Page 1 Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 TheLEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS LEGION NEWS LEGION LEGION NEWS LEGION LEGION NEWS LEGIONALAS NEWS KA LEGIONNAIRE LEGION NEWS NEWS 1948 POW/MIAs still unaccounted for - Why?

Vol. 95 No. 1 January/February 2014

Anchorage, AK 99508 AK Anchorage,

1550 Charter Circle Charter 1550

Department of Alaska of Department The American Legion American The A 2014 Unpaid Post Officers

Post 25 Post 8 Kirk Thorsteinson Charles Roemhildt Post 26 Post 11 Roy Clark Erving Weldin Randy James Post 12 Post 57 Mike Case JoAnn Tyson Post 18 Tony Rea

Happy New Year! Adjutant’s Corner Commander’s Corner By Alvin Diaz Department Commander By W.E. “Gene” Franks Department Adjutant Happy New Year!! Another year has come and gone and probably Father Time has once again blessed us some of us are wondering where it went. with another year behind us, and mother January brings us many more opportunities. nature is still set in her ways by keeping This should be your first call for election of officers us aware that this is still winter. for your Post. Now would be a good time, should Well I hope that everyone had a great you want to make some changes in your Post, to throw your hat in the ring. and memorable Holiday that left all of you Bill Jacobi and Jan Scott are working hard to have everything in order smiling with happiness. for this years November led off with the Silver Tea Boys State and Oratorical Contest. The Oratorical finals will be held in Anchorage at Post 1conducted by the in Anchorage beginning February 28 and winners will be announced on American Legion Auxiliary from Jack March 1. As usual, Boys State will be in June and as always our future Henry Unit 1. There was a great show of young leaders are always in demand to attend. support not only form the legion family Should you be inclined to run for a Department office, you should have but the local community of Anchorage that brought in funds to help support your endorsement letter from your post or your letter of intent in the mail the Department Auxiliary Domiciliary Program for veterans in during this soon since the Department convention is just around the corner (April 24- festive season. After the Silver Tea, there was the Dept. Official visitation 26), being hosted by George H. Plumley Memorial Post 20 in Kenai. Our at Post 29 in Muldoon where I got to see that post signed up a couple of National Commander Dan Dellinger will be in attendance. active military personal who join their membership. That’s the way to do This year it would be nice to see more members submitted for Com- it Post 29, keep getting them. Moving on as our legion family along with mander, Adjutant, and Legionnaire of the year. These nominees are to be the nation remembered the date of 9-11and how we pulled together as submitted directly to Department or submitted prior to the opening ceremo- Americans and battled the act of terrorism against our nation. Then later nies at the Department Convention. The awards committee will make the on the 28th, some of us were fortunate to be with our families and friends selection. To my knowledge, last year was the first year that a Post, Post to celebrate Thanksgiving and share a big dinner while remembering our 28, submitted an applicant for Fireman of the Year award. Remember, in military personal who are on duty overseas and in those hostile lands. addition to the Fireman of the Year, there is also a Law officer of the In December some of us had the honor to participate with the Santa’s Year and Educator of the Year. Secrete shop at the Domiciliary for the veterans who had sign up for the program, that need a little help for this Christmas Holiday. This is a great Thanks to Jeff Saunders. Jeff was Adjutant Cont on Page 8 day for any who attend and help and support the Auxiliary. We later went on the Post 15 in Palmer for the Dept. visitation. The next day we went on the Post 35 in Wasilla, for the WWII appreciation dinner and Dept. Of- Inside ... ficers visitation. Every year Post 35 has this appreciation dinner for the Service Office ...... pg. 3 veterans and there is always a great show of support and attendance. Great S.A. L. & Auxiliary News...... pg 6 & 7 Job Post 35!!!! So now that we have started into Commander Cont on Page 5 the month of January,…. HAPPY Page 2 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014

THE AMERICAN LEGION THE ALASKA LEGIONNAIRE DEPARTMENT OF ALASKA (USPS 012-100) DEPARTMENT OFFICERS 2012-2013 OFFICIAL BI-MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF Commander...... Alvin Diaz...... 1112 Walnut Ave., Kenai, AK 99611 The American Legion, First Vice Commander...... Ernest L. King Sr., ...... P.O. Box 141332, Anchorge, AK 99514 Department of Alaska Second Vice Commander...... Bob Edwards...... P.O. Box 71, Delta Junction, AK 99737 1550 Charter Circle Anchorage, Alaska 99508 Adjutant-Finance Officer...... Gene Franks...... 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, AK 99508 Member of The National Service Officer...... Jim Pisa...... 1201 North Muldoon Rd,, Anchorage, AK 99504 American Legion Press Association Sergeant-At-Arms...... Elexzanderia Carr...... 4300 Ambler Cir., Anchorage, AK 99504 W.E. “Gene” Franks, Managing Editor Chaplain...... Tim Clarke ...... PO Box 472, Homer, AK 99603 Peggy S. Bateman, Editor Historian...... Clare Sullivan...... PO Box 2089, Seward, AK 99664 Judge Advocate...... Wev Shea...... 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, AK 99508. The Alaska Legionnaire (USPS 012-100) is published bi- monthly for $3.00 yearly subscription. Office of publication Executive Committeeman...... Cris Vrabel...... 20413 Lucas Ave, Eagle River, AK 99577 is The American Legion, Department of Alaska, 1550 Charter Executive Committeeman...... Matt Larson...... PO Box 870491, Wasilla, AK 99687 Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508. Periodicals postage paid at Executive Committeeman...... Scott Kline...... 444 Schoenbar Rd, KEtchikan, AK 99901 Anchorage, Alaska.

Printed by Anchorage Printing, a private firm in no way con- NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEMEN nected with The American Legion, Department of Alaska. This NEC Committeeman...... Jim Pisa...... 1201 North Muldoon Rd,, Anchorage, AK 99504 newspaper is an authorized publication for members and Alternate Committeeman...... Harry Pawson...... 1150 Crowberry Cir., Anchorage, AK 99515 families of The American Legion, Department of Alaska, and other approved subscribers. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including DEPARTMENT COMMANDER’S AIDES inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by Con Miller Post 30...... Jim Scott...... 1124 Holmes Rd. , North Pole, AK 99705 The American Legion, The Department of Alaska, or Anchor- Susitna Valley Post 35...... Dave Webster...... HC 30 Box 12885, Wasilla, AK 99664 age Printing, of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made avail- Ketchikan Post 3...... Hunter Davis...... PO Box 23470, Ketchikan, AK 99901 able for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, Spenard Post 28...... Nate Carter...... 2250 Sentry Dr. # 503,Anchorage, AK 99507 color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical George H. Plumley Mem. Post 20...... Herb Stettler...... P.O. Box 1367, Kenai, AK 99611 handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. For information on advertising, call (907) 278-8598, fax to (907) 278-0041 or email to: legion@ Boys State anch.net. By Bill Jacobi, Boys State Director SUBSCRIPTION RATES PAYABLE IN ADVANCE Members of The American Legion, Department of Alaska The 47th Alaska Boys State will be held starting continues. We are always looking for additional subscription included in payment of annual dues. at 5:30 PM Saturday June 7, 2014 through Friday, staff especially younger Legionnaires and Sons of ALL OTHERS: and possessions - $5.00 per June 13, 2014. This year it will be at Wilderness Legionnaires to carry on for some of us that are, year; Foreign - $10.00 per year. Lodge at St Therese’s Camp in the Wasilla area. for a lack of a better way to put it, getting older. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Alaska Legionnaire, 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska It is at the former Camp Challenge. Notice that The post Boys State recruiting packets will be 99508. we are approaching our 50th anniversary and hope mailed out after the first of the year, I hope you are to have a great buildup for it this year. We had all able to get us another crop of highly motivated Advertise your 25 Boys State Citizens in 2013 and would like to Boys State Citizens. If you have any questions on increase it each year to make our alumnae and past Boys State, you can contact Bill Jacobi or Kevin business in the former Boys State staff see that we are still going Collier. The Department web site has the applica- strong. We always appreciate the support we get tion and information about Boys State. Alaska from The Department of Alaska posts and hope it Legionnaire and reach 8,000 ORATORICAL NEWS PEOPLE YOU KNOW By Jan Scott phone informed as to whom to pass a potential Call Department Headquarters Department Oratorical Chairman contestant’s information if one would call the for an advertising rate card at post. Occasionally I hear of an incident where a January and February are busy months for young person called the local post as directed by 278-8598 American Legion High School Oratorical Schol- the national website but never got a return call arship Program “A Constitutional Speech Con- from any post member. The note of the phone call test.” During this time the Post need to have their got lost between members if no one is appointed contest to determine who will represent them at to/ working the program. CELL PHONES WANTED the Department Level on March 1, 2014. Post If your post is not participating and does re- WORKING OR NOT. need to have the name of their contestant to me ceive a call of an interested student, PLEASE PLEASE SEND TO DEPT. TO by February 17, 1014. The Post will report the pass that information to me so I can follow up RECYCLE. title of the young person’s speech as well. and give more information to the student. Any- I want to remind you that this opportunity is one who has worked this program knows one of open to all high school students. I mention to the challenges of this program is getting young students that this is a great way to earn scholar- adults interested in this activity; let us not lose a ship money that has nothing to do with grades. potential participant. CHANGE OF ADDRESS When talking to a teacher I might suggest that this Using this form, provide new address, attach en- If you have questions, suggestions, or concerns might be a way for students to earn extra credit in tire address label from recent paper, and mail to: contact me. a social studies class. When talking to a young Alaska Legionnaire Jan Scott person I mention they might want to invite their 1550 Charter Circle [email protected] Anchorage, Alaska 99508 friends to join them in this endeavor. 907-460-6707 Please have the person answering your post ______Monday, February 17th is the deadline Name ______For the Mar/April issue of the “Alaska Legionnaire” clearly marked and must be originals for good quality New Address Feb 17th is the deadline for all stories and/or photos camera reproductions. Anyone interested in submitting an ______to be submitted. All material must be into Department article and/or photo, or anyone interested in advertising in City, State, Zip Headquarters no later than 5:00 pm. Please be reminded an upcoming issue contact the Alaska Legionnaire office *** Attach Old Address Label Here *** that only those articles that are typed, preferably sent via at 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508 or call e-mail or provided on a diskette will be considered for (907) 278-8598 or email us at [email protected]. Please publication. Faxed articles will not be considered. As request a return receipt for any emails you send to us, in always, the editorial staff can edit all submissions. Photos order to verify that it was received are also being sought for publication. They should be Page 3 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 1st Vice Commander News By Ernest L. King Sr. Department First Vice Commander & Memberrship Chairman I’m sure you’re all aware that we Gene Franks Post 22 and Post 14 already has representatives in Washington, missed our 75% target date last will also be acheived that goal. A few Post’s D.C. month, but do you know that as of putting in ex- are really close. Remember: It’s not the price you today, about a month after that tar- tra effort to get Even though we missed our pay to join; It’s the price you paid get date, we still haven’t reached them in to De- target date, it’s important to re- to be eligible. that 75% goal, but are hovering partment in a member that our ultimate goal of right at about 69%? And as you timely manner. 100% is something we can achieve are reading this article, we have And now is a as long as we keep thinking and less than two weeks to make our good time to acting positively. goal of 85% by January15th! thank all those Remember that there are nearly I’m confident that each one of people who do just that – and you 75,000 veterans living in Alaska. you will be putting forth extra ef- know who you are. Our department goal is only 6495 fort in renewals and new member- Now some incentive, each Post members, so it should not be ships as we begin the New Year. who reaches 100% of their mem- to hard to recruit at least 1 new And in turn, I know that those bership goal by Feb 12th, the member into the American Legion. people responsible for forwarding Commander and Adjutant will get Membership is the Back Bone of those renewals and new member- a steak dinner on me, as a special the American Legion and numbers ships to Department Adjutant reward for that Post’s efforts. is what gets the attention of our Service Office News assess the feasibility and advisability news release, the VA that anyone By Jim Pisa, of providing a dental insurance plan with a smartphone and a barcode Department Service Officer to eligible individuals. Eligibility for VADIP: Veterans your income was too high, enrolled in the VA health care pro- Fair Winds and Following Seas we recommend that you reapply gram and CHAMPVA program ben- to Jeff Saunders. Jeff Saunders has because you may be eligible for eficiaries are eligible to participate in retired as Department Service Offi- Priority Group 8. VADIP. For more info, check out the cer. Jeff has moved to Pennsylvania What are the VA’s health care website at www.va.gov/healthbeni- to begin a new chapter in his life. groups? VA set up eight priority fits/VADIP. Or you can call Delta We wish Jeff and his wife Stephanie groups to make sure that certain Dental at 1-855-370-3303 or www. all the best in their new adventures. groups of veterans are enrolled be- deltadentalvadip.org/ or MetLife at The American Legion Service Of- fore others. A veteran is assigned a 1-888-310-1681 or www.metlife. fice will be opening a new Satellite priority group based on eligibility com/VADIP/index . Or call your lo- Office in the Kenai area by mid- status, with one (1) being the high- cal Service Office at 907-257-4802. app can scan any VA identifica- January. Location of the new office est priority. To find out more on the VA Pension: VA Pension is a tion card issued since 2004 and the is still in the works and operating priority groups, you can go to www. needs based benefit for veterans cardholder’s Social Security number hours are still to be determined. We va.gov or contact your local service and eligible dependents. To gain immediately pops up on the screen. will pass the word as more informa- office at 907-257-4803. entitlement, you must be a veteran The VA has published warnings tion come available. VA DENTAL INSURANCE discharged under other than dishon- about the veteran’s information With the Affordable HealthCare PROGRAM (VADIP): The VA pro- orable conditions, have a wartime cards on the VA website in 2011 Act (Obama care) in affect, many vides comprehensive dental care to service (defined as a period of war and again in July 2013. The alerts Veterans are applying for VA Health Veterans who “MEET ELIGIBILTY as set forth by the U.S. government states, “Some barcode readers, in- Benefits by submitting the 10-10EZ. STANDARDS”; however the ben- and the VA), be 65 years young or cluding those available on apps on One of the questions that keep pop- efit is not available to many veterans. permanently disabled, and meet VA cell phones, can scan the bar code on ping up is “Can the VA deny me if VA Dental Insurance Program income requirements. Survivors of the front of the card, and reveal the my income is too high”? offers enrolled Veterans and ben- Veterans who meet eligibility re- SSN of the Veteran”. The answer to that is, VA Health- eficiaries of VA’s “CHAMPVA” quirements may also be eligible for a VA has begun to work on a new care eligibility is determined by the opportunity to purchase dental survivor’s pension. If you have ques- type of card, which will not contain the Veterans Health Administration insurance at a reduced cost. VA is tions concerning eligibility, contact a SSN. Meanwhile veterans should (VHA), and VHA rules are con- offering this service through Delta your local service office. treat their VA id card as just as care- stantly changing. If you were previ- Dental and MetLife. VADIP is a WARNING: VA ID CARDS ARE ful as they do their SSN and credit ously denied VA health care because three year, national pilot program to EASILY SCANNED, in a recent cards to prevent identity theft. Post 35 Hosts WWII, Korean War Appreciation Dinner

By Ron Travis Commander Alvin Diaz, Sons of Hal Farrar WWII veteran sang bigger every year, this is largely Adjutant Post 35 the American Legion, Detachment several songs and was well received. spearheaded by the American Le- American Legion Post 35 hosted of Alaska Commander Humphrey Hal is one of the few WWII vets, or gion Auxiliary, Dede Robb handling the Commanders visitation and Stephens, American Legion any other era vets that can still get the invitations and Alice Massie WWII, Korean War Appreciation Division National Vice President into his uniform, He was in the Navy and kitchen crew taking care of the dinner on December 8, 2013. Ginger Cox from Arizona. Ameri- and retired from the Coast Guard. dinners. This was a huge success, the ladies can Legion Auxiliary National It was very impressive with all the The sad part of course is that our Aux. put on the meal of Roast beef, Executive Committeewoman Sue gold stripes. (Gold stripes signify senior veteran numbers are dwin- Salmon, salad and dessert. Our serv- Diaz and American Legion Auxil- good conduct). dling, but this tradition will continue ers were a mix of children for Our iary Department President Marge It was a honor to be in attendance on and on. Attending an event like Lady of the Lake Catholic School Blankenship. with our Legion Dignitaries and our this, honoring our senior veterans, and other young volunteers, they did We had a great program, the WWII and Korean War Vets. The our department dignitaries’, featur- a fantastic job and I believe a record children from Our Lady of the best guess is that we fed somewhere ing our young children and young was set for cleaning up everything Lake Catholic School, directed by around 100 people. The Ladies Aux. teens is to me what the American at the end, a refreshing look at our Principle/Teacher Joyce Lund sang made a large number of soft cuddly Legion is all about, “Family” as my young people. patriotic songs of the time and all blankets and were given out as door grandma used to say it makes my In attendance for the visitation the different service’s theme songs. prizes, this was a big hit. gizzard feel good. was the Department of Alaska Everyone was so impressed by their This dinner has been put on for talent. the last several years and it gets Page 4 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 By Tim Clarke Department Chaplain Taps

O Godof mercy, peace and love, we remember before You in this moment our comrades and friends. We re- call with gratitude and respect all that he stood for in his life. Help us to live in the companionship of his spirit. May we be kind to the friends and family they loved; devoted to the community in which they lived; loyal to the causes that he served. Thus in our life may they live on, to our great comfort, to the betterment of Your creation, and to the furthering of Your most holy will. Amen Taps Joseph Craig Post 3 Patrick Madros Post 11 Philip Seaberg Post 28 Selma Crawford Post 17 Michael McBride Post 29 Burt Shaginoff Post 15 Robert Drennan Post 18 Eugene McNamara Post 7 Marvin Smith Post 12 James Atchison Post 15 Max Fackle Post 5 William Mullaly Post 4 Alvin Steele Post 18 Ronald Barton Post 28 Dennis Fairall Post 12 Darrell Nease Post 15 Doyle Thrasher Post 75 John Brodersen Post 7 W. Fletcher Post 77 Gilbert Ollstad Post 5 Leland Twing Post 15 Duane Churchill Post 11 Bruce James Post 27 Thomas Teinhardt Post 20 George Werner Post 5 Mandle Collins Post 1 Lud Larson Post 15 Eugenia Risdal Post 28 The Last Frontier Honor Flight Message From The By Ron Travis\ heading back it was rush hour traffic and in D.C. it’s Legionnaire Insurance unbelievable. Red lights and sirens all the way back, Well I’m proud to report at 11:45 a.m. on October it was like parting of the “Red Sea”. Another nice 22, 2013, we loaded 23 WWII veterans, including meal at the hotel and off to bed. two ladies. We had 4 WWII vets join us from Fair- Day four, started with a relaxing 3 hr. cruise of the Your Alaska American Legion Department banks we departed for Portland Oregon where we Baltimore harbor, this narrated by the cruse ship’s and the Legionnaire Insurance Trust (LIT) are had two gentleman from Metlakatla, Alaska joined personnel, they were able to point out the points constantly looking to improve the value of your us. When we were loaded and ready to go in Port- of interest. We sailed out to the Francis Scott Key membership. And, we have some exciting news land we were a flight of 61, 29 WWII vets and 32 Bridge and the buoy marking the spot that Francis to report! Guardians and staff. Our oldest vets were 94, the Scott Key was watching for the flag to appear at Fort Since 1966, the LIT has been offering a com- youngest was 87. McHenry. We had a beautiful lunch on board. We petitive, dependable package of insurance choices Day two of our whirlwind trip, after a 5 ½ hr. flight loaded the buses and visited the Navy Museum on to protect Legionnaires and their family. Our goal we arrived in Washington D.C. at 5:15 p.m. and pro- our way to Regan Airport for our 6 hr. flight back to is to continue serving Legion families for decades ceeded to our hotel, the BWI Hilton in Baltimore. Portland. On the flight back to Portland we had an to come. With the future in mind, we are pleased We got rooms assigned and had an excellent dinner old fashioned “mail call”, we had contacted the fami- to announce that effective January 1, 2014, the A+ after a quick briefing of what to expect the next day, lies and requested they write letters to the veterans. rated Transamerica family of insurance companies everyone was off to bed. With the help of the Flight Attendants it was a huge will become the new provider for our Hospital Day three we loaded at 8:00 a.m., then proceeded success. There was so many letters many didn’t get Indemnity Protection and Cancer Care programs to Washington D.C. Our first stop was the WWII through them all on the flight. We arrived in Portland with additional programs to follow soon. Memorial. Before we entered the Memorial we paid at 8:15 p.m. to the Shilo Inn for the night. Transamerica is committed to serving Alaska tribute to two of our fallen comrades. The Veterans Day five, we left Portland at 9:20 a.m. arrived Legionnaires and their families with superior formed two lines and the two fallen soldiers were at Ted Stevens at 12:05 p.m. We had no idea the customer service that has made them an industry represented by our guardians, they pushed two wheel homecoming planned, it was huge, they had a Bag leader for over 100 years. Transamerica is also chairs with a picture and a U.S. Flag and led the vets Pipe band, Jr. ROTC color guard, 3 Generals and the dedicated to staying ahead of your insurance needs into the Memorial. One of the guardians was the Mayor of Anchorage came out to welcome our men in a changing world and will periodically update daughter of the soldier. and women back home. There were troops lined up their coverage(s) to stay current with insurance The veterans were able to look around and appre- and the local Alaska Vets M/C, The Second laws and regulations as well as how healthcare ciate the monument, take pictures and meet people. Chance, Vietnam Vets motorcycle club, families of is delivered. From there we visited the Air Force Memorial, this the veterans and many people just wanted to say If you are one of the thousands of Legion was very popular as we had several Army Air Corps “Thanks”. Most veteran’s say they were very im- families currently enrolled in these products, rest pilots and Air Force personnel pressed how many people just came up and shook assured that the transition will be as simple as with us. Lunch was delivered by their hand and thanking them for their service. Many possible. All you have to do is pay your next bill ALERT! The Sons of the American Legion thought they had been forgotten. and your coverage will continue. Squadron 177 Fairfax Virginia, the We are planning our next trip for April, next year New products will be coming on board soon lunch was donated and very much the date hasn’t been set certain yet. We are still look- because of LIT’s partnership with Transamerica L appreciated. ing WWII vets and have some openings.To make and you will see these items offered to Your E Alaska American Legion Department in the com- G Next the Women’s Memorial, this happen we need support and donations, to help I we had two women vets with us, out visit our website tlfhonorflight.org and donate. ing months. O both American Legion members We look forward to this new partnership with N and this was enjoyed by all. After Transamerica, and to continuing our commitment N we attended the Changing of the of service and protection to you and your loved A Guard Ceremony at the Tomb of ones. I the Unknown Solider. This is a very Note: This provider change does not apply to the R humble and emotional event. There “No Cost To You” LegionCare Accidental Death E was two busloads of students from policy at this time. Please continue to apply via D Ohio, who recognized the vets and the enrollment form you can ask for at your post. E ladies they shook a lot of hands P.O. Box 26720, , Arizona 85068-6720 A and received hugs, and thanks for (855) 792-5356 D their service. L Then to the Lincoln, Korea, and I Vietnam Memorials, these were N well received and enjoyed by all. E We then proceeded back to the February hotel. One of the highlights of the 17th trip was we had a police escort for our day of touring, when we were Page 5 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 2014 National Executive Committeeman Calendar of Events By Jim Pisa National Executive Committeeman “From the Doghouse” “BUILDING FOR TOMORROW- National Guard, veterans, family mem- January/February TODAY bers and news media were there to say Membership Retention Month In October 2013, The American Welcome Home and Thank You. Legion, Department of Alaska lost Honor Flight will be planning on •Jack Henry Post / Unit 1 one of the most respected Legion- another Flight to Washington D.C. Tuesday Night Meals $8.005:30 - 7:30 PM Wednesday - Taco Night 5:30 - 7:30 PM naires “Joseph T. Craig”. Joe was not sometime in April 2014. They will Friday Night Steak 5:30 to 7:30 PM only “Mr. Legionnaire” but served on be looking for WW II veterans and many committees at the National and guardians to make the trip. For more •Seward Post 5 Department level. Joe was a mentor information contact Ron Travis @ Taco Tuesday to many of us who still carry on the 907-892-6097. Check out The Last Friday Night Steaks proud traditions and programs of The Frontier Honor Flight on Facebook, Food served most nights at Post American Legion. But most important lots of great pictures. •Matanuska Valley Post 15 Joe was a friend to everyone and any- Although this is not an American Taco Monday one he met. He will be deeply missed Legion sponsored program, it is a great Tuesday Pool League throughout the Commu- way to show support to our Wednesday Dart League/NHL Hockey nity, State and Nation. WWII Veterans, Community Thursday Dart League Our prayers and thoughts and State. As a community Friday Night Steak Saturday Turkey Shoot go out to the Craig Fam- service, don’t forget to log ily.” FAIR WINDS AND your hours on next years •General Buckner Post 16 Family FOLLOWING SEAS Consolidated Post Report. 2nd Saturday Auxiliary Dinner 6 pm CHIEF JOE” Tlingit Code Talkers hon- Taco Tues 5 pm National Emergency ored with Congressional Friday Burger & Brew 6 - 8 PM Fund: Created in response Silver Medals: Did you know 3rd Friday Steak night 6 PM to Hurricane Hugo in that there were more than Post 20 1989, has provided more the Navajo Code Talkers in Sunday Breakfast 10 - 1 than $8 million in di- World War II. Members of Sunday Football rect financial assistance to American the Tlingit tribe were also code talk- Every Friday is Steak night with an added Special Dish Legion Family members and posts. ers and in November 2013, they were 6 pm to 8 pm NEF provides immediate monetary awarded the Congressional silver Every Sunday Breakfast menu dishes assistance up to $1500.00 for Legion Medal for their service. 10 am to 1 pm Family members and up to $5000.00 Native American languages were Every Friday Aux. Unit 20 sponsors the Friday Night Raffle for posts. used during WWI and WWII. Their 12 pm to 8 pm Alaska is no stranger to a natural dis- use is credited with saving the lives Post 20 drawing (sign up once a day to enter) every Saturday must be aster, as was proven with the wildfires of many service members. Estimated present 4 pm in Fairbanks area, flooding in Galena 400 – 500 Native American code talk- Post 20 membership drawing (no sign ups) every Sunday must be and the possibly of volcanic eruptions, ers served in the United States Marine present 2 pm earthquakes and more. National Com- Corps. mander Dan Dellinger’s project for America’s indigenous languages •Spenard Post 28 this year is the NEF and has set the were ideal for U.S. war efforts they Monday night food 6 PM Wednesday Burgers, Chicken, Tacos 6 - 9 PM goal at $1,000,000.00 dollars. As of were known to very few people out- Thursday Red Solo Cup Night 9 PM today $60,000.00 has been raised. The side their respective tribes, and many Friday Steak and Seafood 6 - 8 :30 PM Department of Alaska’s goal for the are isolated from languages native Saturday Night Food 6 - 9 PM NEF is $3001.50, when broken down to other parts of the world. The code Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday Karaoke with James 9 PM amounts to $.50 per member. talkers were specially trained to use When Commander Dan makes his their language so that only they could •Muldoon Post 29 Sunday Brunch 11 - 1 trip to Alaska for our department con- understand it. Wednesday Karaoke and Food vention in April in Kenai, it would be a Commander William “Ozzie” Shak- Friday Night Steak 6 - 9 with DJ Rico good showing of support to the NEF to ley of Juneau, who oversees the South- present a donation to Commander Dan. east Alaska Natives Veterans, received Chappie James Post 34 The Last Frontier Honor Flight: the medal on behalf of the Tlingit tribe. Friday Socials 6 PM with Buffet. “BRAVO ZULU” to Ron Travis and Mark Jacobs Jr. and Harvey Jacobs Pinochle, Dominoes, Music Saturday Dinners 3 PM - 8 PM the crew of the Honor Flight. They from Sitka, George Lewis and Jeff Catfish, BBQ Ribs, Fried Chicken. Prk Steak, Pigs Feet have successfully completed their David Sr. from Haines and Richard first Honor Flight trip to Washington Bean from Hoonah were the five Tlin- Susitna Valley Post 35 D.C. in October. With 60 veterans git code talkers recognized as part of Friday Night Steak Nights 6-8:30 pm and guardians making the trip it was the ceremony. Legion Riders Sunday Pancake Breakfast 10 am - 2pm emotional, fun and educational. The Congratulations and Bravo Zulu to Senior’s Dance Last Thursday of he month 2 PM - 4 PM Everyone invited, Come enjoy, dance sing and meet new and old friends. Welcome Home reception they re- our Tlingit Code Talkers from South- ceived at the Ted Stevens International east Alaska and brother veterans. Airport was the final icing on the cake. Commander Cont” from Page 1 NEW YEAR!!! I hope that everyone started in a great way. With the New that eventually makes their way to the National Headquarters to be presented Year come new challenges for us to conquer. There is the task of forming the new to congress. It is the numbers that gives congress that big,…”Hey There ! The slate of 2014-2015 board of officers is once upon us not only for each post, the American Legion is in the HOUSE!!” So please try to get your numbers in to incoming Department officer also needs to get ready. This year’s Department your post adjutant or unit secretary for their calculations. If you are not sure on convention is just in a few months away and this being held in Kenai, Post 20 what numbers that we are looking for, just ask your adjutant or secretary and has started to gear up for the big event. they can inform you. As I have stated at my visitations, the time is now to get to your schools As always we have to discuss our membership. We really need to put more and get those applications for those interested in attending and competing in of an effort to get our members to reinstate, renew, or sign up if they are new. the American Legion Oratorical Program and our Boys and Girls State Camp With membership we cannot continue to serve our veterans or their families Programs. These are some of our Children and Youth activities that we have as they deserve to be. In order to fulfill the American Legion four pillars of each year for our local communities that the Legion and Auxiliary has to offer, service, we must have a strong membership foundation. Remember that we but all we have to do is get the students to participate. This is also a good time have our freedoms because, our military personal gives up,….. some of theirs. to keep track of the time and efforts that you spend so that each post can submit your numbers in on each of the Post, Unit, and SAL yearly consolidated report Page 6 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 FEB.FEB. 2-4 Southeast2-4 Southeast District District Convention Convention in Sitka other than Christ, I hope we can all keep Christ in guests, everything was very well done. The gifts are Christmas. The Official Visits have come to an end very nice and again the hospitality was above par. I in grand fashion at Palmer 15 and The Valley 35. I look forward to the New Year with with eyes wide wish to thank Squadron 15 for dinner on Friday and and the hope that our world can be a better place By Humphrey Stephens the 15 Family for their hospitality and a great meal to live and raise a new generation. Remember The Detachment Commander on Saturday. Sunday was an experiance that I will Reason For The Season. want to continue in the years to come. The Honor the Merry Christmas Everyone. At this time of year, WWII, Korea and Vietnam Veterans that was given though some of us worship a Supreme Being at Post 35 was spectacular. The singing, the meal, the S.A.L.utations 60% January 15, 2014 and will be coming out somewhere around By Kevin Collier, Sons of The American Legion Detachment Adjutant 75% February 12, 2014 February or March. As soon as I receive 80% March 13, 2014 them I will be sending them out to the Hopefully the New Years was good to speech from an assigned topic that usually 90% April 9, 2014 Squadrons. In the meantime remember to you and re-instilled a shinning new vision tests their knowledge of that topic which is 100% May 14, 2014 keep track and record everything that you to you and yours in the belief of this great also on some phase of the Constitution of 105% July 23, 2014 do so it can all be put on the Consolidated organization and everything we do for God the United States. Check with your local The second Membership Postcard Squadron Report Form by Detachment and Country. Post, District and Department Oratorical Renewal Notice for the 2014 Member- Convention. Remember the Detachment will be Chairmen to see how you might be able ship year will be sent out by National As we start out a new year remember doing their 32 oz. T-bone Steak Dinner! to assist them with the program. Headquarters in January and our members to gather all of the information from the This will be our 18th year doing this Another one of the Americanism pro- should be sending in their membership appropriate sources such as from your event. This years STEAK FEED will grams is The American Legion National dues. membership for hours, returned checks be held on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at Emergency Fund. The National Emer- The challenge for you is to send in a or bank statements for the donations so Spenard Post #28, in Anchorage, Alaska. gency Fund (NEF) has provided over transmittal with as many members as that next year’s Consolidated Squadron This fantastic dinner will be held from 4:00 $3,000,000 in direct financial assistance possible prior to the 60% goal on January Report Form is easier to fill out and per- pm – 9:00 pm. The price this year will be to Legion family members and posts. 15th and the 75% goal on February 12th. haps more detailed on what you actually $25, with the proceeds going toward The The National Emergency Fund has kept We need your cards into Detachment accomplished throughout the year. American Legion Alaska Boys State and posts from closing and enabled Legion Headquarters about 1 week prior to the We need to do better in reporting what the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State family members to begin to rebuild their Target Dates in order to get them processed we do on the “Consolidated Squadron programs. See one of your Detachment homes and their lives. Eligibility is open at National in time to count as reaching Report Form”. This is perhaps the most Officers for tickets. to Legionnaires, Auxiliary ** and Sons the goal. important document your Squadron can There will be a Detachment Executive members, Legion Posts. (** If Auxiliary Let’s meet or beat each and every one of complete. We only had about 3 of the 19 Committee Meeting at 1:00 pm on the day membership is less than 5 years continu- our goals this year – let us show everyone active Squadrons fill out the Consolidated of the Steak Feed at Spenard Post #28. ous. Otherwise, the request will be for- what the SONS from Alaska can do. Squadron Report Form. The Detachment is holding a Money warded to the National American Legion Remember that membership is every- The information that you enter on the Raffle this year. Proceeds will be used for Auxiliary for consideration.). The Legion one’s responsibility! “Consolidated Squadron Report Form” Children & Youth Programs. 300 tickets Family member has to be in good standing The National Membership Goal is is combined with that of all of the other sold at $20.00 each. The Drawing will be – in other words they have to be current 400,000 Members. The National Mem- Squadrons and reported to The American held April 26, 2014 at the Detachment/ with their membership and it has to have bership theme this year is “Shooting for Legion to show what we as the Sons of Department Convention in Kenai – being been processed at National Headquarters the Moon in Membership– 2013-2014.” The American Legion have done and sponsored by George H. Plumley Memo- – yet another reason to transmit your mem- Honor our Veteran’s Service whom our accomplished throughout the year. The rial Post #20. See your local Detachment bership timely. There were Legion Family membership eligibility came under by American Legion subsequently sends this Officer for your ticket today before they members in New York that did not receive renewing your dues or if you are eligible on to Congress to show what the American are all gone! assistance from the National Emergency to become a member of the Sons of The Legion Family has done throughout our It is never too early to start organizing Fund because their membership was still American Legion and have not joined – Communities, our State and the Nation. All your activities for each month, get started at their Post/ Squadron or Unit – thus it join the SONS and honor the service of this information of what we do as a Family as soon as possible in order to ensure had not been sent into their Detachment the veteran who has sacrificed so much to helps maintain our non-profit status. success. or Department to be processed and sent protect this great country. Remember it’s Let’s see if the Detachment of Alaska February is the month that The Ameri- to National – they were not members in Cool to be Dual!!! can get 100% reporting this year. can Legion Family has dedicated as good standing. Who will be our Top Recruiter for the As you prepare to go into elecns for this Americanism Month. Be sure to start One other area that we should always 2014 Membership Year??? Will it be upcoming year and select your Squadron planning your Americanism activities for keep in mind is the education of our com- you??? Officers it would be greatly appreciated if your Post, Unit and Squadron. munities and our youth in Proper Flag We all need to work on being a top you would take the opportunity to turn in Several American Legion Posts will be Etiquette, The proper presentation and recruiter. This will assist us succeed in your Certification of Officers. Please do having a Four Chaplains Ceremony. This proper folding of the Flag of our Country. reaching all our goals and the 105% chal- so as soon as possible after your elections! solemn ceremony pays tribute to the World Remember that if you have a nomina- lenge that Detachment Commander David This helps the Detachment Commander War II Heroes. For more information on tion for Eagle Scout of the Year, their ap- Dieckgraeff has posted. and myself in having points of contact at this go to www.legion.org and look under plication needs to be into The American Keep up the great job you are doing in your Squadron. Americanism – Publications for “Saga of Legion Department Headquarters before membership. Remember the three “R’s” It is also time to start thinking about Four Chaplains” March 1st. “Renew”, “Recruit” and “Reinstate”. Do running for an Office at the Detachment The Four Chaplains Ceremony is nor- The American Legion was formed in not just sit on it! Keep it rolling in. level. If you are interested in running mally held on the first Sunday in February the spring of 1919 between March 15-17. National Commander Joe Gladden has please be sure to get the support of your although I have heard that some of the Hopefully everyone will help his or her asked every Detachment to work on what Squadron and Post and send a copy of your Post may postpone the Ceremony until Post celebrate the 95th Birthday of The is still being called the “Triple Nickel” – to letter of intent and support to the Detach- the second Sunday due to not wanting to American Legion. push membership to retain at least 85% ment Headquarter as soon as possible. compete with the events around the Super The Detachment as a whole has 682 of their current members, reach 105% by The address is 1550 Charter Circle Drive, Bowl. Be sure to check with your local members transmitted out of our year-end National Convention next year (2014) and Anchorage, Alaska 99508. The letters of American Legion Post to find out when it goal of 1489 (so far). This is equivalent charter at least 5 new Squadrons. intent for Detachment Officers need to be is scheduled. to 45.8% of our goal. Remember that If you still have not taken the op- received no later than 5:00 pm Monday February also is when The American membership is everyone’s responsibility! portunity to turn in your Certification of March 11, 2014. Legion Oratorical Contest is usually held Keep up the great job. Officers, please do so as soon as possible. Conventions are a great way to learn not (unless you are in Anchorage then it starts As of writing this article we have had a This helps the Detachment Commander, only what is going on in the state but also at the local level in January). This Contest total of fifteen Squadrons turn in member- Humphrey Stephens and I in having points the nation as far as The American Legion is a great event in which High School ship so far for the 2014 Membership year, of contact at your Squadron so we may Family goes. You also get the opportunity Students give an 8-10 minute speech on the other two Squadrons are still stalled out arrange official visits or send important to see some of your longtime friends and to some aspect of the Constitution of the or stuck in the snow/ice. Maybe their tires information from the Detachment and meet new ones. Hopefully you will be able United States, which also gives emphasis have been frozen. from National to your Squadron. to attend at least one of these Conventions to the duties and obligation of citizenship. The 2014 Membership year the remain- Again this year we will have a Consoli- Then each of the Contestants will present a ing Target Dates are as follows: dated Squadron Report Form, there will be SAL Cont on Page 8 some changes on the form from last year Page 7 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 From the Desk of the Auxiliary President By: Marge Blankenship at the Gift Shop please fever and we tend to stay go up sometimes Department President consider doing so next home and veg out. Please the need for assis- Some will say there is nothing to December. It is a great stop and think about our tance with provid- do during the winter in Alaska but way to help veterans in veterans and their families ing food increases. we know it isn’t so. When the first need and their family that are not able to get out. How can you help? snow flake falls our first instinct is members. Can you take someone With January and February comes to hunker down by the fire and get Several of our mem- grocery shopping or to the a new legislative year. Have you comfortable. But as members of the bers will be visiting the doctor? Is there a veteran checked out www.legion.org to see American Legion Auxiliary we know JBER Hospital and Fish- senior citizen, a widow what is going on regarding veterans/ the busiest time of the year has be- er House to hand out or military family with a military issues? Please take time gun. We start with Veterans Day and Christmas stockings to veterans and husband deployed that needs a side- now to contact your legislators and then Thanksgiving. Some American family members the week before walk cleaned of snow? Could you let them know how you feel about Legion families prepare Thanksgiv- Christmas. babysit so a mom can have an hour these issues. If you can’t speak out ing dinners for their Post families. Gathering information and send- or two to get out to break the cycle who can? Remember those that came Not far ahead is the Gift Shop at the ing in our Mid-Year reports is behind of cabin fever? Is there a veteran, a before you and spoke up so things VA Domiciliary hosted by the De- us. Thank you everyone for your widow or widower that does not have could be better for you. partment of Alaska American Legion hard work on behalf of our veterans, close family members take time to On those days when you simply Auxiliary. Thanks to our volunteers the military and the families. call them and let them know you are cannot get out begin thinking of and to a very special volunteer, Gin- As I am writing this many Units thinking of them? Perhaps even offer fund raising activities for the com- ger Cox, Western Division National are planning their Children’s Christ- to pick them up and bring them to the ing months. Girls State, Creative Vice President for their help. The day mas Parties and Post families are as- Post for a holiday activity. Do you Arts Festival or programs your Unit before several volunteers with help sembling Christmas Dinner boxes to knit or crochet hats/mittens? These supports. from some of the veterans staying at hand out. Several American Legion are still needed. We try to help fami- Merry Christmas to all. Be safe the Domiciliary set up the gift tables, Post families are planning commu- lies with meals for Thanksgiving or and we will see you in the New Year. wrapping stations and the snack ta- nity Christmas activities. Christmas but do you realize as the ble. If you have never volunteered Some of us have developed cabin winter continues on and heating bills Membership Chairman by 2nd Vice President Sharon Cherrette

Membership: Well, we did not states “to participate in and contrib- hope your New Year begins with a make our 55% goal by Veterans’ Day. ute to the accomplishment of the wonderful start! We (your officers) were hoping to be aims and purposes of The American Legislative: Hopefully our Con- over 55% when the Western Division Legion.” Our mission “to support gressional leaders/staff are getting National Vice President Ginger Cox The American Legion and to honor bombarded with mail, calls, emails, from Arizona came to visit our great and support those who serve by and visitors. The Pentagon is try- contact your Congressional reps you state in December. Our next goal enhancing the lives of our veterans, ing yet again to have Congress take can go to http://www.legion.org/leg- is 75% by Valentine’s Day. Linda military and their families, both at away/limit benefits for the military islative/resources, click on the link Schmitt (our Dept Sec) and Lisa home and abroad.” Your continued and veterans. There are quite a few “Contact your Congressman”. This Williamson (our Nat’l Public Rela- membership is very important to this issues being addressed; new one gives you the Governor, and U.S. tions Chair from 57) along with other Organization. PLEASE RENEW is reducing working age military Congressional reps in the Senate and Auxiliary members, work very hard if you haven’t already (how about retirees COLA, another is to close House. Select the person you want; to assist Units and members with a New Year’s present of a paid up stateside commissaries. For issues once you select the person click on membership questions/concerns. for life (PUFL) membership—what check www.govexec.com, www. the tab “Contact”. Select a topic pro- Without our members, we, the Aux- a great gift to receive/give). PASS defenseone.com, www.military.com, vided or select “Compose Your Own iliary, would not be able to support IT ON—why you joined/continue to and www.legion.org (Legislative Letter” (http://capwiz.com/legion/ the programs we do. Our Preamble belong to this great Organization. I is www.legion.org/legislative). To From the SECRETARY’S DESK By Linda Schmitt, Auxiliary Secretary Happy Holidays! As you read this, early to be thinking about letters of allow us time to order any extras from very simple terms I I am in Idaho at my folks’ celebrating endorsement for elections that are just outside if we need to as this is our first was trying to tell folks the Christmas and New Year Holi- around the corner. First Call for our year for making our own poppies here that if they wished for days with our parents and family, and Auxiliary Unit’s is in February with in the Department of Alaska. Poppy their donations to go youngest daughter and her family. My elections in March so that your newly Chairman Linda Gunvalson has been to the gift shop only, Christmas wish for all of you and our elected officers are installed prior hard at work with the veterans at the then they needed to service members scattered around the to Department Convention in April. Domiciliary trying to make enough send those donations world is that you all have a safe holiday Department Convention is April 24- poppies to satisfy our needs this year. to the American Legion Auxiliary De- season and that you get to spend your 26 at George H. Plumley Memorial They are doing an excellent job and I partment Headquarters office. That’s time with the people that you care most Post, Unit and Squadron 20 in Kenai can’t wait to hear how this project is it, pure and simple. I apologize for of- about and that care the most about you. this year. For those of you thinking progressing. fending anyone as that was definitely The Domiciliary Gift Shop in An- of running for an American Legion Finally, I must address an issue that not my intention. The Silver Tea is a chorage was a huge success again this Auxiliary Department of Alaska office, arose from my last article concerning Jack Henry Unit 1 fundraiser and they year. Peggy Bateman does such a won- remember to call me prior to circulating the Silver Tea fundraiser and the funds have always been very generous to derful job as chairman of the Gift Shop your endorsement letter for approval. for the Christmas Gift Shop. An issue support the needs of our veterans with each year. This is always the kickoff Membership continues to lag. We arose concerning some of my facts and the funds raised through their efforts at to my husband and my holiday season. finally achieved our 55% goal the week the tone of my article. Some readers the Silver Tea. This year there were twenty five plus of December 11th, one month later than interpreted my choice of words as Just as a reminder, the office of the volunteers that were present to support projected. The second batch of renewal being accusatory. Please believe me American Legion Auxiliary Depart- some of our veterans as they chose notices from National will be mailed when I tell you that I had no malicious ment of Alaska will be closed from Christmas gifts to send to their family out January 15th. Hopefully, that mail- intent and I definitely did not intend to December 19th-January 2nd. If you members. We were also joined at this ing will provide a much needed shot in accuse anyone of any wrong doing. I need me, you will be able to reach years’ Gift Shop by Western Division the arm! Our next goal of 70% is slated was merely trying to address questions me via email or via my cell phone. National Vice President Ginger Cox for February 14th. that I had been asked by individuals See you next year! from the Department of Arizona. Remember to get your poppy orders outside of the Auxiliary and my at- As a new year begins it is not too in to me before January 31. This will tempt came off somewhat clumsy. In Page 8 Alaska Legionnaire Jan/Feb. 2014 Jack Henry Post 1 Matanuska Valley C. Russell Huber Meets 1st Thursday Post 15 Susitna Valley Post 57 C. Russell Huber Post 35 Squadron 57 Commander Jesse Sawyer Art Bell Commander Commander James Petito Darrell Peterson Thomas McClelland 1st Vice Commander Craig Christensen Adjutant Ronald Travis Commander Commander Jessica Arnold .Adjutant Service Officer Kristine Becker- Linda Boisseau Adjutant - Tim Benintendi Bill Kennedy MONTHLY MEETINGS, Service Officer Bill Malkuch, Finance Officer -Ray Untiet Sercive Officer 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s Pete Duchscherer, Ajutant First Vice Chaplain David Mazack @7:00 PM Service Officer Club Manager Friday Night Steak 6:00 - 8:30 1634 S. Cushman St. Adjutant & Finance Officer John Pendrey Theresa Page PM Fairbanks, AK 99701 Darrel Williamson Sergeant‑At‑Arms Meets 1st & 3rd Mon., 6 p.m. PO Box 870370 452-5757 P.O. Box 70448 Elizabeth Ipsen P.O. Box 1146, Palmer, AK 99646 Wasilla, AK 99687 Fairbanks, AK 99707 Chaplain - Myron Jenson 745-4440 Executive Committeemen GRANDE DU ALASKA Mark Berg www.akpost15.org Jack Henry Tom Arnold Unit 1 Muldoon Post 29 David R. Young Anne Foley Meets 3rd Tuesday 6:30 PM 272-5242, FAX 272-5792 President P.O. Box 91285 Commander Jill Pawson, Secretary General Buckner GRAND CHEF DE GARE Anchorage, AK 99509 Post 16 Family William Timmons Meets Billy Smith Service Officer, Carol Gross Richard Turner 1st Thursdays @ 7 p.m. GRAND CHEF DE TRAIN Ketchikan Post 3 Commander 1467 Muldoon Rd Ken Bartlett Meets every Monday, 7pm Chip Dugan Anchorage AK 99504 P.O. Box 92747, GRAND CONDUCTEUR Potluck every 3rd Saturday SAL Commander Anchorage, AK 99509 (907) 338-3550 Tom Schanrock Deborah Davis, Commander Nora Anderson Jim Van Horn, Adjutant President FAX (907 338-0756 GRAND CORRESPONDANT Hunter Davis, Serv. Off. Alvin Diaz 225-2021, P.O. Box 5121 Meetings - 6 PM Ketchikan, AK 99901 SAL - 2nd Monday www.americanlegionpost3.com Legion - 3rd Wednesday Cont SAL from page 6 and we will see you every thing that you do throughout the year. Again Aux - 3rd Thursday there. We are look- we will be using a Consolidated Squadron Report SEWARD POST 5 Come Play Pull Tabs! ing forward to having the National Commander of the Form, which will be sent to Detachment Headquar- Meets 2ND Tuesday 7p.m. Sons of The American Legion – Joe Gladden, out of ters sometime in January or February. If you want to Maryland at the Detachment Convention in Kenai. preview this three (3) part carbonless form it can be Claire Sullivan Take a moment out of your day to say “Thank found on the web page www.sal.legion.org. Commander Vernon Willet Robert G. Blair You!!” to our veterans. Remember every day we Keep up the great job you are doing in member- Adjutant Post 17 should pay tribute to our veterans by celebrating ship. Remember the three “R’s” “Renew”, “Recruit” DG “John” Christensen Mike Nichols our freedom and the men and women who fought and “Reinstate”. Do not just sit on it! Keep it rolling Service Officer Commander Taco Tuesday ~ 6p.m. for our country. Always remember that with out the in. Tom Saunders Steak night Friday ~ 6p.m. sacrifices of our veterans this country would not be I would like to personally thank each and every Adjutant P.O. Box 306 Robert Lachowsky the great Nation that it is. They have given of them- one of the veterans for their service and sacrifices that Seward, AK 99664 Service Officer selves so that we all may live in peace and enjoy all they made. God Bless you and God Bless America. 318 Center Ave., the rights and privileges we have being an American If there is anything that any of your Detachment Kodiak, AK 99615 Dorman H. Baker Citizen. All veterans gave something of themselves; Officers can do to assist you or answer any questions, Post 11 Office: 486-3258 / Bar: 486-5757 some even gave all to ensure our blessings of life, please do not hesitate to contact us. My email is Dave Kent liberty, freedom and the pursuit of happiness. [email protected]. Hope to hear from you soon. Commander As a reminder: Please be sure to record and report Richard Drinkman Adjutant NINILCHIK POST & UNIT 18 Weldin Erving one of our De- those who knew him. Service Officer Gary Jackinsky Cont ADJ from page 1 Pull tab sales at the club Commander partment Service Thought I would forget, didn’t you. Mem- Dave Shandy. Officers who has bership, it being the first of the year, January, if Adjutant moved on to PA. and he thinks warmer weather, you haven’t paid your dues, you are delinquent. Haines Alaska President good luck Jeff. If by the 1st of February you haven’t paid your Post 12 Kirsten Lewis This past year we lost one of our finest Le- dues, you have lost your privileges. Still not too Sec./Treas. Commander gionnaires, mentor, and friend. Joe Craig, Past late. Our on line renewals are doing very well Betty Randall National Vice Commander, Past Department and ahead of what National predicted they would Mike Case Mile 136.5 Sterling Hwy First Vice - John Newton Phone 567-3918 Commander, and involved with just about all of be. It is very easy to do, go on line to legion.org/ Second Vice - Henry Wong the committees within the Department was trans- renewal and follow the instructions. Finance Officer- Tom Quinlan Adjutant - Phil Benner ferred to Post Everlasting. Joe will be missed by 766-2530 George H. Plumley Memorial Post 20 Lynn Canal Post 12 Participated in Wreaths Across Our Gary Fischer Commander Borders / HART Ceremony on Saturday, December 7, Al Diaz, Adjutant Herb Stettler, 2013, Service Officer The program went very well. Again another successful outreach in Haines. Approximately 283-3222, 902 Cook St. 40 Veterans attended, local Cub Scouts and our Canadian allies Kenai, AK 99611

Aurora Borealis Post 21 All Female Post Marjorie Ream Commander Cris Vrabel Adjutant Elexzanderia Carr Service Officer Meeting 3rd Saturday @ 2 pm Sept - May P.O. Box 91116 Anchorage, AK 99509 Sponsors Diamond Baseball Team