EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-4-74

Nearly three-quarters of a million of the nation's veterans are threatened with a reduction or loss in pension benefits the first of next year because Congressional leaders have failed to schedule action on legislation which would protect against such losses. A A A

The American Legion has told the Senate Subcommittee on Compensation and Pensions, Committee on Veterans Affairs, that the adequacy of the Veterans Administration death and disability pension program for war veterans or their dependent survivors and the relationship of these benefits to other Federal income maintenance programs, as well as to the advancing cost-of-living, continues to be of major concern of the Legion.

A A A

Former Indiana Congressman Richard Roudebush has been confirmed by the Senate to be the new administrator of the Veterans Administration. The new VA chief had been acting director since Donald Johnson resigned.

A * A

Members of The American Legion are urged to make their views known to their Congressmen regarding legislation to elevate the position of Director, Veterans Employment Service to Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans Affairs.

A A A

An eight-foot bronze statue of the late Audie Murphy, the most decorated soldier of the American Forces in World War II, is now in the last stages of casting in Italy and will be ready for shipment to the Audie Murphy Veterans Administration Hospital in San Antonio, Tex., on May 15.

A A A

INDIANAPOLIS — (ALNS)— American Legion National Adjutant William F. Hauck has sent the following message to President Gerald R. Ford regarding Mrs. Ford s illness:

"I have just been in communication with James M. Wagonseller, National Commander of The American Legion, traveling in the Philippines. He has asked me to convey his deep personal concern for Mrs. Ford's illness. The prayers and sincere hope for complete recovery are extended from The American Legion to you and your family.

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"BE COUNTED AGAIN FOR AMERICA" 021H 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-4-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Nearly three-quarters of a million of the nation's veterans are threatened with a reduction or loss in pension benefits the first of next year because the majority leaders in Congress have failed to schedule action on legislation which would protect against such losses.

Various forms of proposals and legislation to raise the limit of income a veteran can earn before suffering a loss in benefits have been pending before both the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees for more than two years.

Action on serious pension reform and restructuring was promised in the fall of 1972 by the respective Committee chairmen but was brushed aside in the rush to adjourn at the close of the 92nd Congress. As a result, more than a million veterans and their survivors saw their pensions terminated or reduced because of the 20 percent social security increase which went into effect in 1972. These same veterans and survivors face yet another loss in benefits January 1, 1975, as a result of this year's social security increases unless Congress takes immediate action.

Congressman Olin league's House Subcommittee on Compensation and Pension has held hearings on some 200 pending bills calling for improvements in the veterans and dependents pension program and is now working on a clean bill for consideration of the full Committee.

Since the Congress will recess about Oct. 15 for the elections, it is doubtful that the Subcommittee will have time in this session to complete its work and recommend a bill to restructure the existing pension program. For this reason, the league Subcommittee is anxious to move a bill this year that will protect most, if not all, of the pension recipients, and hold off on broader recommendations until the 94th Congress. The Talmadge Subcommittee on Compensation and Pensions on the Senate side has also concluded that only the usual stop-gap legislation can be enacted this year to provide cost-of-living increases in monthly benefits and a raise in the income limits, with perhaps some other minor improvements.

The Legion has asked that any legislation enacted provide for cost-of-living improvements in the DIC program to dependent parents whose benefits are also pegged to income limitations and who are similarly affected by inflation.

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INDIANAPOLIS—CALNS)—General Chairman Dale L. Smith of the 1975 Golden Anniversary American Legion at Rapid City, S .D. , reports that all box seats have been sold for next year's event. Information regarding reserved seats purchases should be addressed to Advance Ticket Chairman Tom Larson, P.O. Box 609, Rapid City, S.D. 57701. -alns- 0213 ESMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-4-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The American Legion has told the Senate Subcommittee on Compensation and Pensions, Committee on Veterans Affairs, that the adequacy of the Veterans Administration death and disability pension program for war veterans or their dependent survivors and the relationship of these benefits to other Federal income maintenance programs, as well as to the advancing cost-of-living, continues to be of major concern to the Legion.

Edward H. Golembieski, Director, National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission of The American Legion said that, "...the death and disability pension program is an income maintenance program. It is a means of supplementing the income of eligible war veterans and of their surviving spouses and children. Entitlement to pension payments is determined by a needs test, that is, the amount of countable income and corpus of estate." He added, "Traditionally, eligibility criteria for VA death and disability pension have been and are more liberal than the means test for welfare."

Golembieski told the Subcommittee that, "The American Legion...is convinced that veterans and their dependent survivors should have the full measure of any social security old age, survivors, or total disability benefit increase based on cost-of-living increases without suffering reductions in death or disability pension payments." He noted that he was talking of the so-called "Notching Effect"—a term used in welfare studies, where a very small increase in countable income or earnings, causes a large drop in pension benefits.

Golembieski cited an example where, "...a veteran alone exceeds the annual income ceiling of $2,600 by one cent, he loses not only the small monthly pension payable at or below $2,600, but also the increased amount of pension payable based on the need of aid or attendance of another person, or by reason of being housebound for which he may have been eligible at the time."

He pointed out that unless there is a restructuring of the monthly rates payable to those whose annual income falls within the present income limitations, "...about 800,000 pensioners will receive reduced payments effective the beginning of 1975."

Golembieski told the Subcommittee that The American Legion's Resolution No. 65, approved at the 1974 National Convention, follows the income security philosophy of the Supplemental Security Income plan for the aged, blind and disabled, and "...if our pension proposal is enacted, pensioners would not be subject to the 'notching effect'." He added that the maximum pension benefit or ceiling would be responsive to the Consumer Price Index, and that the proposal "...would provide war veterans and their survivors with an effective income support system."

-alns- INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The National American Legion Press Association (NALPA) , for the second consecutive year, has set an all-time high in membership. With a membership of 1 010 at the opening of its annual meeting during the 1974 National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., NALPA had gone over the 1,000-member mark for the first time in its history. -alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0214 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-4-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Former Indiana Congressman Richard Roudebush has been confirmed by the Senate to be the new administrator of the Veterans Administration. The new VA chief had been acting director since Donald Johnson resigned.

As head of the VA, Roudebush will direct the largest independent agency in the federal establishment.

A native of Noblesville, Ind., and known to his many friends as "Roudy," he was graduated from Butler University in 1941 and served overseas in the Army during World War II. His Veterans Affairs activities include six years as chairman of the Indiana Veterans Commission, and seven years as Veterans of Foreign Wars service officer assigned to the Indianapolis VA Regional Office. He was elected Commander of the Indiana V.F.W. in 1953, and in 1957 was chosen National Commander-in-Chief of the V.F.W.

During his 10 years as an Indiana Republican Congressman, the new VA chief sponsored many benefit bills for veterans, their dependents and survivors. The former Republican lawmaker is a life member of the Frank Huntsinger Post 45 of The Indiana American Legion in Noblesville, Indiana. He has also been awarded life membership in the VFW, DAV, and AMVETS. His work on behalf of veterans has been recognized by Freedom's Foundation of Valley Forge, Penn., which he now serves as a trustee. -alns-

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—For several years, The American Legion has been mandated to seek legislation to elevate the position of Director, Veterans Employment Service to Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans Affairs.

Members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee are concerned in this matter and believe, as does The American Legion, that the Veterans Employment Service Director's position is at such a low level in the Department of Labor, it is impossible to administer an effective employment program for veterans through the layers of bureaucracy.

Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, has sent a letter to the President, recommending that this job be elevated to Assistant Secretary. House bill H.R. 2682, currently pending before the House Veterans Affairs Committee follows Senator Thurmond's recommendation, and would satisfy our mandate.

It is urged that Legionnaires make their views known to their Congressmen and Senators soon, so that the bill can be passed by Congress and signed by the President,

-alns- 0215 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-4-74

SAN ANTONIO, TEX.—(ALNS)—An eight-foot bronze statue of Audie Murphy, the most decorated soldier of the American Forces in World War II—or any war in American History—is now in the last stages of casting in Italy and will be ready for shipment to the Veterans Administration hospital here, May 15. The hospital is named in his honor. The statue, which is 2h feet taller than Murphy's actual height, will sit on a mound surrounded by a landscaped area with walkways . (Audie Murphy was short in stature at five-feet, five inches, but stood tall in greatness and courage when he made a lone victorious stand on a blazing tank destroyer against 250 German infantrymen and six German tanks.) Murphy will be depicted coming over a hill beckoning his men to follow him. A patio will be in the front.

The World War II Legionnaire, who seemed to have a cloak of immortality about him during his heroic actions in combat, met sudden death in a plane crash on a Virginia mountainside May 28, 1971. He was a member of Turf Legion Post 627, San Mateo, Calif., and had been instrumental in establishing a Medal of Honor Memorial in the Legion's Department of Alabama. A ceremony with VA and San Antonio officials will take place when the statute is set. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS —(ALNS)—The 24th edition of "NEED A LIFT?", The American Legion's Education and Scholarship handbook covering financial and other career information, will be available for distribution Oct. 21.

According to the Legion's National Americanism and Children & Youth Division, it is estimated that the contents of "NEED A LIFT?" could lead students to sources of scholarships, grants, loans and career information in excess of $4-billion to assist them during the next school year. Copies of "NEED A LIFT?" may be purchased at 50c each (prepaid) by writing The American Legion, Dept. S, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

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PHILADELPHIA, PA.—(ALNS)—The Philadelphia Police Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, sponsored by the Philadelphia Police Athletic League, has been congratulated in a resolution from the Council of the City of Philadelphia for winning the national American Legion Junior Drum and Bugle Corps title during the recent Legion National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla. The unit was sponsored in National competition by the Boleslaw-Grochowski American Legion Post 396, of Philadelphia.

-alns- 0218 HMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-11-74

"New posts are the key to increasing membership," James M. Wagonseller, National Commander of The American Legion, told Legion leaders during the opening session of the Commanders and Adjutants Conference in Indianapolis.

* * *

FBI Director Clarence Kelley has warned The American Legion National Executive Committee that "the urban guerrilla is today a reality of our modern-day society." Kelley made his statement during National Commander James M. Wagonseller's Banquet for the NEC. * * *

Department (State) Commanders of The American Legion pledged that they would have 2,104,826 members signed for 1975 by Jan. 7. The commitment was made by departments in the telegraphic roll call concluding the 1974 Department Commanders and Adjutants Conference. * A *

More than 700 Legionnaires, including National Officers of The American Legion and out-of-state guests, attended the homecoming for National Commander James M. Wagonseller on Oct. 4-6 in Columbus and Lancaster, Ohio.

* * *

The American Legion, through its National Executive Committee, has petitioned Congress to "sponsor and support legislation to authorize the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to provide benefits to Canadian Armed Forces veterans and their widows equal to those presently provided by the Dominion of Canada to veterans of our Armed Forces and their widows residing in Canada."

Art*

The American Legion's National Executive Committee has adopted a resolution approving the action of Iran in purchasing some four billions of dollars worth of military "hardware" from the United States, "instead of seeking handouts." * * ft

The National Executive Committee, during its fall meetings in Indianapolis, has approved the recommendation of The American Legion Life Insurance and Trust Committee to authorize the sum of $250,000 for 1974-75 to be "utilized for the purposes of supporting, promoting, improving, and increasing participation in The American Legion Baseball Program." Legion Baseball will celebrate its Golden Anniversary in 1975.

-alns- 0217 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"New posts are the key to increasing membership," believes James M. Wagonseller, National Commander of The American Legion.

Speaking before the Commanders and Adjutants Conference during the opening session of the fall meetings, the Legion chief said, "I am suggesting that right now we probably have reached the point of diminishing return as far as membership in relation to our total number of posts is concerned.

"I am convinced that right now The American Legion probably is more aware of the very pressing need for new posts—perhaps more so than at any other time in our history, with the possible exception of the immediate post World War II period," he added.

Wagonseller pointed out that an adequate number of attractive American Legion posts in the proper locations in new urban and suburban areas is the key to success in maintaining a healthy, growing membership.

The National Commander outlined a new program of monetary incentive for departments chartering new posts, which had been given "favorable consideration" by the Legion's National Finance Commission.

The monetary incentive program for chartering new posts will operate as follows:

For every new post that is organized within a department during the department commander's term of office, a check for $50-$75, or $100 will be sent to the department commander.

The size of the check will depend on the number of members certified to National for the new post within 90 days after the charter is issued. It will be $50 for fewer than 25 members—$75 for 25 to 49 members and $100 for 50 or more members.

The money will be sent directly to the department commander. As department commander, he will use these funds for membership promotion or to reward those making a major contribution to the formation of a post.

Since some departments already have a full network of posts sufficient to accommodate the membership they can anticipate, a special award of $100 is proposed for commanders of those departments if their membership exceeds their 1974 total 30 days prior to National Convention.

For the department commander whose 1975 membership exceeds the final 1974 total membership by 30 days prior to the National Convention, a paid trip to the Convention, which will include round trip fare and three days per diem at $17 per day, will be awarded. In departments where an all-time high membership is reached by 30 days prior to the National Convention, a similar award will be made to the department membership chairman. Awards similar to those above will be offered to the top three district commanders in each of the five membership categories which are based on district size. -alns- 0218 HMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"Make no mistake: the Weatherman, and other guerrilla groups, have openly declared war on America," Clarence M. Kelley, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation told members of The American Legion's National Executive Committee.

Speaking at the National Commander's banquet for the NEC, Mr. Kelley said that the urban guerrilla is today a reality of our modern-day society. "He hates America; he hates free government; he hates the law."

Kelley said that although the guerrilla groups vary in size, quality of leadership, and modes of operation, they all have the common objectives of terror and violence.

To back up his claim that guerrilla groups have declared war on America, the FBI Director referred to the Weatherman, probably the best known new left underground revolutionary group, which recently issued a public manifesto entitled "Prairie Fire."

In this document, Kelley said, the Weather Underground claimed that it had carried out many bombings, including the bombings of the United States Capitol in 1971 and the Pentagon in 1972. Some 19 bombings were specifically listed by name including attacks against police stations, ROTC buildings, and draft and recruiting centers. Kelley said guerrilla terrorists and revolutionaries offer glib excuses for their activities. "Some attempt to rationalize their violent deeds by claiming that they^ are acting on a 'higher law' - which, when translated, really means they desire a license to do what they want and society, in turn, has no right to protect itself," he said.

"Others," Kelley said, "claim they are working for the best interests of the poor, the oppressed, and the weak." He said nothing could be farther from the truth. "Terrorism is the very opposite of freedom. The bomb, the sniper shot, the incendiary blaze are not the ways to reform society.

"We must not tolerate, condone, or excuse terrorism in any shape, form or manner," Kelley emphasized. The Nation's top law enforcement officer said that over the years a firm bond of friendship and understanding has developed between The American Legion and the FBI. "We speak the same language and we both work to preserve America against the foreign spy and the criminal," Kelley said. "We know that liberty is a priceless possession which can easily be lost unless we work full time to keep it alive," he said.

Kelley also expressed his personal thanks for the Legion's support of the FBI and specifically referred to the Resolution proclaiming that support which was unanimously adopted at the 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach. "My associates and I are most appreciative," Kelley said.

-alns- 0219 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Department (State) Commanders of The American Legion pledged that theywould have 2,104,826 members signed for 1975 by Jan. 7. The commitment was made by departments in the telegraphic roll call concluding the 1974 Department Commanders and Adjutants Conference.

The total pledge offered by the department leaders is 9,790 more than that of one year ago. The largest membership pledge—185,000 American Legionnaires—came from the Department of Pennsylvania; New York was second with 145,000; Illinois third with 135,606; Ohio, fourth with 111,000; Indiana, fifth with 100,450; and California, sixth with 100,000.

Legion membership sustains a loss by death of approximately 70,000 yearly. Of these, 30,000 are World War I veterans and 35,000, World War II veterans, and 5,000 are from the Korean War and Vietnam era groups.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The following departments have been named tentative winners of the Big Ten Competition, subject to the fulfillment of their membership pledges on or before Jan. 7, 1975:

DEPARTMENT 1975 MEMBERSHIP PLEDGED CATEGORY I GOAL Oct. 8, 1974 PERCENTAGE

Iowa 90,894 83,500 91.87 Minnesota 112,200 99,999 89.13

CATEGORY II

Louisiana 48,205 43,500 90.24 Nebraska 54,565 46,500 85.22

CATEGORY III

North Dakota 26,185 26,900 102.73 South Dakota 26,319 26,325 100.02

CATEGORY IV

Arizona 14,470 14,507 100.26 Oregon 22,041 17,750 80.53

CATEGORY V

Philippines 6,809 6,500 95.46 Hawaii 8,573 8,001 93.33

-alns- 0220 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE I NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

COLUMBUS, OHIO—(ALNS)—More than 700 Legionnaires, including National Officers of The American Legion and out-of-state guests, assembled here Oct. 4-6 for the homecoming for new National Commander, James M. Wagonseller.

Wagonseller, of Lancaster, Ohio, returned Oct. 3 from a fact-finding and observation tour of the Far East. He was met by a barrage of reporters at a press conference where he restated the Legion's policy against blanket amnesty.

At the homecoming banquet, Saturday, Oct. 5, Wagonseller briefly outlined his trip to the Far East for the assembled guests. He said that it was clear to him that U.S. Military presence in the vast defense perimeter - the Pacific area - was both desirable and necessary. He also said that from first hand observation, our armed forces in that area, are combat ready, and their morale is high.

Following the homecoming, a large contingent of Legionnaires departed for Indianapolis to attend the Commanders and Adjutants Conference and the National Executive Committee meeting. Many visited the Wright Patterson Air Force Base and Museum of Dayton, Ohio, enroute to Indianapolis.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion, through its National Executive Committee, has petitioned Congress to "sponsor and support legislation to authorize the Administrator of Veterans Affairs to provide benefits to Canadian Armed Forces veterans and their widows equal to those presently provided by the Dominion of Canada to veterans of our Armed Forces and their widows residing in Canada."

The NEC deemed this requested legislation as necessary, in view of the veterans laws of the Dominion of Canada that provide U.S. veterans and their widows a war veteran allowance and other benefits after residence of ten or more years.

The NEC pointed out further that "The American Legion believes it fitting and proper that the United States should extend similar benefits to veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and their widows."

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS) —The American Legion will petition Congress to amend the Sedition Act of 1917, 40 Stat. 533 by adding to it the words, "or armed conflict," after the word "war" wherever it appears in the statute.

Acting on a National Americanism Commission resolution, The American Legion National Executive Committee noted that the said amendment would make the "penalties of the law applicable to offenses committed when the United States is engaged in armed conflict though not engaged in war according to formal declaration by Act of Congress."

-alns- 0221 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion, through action of its National Executive Committee, will petition for legislation to elevate the position of the Director of the Veterans Employment Service to that as an Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans Employment.

The Legion's National Economic Commission, which sought the action from the NEC during its fall meetings here, said that under the present organization of the Department of Labor, the director of the veterans employment program must direct and expand much energy in going through Department of Labor channels, as well as in directing and evaluating a nationwide Veterans Employment Service.

An important reason for seeking this legislation is that approximately one-half million Vietnam-era veterans are being discharged annually and the rate of unemployment among Vietnam-era veterans is higher than the rate of unemployment of the same age and educational level of non-veterans.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The American Legion's National Executive Committee has adopted a resolution approving the action of Iran in purchasing some four billions of dollars worth of military "hardware" from the United States, instead of seeking handouts.

Acting on a Foreign Relations Commission resolution, the NEC urged our government to adopt a policy of sales instead of grants in the export of military "hardware" and technology; and further urged that "our government limit military grants to truly allied or friendly nations who are victims of, or realistically threatened by aggression and are unable, rather than merely unwilling to, pay for military equipment."

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The National Executive Committee, during its fall meetings here, has approved the recommendation of The American Legion Life Insurance and Trust Committee to authorize the sum of $250,000 for 1974-75 to be "utilized for the purposes of supporting, promoting, improving, and increasing participation in The American Legion Baseball Program."

The monetary funding will be secured from the funds representing the excess over the basic minimum reserve fund accumulated and retained in The American Legion Life Insurance Trust Fund.

Legion Baseball will celebrate its Golden Anniversary in 1975.

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"BE COUNTED AGAIN FOR AMERICA" 0222 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

COLUMBUS, OHIO—(ALNS)—"Upon my return from the Far East I was pleased to learn that a conference committee of the House and Senate has again reached agreement on a G.I. Bill for Vietnam era veterans," American Legion National Commander James M. Wagonseller noted in a press release here.

"In addition to strengthening existing provisions of law with respect to job training and employment assistance for veterans, the bill provides a 23 percent increase in educational allowances retroactive to Sept. 1, an extension of entitlement to benefits from 36 to 45 months for undergraduate students, and a direct low interest loan program of up to $600 to assist the veteran in meeting the increased cost of tuition and other charges." The National Commander pointed out that about 11-million veterans will be eligible for benefits under this measure which carries a first year cost of nearly one billion dollars. The allowance increase and the student loan provision also applies to eligible wives, widows and children of seriously disabled veterans and those who died from service-connected causes.

"This very comprehensive and worthwhile bill, the Legion chief emphasized, "satisfies a number of our legislative mandates. Although it does not go as far as the Legion asked in some areas, the conference committee is to be commended for its efforts in reaching agreement under very difficult circumstances. I hope the Senate and House will act quickly on the conference report and that the President will sign the measure without delay.

"I want to make clear that The American Legion believes this bill will not fully meet the needs of the student veterans faced with skyrocketing increases in the costs of education. You may rest assured that we will continue the fight to insure a viable education and training program—one more in line with our concept of adequacy—for the Vietnam era veterans. The American Legion will not abandon these young men and women who have served their country in its time of need and who are struggling to take their place as productive members of society," he concluded.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—With the discontinuance of the United States Armed Forces Institute (USAFI), The American Legion has received several inquiries on where veterans can write to obtain reports on in-service tests and examinations from USAFI files.

According to the Veterans Administration, the Defense Agency for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES), a new agency under the Department of the Navy, has been established to provide assistance to veterans seeking information on GED, CLEP, and various examinations taken while they were in service.

For these reports, veterans should write: DANTES Contractor Representative (Transcripts), 2318 South Park Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53713.

-alns- □ MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE ^^ NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION / °R>r

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C Watkins nirnr.tnr ff ^OC ar\d HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 K Coui\try~ Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Citing the fact that the U.S. Senate has not given its advice and consent to ratification of a UN recommended treaty known as the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, the Legion's National Executive Committee has approved a five-point Foreign Relations Commission resolution covering the following areas:

1. Deplores acts constituting genocide no matter how or where practiced.

2. Believes there should be no question on the part of other nations - including those which have ratified the Convention and those which have not - of this nation's dedication to the principles that underline the Convention.

3. Insists that the Government of the United States continue to uphold those principles and to take all steps - consistent with the U.S. Constitution and the division of powers upon which that Constitution is based, - to bring about the elimination of the crime of genocide in the world, and to use its influence to cause suitable punishment to be meted out to those who continue such practices in defiance of all the laws of morality and civilization.

4. Opposes U.S. ratification of the original terms of the Genocide Convention.

5. Does not favor ratification of the Genocide Convention even with the attachment of reservations on the grounds that it is both unnecessary and unwise.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—A tentative award of a National Convention was given to Kansas City, Mo., for the year 1979, by The American Legion's National Executive Committee during its fall meeting here.

Tentative awards for American Legion national conventions are normally made five years in advance. Kansas City had made a formal bid during the spring meeting in May. After consideration by the Legion's National Convention Commission, it was recommended that the award be made. Tentative dates for the 1979 Convention are Aug. 17-23.

Previous tentative awards have been made for national conventions for Minneapolis, Minn. - 1975; Seattle, Wash. - 1976; Denver, Colo. - 1977; and New Orleans, La. - 1978.

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Veterans Administration pension and compensation payments for widows who lost these benefits when they remarried can now be restored for those who were widowed a second time.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0224 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-11-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Four major American Legion National Committee and Commission chairmanships changed hands during the meetings of the veterans organization's National Executive Committee meeting here on recommendation of National Commander James M. Wagonseller, of Lancaster, 0., and with approval of the NEC.

Three of the four retiring chairmen were named chairmen emeritus of the groups which they had headed for many years. They are: Clarence C. Horton, of Gulf Shores, Ala., National Legislative Commission chairman for 12 years; Donald J. Smith, of St. Johns, Mich., Internal Affairs Commission chairman for eight years, and Clarence Campbell, of Barre, Vt., National Economic Commission chairman for seven years.

Albert L. Keller, of Kankakee, 111., who served as Illinois American Legion Commander, 1958-59 is the new Economic Commission chairman. He is a veteran of World War II service with the U.S. Army and also has served as commander of Kankakee Post 85, of The American Legion and of Illinois' 18th district. He has been active at the national level of The America Legion since 1959.

Frank Hamilton, Greensburg, Ind., attorney and commander of The American Legion of Indiana, 1966-67, and active in American Legion national affairs since 1958, succeeds Horton as chairman of the Legislative Commission. He has been a member of the National Law & Order, Rehabilitation, and Internal Affairs, Legion Commissions and Committees nationally.

John Carey, of Grand Blanc, Mich., commander of The American Legion of Michigan, 1958-59 and a member of Frand Blanc Post 413, American Legion, succeeds Smith as chairman of the Internal Affairs Commission. Carey, has served three terms as mayor of Grand Blanc, and is a supervisor at Flint Fisher Body Plant No. 1.

Maurice Druhl, of Portland, Ore., former adjutant of The American Legion of Oregon, a World War II veteran of service with the Army Air Corps with service again during the Korean War, and active in the affairs of the Legion's National Distinguished Guests Committee and vice chairman of the Committee 1971-74, was named chairman of the Distinguished Guests Committee, succeeding William J. Rogers, of Kennebunk, Me., vice- president, government relations, of the United States Brewers Association, Inc., who stepped down because of the press of personal business.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The Senate has passed legislation to increase pension payments for veterans and their survivors by 12 per cent. It also would raise by $400 the annual income limitations, making it $3,000 for pensioners and $4,200 for those with dependents. The pensions are paid to veterans within the income limitations if they are permanently and totally disabled for nonservice-connected causes before age 65. At 65 or order health is no factor. Widows, dependent children and dependent parents also are entitled to pensions based on income.

-alns- 0225 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-18-74

By late next summer Legionnaires will be able for the first time to purchase a paid-up-for-life membership under an approved National plan. The plan for the paid-up membership was approved by the National Executive Committee of The American Legion at its meeting of October 9-10 but will not go into effect until the 1976 membership year. * * *

Edward T. Hoak, of Harrisburg, Pa., Adjutant of The American Legion of Pennsylvania, has been named "King" of the Steivos for 1974-75.

* A *

"Legislation is one method of attempting to provide more adequately for the needs of our children and youth," believes the Legion's National Commission on Children and Youth. * * *

A "gigantic display of concern" for getting an acceptable accounting of our POW's and MIA's is being planned in Washington, D.C., by the of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. * * *

A total of 27 graduates of the American Legion Baseball program were eligible for participation in the when the and the squared off for the world championship.

* * *

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—On Oct. 10, the U.S. Senate, by a vote of 50 to 4, passed S. 4081, a bill that would restore Veterans Day to its rightful date of November 11 The bill now goes to the House of Representatives. Your Congressman will be home campaigning during the Congressional recess before election. Help is needed. Now is the time to "Be Counted Again For America" by informing him how you feel about the November 11, Veterans Day date and to urge him to help bring the measure to the floor of the House for a favorable vote.

Through state legislation, 42 states have already expressed dissatisfaction with the so-called Monday Holiday Bill (Public Law 90-363) enacted by the 90th Congress over five years ago. The Legion, through National Convention mandates, has been urging Congress to change the observance of Veterans Day back to its meaningful date on the calendar.

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

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

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

For release 10-18-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—By late next summer Legionnaires will be able for the first time to purchase a paid-up-for-life membership under an approved National plan. The plan for the paid-up membership was approved by the National Executive Committee of The American Legion at its meeting of October 9-10 but will not go into effect until the 1976 membership year.

The plan was developed by joint study of the National Finance Commission, Membership and Post Activities Committee and Internal Affairs Commission. Cost to individual Legionnaires will be based on age and the dues charged by each Post at the time the paid-up-for-life membership is purchased.

Departments may opt out of the National plan by vote of the Department Executive Committee or the Department Convention. Several Departments, such as Ohio, Maryland, Kansas and others have been operating Department paid-up or permanent membership plans, and these Departments are free to continue their own plans or enter the National program, but can't do both.

Cost to a 65-year-old member whose current Post dues are eight dollars would be about $110. For a member ten years younger with the same Post dues the rate would be about $150. Costs are to be based on actuarial studies submitted to the National Finance Commission by an outside firm retained by the National Headquarters.

A careful distinction is made between a Life Membership, which is awarded to a member by his Post in recognition of outstanding service, and a paid-up-for-life membership, which the member may purchase.

The paid-up-for-life membership will be bought from the Post (not from National Headquarters), but all money will go into a national trust fund. Funds will be withdrawn each year to pay the member's Post, Department and National dues, and earnings of the trust fund may not be used for any other purpose except to meet administrative costs, which are limited to one and one-half per cent. Full information on the plan will be distributed to Departments and Posts during the coming months. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Edward T. Hoak, of Harrisburg, Pa., Adjutant of The American Legion of Pennsylvania, has been named "King" of the Steivos for 1974-75.

The Steivos, a fun-making organization of American Legion adjutants, past and present, conducts its annual meeting in conjunction with the Commander's and Adjutant's Conference at Legion National Headquarters here.

Hoak succeeds Wilson J. Hebert, of Baton Rouge, Adjutant of The American Legion of Louisiana, as "King." William F. (Bill) Hauck of Washington, D.C., Legion National Adjutant, and Daniel H. Burkhardt of Baltimore, Md., Adjutant of the Department of Maryland, were continued as scribe and treasurer, respectively.

-alns- 0227 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE I NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

mC. D. DeLoach, Chairman james c. Watkins, Director

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

For release 10-18-7U

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"Legislation is one method of attempting to provide more adequately for the needs of our children and youth," believes the Legion's National Commission on Children and Youth.

To back up this statement the commission has prepared a State Legislative Kit to aid Department Children & Youth committees, Department Legislative committees, and others of The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary who are interested in efforts to secure passage of legislation concerning children and youth.

The commission has pointed out that early in 1975, practically all of the state legislatures will be in session and it is hopeful that after careful study of the areas listed below each Department will incorporate a portion of these legislative goals into the Department's 1975 legislative effort.

The selected areas of interest for state legislation in 1975 are:

(l.) The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children; (2.) Abused, Battered or Neglected Children; (3.) Mandatory Immunization for Communicable Disease Prior to School Entry; (k.) Placement of Foster Children; (5.) State Day Care Facility Licensing Act; and, (6.) Educational Services for the Handicapped Child.

The Kit also includes a brief description of the problem existing in each of the above areas, together with model legislation or legislative recommendations to cope with the problem areas.

The Children and Youth Commission pointed out further that it realizes many states may have legislation in these areas, however, it urges those involved to check to be sure. "If your state does not have suitable legislation in all of these areas, now is the time to act," the commission emphasized.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—A "gigantic display of concern" for getting an acceptable accounting of our POW's and MIA's is being planned here by the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. All family members of POW's and MIA's, veterans groups and concerned citizens are invited to attend the demonstration which will convene at the Justice Department and proceed to the White House.

In a release issued by the League of Families, it is pointed out that "Justice is due those who served (POW's, MIA's, Vets) before amnesty for those who refused to serve."

-alns- 0228 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-18-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—A total of 27 graduates of the American Legion Baseball program were eligible for participation in the 1974 World Series when the Oakland Athletics and the Los Angeles Dodgers squared off for the world championship.

Sixteen men on the Athletics roster, certified for competition by Baseball Commissioner Bowie K. Kuhn, and 11 members of the Dodgers aggregation are former American Legion Baseball players, according to Daniel J. O'Connor, Chairman of the Legion's National Americanism Commission.

Members of the Oakland team who played American Legion Baseball as a stepping stone to the major leagues are: , , , , , , , Jim Hunter, , , , , Chuck Maxvill, Johnny Odom, , and .

The following Los Angeles Dodger players formerly played American Legion Baseball: Bill Buckner, Al Downing, Steve Garvey, Gail Hopkins, Charles Hough, Von Joshua, Ken McMullen, Mike Marshall, Andy Messersmith, Bill Russell, and Paul Shanahan.

"Of the 23 eligible players who did not participate in the American Legion Baseball program, four of them were foreign-born and did not have such an opportunity as teenagers," O'Connor stated.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Concern over President Ford's proclamation of Sept. 16, 1974, announcing a program for the return of Vietnam era draft dodgers and military deserters has prompted The American Legion to speak out against any counseling by the organization for them.

This was part of the action taken during the Fall meeting of the Legion National Executive Committee in the Headquarters City.

In approving a report by the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, the NEC unanimously agreed that the staff of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission should not provide counsel to those draft dodgers and deserters affected by the proclamation.

In other action concerning the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, a Pennsylvania proposal to eliminate Social Security payments and Railroad retirement payments in the computation of income for pension purposes was rejected by the NEC.

-alns- 0229 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-18-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Winners in The American Legion 1974 National One-Year Post History Contest have been announced by Mr. Nolle C. Deas, Sr., of Ocala, Fla., National Historian. Winners include:

First Place: Scherer Post No. 493, Jackson Center, Ohio ($150 accompanied by citation).

Second Place: Hollywood Women's Post No. 185, Hollywood, Calif. ($100 accompanied by citation).

Third Place: Clifton Post No. 227, Clifton, Kansas ($75 accompanied by citation).

Fourth Place: Magnus Anderson Post No. 399, Okauchee, Wisconsin ($50 accompanied by citation).

Fifth Place: Argonne Post No. 26, Hobbs, New Mexico ($25 accompanied by citation).

Honorable Mention.

Wallace Simpson Post No. 29, Denver, Colorado; U.S.S. Jacob Jones Post No. 2, Washington, D.C.; Jacksonville Post No. 88, Jacksonville, Florida; Darius-Girenas Post No. 271, Chicago, Illinois; Argonne Post No. 60, Des Moines, Iowa; Shawnee Post No. 193, Louisville, Kentucky; Victor I. Rieck Post No. 351, Utica, Michigan; Berg- Nylund Post No. 456, Sebeka, Minnesota; Hovious-Grayson Post No. 112, Jackson, Mississippi; Park Post No. 23, Livingston, Montana; Silver Springs Post No. 13, Silver Springs, Nevada; Adam Plewacki Post No. 799, Buffalo, New York; Platt National Park Post No. 148, Sulphur, Oklahoma; Dalton-Cartier Post No. 204, Norfolk, Virginia. Certificates of Honorable Mention were awarded these posts.

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BATON ROUGE, LA.—(ALNS)—Dr. Arthur R. Choppin, 76, former National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1965-66), died here Oct. 14.

A World War I veteran, he also served as Louisiana National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1953-57) and Department Commander of the Louisiana American Legion (1946-47). -alns-

JONESVILLE, VA. —(ALNS)—Dr. Thomas H. S. Ely, 60, former Virginia National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1965-67), died here recently.

A World War II veteran, he also served as Virginia Alternate National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion from 1959 to 1965, and as Virginia Department Commander in 1953-54.

-alns- 0230 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 10-25-74

National Commander James M. Wagonseller has urged American Legionnaires to "Be Counted Again For America" during the eighth annual Legion-Red Cross Holiday Blood Donor Drive, Dec. 4 - Jan. 3.

* * *

Highland American Legion Post 201 was "Counted Again" when it presented a record check for $40,778 to the Jefferson County Council for Retarded Children. The check was made possible from the proceeds of the Post's annual Child Welfare Carnival, and is the largest contribution the Post has given the Council.

* * *

Warren D. Hanscom, past president of the National American Legion Press Association, has compiled a history of the Association entitled "The First 50 Years." * * *

Upon the call of National SAL Commander Gregory D. Reis of Broadview, 111., nearly 50 National leaders in the Sons of The American Legion met at American Legion National Headquarters on Oct. 12. Traveling to the Hoosier capital at their own expense, this was the largest gathering of the SAL's National Executive Committee since the SAL started holding spring and fall meetings in Indianapolis. * * *

A pledge that "every day — not just on Christmas alone," the Veterans Administration will bring veterans "the merited reward — not the gift — of concerned and compassionate service and assistance," has been expressed by Richard L. Roudebush, Administrator of Veterans Affairs, in his Christmas, 1974, message to the Nation's veterans. * * *

The American Legion Departments of Minnesota and Maryland are winners in the Legion's 1974 National Department History Contest. Minnesota took first place in the Type I category and Maryland placed first in the Type II division.

* * *

"Our Veterans have earned our deep and lasting gratitude for their valor, their patriotism, and their willingness to sacrifice so that others might remain free," President Ford pointed out in his Veterans Day, 1974, Proclamation.

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"BE COUNTED AGAIN FOR AMERICA" 0231 MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

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

For release 10-25-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—National Commander James M. Wagonseller has urged American Legionnaires to "Be Counted Again For America" during the eighth annual Legion-Red Cross Holiday Blood Donor Drive, Dec. 4 - Jan. 3.

Your local Red Cross representative knows about this special campaign. If he has not, or does not, contact you, contact him. In those areas where no Red Cross blood centers exist, blood may be donated through either a community or hospital blood bank.

Further information on organizing and promoting the drive is contained in a booklet available from the National Security-Foreign Relations Division, The American Legion, 1608 "K" Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006.

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LOUISVILLE, KY. —(ALNS)—Highland American Legion Post 201 was "Counted Again" when it presented a record check for $40,778 to the Jefferson County Council for Retarded Children.

The check was made possible from the net proceeds of the Post's annual Child Welfare Carnival, and is the largest contribution the Post has given the Council. It exceeded last year's contribution by more than $2,500. During the last 21 years, a sum in excess of $380,000 has been given the Council by Post 201.

Contributions are used by the council for work with retarded children and among their projects are the Leroy Stevens School for Retarded Children, the Occupational Training Center, and the Sheltered Work Shop.

Mrs. C. W. Crafton is President of the Council. Joseph B. Bott and William L. Karp are co-chairmen and the top officer of the Post is William C. Bridewell.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Warren D. Hanscom, past president of the National American Legion Press Association, has compiled a history of the Association entitled "The First 50 Years.'-' The volume is dedicated to the memory of the late Jack R.C. Cann, long-time secretary-treasurer of NALPA. Inquiries should be directed to Mr. Hanscom, 2512 16th Ave. W., Bradenton, Fla. 33505.

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TARPON SPRINGS, FLA.—(ALNS)—Clarence W. Van Ness, 82, a founder of The American Legion having attended the St. Louis Caucus on May 8-10, 1919, died here recently. A World War I veteran, Mr. Van Ness was a member of the Department of Nebraska American Legion.

-alns- 0242 GJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

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

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

For release 10-25-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Upon the call of National SAL Commander Gregory D. Reis of Broadview, 111., nearly 50 National leaders in the Sons of The American Legion met at American Legion National Headquarters on Oct. 12. Traveling to the Hoosier capital at their own expense, this was the largest gathering of the SAL's National Executive Committee since the Sons started holding spring and fall meetings in Indianapolis.

Commander Reis decided to hold the meeting following the conclusion of The American Legion's NEC meeting, Oct. 9-10, because three National SAL Constitution amendments were involved and had to be first approved by the Legion's NEC.

The three amendments to the SAL's National Constitution included:

1. That Article X, Section 2 of the National Constitution was amended to raise the annual National SAL dues from 75 cents to $1 per member and to be payable Oct. 20 of each year for the succeeding year. This applies to the 1975 and subsequent membership years and becomes effective Jan. 15, 1975.

2. Article VI, Section 3 of the SAL's National Constitution was amended so that the National Commander by and with the approval of the NEC could appoint a National Adjutant, Assistant National Adjutants, National Judge Advocate, National Historian, National Sergeant-at-Arms, and such Assistant National Sergeant-at-Arms as would be deemed necessary and/or desirable.

3. Article VI, Section 1 was amended to read as follows: The National Convention shall elect a National Commander, five (5) National Vice Commanders, who shall serve without seniority; and a National Chaplain. There shall be one Vice Commander from each of the following areas:

EAST: Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, France, Italy, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia.

SOUTH: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

CENTRAL: Canada, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

MIDWEST: Colorado, Kansas, Mexico, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming.

WEST: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Philippines, Utah, and Washington.

(More) Continuation of SAL Article, page 2, 0233

In the past the Sons of The American Legion only had two National Vice Commanders, one from the East and one from the West. The two young men elected at the 3rd National SAL Convention in Florida were: National Vice Commander (West) John Sherrard, Valinda, CA and National Vice Commander (East) James Jackson, Reading, PA. Elected at the SAL's NEC meeting to fill the three new positions are: National Vice Commander (Midwest) Terry R. Kelley, 34, Denver, CO; National Vice Commander (Central) John Webster, 26, Monroe, WI; and National Vice Commander (South) Martin J. Kepler, 15, Miami, FL.

Detachments represented at the NEC meeting included: California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Missouri.

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For release 10-25-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—A pledge that "every day — not just on Christmas alone," the Veterans Administration will bring veterans "the merited reward — not the gift — of concerned and compassionate service and assistance," has been expressed by Richard L. Roudebush, Administrator of Veterans Affairs, in his Christmas, 1974, message to the Nation's veterans.

Following is the text of the VA chief's message:

"For my Veterans Administration associates and myself, I wish each of you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

"As you celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, you can take quiet satisfaction in the contribution which you have made to His cause of peace by your service and sacrifice on the fields of war.

"This service earned for you the gratitude as well as the good will of your fellow-Americans. I pledge to you that every day — not just on Christmas alone — the Veterans Administration will bring you the merited reward — not the gift — of concerned and compassionate service and assistance.

"This Christmas, may you and your loved ones know all of its promised blessings, and may the New Year be filled with health, happiness, and success."

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Winners in The American Legion 1974 National Department History Contest have been announced by Mr. Nolie C. Deas, Sr., of Ocala, Fla., National Historian. Winners include:

Type I (Department History covering period from inception to 1969): First Place, The American Legion in Minnesota ($200 accompanied by citation). Second Place, The American Legion in District of Columbia ($125 accompanied by citation) .

Type II (Supplement to an earlier Department History already issued): First Place, The American Legion in Maryland ($100 accompanied by citation) . Second Place, The American Legion in Florida ($75 accompanied by citation).

Honorable Mention: The American Legion in New Mexico.

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

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c Watkins Director

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

For release 10-25-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)— "Our Veterans have earned our deep and lasting gratitude for their valor, their patriotism, and their willingness to sacrifice so that others might remain free," President Ford pointed out in his Veterans Day, 1974, Proclamation.

The text of the Proclamation follows:

"On this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to those men and women whose service in our Armed Forces has contributed so profoundly to mankind's age-old quest for peace.

"From Valley Forge to Vietnam, on battlefields around the globe, in World War I, World War II, and the Korean conflict, Americans have selflessly answered the call to arms whenever our freedoms and the freedoms of others have been threatened by tyranny and aggression.

"Our Veterans have earned our deep and lasting gratitude for their valor, their patriotism, and their willingness to sacrifice so that others might remain free.

"Now, Therefore, I, Gerald R. Ford, President of the United States of America, do hereby call on all Americans to join in observing Monday, October 28, 1974, as Veterans Day. I urge both public ceremony and private contemplation in recognition of the precious gifts of freedom and security that are ours because those we honor have stood in our defense.

"Let us give special consideration on that day to those who have died in our Nation's wars and those who have been disabled. Let this be a day of remembrance for those veterans who are in our hospitals, a day on which our appreciation is expressed tangibly by our visits and our attention.

"Further, let this be a day on which all Americans take special cognizance of the need of those young veterans who are currently readjusting to civilian life. Let us give them personal help and encouragement.

"I direct the appropriate officials of Government to arrange for the display of the flag of the United States on this day. I request officials of Federal, State, and local governments to support its observance and I urge schools, churches, unions, civic and patriotic organizations to participate in appropriate public ceremonies throughout the Nation."

-alns- WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Widows of veterans who remarried and were widowed a second time are reminded by the Veterans Administration that pension and compensation benefits may be restored under a 1970 law. Before enactment of PL 91-376, if a widow drawing pension or dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) remarried, VA payments were discontinued. But the 1970 law provides for restoration of benefits of widows whose subsequent marriages are dissolved by divorce or death.

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