZED AT WEAPONS-PRODUCING CAPABILITY

By JOHN B. SNYDER Watervliet Arsenal

WATERVLIET -- A former General Electric machinist obtained a place at the table on January 21 with senior leaders at the oldest, continuously operat- ing manufacturing center in New York’s Capital District -- the Army’s Watervliet Arsenal. James Yermas, the New York State American Legion commander and former machinist at the General Electric plant in Schenect- ady, was in town prepar- American Legion Band of the Tonawandas performs in the National Convention Parade. ing for his organization’s Photo by Bob Stronach. Mid-Winter Conference in Albany when Arsenal Com- mander, Col. Lee H. Schiller Jr., leveraged a rare oppor- tunity by inviting Yermas to New York American Legion Department Commander James Yermas is viewed through the ring the Arsenal for a command of a recently machined howitzer part. Photo by John B. Snyder. briefing and tour. Every year, the Arsenal and having lived about a Beyond sharing common Nevertheless, by the time hosts a variety of visitors to 45-minute drive away from technical experiences, the the American Legion had its manufacturing center, the Arsenal, he admitted Arsenal’s leadership and been established in 1919, from four-star generals to that he learned more about Yermas also shared a com- the Arsenal had been in elected officials. But what military manufacturing Jan. mon, historical bond to the operation for more than made this visit different than 21 than he had ever known. nation’s military. 100 years. Ever since that all others is Yermas’ back- “This visit is truly great New York’s American warm summer’s day in 1813 ground as a machinist. because I am able to see Legion, some 113,000 mem- when the Arsenal’s gates first Machining is a profession firsthand many of the bers strong, has a nearly opened, it has also support- that the Arsenal workforce weapon systems that I have 100-year history of standing ed the nation’s military with knows well as its 202-year seen on television or in the up for Veterans and their its sweat and blood. history is tied to those arti- movies and they look more family members. There isn’t Similar to the American sans who through the years impressive close up,” Yermas a community event today, Legion, the Arsenal’s work- have turned raw stock mate- said. “I am amazed at not from supporting youth force can often be found rial into some of the finest only the Arsenal’s distin- baseball to funding college today in community events, weapons systems known to guished history, but also in scholarships to building from building baseball fields the U.S. military. the capability the Arsenal homes for Veterans, where to marching in parades to Despite Yermas’ exten- has in manufacturing the the Legion does not have an working as volunteer fire- sive machining knowledge weapons for our troops.” active involvement. fighters.

LEGION NEW YORK • 16 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 DAVIS RE-ELECTED STATE DIRECTOR OF LEGION RIDERS The American Legion Rid- ers from across the country ers in New York State aim to raised $1.25 million. raise $100,000 this year for Also elected to one-year the Legion’s Legacy Scholar- terms were: ship Fund, which provides • Don Guernsey, vice state college scholarships for chil- director (Districts 3 & 4). dren of fallen warriors. • Don Logn, vice state di- Dave Davis announced rector (Districts 5 & 6) that goal soon after being re- • Jerry Ketchum, vice state elected state director of the director (Districts 7 & 8). Legion Riders at the Depart- • Peter DiAngelis, vice state ment of New York’s Mid- director (Districts 1, 2, 9, 10). Winter Conference, held Jan. • Larry Misczuk, state 22-24 in Albany. Diane and Dave Davis. secretary. The Legion motorcycle • Nadine Szewczyk, state enthusiasts participate in an ing pledges and donations Legion Convention at the chaplain. annual Legacy Run, gather- that are brought to National end of August. Last year Rid- • Diane Davis, state historian.

American Legion Riders weree out in force for January’s Mid-Winter Conference. VET, FIRM HAILED FOR SUPPORT OF VETERANS

The Department of New York honored army veteran Matthew Tully and his law firm, Tully Rickey PLLC, at the Mid-Winter Conference for their support of veterans. The award of appreciation cited their efforts, in con- junction with Hannaford Supermarkets, to provide over 1,000 Thanksgiving turkeys to active duty service members and veterans, and $10,000 FOR VETS IN NEED for working with the Albany Jim Bojanowski, chairman for the 2015 Department Conven- Housing coalition to provide tion held in Buffalo, presented a $10,000 check to Department Matthew Tully clothing to homeless veter- Commander James Yermas to be used for New York State veterans in need of temporary financial assistance. The check ans. injuries in a suicide bomb- presentation came during the Mid-Winter Conference general Tully received a Purple ing and a Bronze Star for his session Jan. 24. Heart after sustaining service in Afghanistan.

LEGION NEW YORK • 17 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 MID-WINTER CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE ALBANY – Veterans’ issues, including the care they receive through the VA health system, were on the minds of over 1,000 Ameri- can Legion members as they gathered Jan. 22-24 for the Department of New York’s 97th Annual Mid-Winter Conference at The Desmond Hotel and Conference Cen- ter here. Believing that VA health care “is a system worth saving,” a New York State American Legion task force Adjutant Jim Casey talks to news media. RIGHT: National Commander-Candidate Charles Schmidt. has visited nearly half of the VA medical facilities addition, seminars covered afternoon with their annual ing a stirring selection of show in the state and held “town such topics as children and themed-hospitality, donning tunes and patriotic pieces. The hall” meetings with vet- youth programs, national NY Mets and NY Yankee jer- performance was the highlight eran/patients, Department security issues, troop sup- seys and serving up peanuts of the reception that preceded Adjutant James Casey told port, family support, mem- and Cracker Jacks, among a jam-packed banquet, where news media. While the VA bership recruiting, law and other things. Charles Schmidt of Oregon, system has problems, they order, junior shooting sports, leading candidate for national have found the staff at medi- Scouting, American Legion BAND CONCERT commander, was the featured cal facilities in New York to Baseball, ROTC/JROTC, ora- LEADS TO BANQUET speaker. be very caring and trying torical contests, Boys State. The Yankee Doodle “I’m proud to say I’m an to provide the best medical American Legion Band American Legion member,” care for veterans. QUEENS’ BASEBALL from Fort Crailo Post 471 said Schmidt, a retired Air Other related issues high- HOSPITALITY in Rensselaer turned the Force major. lighted at the conference The Queens County Le- hotel’s interior courtyard He referred to the bond that included veteran suicide and gion and Auxiliary provided into a darkened concert hall “carries on after we leave basic Post Traumatic Stress. In a refreshing break Saturday Saturday evening, perform- Continued on next page

Queens Legion Family served up peanuts, Cracker Jacks Fort Crailo Post 471 American Legion Band performed prior to Mid-Winter Con- and other refreshments at Queens County hospitality area. ference banquet, with Cheryl Pivorano playing the bass saxophone.

LEGION NEW YORK • 18 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 MID-WINTER CONFERENCE continued from previous page training” – a bond of looking Behling stood out with their out for one another, which competing red-white-and- continues with Legionnaires blue bow ties. advocating for veterans. “Our credibility with (the THE BOND OF U.S.) Congress is outstanding,” MILITARY SERVICE he said, because Washington The conference concluded knows “we are non-partisan” with a general session Sun- and focus on “what’s best for day morning, where Wa- America.” tervliet Arsenal Commander “It’s amazing – the Ameri- and Legionnaire Col. Lee can Legion has sustained itself Schiller noted that “service taking care of veterans for 97 to country… has meant that years,” Schmidt said to rousing we have done something applause. Headed to 100 years, different,” and it has forged “the American Legion cannot Watervliet Arsenal’s Col. Lee Schiller a “kinship” that “the average rest on its laurels. We need to American cannot under- continue to grow in member- nearly as long as the Legion tory on his lapel – a mem- stand.” As military veterans, ship and in programs.” has existed. bership pin that belonged to there’s no “thinking twice He added: “We inherited a his father, Henry, a World about helping your buddy.” legacy – and it’s our watch to PATRIOTIC DRESS AND War I vet and charter mem- The colonel is retiring from carry the legacy forward.” SPARRING NECK TIES ber of the post. And in a sea the army this summer after How? With a little personal Vietnam-era army veteran of patriotic and military- serving for 28 years. investment, you’ll discover Andrew Rosa, a 38-year themed neckties, Fifth The bond among veterans, “opportunities to make some- member of Margaretville District Commander Leslie Department Commander thing good happen for your Post 216, came to the ban- Crossett and Junior Shooting James Yermas noted, is what post, unit and squadron.” Just quet wearing a piece of his- Sports Chairman Lawrence naturally drives Legion- like the post in Astoria, Or- naires and The American egon that decided to sponsor a Legion as an organization Boy Scout unit, providing op- to advocate for all veterans portunity for youth – a few of – and is part of the message whom in turn took the oppor- that Legion posts need to get tunity to bicycle 3,600 miles out to the public. across America to Ground Charles Schmidt, who Zero in New York City this hopes to be elected national past summer and raise $22,000 commander in September, for the Legion’s Operation issued a challenge to “make Comfort Warriors. something good happen National Auxiliary President for the American Legion.” Sharon Conatser of Cham- His focus as national com- paign, Ill., also spoke, pointing mander will be to “carry the to the Legion Family – the American Legion legacy Legion, the Auxiliary and the forward,” and to do that, “we Sons of the American Legion need to make something – as supporting one another good happen at our posts.” in programs and membership. And then get the word out At 96, the Auxiliary has been about what the Legion is do- walking with Legionnaires for Leslie Crossett and Lawrence Behling sport patriotic bow ties. ing. “Let’s share our stories.”

LEGION NEW YORK • 19 • SUMMER • JULY 2016 SOUTHOLD POST CREATES FIELD OF POPPIES HANDMADE FLOWERS A REMINDER OF WARTIME SACRIFICES By DENISE CIVILETTI Southoldlocal.com

SOUTHOLD -- A field of bright red oversized poppies sprung up a week before Me- morial Day on the front lawn of the Southold American Legion Post 803. Every one of the 329 poppies was handcrafted by Legion member Joseph St. Pierre out of plastic soda bottle bottoms. St. Pierre worked on the flowers throughout the past year, since his wife Donna, a member of the American Le- gion Auxiliary, came up with about and why we’re distrib- the idea around Memorial uting them,” she said. Day last year. The paper poppies (and For the flowers, St. Pierre now their large plastic coun- cut the bottoms off 2-liter terparts) -- reminiscent of plastic bottles donated by the wild poppies blooming Poliwoda Beverage. He in the battlefields of France spray-painted them with during WWI -- are symbols bright high-gloss reds and of the sacrifices made by the oranges. He painted the men and women who served washers and nuts he used to and died for their country affix them to their “stems” during a time of war. Distribution of the red made from threaded rods. Legionnaire Joseph St. Pierre, with the oversized poppies he Each poppy took him about hand-made over the past year. Photos by Denise Civiletti. paper poppies, many (though 45 minutes to make, he said. not all) of which are made “We originally thought inscribed with the name, “This looks incredibly by hospitalized veterans, has maybe we’d make 100 of rank and branch of service fabulous,” said Deliteri, been an American Legion them.” But the idea took of the military member standing on the lawn. national program since 1924. root and St. Pierre, a retired in whose honor it stands. Auxiliary members, who It can be traced to a New builder, made more than The proceeds of the poppy distribute red paper poppies York City woman named triple the number he’d origi- sales are being donated to every year before Memorial Moina Michael, who was so nally planned. Boots on the Ground NY, a Day, accepting free-will do- moved by the words of the The Auxiliary requested a Ronkonoma-based nonprofit nations to support veterans’ poem, “In Flanders Fields” $20 donation for each poppy, dedicated to supporting and groups, are finding that each that she began distributing in memory or in honor of assisting veterans. year, fewer people know fresh poppies in 1918 and veterans and active members Fellow Vietnam vet Carl what the poppies symbolize, spearheaded a campaign that of the armed forces, both Deliteris bought a poppy said Donna St. Pierre. would result in the adoption living and deceased. Each in memory of each of three “More and more people of the poppy as the national poppy bears a satin ribbon buddies killed in action. ask us what the poppies are symbol of sacrifice.

LEGION NEW YORK • 20 • SUMMER • JULY 2016