Inside: ■ Message from the National Commander page 2 “ WORLD WAR II GENERA TION DESERVES THANKS NOW"

■ National Adjutant’s column page 3 “BOYS, GIRLS STATE GRADS SHAPE NORTH DAKOTA GOVERNMENT" ■ WWII Memorial press release available page4 ■ Legion sponsoring Eco-Challenge team page 5 A National Headquarters Publication ■ Taps page 5 May 25, 2001 Vol. 10, No. 18 ■ Take time for Memorial Day remembrance page 6 ■ Legion names Eagle Scout of the Year page 6 ■ Marion, Ind. paper wins Fourth Estate Award page 6 ■ NEF support sought page 6 Still a part of the NEC ■ Dateline: Capitol Hill page7 “MILITARY’S FUTURE ONE OF AMERICA’S BIGGEST QUESTIONS” Spirit of E. Roy Stone Jr. fills 2001 Spring Meetings. ■ Commander: Shinseki got this decision right page 7 By Steve Brooks Editor ■ Urge reps to become flag bill co-sponsors page s Though he passed away April 29, Past National Commander E. Roy Stone Jr. was still a big part Flag vote set for June of the 2001 Spring National Ex¬ The House of Representatives vote on the flag-protection ecutive Committee Meetings in amendment, HJ Res. 36, has been scheduled for the week Indianapolis. of June 25. Legionnaires converged on A list of those representatives who have either voiced National Headquarters May 7-10 their support for HJ Res. 36 but haven’t signed on as co¬ to pass 40 resolutions and listen sponsors or haven’t taken a position on the issue is on Page to the national commission re¬ 8. Legionnaires should contact those representatives and ports. But during the busy four- urge them to become co-sponsors to the bill. day schedule, the organization still found time to reflect on the contributions of Stone, known to Up & Coming: many as the "dean of the NEC." Many heartfelt tributes were MAY given to Stone, who chaired the 25-28 - Race to the Top activities in Indianapolis. Legion's Resolutions Subcom¬ 28 - Memorial Day (observed). mittee for 44 years and had served as a National Executive 30 - Memorial Day (traditional observation). National Commander Ray G. Smith reflects on his relationship with PNC E. Roy 31 - End of Child Welfare Foundation Award year. Committeeman since 1953. Stone Jr. during the Spring National Executive Committee meetings at National "It's been a tough time meet¬ Headquarters. To honor Stone, a former National Executive Committeeman, the NEC JUNE ing with the committee without passed Resolution 1, which re-named the office at National Headquarters where the 9 - National Miracle Miles for Kids Walkathon. our chairman here," said T. Les Subcommittee on Resolutions meets the “E. Roy Stone Jr. Room.” The resolution drew a standing ovation from the packed NEC room and was one of 40 passed by the 14- Flag Day. Galloway, vice chairman of the NEC during the May 7-10 meetings. JULY Resolutions Subcommittee. "But Roy trained most of us pretty committee on Resolutions meets proudly told NEC members that 4-Independence Day. well." the "E. Roy Stone Jr. Room." The the efforts of Legionnaires across 20- 28 - American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, D.C. "He's had an impression on all resolution drew a standing ova¬ America helped make good on 21- 28 - Auxiliary Girls Nation in Washington, D.C. of us," National Commander Ray tion from the packed NEC room. his promise at the 2000 National 25- 28 - Department Service Officers School in Indianapolis. G. Smith said. "I do feel his pres¬ Resolution 1 capped a busy Convention. 26- 29 - National Membership Workshop in Indianapolis. ence this morning. I highly be¬ and productive week that saw "When I became your national lieve that Roy is looking down on the NEC tackle issues such as the commander in Milwaukee in us and knows exactly what's flag-protection amendment, the September, I made you a prom¬ Get-well notes going on here in these Executive National World War II Memorial ise," Smith said. "I promised you Past National Vice Commander Leo P. Burke, a member Committee meetings." and surging membership num¬ that I would do everything in my of the Legislative Commission, recently had heart bypass In a fitting tribute, the NEC bers. power to stop the membership surgery and is recovering at home. passed Resolution 1, which re¬ slide. Last year at this time, we Cards and notes of encouragement can be sent to him at named the office at National Stopping the slide. National 1727 N. San Joaquin St., Stockton, CA 95204-6015. Headquarters where the Sub- Commander Ray G. Smith SEE NEC, PAGE 4 Past National Vice Commander Roger L. Wild, a member of the Americanism Commission, recently underwent aortic heart valve replacement. A rapid recovery is expected. Cards and notes of encouragement can be sent to him at 1510 N. 71st St., Lincoln, NE 68505-1507. PNC Burke passes away at 87 By Steve Brooks Editor public interest. His work led The American Legion to him crossing paths with for¬ National Headquarters NON-PROFIT William R. Burke served as mer Presidents Ronald Rea¬ P.O. Box 1055 ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID Indianapolis, IN 46206 PERMIT NO. 354 national commander of The gan, Richard Nixon and John FRANKLIN, IN 46131 American Legion from 1960 to F. Kennedy, Pope John XXIII 1961. But the California resi¬ and others. dent spent a lifetime serving "He was a man whose life his fellow man. destiny was to go around Burke passed away May 6 helping people," Past National at the age of 87. He spent Commander Hon. Daniel F. much of his life working close¬ Foley said. "Before he was ly with civic, religious, educa¬ identified with the Legion, he tional, industrial, labor and was going about doing good. PNC William R. Burke addresses a joint ses¬ veterans groups on programs sion of the California State Legislature in 1961, the only lobbyist ever invited to do so. in areas of importance to the SEE BURKE, PAGE 3 Mr. Burke passed away May 6. 2 Dispatch May 25, 2001 A message from the national Commander: WWII generation deserves thanks As debate continues, thousands of vets won't see memorial built On the steps of the U.S. Capitol Contact opposition to World War II Memorial site opponents. These very small groups last month, I received a $1,000 are composed of lawyers, historians, donation for the World War II A few small but extremely vocal groups organizations and other artists, historians planners, architects, veterans and other Memorial from 100 of 350 visiting are opposed to building the World War II and citizens dedicated to the protection citizens - the same cross-section that is and preservation of the National Mall in eighth-graders from Gates-Chili Memorial along the Rainbow Pool on the represented by the hundreds of thou¬ National Mall. Spearheading the opposition Washington. Middle School is the National Coalition to Save Our Mall. Co-Chairs: sands among the memorial's support¬ in Gates, N.Y. Below is a list of the leaders within the or¬ Judy Scott Feldman ers. Standing next ganization. Phone: (301)340-3938 The NCPC's 7-5 vote in favor of the to their con¬ The American Legion strongly believes Fax: (301) 340-3947 project Sept. 21 should stand. It will, gressman, Rep. the memorial belongs in its proposed loca¬ E-mail: [email protected] with your involvement. Tom Reynolds, tion and urges its members to call those Charles I. Cassell, AIA President Clinton authorized the opposed to it and rationally implore them Phone: (202) 362-0858 R-N.Y., a Le¬ memorial on May 25,1993, when he to change their minds. E-mail: [email protected] gionnaire in his The National Coalition to Save Our Mall Address: P.0. Box 19222, Washington, signed P.L. 103-32, spearheaded by own right, I A coalition of professional and civic D.C. 20036-9222 Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Ohio. As more received a than 1,000 World War II veterans die check from stu¬ World War II Memorial. The American Opponents believe their fight daily, there is no reason to tolerate fur¬ dent Arikka Legion, The American Legion Auxil¬ against the World War II Memorial ther delays on an approved project for Brinson. A Brit¬ iary and Sons of The American Legion might save the Mall's "open spaces and which the people have donated $170 ish tourist have donated more than $4 million. sweeping vistas." But they fight a pho¬ million. passed by. He Twenty-two public hearings on the ny war, for the memorial beautifully And already it will have taken said he was sur¬ World War II Memorial have been con¬ preserves the openness of the Mall and longer to build the memorial than to prised that the students would care ducted in the last five years, during its grand vistas. Opponents know it. fight the war! about the World War II Memorial, con¬ which a variety of perspectives on the The World War II Memorial is a mag¬ Two things I respectfully request. sidering "they are so far removed from memorial were weighed by the appro¬ nificent and long-overdue gesture of First, urge your members of the Sen¬ war." priate decision-making bodies. The thanksgiving, a righteous yet histori¬ ate to act immediately on HR 1696, I marvel at how these young people NCPC's September decision to build cally tardy cause. which passed in the House May 15 by could be so civic-minded, yet a small this memorial was just and reflected Surely, opponents of the memorial a resounding 400-15 margin and as of group of adults be so hell-bent on stop¬ the will of the American people. have a right to express their opinion. this writing has gone on to the Senate. ping the memorial from being built at As Tom Hanks says, "It's time to say But the coalition's aesthetic passion The bill mandates immediate construc¬ its approved, dedicated and ground- 'thank you.'" The honorees were, are conveys an astounding disregard for tion of the memorial. broken Rainbow Pool site at the Na¬ and will be remembered always as those whose sacrifice already saved the If your members of the Senate are tional Mall. Lest we sit on the sidelines America's "greatest generation." They Mall - and saved from tyranny every not home on recess, then call them and let the elitists have their way, I re¬ are the 16 million men and women square inch where democracy has through the Capitol Switchboard at quest that you take a stand in support who fought battles or who served in flourished. (202) 224-3121. of the World War II Memorial. combat-support roles. They are the lib¬ I wonder what the coalition would Second, join The American Legion at The National Coalition to Save Our erators of Nazi death camps wherein say if someone were to burn the U.S. the NCPC's hearing June 13-14. Each Mall has filed suit in federal court to the living envied the executed. They Flag at the Rainbow Pool, rather than session will start at 9 a.m. at the com¬ stop the memorial from being built. At are the 78,000 POW/MIAs and 400,000 attempt to build a memorial there. mission's new office, 401 9th St., NW the same time, the National Capital honored dead. They are the Gold Star The coalition has some highly edu¬ (North Lobby, Suite 500) in Washing¬ Planning Commission has decided that mothers and wives. They are the or¬ cated people, educated beyond the ton, D.C. Let's pack the house. Bring yet another public hearing is necessary phans and other surviving loved ones. bounds of common sense. It has blos¬ the U.S. Flag and as many supporters to "reconsider" its previous approvals They are the survivors of the Bataan somed from the Committee of 100 on as you can. The commission will take of the memorial. With your support, Death March, who are still fighting the the Federal City, a citizens group that public testimony on the 13th and will Congress might pass legislation to keep U.S. government for the right to sue for deals with planning issues, into a num¬ make its decision on the 14th, Flag these peripheral issues from delaying reparations and a formal apology from ber of small, elitist groups. There is a Day. To testify - which I encourage construction of the memorial any lon¬ Japan. They are Rosie the Riveter and handful of token veterans in its ranks: you to do - you must register by noon ger. Further, your presence at the every family who rationed supplies to World War II Veterans to Save the June 12 by calling Pat Tribe or Deborah NCPC hearing in Washington, D.C., support the war effort. Mall, the public face of which is one Young on the NCPC staff at (202) 482- June 13-14 would send a strong mes¬ Frankly, were it not for the sacrifice outspoken World War II infantryman 7200. sage about public support for the of the World War II generation, the who just doesn't get it. The D.C. Pre¬ It's time to honor the historic sacri¬ World War II Memorial. democratic process - by which the me¬ servation League, a citizens group ded¬ fice that underlies every institution of The 2.8-million member American morial's site and design were deter¬ icated to the conservation of historic our republic. It's time to build the Legion and other major veterans orga¬ mined - would have become a casualty structures and locales, shows how bush World War II Memorial. It's time to say nizations support construction of the of war. league it can be by backing memorial "Thank you."

• the AMERICAN LEGION EDITOR Steve B. Brooks Still Serving America CONTRIBUTORS James V. Carroll Does your Post have an tion, please be sure to include Matt Grills ongoing program or activity your full name, address and Elissa Kaupisch Jeff Staffer that serves your community? telephone number. There's a Do you have any Post members good chance the information Vol. 10, No. 18 May 25, 2001 SUBSCRIPTIONS Robin Bowman who go above and beyond the you send us will make it into call of duty to help others? Published semi-monthly, except September and P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. For subscriptions or The Dispatch. December. Printed by the Daily Journal, Franklin, Ind. All customer service, call: (317) 630-1349. Annual subscription Drop us a line and tell us Send your news items to: American Legion publications are entitled and encouraged rate: $15. what your Post and its members Still Serving America, The to reproduce all staff-written stories within, but please Editorial office: (317) 630-1352 are doing to demonstrate they American Legion Dispatch, P.O. credit Dispatch as the source. Send correspondence and FAX: (317) 630-1280 letters to the editor in care of: The American Legion Dispatch, Online at: http://www.legion.org are Still Serving America. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN In submitting your informa¬ 46206. A proud member of The National American legion Press Association Dispatch 3 From the desk of the national Adjutant: A program that molds our natioifs leaders Boys, Girls State graduates shape North Dakota government in variety of positions. The list of past participants reads like who's who character that lasts a lifetime." in American culture. Michael Jordan. Dick Hoeven is the third North Dakota Boys State alum Cheney. Neil Armstrong. Tom Brokaw. Rush to become his state's governor. A1 Olson, who held Limbaugh. office from 1981 to 1984, attended Boys State in 1956. Whether it's in politics, athletics or the media, Ed Schafer attended in 1963 and went on to serve as these men have made an impact in our country. North Dakota's governor from 1992 to 2000. They've served as leaders in our society in one aspect But Welfald's search didn't end there. He found or another. that of North Dakota's 207 elected state officials, legis¬ The link between the men: They all participated in lators, justices and judges, 24 percent attended Boys The American Legion Boys State or Girls State as high school students. Looking State program. closer, that's 31 of 147 legislators, three of five Robert W. Together with Auxiliary's Supreme Court justices, 12 of 42 district judges and Girls State program, Boys four of 13 elected officials in the state's executive Spanogle State gives high school juniors branch. what civics classes often can't: Wefald, himself a Boys State participant in 1959, participation and personal experience in a model was attorney general from 1981 to 1984 and currently state, one where students are city police officers, may¬ serves as a district judge. ors, judges, legislators and governors. In short, the Considering that these programs are select in programs offer young people an opportunity to par¬ choosing participants, I'd say The American Legion ticipate in state government rather than merely

and Auxiliary are doing their part in supplying states Nokobota _ Tom Stromme observe it. with future leaders well-versed in the ideals of It's always nice to see the positive effect of our pro¬ American government. And my guess is every state grams at the national level. But we don't always need has a story to tell similar to North Dakota's. John Hoeven, above, who served as North Dakota’s Boys State to look that far. Chances are we can see the positive Yet we can do more. I encourage Legionnaires in Governor in 1974, was sworn in as the state’s governor last effects on the local level. every department who are involved with Boys State fall. Several North Dakota Boys and Girls Staters have gone on to hold important positions in the state’s government. Bismark, N.D., Boys State Chairman Bob Wefald and Girls State to spread the word and help publicize found this out when he decided to research the effect the graduates who are in public service. We want stu¬ of Boys and Girls State on his state's government. The dents headed for public service to hear of how our election of a former Boys State governor to the office programs have inspired others so they'll make it their of state governor launched Wefald's research. goal to be a part of them. What Wefald, who also serves as post comman¬ Boys State and Girls State are more than just a line der at Lloyd Spetz Post No. 1 in Bismarck, found out on the resumes of some of our nation's most well- was that Boys and Girls State has been a smashing known and respected leaders. They're a way to con¬ success in providing future leaders in North Dakota. vince our high-school students that this nation's form It started with John Hoeven, elected North Dakota of government is a precious commodity we must governor last fall. Before being sworn in to his current appreciate and protect. office, he wet his feet as North Dakota Boys State gov¬ Simply put, today's youth are tomorrow's senators, ernor in 1974. Of the experience, he said, "It stirred governors and presidents. This is our chance to make my interest in government... Boys State helps build a difference in the 21st century.

force that captured a German subma¬ Works of art were loaned to the ex¬ the American Veterans Com-mittee in rine. hibits from all over the country, while 1946. But when the new World War II He was a very, very good man, and we A depth charge left Burke hospital¬ underprivileged children and gang veterans organization was infiltrated were lucky to have him." ized with a concussion, so he spent the leaders from metropolitan Los Angeles by communists, the three friends, each Burke held a variety of department remainder of his time in the Navy were bussed in to view the exhibits. then a Democrat, decided their efforts and national offices within the Legion, teaching naval law at Princeton and The result was children who had to serve World War II veterans, their including department commander Notre Dame. arrived at the exhibit self-conscious families and their country would best from 1953 to 1954, national executive Burke pushed for interfaith harmo¬ and with little self-esteem and walked be served by the already well-estab¬ committeeman from 1954 to 1956 and ny in the United States, heading out on out with their heads held high with lished programs of The American National Public Relations Commission the road in 1941 with George Hill, a cultural pride. Legion. Burke joined Post 8, the second chairman from 1956 to 1958. He was a young Baptist minister, and Gilbert In 1945, Burke founded William R. oldest post in the state and one of 141 member of the National Advisory Harrison, a Jewish future editor of the Burke Public Relations, Inc., a legisla¬ posts in Los Angeles County. Committee to the National New Republic. tive advocacy firm specializing in hu¬ As national commander, Burke often Commander from 1954 to 1956 and They toured high schools and more manitarian issues. ran across 1960 presidential candidates 1970 to 1971. than 40 universities and legislatures The firm was successful in obtaining Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy "He was a strong commander in a across the country, introducing them¬ tax exemptions for all religious school during his travels. He also met with quiet way, and he had the respect of selves as a Catholic, a Protestant and a properties throughout California after Pope John XXIII, as well as heads of everyone on the NEC," Foley said. "He Jew. other groups had failed to do so for 69 state from 11 countries. was very articulate and thoughtful in He also teamed with Adeline Guen¬ years. When he returned from his overseas his speech, he always maintained great ther, executive director of the Univer¬ His efforts also helped repeal the trip, all but three members of Congress dignity, and he was a very strong sity Religious Conference, to organize Oriental Exclusion Act, which made it attended a dinner where he reported American." the first exhibit in the United States of possible for legally resident aliens to his observations. Burke's life outside the Legion was Mexican art and culture and later the become United States citizens, while In January 1961, Burke addressed just as busy as his time inside the orga¬ first exhibit of black art and culture. his work on behalf of Displaced Per¬ the California State Legislature, the nization. He received a bachelor's de¬ Their efforts had the support of the sons of Europe after World War II re¬ first and last time a lobbyist has been gree in history in 1939 from UCLA, Association of Motion Picture Produc¬ sulted in thousands of families and invited to speak from the House ros¬ working his way through school as a ers, religious leaders of Protestant, individuals being relocated in Ameri¬ trum to a joint session. baritone soloist with bands and orches¬ Catholic and Jewish faiths and such can communities where dwindling Burke is survived by his wife, Jeane, tras until the outbreak of World War II. Hollywood stars such as Bob Hope, populations had left severe labor short¬ sons Brandon and Thomas and daugh¬ He was an officer in the U.S. Navy, Walt Disney, Loretta Young, Lena ages. ters Sharon and Susan. For more on serving on board the USS Pillsbury, a Horne, Melvyn Douglas, Vincent Price Along with former President Reagan Burke's Legion service, see "Taps" on destroyer that was part of the task and Jimmy Stewart. and Gilbert Harrison, Burke formed Page 5. 4 Dispatch May 25, 2001

more delays would hurt only those the FROM PAGE 1 memorial is supposed to honor. were 30,000 behind our goal. Today we "We've been down this road of pub¬ World War II Memorial press release are 16,270 ahead. I want to thank you." lic hearings," Harrington said. "Unfor¬ Membership & Post Activities Com¬ tunately, the real victims of these de¬ available for download from Website mittee Chairman Dan Dellinger said lays are the members of America's Below is a press release available additional comments within the membership was at 2,613,818 and ris¬ World War II generation, who now for every American Legion post to release and then issue it to local ing. must wait even longer for their memor¬ use as a tool to get the World War II media outlets. Both Smith and Dellinger credited ial to be built. Memorial built while the veterans it The release is available to down¬ an advanced direct market solicitation "Of the 16 million men and women honors are still alive. load on the Legion's Website at program, post development programs who served in uniform during World Post commanders can provide www.legion.org/wwpostr.htm. and Reconnect as keys to boosting the War II, the VA estimates there are only numbers. 5 million still alive. By the year 2004, "Many departments have taken on the intended completion date, the total (Post Letterhead) the challenge of 'reconnecting' with to¬ will be 3.8 million. If we need to go day's total military force with a zeal back to square one, which will set us that has paid off bigger than ever imag¬ back five years to the year 2006 or 2007, ined," Smith said. "Since Legionnaires the total will be down to 1.8 million FOR IMMFDIATF RFI FASF 'reconnected' with our troops at Fort World War II veterans." Benning last November, the Depart¬ ment of Georgia has recruited more A special guest. Timothy Goeglein, than 800 new, young veterans into our deputy director of the Office of Public organization." Liaison for the White House, spoke to Legion Post Commander Calls Smith called on Legionnaires to con¬ the NEC May 9. He praised the Legion tinue their efforts, focusing in part on for the work it's done and said Bush's on WWII Memorial Malcontents the development of new posts. administration hopes to emulate that "We have 15,000 posts, but there are work. to Stand Down 21,000 high schools," he said. "A post "The work you do needs to be better for each means we, as an organization, known and better understood by the need to add another 6,000 posts so country," Goeglein said. "When we CITY (Date XX, 2001) - Calling their efforts “selfish and misleading,” these young people can participate and turn to the Legion, it's a model for American Legion Post XX Commander Xxxx Xxxx today pledged to reap the benefit of Boys State, Oratori¬ what we want to do. I'm overwhelmed, fight the efforts of a small group of “sour-grape dissenters” who oppose cal Competitions, Junior Shooting genuinely overwhelmed, by all of the the construction of a National World War II Memorial on the Mall in Sports, Scouting and American Legion good that you do." Washington, D.C. Baseball. The group of people opposing the memorial’s construction wrongly "When we increase the number of In other business: contend that placing the monument on the Mall was a privately made posts, we increase our membership and ■ National Security Commission decision that will create an eye sore that detracts from the natural beauty we increase our impact on the commu¬ Chairman Allen Titus called for the of the Mall. nities we serve." Legion to support standardizing mili¬ “It is a travesty that after 22 open-to-the-public meetings since 1995, tary absentee voting procedures to Still fighting for the flag. John A. avoid cases similar to last fall's Florida these people are trying to hold up a long-overdue monument to the men Brieden III, chairman of the Legislative recount, when election officials threw and women who saved the world from tyrannical aggression,” Xxxx said. Commission, urged Legionnaires to out hundreds of military absentee bal¬ “The memorial will actually beautify the Mall, by restoring the Pool’s ask their congressional representatives lots. "We believe the federal govern¬ waterworks to their original condition. They haven’t worked for decades, to co-sponsor the flag-protections ment has the authority to ensure that but once the memorial is completed, the water will once again flow.” amendments currently in both the our overseas military is not disfran¬ (Post Commander’s personal comments should go here) House of Representatives (HJ Res. 36) chised by the circumstances of their “The sad part is it has taken longer to win permission to build the and the Senate (SJ Res. 7). service," Titus said. memorial than it did to win the war,” Xxxx added. Citing statistics that "For some reason, many of our sup¬ ■ Convention Commission Chair¬ show an average 1,000 World War II veterans die every day, Xxxx said, porters are slow to become co-spon¬ man Jeffrey Olson recommended and “Since 1995, the United States has lost more than two million of these sors," Brieden said. "I believe these the NEC approved Salt Lake City as heroes. How many more must die before this country recognizes their tri¬ members are waiting to hear from their the site of the 2006 National Conven¬ umphant effort during that critical period in our nation’s history?” constituents back home before coming tion. The Convention dates are Aug. on board as a co-sponsor. If your con¬ 18-24. The 2000 Milwaukee National Ray G. Smith, national commander of the 2.8 million-member veter¬ gressional delegation has supporters Convention Corporation presented the ans organization, said that if not for the millions of military men and not yet on board as co-sponsors, please Legion with a check for $45,892.12, rep¬ women and their families who worked so valiantly for freedom, the make a concerted effort to get them on resenting the national organization's debate about the memorial would not even be possible. board. share of the proceeds from the 2000 “Frankly,” he said, “were it not for the sacrifice of the World War II "Co-sponsorship is one of the most convention. generation, the democratic process, by which the memorial’s site and effective ways of clearly identifying ■ Americanism Commission Chair¬ design were determined, would have become a casualty of war.” who our opponents and who are sup¬ man Joe Caouette announced Arizona In a recent editorial, The New York Daily News, among countless porters are." Diamondbacks pitcher Todd Stottle- other publications, agreed. “If people opposing the site consider the Mall Retired Army Maj. Gen. Patrick myre was named American Legion to be democracy’s sacred ground, they ought to remember what sanctified Brady, chairman of the board of the Baseball Graduate of the Year, while it: the blood of America’s heroes,” the paper’s editors wrote. Cold Spring, Minn., resident Michael Citizens Flag Alliance, displayed opti¬ The American Legion and its affiliated organizations - the American mism when listing a powerful ally to Beckel was named American Legion the CFA's cause. Eagle Scout of the Year. Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion - have donated "For the first time in the history of ■ Children & Youth Commission more than $4 million to help build the $140 million memorial at its the Citizen's Flag Alliance, we've got Chairman Elmer Fuhrhop announced approved Rainbow Pool site on the National Mall. the support of the president and the National Adjutant Robert Spanogle Thousands of Legionnaires are expected to converge in Washington vice president," the Medal of Honor re¬ will appear with American Legion on June 13 and 14 to attend a hearing of the National Capital Planning cipient said. "You just can't measure Auxiliary President Kristine West and Commission called to reconsider approval of the WWII Memorial site. the impact of (the president's) support Sons of The American Legion Com¬ “I hope that all Americans who want to honor the ‘greatest genera¬ as we go into this Congress. He can fo¬ mander Kevin Winkelmann in a Chil¬ tion’ will join us in this pilgrimage. If you can’t be there, I urge every cit¬ cus the country on just about anything dren's Miracle Network PSA during izen of (CITY) to write Richard L. Friedman, Chairman of the National he wants to." the CMN national telethon June 2-3. Capital Planning Commission, 401 9th Street, NW, North Lobby, Suite The ad will appear on hundreds of tele¬ 500, Washington, D.C. 20576. Tell him the commission must approve the Down that road before. Internal Af¬ vision stations nationwide. site without delay. Then call our congressional representatives and sena¬ fairs Commission Chairman Herman Harrington criticized those opposed to A summary of the key resolutions tors and urge them to get involved,” Xxxx said. building the National World War II passed by the NEC during the spring meet¬ Memorial on the National Mall, saying ings will appear in the June 8 Dispatch. Legion Post media contact: (Name and phone number) ly 25, 2001 Dispatch 5

Team American Legion trains for grueling Armed Forces Eco-Challenge By James V. Carroll Contributing Editor Concoct a 250-mile non-stop, six-day expedition race in the wilderness of America's last frontier - Alaska. Blend varying amounts of trekking, pack raft¬ ing, mountain biking, whitewater ca¬ noeing, rappelling, ice climbing and mountaineering. Fold in 25 four-person mixed-gender military teams and you have the ingredients for the grueling Armed Forces Eco-Challenge. To complete the ordeal, teams must survive the six-leg wilderness race by relying on physical prowess, mental discipline and teamwork while using only the barest of survival equipment. Teams will be required to negotiate raging rivers, snow-covered mountains and dense forest terrain, with only a map and compass to guide them. Legion. La Grande, Ore. Kent is Noncommis¬ Tragedy Assistance Program for Through a generous sponsorship sioned Officer Academy instructor at Survivors (TAPS) sponsors the ex¬ donation to TAPS, The American Le¬ Fort Huachuca, Ariz. hausting expedition racing event. The gion is fielding a competitive team of Team American Legion may be all-volunteer organization, founded in one woman and three men. Team cap¬ unique among competitors in the 1994, provides around-the-clock peer tain Army Reserve Capt. Mary E. Van Armed Forces Eco-Challenge. The four support, crisis intervention, caseworker Dyke resides in Muncie, Ind. Army Re¬ members of the team found each other assistance, grief counseling referral and serve Lt. Steven G. Kreis also lives in on an Internet bulletin board. other critical need services. Muncie. Army Capt. Michael Dunlavey "The fact that we are a team assem¬ The winning team of the June 21 is stationed in La Grande, Ore., and bled through the Internet creates chal¬

Armed Forces Eco-Challenge will qual¬ Army SST. Donald E. Kent is stationed lenges for us," said Van Dyke. "But our James V. Carroll ify to represent TAPS and the U.S. mili¬ at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. Van Dyke is an situation also provides opportunities tary as "Team TAPS" at Mark Burnett's assistant professor of sports adminis¬ for us to reach out and introduce even global "Eco-Challenge: New Zealand" tration at Ball State University. Kreis is more people to TAPS. Our geographic in October. Burnett is the producer of a personal fitness trainer at the Muncie diversity also permits us to spread the Team American Legion members Steven Kreis, the CBS series "Survivor." YMCA. Dunlavey is an armor compa¬ left, Mary Van Dyke, center, and Donald Kent, That team could be Team American ny trainer, 3-116th Armor Battalion in above, practice following a recent competition SEE TEAM, PAGE 8 in Indiana. Taps

William R. Burke William Doran Curtis Youth “C” Member from 1970 to 1988, Department Vice Palos Verdes Peninsula, Calif. Wabasha, Minn. Commander from 1973 to 1974, Department Americanism William R. Burke of Post 8 (Department of California) Father William Doran Curtis of Post 56 (Department of Chairman from 1963 to 1964, Department Child Welfare passed away May 7 at the age of 87. He was a World War II Minnesota) passed away April 10 at the age of 81. He was a Chairman from 1964 to 1983, Department Child Welfare Navy veteran with 54 continuous years of Legion member¬ Korean War Air Force veteran with 46 continuous years of Officer from 1968 to 1973, Department Bonded Children ship. Legion membership. and Youth Officer from 1974 to 1982, Department Aero¬ Mr. Burke served as National Commander from 1960 to Mr. Doran served as National Chaplain from 1969 to nautics Chairman from 1997 to 1999, Department Civil 1961. He also served as Department Commander from 1970, Department Chaplain from 1965 to 1966 and De¬ Defense Chairman from 1997 to 1998, Department Foreign 1953 to 1954, National Internal Affairs Commission Liaison partment Religious Emphasis Chairman from 1965 to 1966. Relations Chairman from 1997 to 1999, Department Law Committee Chairman from 1954 to 1956, National Con¬ and Order Chairman from 1997 to 1998, Department Light vention Commission Ex-Officio Member from 1956 to Vieland E. Kenitz Duty Rescue Chairman from 1997 to 1998, Department 1957, National Public Relations Commission Chairman Wabasha, Minn. Military Affairs Chairman from 1997 to 1998, Department from 1956 to 1958, National Public Relations Commission Vieland E. “Nick” Kenitz of Post 50 (Department of Merchant Marine Chairman from 1997 to 1998, Department Vice Chairman from 1958 to 1960, National Finance Com¬ Minnesota) passed away Nov. 9 at the age of 81. He was a Naval Affairs Chairman from 1997 to 1998 and Department mission Ex-Officio Member from 1960 to 1961, National World War II Army veteran with 57 continuous years of Security Chairman from 1997 to 1999. Overseas Graves Decoration Trust Chairman from 1960 to Legion membership. He also was a member of the National Membership & 1961, National Advisory Committee to the National Com¬ Mr. Kenitz served as the National Americanism Council Post Activity Committee from 1959 to 1960 and the Na¬ mander Chairman from 1961 to 1962, National Overseas Vice Chairman from 1979 to 1981 and Department Military tional Counter-Subversive Activities Committee from 1963 Graves Decoration Trust Vice Chairman from 1961 to 1962, Affairs Chairman from 1986 to 1990. to 1964. National POW/MIA Committee Chairman from 1970 to He was a member of the National Education & Scholar¬ He is survived by his wife, Augusta, and one daughter. 1974, Department Un-American Activities Chairman from ships Committee from 1958 to 1961 and the National Leg¬ Memorial contributions can be made to First Christian 1950 to 1951 and Department Americanism Chairman from islative Commission from 1963 to 1969. He is survived by Church in Henderson, Ky. 1952 to 1953. his wife, Olive, three sons and a daughter. He also was a member of the National Executive Com¬ Clyde M. Knox mittee from 1954 to 1956, the National Convention Com¬ Cameron L. King Brookfield, Wisconsin mission from 1949 to 1952, the National Advisory Com¬ Robards, Ky. Clyde M. Knox of Post Post 449 (Department of mittee to the National Commander from 1954 to 1956 and Cameron L. King of Post 40 (Department of Kentucky) Wisconsin) passed away May 13 at the age of 84. He was a 1970 to 1971, the National Overseas Graves Decoration passed away April 24 at the age of 82. He was a World War World War II Air Corps veteran with 55 continuous years of Trust from 1962 to 1963 and the National Convention Com¬ II Army veteran with 55 continuous years of Legion mem¬ Legion membership. mission Liaison Committee from 1961 to 1962. bership. Mr. Knox spent 15 years either as director of or on the He is survived by his wife, Jeane, two sons and two Mr. King served as Department Commander from 1983 board of directors of the Legion’s Badger Boys State pro¬ daughters. Memorial contributions can be made to The to 1984, National Security Council Vice Chairman from gram. American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, P.0. Box 1055, 1988 to 2001, National Child Welfare Commission “C” He is survived by his wife, Eileen, one daughter and one Indianapolis, IN 46206 or the Maryvale Children’s Home, Member from 1964 to 1969, National Child Welfare Com¬ son. Memorial contributions may be sent for the Badger P.0. Box 1039, Rosemeade, CA 91770. Condolences can be mission “C” Vice Chairman from 1968 to 1969 and 1980 to Boys State Scholarship Fund. Condolences can be sent to sent to his family at the following address: Mrs. Jeane 1981, National Child Welfare Commission “C” Chairman his family c/o Thomas Knox, 17950 Wisconsin Ave., Burke, P.0. Box 95, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274-6095. from 1969 to 1970, National Commission on Children & Brookfield, Wl 53045. 6 Dispatch May 25, 2001

NEF Commander’s Challenge Take time for moment of remembrance Department Goal Contributions Americans are asked to spend a moment of remembrance Category 1 (100,000 plus) on Memorial Day, May 28, to honor the country's fallen he¬ Memorial Day calling cards to be California $25,633 $8,099 roes. Participants in the "moment of remembrance" should Florida $21,742 $5,352 spend one minute at 3 p.m. local time honoring those who available at local 7-Eleven stores Illinois $26,459 $3,380 died in service to the United States. 7-Eleven and AT&T have teamed with The American Legion Indiana $23,834 $3,691 The time was chosen because it is the time when many and the National Moment of Remembrance to remind Americans Minnesota $21,770 $53,243 Americans are enjoying their freedoms on the national holi¬ about the true meaning of Memorial Day. New York $35,451 $36,351 Ohio $27,946 $170 day. The campaign, “Calling America’s Heroes,” urges Americans to Pennsylvania $45,009 $6,235 The moment does not replace the traditional Memorial reach out and thank friends, family members of fallen heroes and Day observances; it is intended instead to be a unifying act of veterans for their sacrifice, as well as to remember those who are Category 2 (70,000 plus) remembrance for Americans of all ages. now gone. Iowa $13,292 $821 All Americans are invited to participate. Participation is As part of the campaign, 7-Eleven and AT&T will distribute Maryland $14,291 $2,705 voluntary and informal and may be observed in individual 500,000 free pre-paid 15-minute long-distance phone cards at Michigan $16,775 $7,976 ways, including pausing for a moment of silence or listening nearly 5,200 7-Eleven stores, worth a retail value of more than New Jersey $14,359 $15,457 Texas $15,924 $905 to "Taps." More formal observances also may be organized $2.5 million. From 7-11 a.m. May 28, participating 7-Eleven Wisconsin $13,585 $1,868 at such places as neighborhoods, local pools and picnic stores will distribute the phone cards to the first 100 veterans, grounds. active-duty military personnel and/or immediate family members Category 3 (40,000 plus) A bell may be rung to signify the beginning and the end of of someone in the service. Georgia $8,054 $9,336 the moment, or participants may tune into a local radio sta¬ Stores also will distribute free educational Memorial Day litera¬ Kansas $9,135 $2,113 tion that is observing the moment with the playing of ture and take part in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 Massachusetts $11,967 $785 "Taps." Those driving a vehicle may turn on their head¬ p.m. on Memorial Day. Missouri $11,394 $1,054 Nebraska $10,527 $4,000 “The Moment” is a personal, voluntary one-minute pause to re¬ lights. North Carolina $8,496 $870 The "moment of remembrance" is designed to remind all member our fallen heroes. Virginia $9,256 $1,380 Americans of the importance of remembering those who sac¬ Stop by local 7-Elevens to pick up the card and call one of rificed for their freedom and what it means to be an Ameri¬ America’s heroes. Category 4 (25,000 plus) can, to provide Americans around the world an opportunity Arizona $6,985 $2,604 to join this expression of gratitude in an act of unity and to Connecticut $5,641 $1,228 make Memorial Day relevant, especially to younger Ameri¬ that it was the day the pools opened. Kentucky $5,832 $1,200 On Dec. 28, 2000, the White House Commission on the Louisiana $6,771 $1,007 cans. Maine $4,800 $10 The idea for the specific moment of remembrance came National Moment of Remembrance was established. Oklahoma $5,434 $525 about when a group of children touring Washington, D.C., in "The Moment" has the personal support of President Oregon $4,956 $228 1996 were asked what Memorial Day meant. They responded George W. Bush. South Carolina $4,423 $3,595 South Dakota $4,996 $210 Tennessee $6,091 $1,000 Washington $6,844 $10,290 Minnesota teen named Eagle Scout of the Year WestVirgina $4,977 $3,824 Category 5 (10,000 plus) A Cold Spring, Minn., student has Beckel, an Eagle Scout since 1999, is Alabama $4,470 $57 been named The American Legion an honors student. He plans to study Arkansas $4,037 $90 Eagle Scout of the Year for 2001. geology at a liberal arts college. Colorado $4,423 $7,832 Michael Beckel, 18, a senior at St. "I want to experience the world in a Idaho $1,997 $340 John's Preparatory School and a mem¬ hands-on manner, inside and outside Mississippi $3,391 $5,046 of my college classrooms," Beckel said. Montana $2,174 $25 ber of Boy Scout Troop 15 in Cold New Hampshire $4,461 $100 Spring, earned the award and a college "I love coming to class ready to ask New Mexico $2,516 $85 scholarship worth $10,000. The award questions and getting involved in live¬ North Dakota $4,355 $1,973 was announced during The American ly discussions with my classmates and Rhode Island $1,853 $0 Legion's Spring NEC meetings at professors." Vermont $3,115 $1,030 National Headquarters May 7-10. The American Legion awarded a Category 6 (under 10,000) The award recognizes Beckel's prac¬ $2,500 scholarship to Edward J. Walneck, of Safford, Ariz.; Mark A. Alaska $1,589 $0 tical citizenship at school, scouting and Delaware $1,783 $1,000 his church, St. Boniface Catholic Mallak of Indialantic, Fla.; and Dist. of Columbia $608 $0 Church. For his Eagle Scout project, Christopher D. Pickier of Germantown, Hawaii $602 $500 Beckel planned and supervised the Term. Nevada $1,275 $420 construction of a walking path in a city The American Legion has supported Puerto Rico $1,594 $2,035 park in the "Frogtown" section of Cold Scouting since its first National Utah $1,667 $170 Spring. With the help of 38 volunteers, Convention in 1919. Legion posts Wyoming $1,442 $0 ranging in age from 3 to 70 years old, sponsor more than 2,500 Scouting Totals $500,000 $212,218 Beckel constructed the five-foot-wide, units, serving more than 75,000 young Michael Beckel, a Cold Spring, Minn., student, 300-foot-long walking path over an people, at a cost of more than $1.7 mil¬ has been named The American Legion Eagle NEF support sought intensive two-day period. lion. Scout of the Year for 2001. At the Commanders and Adjutants Conference during the NEC Fall Mee¬ tings, National Commander Ray G. Smith issued a National Emergency Hoosier newspaper wins Legion’s Fourth Estate Award Fund challenge to each department An exhaustive, highly-detailed months to the multiple problems facing Judges were James Brown, associate commander. Departments are encour¬ series titled "Moment of Truth" by the the people who live and work in Mar¬ dean for the Indiana University-Pur- aged to contact districts and posts to Chronicle-Tribune of Marion, Ind., has ion. due University at Indianapolis School arrange fund-raising projects. Com¬ been selected for the 2001 Fourth Estate The series cut to the core of such of Journalism; Leslie Stedham, Indian¬ manders of departments reaching or Award. The American Legion annually community issues as illiteracy, loss of apolis bureau chief, Louisville Courier- exceeding their fund-raising goal will sponsors the award competition that jobs and unwed mothers. Journal, and Jack Martin, reporter, win a dinner with the National Co¬ recognizes excellence in journalism. In making the winning selection, the WTHR-TV. mmander at the National Convention The award will be presented Aug. 28 judges wrote: "Superb reporting with The competition is considered one of in August. Donations can be sent to during the 83rd annual National Con¬ great photojournalism and design the most difficult to judge and to win National Emergency Fund, P.O. Box vention in San Antonio. made a positive impact for needed because it pits all media head-to-head, 6141, Indianapolis, IN 46206. After weeks of reviewing nearly 70 changes in the community. The paper vying for a single award. The Commander's Challenge ends entries, the Fourth Estate judges gave recognized that more than basic news Among previous winners of the Aug. 1. Above is a current breakdown the nod to the Chronicle-Tribune series. coverage was needed to seriously ad¬ award are "Dateline NBC"; KSNW-TV, of each department's goal and where it The paper was credited for devoting dress deep-seated community prob¬ Wichita, Kan.; Fortune magazine; and stands in its fund-raising drive as of considerable space over a period of lems." Philip Dine, St. Louis Post-Dispatch. May 21. Dispatch 7

Dateline: Capitol Hill Future of military one of America’s biggest questions With a new presidential administration, one marginally funded at the expense of future military of the major questions facing the country is programs. It is speculated that some forthcoming if America's armed forces will continue on weapons programs may face oblivion. These include their current course, or are the Navy's DD 21 destroyer, the Joint Strike Fighter major changes needed to face and the Army's Crusader self-propelled cannon. the many strategic challenges ■Reduce spending on administrative and mainte¬ of the 21st century. The result nance functions in the military. The Joint Chiefs of of this debate will not only de¬ Staff have disclosed that the military services face an termine this country's strategic $84 billion shortfall over the next five fiscal years, goals for the coming decades; from 2001 to 2005. Defense specialists and congres¬ it could impact on the federal sional leaders have projected a DoD budget increase budget and the U.S. economy. in the range of $60 billion. However, Bush is expected It will directly impact the to offer a more modest increase - about $20 million - course of the fiscal 2002 bud¬ once the major defense review is completed. If the ad¬ get and budgets for the next ministration is going to make major increases in de¬ decade. fense spending, areas in the DoD budget will likely be John A. When President Bush spoke scaled back. Among the possibilities are to reduce the Brieden III to Congress in February, he size of the military, privatize maintenance, close sur¬ said he would ask Secretary of plus bases and scale back plans to upgrade older Defense Donald Rumsfeld to weapons. conduct a major review of defense policy before send¬ Until Rumsfeld completes his major review of ing a fiscal 2002 budget request for the Department of Pentagon programs, no one can say what the exact di¬ Defense to Congress. As a result, House and Senate rection of America's defense policy will be. The work on the fiscal 2002 DoD authorization and appro¬ American Legion National Security Resolution 112 priations measures are currently on hold pending the sets forth our organization's position on ensuring a results of this major review. strong national defense, specifically: Having served as defense secretary during the Gulf and on the Korean peninsula. The rationale is to ■Support passage of DoD budgets that call for en¬ Ford administration, Rumsfeld brings needed experi¬ deter a hostile nation from taking advantage of U.S. hanced military quality-of-life features and closing ence to the position. He also brings a vision of the involvement in one place to attack in another. Critics the pay gap with the private sector, an improved mili¬ possible direction U.S. military policy will need to of the two-war strategy say it is unrealistic, consider¬ tary health-care system, improved benefits under the take in the new century. Consequently, he has formed ing that U.S. armed forces have shrunk by one-third - Montgomery GI Bill and reducing the operations tem¬ more than 20 informal panels of experts to examine from 2.05 million personnel in 1990 to a mere 1.37 po. every major aspect of this nation's defense policy. To million today. In addition, the breakup of the Soviet ■ Increase DoD spending as a percentage of this date, these various panels have released almost no Union in 1991, connected to renewed saber-rattling by country's Gross Domestic Product from the current concrete information about their recommendations. In the People's Republic of China, has forced many de¬ 2.9 percent to 3.5 percent annually. At least an addi¬ one of his first major recommendations, Rumsfeld fense experts to re-examine U.S. regional commit¬ tional $84 billion should be authorized and appropri¬ said the Air Force should be given the responsibility ments. Many congressional critics oppose peacekeep¬ ated over the next five years to address those readi¬ of defending U.S. space satellites. ing missions, saying that deploying troops overseas ness concerns voiced by the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Among changes Rumsfeld is thought to be consid¬ on such operations have disrupted training schedules ■ The Quadrennial Defense Review, the national ering: and worn-out equipment in places where American military strategy, should be amended to provide the ■ Eliminating up to two-thirds of the nation's near¬ national security is not endangered. National Guard forces and the defense budgets necessary to fight two ly 7,300 nuclear warheads without first reaching a re¬ personnel are not only having their normal training nearly simultaneous major regional conflicts. Most ciprocal arms deal with Russia. Bush has strongly disrupted, but often are unable to attend to their state importantly, the mismatch between resources and hinted he will unilaterally reduce the number of nu¬ duties. Also, many Guardsmen and reservists have ever-increasing military peacekeeping missions needs clear weapons. However, some experts say that too had their personal lives disrupted by these overseas to be eliminated. large a reduction might undermine the deterrent ef¬ deployments. ■Force modernization for the armed services fect of the-U.S. arsenal and even tempt a hostile na¬ ■ Spending less money on tanks, ships and planes needs to be realistically funded and not further de¬ tion to attack. Further, if the United States were to designed for Cold War and European combat and layed, or the United States is likely to unnecessarily study the feasibility of developing a new, smaller nu¬ spending more on lighter, more mobile weapons, as risk American lives. clear weapon, as mandated by a provision in the fiscal well as sensors, robot planes and long-range, preci¬ Since its founding in 1919, The American Legion 2001 DoD authorization, this could abrogate the cur¬ sion-guided weapons. Bush and Rumsfeld have creat¬ has stood by the motto of "peace through strength" to rent moratorium on nuclear weapons tests in effect ed an expectation that radical changes in fighting ensure that American territory, citizens and interests since 1993. Finally, some arms-control advocates bit¬ war§ are forthcoming. The president has endorsed the are protected worldwide. American service members terly oppose Bush's notion of making unilateral arms idea that high-powered computers, sophisticated sen¬ should not be sent into harm's way without the neces¬ cuts without verification procedures contained in ne¬ sors and precision-guided weapons are altering the sary weaponry and training to insure their survival in gotiated treaties, such as the Comprehensive Test Ban way wars will be fought and are rendering large war¬ hostile situations. The United States is faced in this Treaty, which the Senate rejected in 1999. ships, tanks and short-range fighter planes obsolete. new millennium with a myriad of threats and chal¬ ■Shifting the primary focus of defense planning In a Feb. 13 speech, Bush said, "Powers are increas¬ lenges that appear more perplexing, complex and dif¬ from Europe to the Pacific, where a fundamental shift ingly defined not by size, but by mobility and swift¬ ficult. Only a strong, vigilant military will answer in tactical philosophy will be necessary. Since 1990, ness ... Advantage increasingly comes from informa¬ these challenges. U.S. defense policy has been to maintain military tion." DoD budgets have been relatively tight for forces large enough to win two major wars being more than a decade. Equipment modernization and John A. Brieden III is chairman of The American Legion waged simultaneously - for instance, in the Persian improvements to the current armed forces have been Legislative Commission. Commander Smith: Shinseki made right decision this time National Commander Ray G. Smith applauded the Shinseki allowed 600,000 black berets to be made 'Buy American' law. And I wouldn't have ordered Army's decision to dispose of "berets made in China by a China-based firm so soldiers currently without soldiers to wear anything made in China in the first or berets made with Chinese content." berets would have new headgear by June 14, the place. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't have removed Army Chief of Staff Gen. Eric Shinseki reversed Army's 225 anniversary. the black beret from the Army Rangers and made it one of his two recent decisions opposed by The Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz on standard issue. American Legion: Army-wide issuance of the Ran¬ May 1 ordered the recall and disposal of all China- "But it would have been the last straw to outfit gers' black beret, and the bypassing of a "buy made berets in stock, about half the order. U.S. soldiers with gear made in the country that held American" law to have some of those berets made in "The general made the right call this time," Smith U.S. service members captive last month. I'll give the China. said. "Of course, I wouldn't have tried to sidestep the general a little credit on this decision." 8 Dispatch May 25, 2001 Flag vote moved up to week of June 25 The vote on the House of Charles Norwood (R-10) Representatives flag-protec¬ California Mississippi Oklahoma tion amendment, HJ Res. 36, Wally Herger (R-2) Illinois Bennie Thompson (D-2) Brad Carson (D-2) has been scheduled for the Doug Ose (R-3) Luis Gutierrez (D-4) Wes Watkins (R-3) John Doolittle (R-4) Rod Blagojevich (D-5) J.C. Watts (R-4) week of June 25. It's impera¬ Missouri Richard Pombo (R-ll) Henry Hyde (R-6) Richard Gephardt (D-3) Ernest Istook (R-5) tive the amendment receive as Tom Lantos (D-12) Mark Kirk (R-10) Karen McCarthy (D-5) many co-sponsors as possible Gary Condit (D-18) Jerry Weller (R-ll) Pennsylvania before the vote. Below is a list William Thomas (R-21) Judy Biggert (R-13) Montana Tim. Holden (D-6) of those representatives who Lois Capps (D-22) J. Dennis Hastert (R-14) Dennis Rehberg (R-at large) Curt Weldon (R-7) haven't stated a position on Elton Gallegly (R-23) Timothy Johnson (R-15) Joseph Pitts (R-16) Brad Sherman (D-24) Ray LaHood (R-18) Frank Mascara (D-20) the issue or have given their Adam Schiff (D-27) David Phelps (D-19) Nevada support to the amendment but David Dreier (R-28) Shelley Berkley (D-l) haven't signed on as a co¬ James Gibbons (R-2) Rhode Island Grace Napolitano (D-34) Indiana James Langevin (D-2) sponsor. Those representatives Jane Harman (D-36) Mike Pence (R-2) Edward Royce (R-39) Tim Roemer (D-3) New Hampshire should be urged to become of¬ Charles Bass (R-2) South Carolina ficial co-sponsors of the Cunn- Jerry Lewis (R-40) John Hostettler (R-8) Ken Calvert (R-43) Henry Brown Jr. (R-l) ingham-Murtha Flag Protec¬ Mary Bono (R-44) Iowa New Jersey Floyd Spence (R-2) tion Amendment as soon as Loretta Sanchez (D-46) Jim Nussle (R-2) Robert Andrews (D-l) Jim DeMint (R-4) possible. Christopher Cox (R-47) Leonard Boswell (D-3) Frank Pallone Jr. (D-6) Jolm Spratt Jr. (D-5) Telephone numbers for Michael Ferguson (R-7) James Clyburn (D-6) district offices can be obtained Colorado William Pascrell Jr. (D-8) Kansas Steven Rothman (D-9) from the blue pages of local Scott Mclnnis (R-3) Jerry Moran (R-l) Tennessee Robert Menendez (D-13) William Jenkins (R-l) phone books or by calling the Todd Tiahrt (R-4) Connecticut Harold Ford Jr. (D-9) U.S. Capitol switchboard at James Maloney (D-5) New Mexico (202) 224-3121. Letters should Kentucky Nancy Johnson (R-6) Edward Whitfield (R-l) Joe Skeen (R-2) Texas be addressed to The Honor¬ Max Sandlin (D-l) able (full name), U.S. House of Delaware Louisiana New York Ralph Hall (D-4) Representatives, Washington, Michael Castle (R-at large) David Vitter (R-l) Edolphus Towns (D-10) Pete Sessions (R-5) D.C., 20515. William Jefferson (D-2) John McHugh (R-24) Nicholas Lampson (D-9) Florida W.J. Tauzin (R-3) James Walsh (R-25) Kay Granger (R-12) Joe Scarborough (R-l) Chris John (D-7) Amory Houghton Jr. (R-31) William Thornberry (R-13) Undecided F. Allen Boyd Jr. (D-2) Silvestre Reyes (D-16) California Corrine Brown (D-3) Maryland North Carolina Tom DeLay (R-22) Susan Davis (D-49) Cliff Stearns (R-6) Albert Wynn (D-4) Bob Etheridge (D-2) Henry Bonilla (R-23) New York John Mica (R-7) Connie A. Morelia (R-8) Richard Burr (R-5) Martin Frost (D-24) Steve Israel (D-2) Ric Keller (R-8) Howard Coble (R-6) Ken Bentsen (D-25) Cass Ballenger (R-10) Pennsylvania C.W. Young (R-10) Massachusetts Richard Armey (R-26) Wiliam Shuster (R-9) Jim Davis (D-ll) Richard Neal (D-2) Solomon Ortiz (D-27) Washington Adam Putnam (R-12) James McGovern (D-3) Ohio Ciro Rodriguez (D-28) Richard Larsen (D-2) Dan Miller (R-13) Steve Chabot (R-l) Porter Goss (R-14) William Delahunt (D-10) Rob Portman (R-2) Dave Weldon (R-15) Ted Strickland (D-6) Utah Supporters Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-18) Michigan David Hobson (R-7) Chris Cannon (R-3) Peter Deutsch (D-20) Fired Upton (R-6) John Boehner (R-8) Alabama Nick Smith (R-7) Washington Earl Hilliard (D-7) Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-21) Marcy Kaptur (D-9) Dale Kildee (D-9) Dennis Kucinich (D-10) Brian Baird (D-3) Georgia Joseph Knollenberg (R-ll) Deborah Pryce (R-15) Jennifer Dunn (R-8) Arkansas Jack Kingston (R-l) Ralph Regula (R-l6) Marion Berry (D-l) Michael Collins (R-3) Minnesota Bob Ney (R-18) Wisconsin Michael Ross (D-4) Saxby Chambliss (R-8) Collin Peterson (D-7) Steven LaTourette (R-19) F. James Sensenbrenner (R-9)

Mountain Bike Race Series at Otter even American Legion department durance race, TAPS organizers asked TEAM FROM PAGE 5 Creek, Ky. He placed second in that conventions and other Legion events. each team to dedicate the race to one or word about the American Legion and race in 1997. They will be our spokesmen, telling the more fallen comrades. Team American its many important programs on behalf Kent completed the 2000 Tucson American Legion story and assisting Legion dedicates its race efforts to of the military, its veterans and fami¬ Marathon; the 1998 Honolulu Tinman post and department membership Capt. Milton Palmer, who died during lies." Triathlon; the 1996, 1997, 1998 Hono¬ teams across the country. They will a 1995 training accident during a cold- Team American Legion may be lulu Marathon; and was team captain also speak to military personnel and weather cycle at the United States short on practice time together, but of 134-mile Oahu Perimeter relay race American Legion members on military Army Ranger School. He was a Citadel each member brings excellent individ¬ in 1996,1997 and 1998. bases across the county as part of classmate of team member Kreis. ual skills to the AFEC competition. Team American Legion relies solely department and post 'reconnect' "Milton Palmer had a passion for all Last year, Van Dyke and Kreis won on donations and fund-raising to con¬ events." things military. He grew up in a mili¬ first place in the two-person coed cate¬ tinue to train and compete in local and Alaska Legionnaires have elected a tary family," Kreis said. "Our team is gory at the Florida Coast-To-Coast Eco- national races leading up to'the Armed chairperson, Terry Hoisman, to help inspired by Milton Palmer's persever¬ Adventure Race. The duo placed 10th Forces Eco-Challenge. with local logistical challenges in the ance. He had the determination to overall in the 180-mile, 72-hour event. "The American Legion has only race area, Sloan said. Local American press on when his mind and body had They also placed second in the 24-hour, paid the entry fees and sponsorship Legion posts will also act as direct sup¬ long before told him to quit. We will 10-mile Wild Onion Urban Adventure costs for the team to be able to compete port volunteers both before and after carry Milton's spirit with us as we race in Chicago. In 1999, Van Dyke also in Alaska," said Bill Sloan of the Na¬ the grueling race itself. make our own journey in honor of finished second in the female division tional Internal Affairs staff in Indian¬ Concentrating on race preparation, life." of the Great Floridian Ironman apolis. "Not one penny has been spent three Team American Legion members Members of Team American Legion Triathlon in Clermont, Fla. on team clothing, equipment or travel -Van Dyke, Dunlavey and Kreis - par¬ might win or might not win at Armed Dunlavey placed third this year at costs." ticipated in a pre-race tune-up Armed Forces Eco-Challenge. If they don't, the Lakewood MTB Duathon Race in "These team members are not only Forces Day weekend at Story, Ind. Kent they'll go home proud to have helped Lakewood, Wash. He was on the first- world-class athletes, they are also Le¬ remained in Arizona. It was likely the thousands of families who have lost a place team in 1999 and 2000 at the 24- gionnaires," Sloan said. "In return for only event a majority of the team will loved one to an untimely death in the Hour Relay Race in La Grande, Ore. He our sponsorship, they will be traveling participate in prior to the Alaska race, military. finished first in the 1999 Catherine from event to event and making per¬ Dunlavey said. At the same time, they will have Creek Half-Marathon at Union, Ore. In sonal appearances at American Legion To help teams persevere through the personally honored the life of a mili¬ 1998, Dunlavey won the Team Rocco posts, local schools, athletic events and rigors of the exhausting 250-mile en¬ tary comrade and friend.