THE MAINE Legionnaire FEBRUARY 2019 Vol. 34, Issue 1 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF MAINE 32 Pages I’m calling on you to make ‘Buddy Checks’ s active Legionnaires, you and I whose have an important stake in our member- A time-honored mission, services ships have and programs. Compassionate care for expired – disabled veterans. Wholesome develop- is the per- ment of youth. Advocacy for a strong and sonal con- appreciated military. Employment and tact to see education opportunities for those who how local have served in the U.S. armed forces. veterans Effective response after natural disasters. are doing Respect for the colors of our country. and act Honor for the fallen. And influence to according- advance the needs of veterans – and of a ly if they strong America. Without strong American need help. Legion membership, values such as these This is not go unfulfilled. To keep them front and a member- center, we must work together now to ship cam- NATIONAL COMMANDER 2019 American Legion State Oratorical Contest: The 2019 make personal contact. BRETT P. REISTAD paign. It’s I’m calling on posts, districts, coun- a comrade- American Legion State Oratorical Competition was held Feb. 9 at Thomas Col- ties and departments to coordinate a team ship campaign. lege in Waterville. This years first place winner, representing District 1, was awarded to Marina Long of No. Waterboro, Me., 2nd from left. Miss Long, a and call Legionnaires and former mem- The week leading up the Legion’s Junior at Sanford Christian Academy, will represent Maine at the National Ora- bers simply to see how they are doing. 100th birthday, March 11-16, is a perfect torical Contest April 5-7 in Indianapolis for a chance to win up to $18,000 in Ask if there is anything The American time to make the calls, but posts that have scholarships. Congratulations to all contestants who competed at the State level. Legion can do for them. Perhaps they made other plans to celebrate the centen- Front, left to right, rep. District 3 Emily Farrington—5th place, State Oratorical have been sick, lost a spouse or just need nial at that time can choose another week winner, rep. District 1 Marina Long, rep. District 10 Caitlin McKenney—4th to know someone cares. Perhaps they in the centennial month if necessary. place, rep. District 7 Ciara Pitcher—6th place, rep. District 14 Ashley Bussell— simply forgot to renew their membership A Buddy Check toolkit, including 3rd place, and rep. District 2 Lucas Wright—2nd place. Back, left to right, Ora- because no one called. scripts for Legionnaires to use when mak- torical Judges Dog Wallace, Jennifer Caron, Kurt Schaub, Sean Currie, and More important than membership ing personal contact, is available online Kirk Thurston. renewal – or retrieval of Legionnaires at www.legion.org/membership/ Photo by Amedeo Lauria buddycheck. Remember, this organization was formed a century ago around personal Maine American Legion Announces contact and engagemen. This “Buddy Check” is about seeing how veterans are its 72nd Annual Boys State Program doing. To discover that, it takes personal engage- he American Legion, Department of ment. —www.legion.org T Maine is proud to announce the 72nd Feb. 4, 2019 Annual American Legion Dirigo Boys State program. This year’s program will again be held at Thomas College in Waterville during the week of June 16-20. Every American Legion Post and all sub- ordinate bodies should alert their mem- bership to one of the finest youth pro- grams in the nation. The American Legion sponsors the Boys State program and we encourage all other groups and organizations to join in promoting the program through sponsor- ship of candidates to American Legion Dirigo Boys State. We ask that the officers of your Post Drive, Winslow, Maine 04901-0727, Tel: contact school principals or guidance (207) 873-3229, or online at Some of those in attend- Legislative Committee Meet & Greet: counselors for assistance in this program. www.mainelegion.org or ance at the Legislative Committee Meet and Greet held at the State House on Make sure that your school officials are www.dirigoboysstate.com for application Jan. 9. Left to right, Dept. Judge Advocate Jason Hall, member of Topsham Post knowledgeable of The American Legion materials. 202 Joseph Obrin, Maine State Senator & member of Madison Post 39 Brad Far- Dirigo Boys State program. Thank you for your assistance in rin, Boothbay Harbor Post 36 Commander David Patch, Department Service nd The tuition fee for the 2019 program making the 72nd Annual American Le- Officer Carl Curtis, Dept. Adjutant Paul L’Heureux, Department 2 Vice Com- mander Debra Couture, Dept. Assistant Service Officer Maureen Malley, De- will be $300 per student. Contact The gion Dirigo Boys State Program a suc- partment 1st Vice Commander Matt Jabaut, Maine State House Representative American Legion Boys State, 5 Verti cess. Scott Cyrway, Dept. Special Projects Coordinator Amedeo Lauria, Dept. Area 4 Commander Gregory Couture, and Maine State House Representative & mem- ber of Lincoln Post 77 Sheldon Hanington.
2 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 Commander’s Comments A ‘First’ Look etention: The Key to Membership importance of y Fellow grams are a great way to get people aware R Growth the event must M Legion- of the great work we do and to recruit Why do Veterans join The American be explained naires! I contin- new members. Bring applications and Legion and not renew their membership to the new ue to be privi- other information with you as you work the following year? Legionnaire leged to serve as these programs, or just use the Legion Perhaps the best way to answer this before he/she your 1st Vice app! You can sign up new members right question is to find out why they joined in will make a Commander for through it, or online through the Depart- the first place. If their reason for joining is decision to the Department ment Webpage. realized during their first membership attend. Words of Maine. I hope While we look to that transition, let’s year, they will probably renew. which must you all had a not forget our current and expired mem- When we consider why Veterans become action wonderful holi- bers! By now, hopefully, all of your posts leave The American Legion, we find what in order to day and I en- should have received a tool kit for the we call the three M’s of retention: retain mem- joyed seeing all MATTHEW National week of calling or “buddy of you who check” from national. The National Com- Moved – Mad – Mortality COMMANDER bers are: JABAUT braved the mander has launched a program to reach Mortality: We can’t do much about SCOTT PARADIS Communica- weather and out and contact all of our members lead- this one when our members report to post tion: Let eve- th everlasting. ryone know made it to our Mid-Winter Conference! ing up to all of the 100 birthday celebra- Moved: Operation Stay Active fol- what is going on. If you did make it, you would have tions. Please talk about this and plan for lows members from department to depart- Activities: Who, where, what, when, heard about the incentive for our Goal to this initiative in each of your posts. The ment so we might transfer those who why and how must be answered to all pos- Grow targets. We are offering $1,000 to toolkit includes, how-to, scripts for the moved or at least keep them renewed in sible participants. each district that meets or exceeds their calls, and access to member lists and ex- their current Post but follow–up is neces- Involvement: We must get as many Goal to Grow target! We also had some pired member lists. Please make every sary to assist the member in keeping his/ Legionnaires as possible involved in the posts that have already made their post effort to connect and re-connect with all her membership current. many and varied programs of The Ameri- Goal to grow and made their 100 percent of our members past and present that have Mad: This is where face-to-face con- can Legion without burning them out or by Dec. 31! Please also remember the been a part of making the organization other incentives that are out there like the great and invite them to celebrate the tact is necessary. This is where the scaring them off. th “rubber meets the road.” Who or what is The importance of retention at all $5 per member renewal for members that 100 anniversary with us! If you have any the member upset with? The retention/ levels is obvious for solid growth not only have not renewed since 2014, 2015, or questions about this program or getting it membership worker must find this out in membership but also in programs and 2016, or that the new National Command- up and running, please feel free to reach before anything can be resolved. Most overall accomplishment. Just like the mili- er’s pin now includes members that have out to me or the Department Headquar- “mad” problems can be resolved by dis- tary, retention begins when the new mem- renewed at least six members, in addition ters. cussion and working it out with parties ber joins. This is accomplished with a to those that have recruited at least three I want to again thank each and every concerned. We must try! good sponsorship program. Assign a spon- new members. one of you for all of your efforts on mem- The use of the three “I’s” of retention sor to each new member until the Legion- We continue to focus on membership bership so far this year. We are on the as described here will help prevent many naire feels knowledgeable and comforta- and engaging our members as we prepare right track and have made every national of the situations that cause members to ble with their membership in The Ameri- to deliver on our programs. Hopefully the target date so far. The last 10 or 15 per leave our ranks. can Legion. outreach and engagement we have done cent is the most difficult to achieve so we I – Initiate: Tell the story of The How Important Is Membership Reten- so far helps all of you to get people work- will need to leverage all of our resources American Legion. tion? Approximately 11 per cent of Maine ing our programs with you. This will be a and members to get there and I ask for I – Indoctrinate: Explain individual Legionnaires do not renew their member- great time to showcase all the great work your continued support and dedication to programs. ship each year. That’s how important it is. we do in our communities. The American Legion, Department of I – Involve: Find the interest area and Not for the sake of numbers but for our As we are out in our communities for Maine. involve the new member. impact on our elected officials and the our programs, now is the time to start Our mission as a Department should Many of the things Legionnaires take impact on our many programs at local, shifting to looking at new members who be to support and enable our posts and for granted are not fully understood by the state, and national levels. are not familiar with our great organiza- districts to be successful, please let us new member. Whether it is a Post, Dis- Thank you for your service and the tion. Please use all of these opportunities know what you need. We are here to sup- trict, or Department event, the content and privilege of your time. to talk to veterans about our programs and port you! the meaning of membership. Our pro- Helping Maine Grow! NEC Update Americanism Report s Winter is Get a Scouting Troop, Pack or Den to would first National Executive Committeeman, I A winding assist in a Flag Folding Ceremony or in- I like to com- have been assigned by the National Com- down, the Ora- vite the Scouts to assist your Post in a mend 2nd Vice mander as Chairman of the Liaison Com- torical Contest Flag Retirement Ceremony. Commander mittee to the Veterans Employment and is done. Now it As the snow and ice leave, get out to Deb Couture Education Commission. The staff mem- is time to turn the less able Legion member’s homes to and Department ber/Director assigned to the Commission our attention do a little spring clean- up. Commander is Joseph Sharpe, Jr. toward Boy's How many Posts have an active Scott Paradis During the last meeting of the NEC State and Na- School Award Medal Program or similar for the content there were 27 resolutions considered, 25 tion. It will community services? of the Mid- were approved and 2 were tabled for fur- soon be School Many churches have a 4 Chaplain's Winter Confer- ther study. All the resolutions topics cov- Scholarships, Service, as an example. ence in Bangor ered a number of areas pertinent to our Baseball and Support a Town's school or Recrea- recently. There work relating to veterans. However, two Memorial Day tion Department's Baseball team at any was a lot of LLOYD of the resolutions I feel were very im- planning and ALFRED level. Go to a Veteran's home or a Care information portant to us. The first was that since De- prepping time. Facility for a visit. A box of coffee, juice WOODS MCKAY given out. I cember 7, 1941 the United States has been How many and some approved snacks can go a long think it was a involved in at least 12 known armed hos- of us has a cer- way in making someone's day brighter, as great one to attend even if the weather tilities with a total of 1,600 casualties of tificate that shows we have experience well as yourself. wasn’t that good for traveling to attend. our military. In order to recognize the and knowledge to teach? The answer is all You can get a lot of mileage on the As the Department of Maine’s repre- time periods, a resolution has been ap- of us, it is called a DD Form 214. Contact road to happiness for a few cents and a sentative at the National Executive Com- proved and forwarded for approval that the local school and volunteer to come in few minutes of time. mittee my main job and objective is to since we have been continuously engaged and teach Flag Etiquette and talk to the Thank you to the Americanism Com- represent you, the members, on that com- in a state of war from December 7, 1941 students about your positive experiences mittee for the great work that has been mittee. As I have continuously stated over to such date in the future as the United during your time in service. done, and the work that is ongoing. the past years I am “Proud to Serve” the States government may determine that Department and you as its members. As a result to being appointed as your More on “NEC UPDATE”, Page 5
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 3 A ‘Second’ Look On the Agenda
t was wonder- General of the Maine Air and Army Na- MARCH MEETINGS I ful to see so tional Guard give an update on the Air many of you at Force and Army in Maine and LCDR District 5 – Oxford: Mar. 20, Norway Post 82, 7 p.m. mtg. and election of officers. the Mid-Winter Netzler, Commanding Officer of the Navy Refreshments.
Conference in Operational Support Center in Bangor, APRIL MEETINGS
Bangor in Janu- give an update on Navy forces and de- st ary. We may ployments for Maine units. District 2 – Cumberland: Apr. 9, Gray Post 86, District 2 Past Commanders and 1 have been racing Caleb Richardson, the 2018 Maine District Presidents night, social hour 5 – 6 p.m., dinner 6 p.m. Meeting to follow against the snow- Boys State/Boys Nation representative and nomination of officers. storm to finish presented on his experiences at Boys State District 3 – Androscoggin: Apr. 14, Lewiston Post 22, 2 p.m. the conference, and at Boys Nation in Washington, DC. District 5 – Oxford: Apr. 17, Rumford Post 24, 6 p.m. light supper, 7 p.m. mtg. but all went well Steve Moran also presented on the 2018 and installation of officers. and everyone Boys State program at Thomas College. District 6 – Knox: Apr. 20, Camden Post 30, 11 a.m. made it home Tommy Adkins, our Department Fi- District 9 – Kennebec: Apr. 10, Richmond Post 132, 7 p.m. safely. DEBRA nance Officer, gave us all an update on District 11 – Waldo: Apr. 21, Unity Post 50, 2 p.m. District 13 – Penobscot: Apr. 7, Bangor Post 12, 2 p.m., refreshments served. Dist. That was our COUTURE Department Finances. Tommy is finishing last conference at up his tenure as the Department Finance 13 elections. the Spectacular Officer this year. Tommy also just com- District 14 – Piscataquis: Apr. 20, Dover-Foxcroft Post 29, 12 p.m. lunch, 1 p.m. Event Center. The owners are selling the pleted an IRS audit with flying colors. He mtg. Election of officers. building. They have done a great job for really knows how to make finances inter- District 17 – N. Aroostook: Apr. 7, Eagle Lake Post 176, 1 p.m. meal, 2 p.m. mtg. us for many years and they will be esting. We will definitely miss Tommy’s Nominations. missed. We thank them for everything personality and sense of humor when it MAY MEETINGS that they have done. comes to giving us financial updates. District 2 – Cumberland: May 19, Scarborough Post 76, 2 p.m. Post Everlasting A lot of information was shared at the Tommy, I thank you for a job well done and election of officers. Installation to follow. conference, as we “Showcased Our Pro- and for your many years of service. You District 3 – Androscoggin: Discretion of incoming Commander. grams” have done a great job. District 5 – Oxford: May 21, W. Paris Post 151, 6 p.m. supper, 7 p.m. mtg. Jack Dean Mitchell, the Chester L. The Department of Public Safety District 7 – Lincoln: May 1, Damariscotta Post 42, 5:30 p.m. Briggs American Legion Post 47 Chap- presentation and question/answer session District 11 – Waldo: May 19, Unity Post 50, 2 p.m. lain, did an outstanding job singing the on Beano and Games of Chance was a big District 13 – Penobscot: May 5, Howland Post 97, 2 p.m., refreshments served. Star Spangled Banner. We received up- hit. Both Jim Gass and Milton Champion Installation of officers. dates from speakers on Law and Order, from the Gambling Control Unit helped to District 14 - Piscataquis: May 18, Greenville Post 94, 12 p.m. lunch, 1 p.m. mtg. Women Veterans Advisory Committee, explain the new rules and regulations. Annual meeting and installation of officers. Jr. Shooting Program at Brunswick Post Don Hands brought us up to date on th District 16 – S. Aroostook: May 4, Mars Hill Post 118, 1 p.m. Meal is at discretion 20, Legislative Committee, Constitution the State’s 100 Anniversary activities of post. and By-Laws; updates from the Depart- and his Centennial Book. If you have not District 17 – N. Aroostook: May 5, Madawaska Post 147, 1 p.m. meal, 2 p.m. mtg. ment Service Officers; and 1st Vice Com- had a chance to read his book, you should. District elections. mander Matt Jabaut and Judge Advocate Don did a great job. The book includes JUNE MEETINGS Jason Hall brought us up to date on the information on Maine’s first 100 State Maine Legion College. Maine has gradu- Commanders. You can still order it District 3 – Androscoggin: June 9, Auburn Post 153, 2 p.m. ated approximately 30 students in the first through the Department for just $35. District 6 – Knox: June 22, TBD, 11 a.m. 2 classes and a third Maine Legion Col- As we approach the American Le- lege class will be starting in March. gion’s 100th Anniversary on March 15, Please contact our Department Adjutant, 2019, I encourage all of you to come to Paul L’Heureux, if you are interested in the Hall of Flags at the State House on Money Matters attending. This is a class that you do not Friday, March 15th as the Maine American th ust thinking out loud— American Le- want to miss. The instructors (Matt, Jason, Legion 100 Anniversary Plaque is un- J W. Edward Deming, a world- gion was first and Kelly) are fantastic and the infor- veiled. The plaque will be located just renowned business consultant, once said, getting orga- mation that you receive will help to guide outside the Governor’s Office next to the “It’s not necessary to change, survival is nized. I don’t you at all levels of The American Legion. Women Veteran’s Plaque. The ceremony not mandatory.” That got me to thinking know if they We were fortunate to have Major will take place at 3 p.m. that afternoon. about our (The American Legion) situa- had any mem- General Farnham, Commissioner of the Thank you for all that you do for our tion with membership. In many respects bership goals in Department of Defense, Veterans, and Veterans. Have a wonderful Maine we are in a similar situation with most those early Emergency Management and the Adjutant Spring. social and fraternal organizations today in days, I replied. that our membership continues to drop, Well then what Meritorious Service Award and that loss has an impact on our abilities were their to do things. goals, she Presented To Hampden Deming also said, “It is not enough to asked. I don’t Post 213: Dept. 2nd Vice Com- do our best, we must know first what it is know, I said, mander Debra Couture, left, and 1st that we need to be doing, and then do our but they would Vice Commander Matthew Jabaut, best”. TOMMY probably have right, present a Meritorious Service A Battalion Commander I worked for ADKINS been something Award to Hampden Post 213 during once asked if there was anything more more centered Mid-Winter Conference in Bangor on worthless than doing something with on the Four Jan. 19. Receiving the award is District great efficiency which didn’t need to be Pillars l would guess. 13 Commander Donald Candage. done at all. There it is, the point seems to be Both are interesting thoughts which when there are things to do people come caused me to reconsider something my to do them. Maybe people like to do wife (Chris) said to me some time ago. I things not just be a number. Meritorious Service Award complained that we didn’t have enough Perhaps our approach should be: members attend our Post meetings. She Here is what we need to do. If you can, Presented To Monson Post said, “strange, because every time you please join and help us get it done. As 116: Dept. 2nd Vice Commander have something that needs to be done you Chris often tells me, you get more things Debra Couture, left, and 1st Vice Com- never have a shortage of members or re- done when you follow your plan than mander Matthew Jabaut, right, pre- sources.” That is true, I remember think- when you must discover the path as you sent a Meritorious Service Award to ing, and then gave it no more thought. go. Monson Post 116 during Mid-Winter On another occasion, I was speaking RAMIFICATIONS OF REVOCA- Conference in Bangor on Jan. 19. Re- with my wife about the Department mem- TION OR CANCELLATION OF A ceiving the award is District 14 Com- bership goals, when she asked what the mander Daniel Nutter. membership goals were back when The More on “MONEY MATTERS”, Page 5
4 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 The Adjutant Speaks THE MAINE s we currently endure the winter know what they look for within the or- A weather that we claim does not both- ganization. They look for what we are Legionnaire er us, we are doing? Are we active at the Post level? heading into our Do we reach out to the community that OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF MAINE busy schedule we belong to? Are we proactive at the again. After State and National level to make sure that
Official Newspaper of The American Legion, Dept. of Maine. much planning we watch the legislation that is passed for our Winter and how it affects Veterans’ issues? Im- Published at Sun Press, 104 Park Street, Lewiston, Maine, Conference, agine that, those principles were talked by The American Legion — Department of Maine. Jan. 19 & 20, about at the formation of The American Business Office, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ME 04901-0727 we were chal- Legion. If you think about it, most of us lenged with a were looking for the same things when Website: www.mainelegion.org “big Storm” we joined. So let’s see how you’re doing? arriving on the Let’s look at the following 6 items: Post evening of the does not have any active programs; Post Tel.: 207-873-3229 Fax: 207-872-0501 19th. We can- PAUL is not conducting regular or scheduled Email: [email protected] celled the Exec- L’HEUREUX meetings; Post membership has declined Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/maineamericanlegion utive meeting at an alarming rate; Post leadership has for Sunday and started earlier on Satur- lost interest or vision; Post is no longer Paul L’Heureux, Editor day. Because of the distance many of our providing for current local needs; and members had to travel, we did not expect Post members aren’t willing to assume Rachael Currie, Assistant Editor & Layout Editor the turnout that we had. Everyone arrived any offices. If that sounds like you, well it with a positive attitude and were willing might be time to step up and call your Third Class Postage paid at Waterville, Maine to adapt to the schedule. We had some State HQ and plan to have a Post Revitali- great speakers and presentations and most zation Team go in and help you turn Subscription for Maine Legionnaires $2 as a part of their dues. of all patience from those present. Our things around. We can even bring in a goal because the food had been purchased Team from the Auxiliary and the Sons of in advance, was to end the day’s activities The American Legion. And by the way, Other subscription Rate $10 a year. and move right into the banquet room part of that team is made up of younger Average Circulation: 22,000. with little fanfare and get everyone on the members. road by 6 pm. Well after a prayer and a I want to close by reaching out to thank you to all that attended, we were all those members currently reading this pa- on the road by 5:30 pm, I kept track with per and have not paid their dues, why a few people from York and a couple not? Do you realize what a difference we Judge Advocate from Madawaska only to learn that every- make in a Veterans life every day? How one arrived home before the storm. Thank about for his or her family? What about y current dominate all conversations (Hard to be- you to all that attended. the homeless Veterans that The American M role has lieve). Next on the agenda is the State Ora- Legion works with? We were all involved brought me to 1. Roberts Rules are a Road Map: torical Contest to be held in Waterville at in Maine with the issue of the United many Posts Roberts Rules will help give your meet- Thomas College. It will be over before States Coast Guard not getting paid; and across the state ings structure by giving you a proven you receive this paper but I want you all before we knew it, Legion Posts all over of Maine. I find process to follow during your meetings. to know that if you ever want to see a the State were having fundraising events myself sitting in There are procedures within Roberts program that shows the talents of our to make sure we could help our fellow many Post meet- Rules that will help you run meetings in youth in this country today, try to attend Veterans. They never needed guidance; ings and though an efficient and professional manner. Just next year’s program. I guarantee that you they knew what to do. So, if you cannot we all have ac- follow the process. Start using Roberts will be energized and possibly enough to get involved at your Post, how about do- cess to the Post Rules and, in just a few months, your help promote this in your own Post. ing the next best thing, PAY YOUR Officer Guide meetings will go faster and more tasks Currently, we are working on our DUES and help make a difference today. and Manual of will get done. membership goal for the next 3 months. And should you feel like helping a little Ceremonies, I 2. Meeting Minutes Made Easy: It We are starting to see younger members more, sign up a new member. I know you find that the JASON can be difficult to track what is being said HALL at many Posts around the State, and our have relatives and friends that could be- meetings are at a meeting when the conversation strays leadership within the State Officers, Area long and let them know also that this is a either punctual, from topic. The Adjutant’s eyes start Commanders, District Officer and the TEAM effort and we do make a differ- professional, and short…… or unstruc- spinning and there are talks of getting a Post level has changed and we are seeing ence. Stay warm and remember to stay tured, argumentative, and lengthy. recorder to keep up with the side conver- the positives because of this. After meet- FOCUSED and keep moving FOR- If you are in the latter category, there sations and discussion. By using motions, ing with many of the new members, we WARD. Thank you for all that you do. is a tool that can help. A tool that may be in accordance with Roberts Rules, the stated in about 99% of the Post by-laws tracking of meetings becomes easier to across the state……Robert’s Rules of document and straying off topic, a com- Order. mon problem for many boards, becomes Here is a quick self-assessment tool. easier to recognize and correct. You should use Roberts Rules if: Trust me, your Adjutant will thank You find yourself wondering you for the structure of a more formalized “where to go from here” during your process. Exchanging Ideas: De- meetings. 3. Everyone Has a Voice: The pro- partment Adjutant Paul L’Heu- cess of Roberts Rules ensures that every- reux, left, Maine State Senator Your meetings regularly stray one has an opportunity to speak on a top- and member of Madison Post 39 from topics of conversation. ic. A good Commander will use Roberts Brad Farrin, center, and Dept. 1st Even short agenda’s take hours to Rules to check in with every person at the Vice Commander Matthew Jabaut accomplish. table and give them the chance to speak. exchange ideas regarding Legion It can also limit the amount of opportuni- Your by-laws state you will use business during the Legislative ties someone can speak on a topic. The Committee Meet & Greet held at Roberts Rules. idea of limiting the number of times the State House in Augusta on Your meeting minutes are missing members can speak on a topic has ad- Jan. 9. important parts of previous meetings. vantages: You are looking to build capacity Members will learn to be more on (do more – more efficiently). point and thorough when it is there turn to Your board has a member with a “strong personality” who feels the need to More on “JUDGE ADVOCATE”, Page 5
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 5
Roberts Rules: About 99 percent of all letter, minutes of the meeting wherein the “Judge Advocate” American Legion Post by-laws state that “Money Matters” vote was taken and an accounting of all (Continued from Page 4) they will use Roberts Rules to run their (Continued from Page 3) Post assets, including real property, must meetings. Chances are you’re supposed to accompany the request to turn in the char- speak; be using them too. POST CHARTER ter. It can quicken the decision-making Roberts Rules can seem too formal In accordance with Article II, Section The Department Adjutant will notify process without sacrificing the opportuni- and stuffy for some people but the rules 3 of The American Legion National By- the DEC which will vote on the matter at ty to share information; can be adjusted to the needs and laws, upon revocation, cancellation or their next regular meeting. If approved by It can help prevent members, who are “personality” of your organization. The suspension of the charter of a Post ..., said the DEC, the Department Adjutant will determined to have the last word, from important thing is to have a process by Post shall immediately cease operations request, in writing, that the National Ex- repeating the same points over and over. which you run meetings and accomplish and upon revocation or cancellation shall ecutive Committee (NEC) accept the turn 4. Roberts Rules Means Freedom: I the work that is before you. The more you turn over its charter to its Department -in and cancellation of the Post charter. know it sounds funny to think that a more repeat this process, the more efficient Commander or DEC, and the DEC is au- Once the DEC approves the closing formal process will result in more free- your meetings will become and the more thorized, empowered and directed by and of a Post, it will close all financial books dom, but it is true. Anyone who has run a effective you will be at accomplishing through its duly authorized agent to take and records effective the date the surren- meeting, at some point, has found them- goals. possession, custody and control of all the der is approved. The Post will prepare selves more caught up in the “running the Check out the Post Officer Guide and record, property and assets of said Post; final financial statements; and conduct an meeting” than paying attention to what is Manual of Ceremonies or pick up a copy Upon cancellation of the charter, the audit of all funds and other assets. A copy being discussed. With a firm grasp of of Robert’s Rules for Dummies. Turn Post is no longer legally allowed to oper- of the Post financial records, the records Roberts Rules, the meeting facilitator can your Post meetings into a calm, respectful ate a corporation as a Post of The Ameri- of Post property; along with a final in- relax and let Robert Rules run the meeting forum that makes decisions on serving can Legion. The Post Corporation shall be come tax report (form 990) will be sub- for them. This will allow them to play a Veterans and communities productive. dissolved immediately and neither the mitted to the Regional Director of Internal Jason Hall more active role in the meeting itself. Post nor any of its former officials shall Revenue with copy provided to the De- Department Judge Advocate be authorized to use the trademark or 5. Your By-laws Say You Should Use partment Adjutant. The closed records name of The American Legion alone or in will then be transferred to the Department conjunction with the name of the former for safekeeping by the Department Histo- Commander, we are asking for support for Post. To do so would constitute a viola- rian. To complete the closure action, the “NEC Update” the upcoming candidate Bill Oxford from (Continued from Page 2) tion of The American Legion’s rights of additional following steps must be tak- North Carolina seeking that high office. It trademark, trade name and letters patent; en: takes a lot of time and expense of the indi- therefore, all such use must cease imme- 1. If any Post property and assets are there has been an end to armed hostilities viduals who run for that office and it is diately. Failure to cease using the name of disposed of prior to the DEC authoriza- and that Congress direct the Department from members of other Departments do- The American Legion, American Legion tion to accept the charter, an accounting of Veterans Affairs to qualify as “war- nations to assist in helping finance their will result in legal action pursuant to 18 of all such assets, including detailed time veteran” all military service person- expenses. Any size donation is acceptable U.S.C., Section 705. minutes of any meeting authorizing the nel who served honorable under federal and please send a check made out to The The Post essentially ceases to exist; transfer of property or funds, must be government Title 10 orders for at least American Legion, Department of Maine, however, should the Post have an Ameri- provided to the Department Adjutant for one day during said period. 5 Verti Drive, Winslow 04901-0727. Ear- can Legion Auxiliary, it may continue to review by the DEC. Any remaining prop- When the above is done, then the mark the check “National Commanders function and apply for status as a erty or assets must be turned over to the second resolution would go into effect Campaign”. Your assistance will be great- “widow” unit. The name and number of Department of Maine in accordance with which would change the eligibility dates ly appreciated. the cancelled Post will be allocated to the The American Legion National Bylaws for membership in The American Legion Until next time, I am available to do Auxiliary unit. Article III, Section. and also change the National Constitution whatever I can to assist you. Please don’t PROCEDURES TO VOLUNTAR- 2. Upon approval by the DEC, the of The American Legion as well as any hesitate to contact me at ILY TURN IN AN ACTIVE CHAR- Post may request, in writing, that the De- Auxiliaries. [email protected], 207-557-4971 (cell). TER partment Adjutant affect a blanket trans- On another note, as many of the De- Again, thank you for being a member of Should all efforts to avert the cancel- fer of all remaining members from the partments in the past have supported our our great organization. lation of a Post charter prove unsuccess- cancelled Post to a nearby Post. That ac- own Tony Jordan in his quest for National Lloyd Woods, NEC ful, The American Legion By-Laws re- tion notwithstanding, each member re- quire that all Posts complete a series of tains the right to transfer to the Post of actions prior to turning in a Post charter his/her choice. The Department Adjutant and dissolving its corporation. The initial will transfer into all members not trans- steps include calling a special Post meet- ferred by the two options above into Post ing to vote on closing the Post. A letter 178. announcing this meeting must be mailed 3. Since Posts are individually incor- to all Post members at least two weeks porated in Maine State, the closing corpo- NEC UPDATE: National prior to its being held. The letter must ration (Post) must be formally dissolved. Executive Committeeman Lloyd clearly state the “purpose” of the meeting. The necessary forms are available from Woods gives an NEC update to At the Post meeting called to consider the office of the Maine Secretary of State. those in attendance at the Annual surrendering the charter, the Post Consti- When the forms are complete, submit Mid-Winter Conference in Ban- tution and Bylaws (C&BL) and Roberts them to the Office of the Secretary of gor on Jan. 19. Rules of Order must be followed. Com- State, file a copy with the Office of Coun- plete and detailed minutes must be kept of ty Auditor of the County in which the the proceedings. The decision to request Post is located and provide copies of all that the charter be surrendered requires a filings and responses with the Department majority vote of those members present; Adjutant. unless the Post C&BL specifies that a 4. Please note: The District member- different majority is required. ship quota will not be adjusted during the Once the Post members vote to sur- membership year in which a Post turns in render the charter, the Post must immedi- its charter. Changes may be reflected in Scholarships Available ately notify the Department Adjutant in next year’s membership goal.
writing of that decision. Tommy Adkins, pplications are now available for the Copies of the member notification Department Finance Officer A Department of Maine Children and Youth Scholarships, the Daniel E. Lam- bert Memorial Scholarship, and the James **Attention District Commanders and Post Adjutants** V. Day Scholarship. Any Post, individual or school who would like to receive a yLegion.org training lessons are available at State Headquarters. If copy may obtain one by going online to M you are interesting in learning how to use the site, please call The www.mainelegion.org located under Re- American Legion, Department of Maine Headquarters at 207-873-3229 sources and Forms/Applications, or by Ext. 2 or email [email protected] to set up an appointment. contacting us via email at legion- [email protected] or Tel. at 207-873- Training lessons last between 45 min. to an hour. 3229.
6 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 President’s Message The American Legion Family ith the holidays behind us, I just Update on our American Legion Department of Maine W want to say what an honor and Family Project. I was blown away at the humble experience it was to attend and Mid-Winter Conference with the generos- Helping Togus VA Hospital & Maine Veterans participate in ity and support that we have received. the Christmas When we first announced our project to e are pleased to announce our matter. Gift Shop at purchase Stryker Transport Chairs for the W American Legion Family Project The Togus and at Out Patient Unit at Togus VA Hospital, for 2018-2019 for Legion Commander American the South Paris our goal was to raise enough money to Scott Paradis, Auxiliary President Joan Legion Veterans Nurs- purchase four chairs at $3,000 each. Well, Caron, and SAL Commander Scott Mor- Family goal ing Home. The so far we have raised over $20,000! ton! Helping our VA Hospital at Togus is to raise interaction that That’s right, we are currently working on and Maine Veterans. enough we experi- our seventh chair and we are not stopping We are so fortunate to have one of money to enced with our there. We are also working on making a the best VA Hospitals in the country, and buy at least veterans was decal that will have all four emblems of what better way to pay homage to it, by 4 Stryker overwhelming. our American Legion family to be includ- giving back. Chief, Voluntary Services Transport I want to say ed on each chair. Again, thank you for Director Jonathan Barczyk told us about Chairs for a thank you to your support and generosity. “The Red Coat Ambassadors”, who are total of all our Chair- PRESIDENT In closing, let’s not forget that Febru- the volunteers who greet the Veterans at $12,000. As man’s for do- JOAN CARON ary marks the anniversary of the sinking the Outpatient Unit. These volunteers a Legion ing an awe- of the USS Dorchester and when we hon- have to wheel patients to different parts of Family, we some job. The Christmas Gift Shop is one or The Four Chaplains who so selflessly the hospital, either for blood work or x- should be of the most rewarding programs that the did the ultimate sacrifice so others could rays, and the wheelchairs they have are able to do this to help our Veterans and American Legion Auxiliary sponsors and live. During the month of February, there old and heavy and often have a hard time. volunteers. Please mail your donation, makes me proud to be a member. will be services remembering these four So, he introduced us to the Stryker payable to The American Legion, Depart- What a wonderful Mid-Winter Con- heroes though out the Department, please Transport Chair. When it comes to patient ment of Maine, earmarked, “Family Pro- ference, Old Man Winter had nothing on try to attend this very moving service if experience, details matter. The Stryker ject”, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine our Department Adjutant Paul and De- possible. TC is designed to create a comfortable, 04901 or visit www.mainelegion.org and partment Secretary Michelle with their Thank you again for everything you welcoming and safe environment that select the DONATE button. quick work in rearranging schedules and do for our veterans. Yours in Service for speaks volumes to caregivers, patients Thank you for all you do for our Vet- working together to make sure everyone God and Country. “WE CARE TO and their family members. The invest- erans, our military, our children and was able to leave earlier to make it home CARE” ment in the well-being of patients and youth, and our community. safe. Joan Caron caregivers tells them you care about their Remember “WE DARE TO CARE” ALA Department President comfort and safety-it tells them that they because our Veterans matter. — Your Letters — VA Togus Veterans Day Ceremony Scholarship Helps to Experience at Boys Nation Attendees: Ron Caron and ALA President Joan Pursue Lifelong Dream Shapes Future Caron in attendance at the Togus VA Medical Center in Dear Mr. L’Heureux and The Ameri- Commander of The American Le- celebration of Veterans Day, can Legion Scholarship Committee, gion, Dept. of Maine, World War 1 and the 100th My lifelong dream of being a Maine Thank you to The Maine American Year Observance on Nov. 12, State Game Warden is moving forward, Legion and its distinguished members for 2018, with the eagle carved thanks to generous educational scholar- providing me the opportunity to be one of by a Maine State Prison in- ships like yours. Since being named one the Senators from Maine at the 2018 Boys mate. of the recipients of The American Legion Nation program. It was an experience that Photo by Jeffrey Stevenson Department of Maine C&Y Scholarship, shapes a lifetime. my dream is becoming a reality at Eastern Truly, I have returned with not only a Maine Community College. The $500 better understanding of government, but award gives me the opportunity to earn also more of a patriot and with a profound skills that will serve the community fol- understanding of one of the week’s many
lowing graduation. Thank you personally phrases – Freedom Isn’t Free. for your generosity: Without scholarship Thank you, Clothing For patrons willing to support ongoing educa- Hagen Jakab Wallace
Veterans: tion, students such as myself would be With the help of unable to pursue advance degrees. Boys Nation members from 3 Your scholarship will help me earn units (Oakland credentials in Criminal Justice, which Truly Amazing! 51, Fairfield 14, requires special training and coursework. and China 195), a My passion for law enforcement is I want to thank the American Legion local merchant matched only by my love for my commu- for sponsoring me to attend Boys Nation (Laundry Lounge nity of which I am very dedicated. Once as well as providing me with T-shirts, in Winslow), and again, thank you for the vote of confi- Boys State pins and spending money. It community mem- dence and The American Legion Depart- was very generous of you. I had an amaz- bers, The Ameri- ment of Maine C&Y Scholarship. I am ing time in D.C. and it truly was “A week can Legion Auxil- committed to my education, the Criminal that shapes a lifetime!” iary Department Justice field, and one step closer to be- Sincerely, of Maine collected coming a Maine State Game Warden, Caleb Richardson and cleaned an thanks to your generosity. enormous cloth- Sincerely, ing donation to be Cole LaPointe used for our Veterans. NECA Ann Durost, left, and Dept. Auxiliary Secretary Michelle McRae, right, are seen here doing laundry at the Laundry Lounge in
Winslow on Mar. 8.
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 7 Service Office Update ood morning. This office has been mation from the VA. I can tell you that PSO Contact Information. Post fairs (VA) announced today it has elimi- G working very hard to start more of an this new policy will affect our veterans. Service Officers, as a minimum, please nated paper signature requirements for outreach pro- PLEASE READ AND RESPOND send us your full name, Post, telephone Veterans wishing to enroll in VA health gram. Our first TO YOUR MAIL FROM THE VA! number (your phone number will not be care. Effective immediately, VA has attempt was the APPEALS OF CLAIMS. Appeals released) and email address. The purpose amended its enrollment regulations to Fryeburg Fair have very strict time lines. See the at- is so that members of your post can con- allow Veterans to complete enrollment last year. It was tached chart! These dates are chiseled in tact you for local assistance and also so applications for enrollment in VA health an eye-opening STONE. Do not lose benefits by waiting that I can contact you, by phone or email, care by telephone without the need for a experience. We too long to appeal the denial of your if we hear from a member in your post paper signature. learned a lot claim; if warranted. that needs assistance. By adding this telephone application from the event. 12 months from notification letter, to DSO Newsletter. To sign up for the option to VA’s regulations with this Trying to have a file a Notice of Disagreement. newsletter, please email your contact in- amendment, VA will now offer three program that is 60 days from Statement of Case to formation to [email protected] and ways to enroll. This option provides Vet- effective without file an appeal to the BVA. state in the body of your email if you erans a convenient third enrollment op- disrupting our 30 days from Supplemental Statement would like your name listed in the news- tion. daily operations of Case to file an appeal to the BVA. letter as well as permission to link to your Paper - VA Form 10-10 EZ. at the office is 120 days from the mailing date of aa email address through the newsletter. The Call 1-877-222-VETS (8387), Mon- SERVICE OFFICER very difficult. I Board of Veterans Appeals Decision to newsletter is emailed out monthly. The Fri between 8 am and 8 pm, EST. will be working CARL CURTIS file to progress to the US Court of Ap- newsletter was developed as a way to stay On-Line at www.vets.gov! with the depart- peals for Veterans in touch with Post TOGUS VA WOMEN’S CLINIC. ment to try to come up with a solution to Clams. Service Officers If you haven’t already heard, there is this issue. Other than that, we have been Contacting and to keep them a Women Veterans Clinic here at Togus. putting the pieces in place to at least start the DSO for As- up to date on It specializes in women’s health issues. moving forward. We now have portable sistance by Tele- changes and Please keep in mind that there are medical access to VBMS. This was a very im- phone. Please just sources of infor- conditions that may be claimable for the portant step because submitting a claim on leave your name, mation that is of children of women veterans who served in a Veteran without seeing what is in the phone number, value to our veter- certain areas and/or on certain ships that client file can be very dangerous for the and who you are ans. The newslet- are presumptive for Agent Orange. If you Veteran. We have also secured a way to working with. ter contains active are a woman veteran it is a good idea to use direct upload instead of faxing all of Financial links to a variety give us a call or look for more information our claims to the intact center. This step Assistance. Keep of resources for on www.va.gov. will also save us money every day. The in mind that re- veterans as well as PLEASE USE THE DSO TO next hurdle is the ability to digitally sign quests for finan- links to you, so TRANSMIT YOUR CLAIMS/ our forms. Once we have that figured out, cial needs should you can better EVIDENCE TO THE VA; THIS EN- we can have an effective Veteran’s out- be directed to serve the members SURES A PAPER TRAIL AND EVI- reach program. As an example, I could go your town/city for of your post. We DENCE IT WAS SUBMITTED! You to the Fryeburg Fair, sit down with a Vet- general assistance are not doing mail- can either mail it or drop it off in the of- eran, have access to his VA record, and (GA), and either a ings at this time. fice! smartly submit a claim. This additional local Legion post INTENT TO DSO CONTACT INFORMATION. service can and will become something for a possible FILE. Some vet- We are located at Togus VA Medical we will all be very proud of. The next fundraiser or The erans are not ready Center, Building 205, Room 318. You issue that must be addressed is staffing for American Legion to file a claim or can contact us by telephone at 207-623- events. My vision going forward is to Department Head- are looking for 5726, Fax at 207-621-4821, or by email at have a booth or display at all major events quarters. In addi- additional infor- [email protected], in Maine. Only accredited Service Offic- tion, we can make mation. In that [email protected], or ju- ers will be able to have access to help Vet- referrals to other service organizations, case, you can execute an Intent to file with [email protected]. We are here to assist erans file claims, because of the access to but we do not have the funds to pay our office. That is NOT a claim for bene- you Monday through Thursday, 9:00 am – all the VA systems we will have. rent, mortgage, credit card bills or oth- fits. You have 1 year to file your claim; 3:00 pm, on Friday the hours are from As you know the Department Con- er ongoing bills. If you have children, one year period! Failure to file in one 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. We are closed on vention is coming up. I need nominations mention TFA to the Department Adju- year starts the clock on your claim from Federal Holidays and Patriot’s Day. Just a for Post Service Officer of the Year. The tant when you call to see if you are eligi- the day you file. DO NOT FORGET TO reminder, it is always a good idea to make last few years have been a run off between ble to apply. FOLLOW UP AND FILE YOUR an appointment rather than drop in, as we only two PSOs in the Department. One of PSO Training Seminar. The Post CLAIM! may be seeing other veterans and would the reasons why is that they are truly do- Service Officer Training will start back up NEW AND MATERIAL EVI- hate to miss you. That said, you are al- ing a great job and the other reason is the in April. It will be the last Tuesday of the DENCE. VA claims that are denied and ways welcome to stop in the DSO Office. fact that what they do is articulated to the month as normal. I will try a Saturday this have not been appealed within the appro- REQUESTING A DSO PRESENTA- decision makers for the award. It is im- year just to see if I can get more folks to priate time frame require “New and Mate- TION AT YOUR AREA/DISTRICT portant that we recognize their accom- attend. If you have any questions, please rial Evidence” to be reopened. It is some- OR SPECIAL EVENT. If you are in- plishments. send me an e-mail at [email protected]. times futile and frustrating to the veteran terested in having us speak at your area or The Appeals modernization act is You do not have to be a post service to keep resubmitting the same claim as it district meeting or event, just contact us to coming into effect in February. I will keep officer to attend training. You just have to will most likely be denied. set up a time and date! Requests are han- you informed as soon as I get more infor- care and want to make a difference. NEW WAYS TO APPLY FOR VA dled on a first come first serve status; sub- HEALTHCARE ject to the availability of travel funds. Sign up for VA Healthcare. Sign-up Please set aside at least 30 minutes of your for VA Healthcare can now be done three agenda for the presentation. ways! The Department of Veterans Af-
8 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 The Boots A Brief History of Kennebunk Post 74 ast week They will protect your feet as you car- his is a brief illustrative history of Up through the late 1930s, other than L while I ry your weapons, bags and fatigued bodies T American Legion Post of Kennebunk, conducting Memorial and 4th of July events, exited my car at across the mountains, deserts, oceans and Maine. Based on newspaper reports dating such as parades, placing flags in the ceme- our local gro- more. These are the same boots peeking out back to the 1920s, it is not an exhaustive teries, etc., the Post attended the National cery store, I from under the white cotton cloth of a sol- history. Its goal, instead, is to present a brief Conventions in Boston marching in the was confronted dier just killed in the battlefield. The same picture of how the Post changed and devel- lengthy parades (10 hours long in 1930 and by a gentleman boots standing atop a makeshift memorial oped up through the 1950s. It will do this by 18 hours long the next year); refurbished the who gruffly holding the rifle and dog tags of our sister looking at the bits of its history, as shown in West Kennebunk Grange hall (1931); lead asked if that who just paid the ultimate sacrifice. These the news articles, on a decade by decade the Armistice Day celebration in Kennebunk was my car. are the boots of a United States Veteran. basis. and worked alongside the community organ- With a puzzled All of us wore these boots and stood Over March 15-17, 1919 in Paris izers to sponsor, organize, and conduct the look I answered proudly taking the same oath to defend the France, an initial formative meeting to create local celebrations. Also, during this time the yes. The man Constitution of the United States of Ameri- an American Legion Veteran's group was Post lead the visit of Veterans to the World continued on to ca under the Red White and Blue of Old held at the urging of General Teddy Roose- War I battlefields in France (1931); spon- say “well I saw SGT-AT-ARMS Glory. There is no person more proud than velt Jr. with the assistance of General Per- sored various plays for the public at the the disabled a Veteran wearing those Tall black Boots. shing. A selected (by Pershing and Roose- Kennebunk Town Hall; supported the GAR Veteran plate KELLY ELA As each of us moved through our mili- velt) combination of career and volunteer vets (1931) dedicated two Oak trees in re- and wondered tary careers, we traveled the world. We saw military officers attended this first conven- membrance at the Nason property; decorated what’s wrong with you. You seem to look the beauty the world had to offer. We saw tion. On September 16, 1919 the United the graves at Mt. Pleasant, Pinegrove, and just fine to me. I don’t understand why the terror and awful sights the world also States Congress granted a charter for a Vet- Evergreen cemeteries (1931); and in 1936- young people like you (get to be) consid- offered. Those boots stood witness with us. eran's group formation. Out of this initial 1941 helped support the "Combating Un- ered disabled.” It was at that point I decided As we fell, they fell, as we advanced, they formative process The American Legion was Americanism movement" by: Organizing a it was vital to share something that’s been advanced. formed and held its first National Conven- junior baseball team; Conducting safety first on my mind for years. I, like many Veter- When we deployed, those boots de- tion on November 10-12th 1919. On Decem- campaigns; Conducting flag education clas- ans struggle to deal with a disease that is ployed with us; we never left without our ber 19th, 1919, in Kennebunk, Maine, Web- ses; Performing civic work with the Cham- slowly killing me on the inside. It doesn’t boots. We left our husbands and wives, our ber Post 74 of the Legion held its first meet- ber of Commerce Collecting and distributing matter how fine I look on the outside. The children, and friends. Over and over we left ing with Frank Littlefield as Chairman, in food for the needy during Thanksgiving and pure ignorance of humanity can take a big to stand the endless watch of freedom wear- the lower hall of the Opera House. The later Christmas; Collecting and distributing relief toll on some of us. We aren’t always the ing those tall black boots. initial, more permanent meeting place would during the March 1936 floods; Setting up the strong Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines As time progressed, each of us were be the Town Hall, but over the decades, the yearly Christmas tree for the town; and or- and Coastguardsmen we used to be. ordered down a different path. Some of us meeting places have changed many times ganizing and conducting the yearly memori- I ignored the man and dragged my tall, injured on the outside and lost or maimed with the current meeting location being 15 al services. proud, grotesquely scarred, PTSD engulfed, our limbs. Some of us injured our backs Water St., Kennebunk, ME. The Post was The 1940s activities were basically medication filled, bullet hole healed, blood and necks. Some of us burned unrecogniza- named after Harold Webber, the first person divided into three segments: those leading clot ridden, body with barely functioning ble, while some of us received mental inju- from Kennebunk killed in World War I. up to the War, activities during the War, and The relationship between the new Le- activities after the War. In 1939, the Post kidneys and lungs that happens to be short ries. All while wearing the same boots as st of a few organs, into the store, so that I our brothers and sisters. gion Post and the existing old Webster Post attended the 21 American Legion Conven- could feed my family with three small chil- Some of us were unknowingly exposed of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), tion, strongly supported the movement to dren waiting at home. That my friends is to agents and poisons resulting in cancer, which had been the United States Veteran's universal service, provided support to wid- why I have a disabled Veteran plate. and diseases with no cure, all while wearing group established after the Civil War, was ows and orphans in the Kennebunk area, and visited/supported disabled Vets and hospi- This is what inspired me to write…The those boots. very close and strong. Their missions were tals. 1940 again saw the visiting of cemeter- Boots Some of us received injuries so great, basically the same: remembrance, service to community, education, comradeship, and ies and participation in Memorial Day ATTENN HUTTTT!!!! You step off that those boots had to be put on a shelf protective continuation of the ideals for Events. that bus to the screams and spit blaring below a flag, never to be worn again. which they had fought and died. Jesse Web- In August 1941, Post 74 along with from the mouth of the Drill Instructors and The one thing that stands true is those ster who the GAR post had been named after other Legion Posts kicked into high gear it is at that point, life as you know it just Black Boots were worn by every United was an example of this code. He had been with the National Defense Program. The changed. As the days in hell progress, you States Veteran, fighting to defend our coun- killed in a canon accident in 1876. Posts during this program provided and are all issued a pair of Tall Black Boots. try. It doesn’t matter what branch of ser- In Kennebunk the two units worked practiced for disaster and relief aid, air raid These boots will quickly become your vice. It doesn’t matter if they were on the closely together over the many decades until warning organization and practice, and pro- lifeline and you will never leave without feet of a man or a woman, young or old. At the last member of the GAR (Albert Wood- vision of support to police and fire units. them. You will lace them, shine them, learn one point they were laced up and cared for son), died in 1956, and the organization was This program was under the direction of the how to march diligently and precisely in with pride like no other. dissolved. War Department. them. When they get dirty you will clean Our disabilities may all be different As the GAR organization aged, the On October 29, 1942, by an act of Con- them and proudly shine them again. You and not always seen on the outside. They Legion organization gradually took over the gress, Post 74 along with the rest of the Le- will stand for hours and hours in them. You were all acquired performing the same mis- duties and fulfilled the responsibilities. (It is gion was incorporated with the commitment will do push ups until you puke in them. sion, while wearing those same tall black worth mentioning throughout the United to the values of: Upholding and defending You will eat in them, you will sleep in boots. States, this alliance between the two organi- the Constitution of the United States; Pro- them, you will sweat and bleed on them, So next time you go to judge that disa- zations did not always exist: in Kennebunk it moting peace and goodwill in the country you will make friends for life in them. They bled Veteran that looks “fine” on the out- did.) For example, initially, as it did on the and world; Preserving memories and inci- will get wet and give you blisters that make side, take a moment to look at his or her June 5th, 1925 Memorial Day ceremonies the dents of the two World Wars; Cementing the you cringe but you will keep on marching feet and remember. At one time, he or she Legion members supported GAR activities. comradeship born of joint service; and Con- proudly in them. You will train hard and strapped up those boots for your freedom These were activities, such as visiting the secrating efforts of members to promote learn to defend yourself and America in and is now paying the price with no regret. local cemeteries (like Pine Grove which the helpfulness and service to country. them. God Bless America. Legion has been visiting for approximately With the Country now on a war footing, 100 years), marching in Memorial parades, the Post members organized Home Guard and organizing and conducting civic events activities, such as recruiting retirees for ac- (such as dances, concerts, plays, etc.), and tivities, training airplane spotters, providing supporting civic groups such as the Scouts. pre-induction training, providing vocational Within a few years, Post 74 took the lead in training to disabled vets, setting up observa- Mother & Son Memorial Day organizing and conducting these activities tion posts, contributing information to the because of the aging and declining numbers Town Hall Honor Roll, being involved with Celebration: American Legion De- of the GAR in attendance. The old guard war bond efforts, helping collect scarce ma- partment of Maine Sgt.-At-Arms Kelly was passing the mission on to the new terials such as metal, and supporting and Ela, left, with her son, Nathaniel guard. helping returning vets and their families. Elsaesser, a future Legion Rider Chapter Quite a few Auxiliary organizations These activities occurred along with the 155 and SAL member, celebrate Memori- sprang up to help continue this work. Groups usual performance of the Memorial Day al Day together at the 2018 Memorial Day such as the Women's Relief Organization, observances. Ceremony held in Naples. Legion Auxiliary, and Ladies Auxiliary di- In the post War world, in 1945, the Post rectly working with Post 74 in the 1920s on. helped create the World War Memorial The continuance of the overall organization- Community Center and in 1946, the Memo- al goals, as listed above, was the uniting rial Athletic Field next to Kennebunk High factor as evidenced by actions through the years. More on “POST HISTORY”, Page 9
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 9 Coast Guard Keeps Us Safe, Despite Supporting Military Caregivers, Unnecessary Shutdown America’s “Hidden Heroes” he men and stories from Coast Guard families who n March of 1919, just four months after health care and T women were forced to take out loans to pay their I they won the peace that ended World help Veterans proudly serving bills and care for their children. Others still War I, veterans of the American Expedi- access care in the U.S. Coast had to rely on food pantries and the good tionary Force gathered in Paris for the closer to home. Guard were – will of neighbors and community members first American Legion caucus, and that This historic like hundreds of to make ends meet. great organization was chartered by Con- legislation es- thousands of This is why we cannot and must not gress before year’s end. Among the tablishes ex- other federal shut down the government for temporary American Legion’s first accomplishments panded and employees – political gain, and it’s why I repeatedly was leadership in establishing of the U.S. more flexible caught up in a 35 called on the President to take yes for an Veterans Bureau, the forerunner of the criteria for day partial gov- answer by accepting the bipartisan agree- Department of Veterans Affairs. when Veterans ernment shut- ment that overwhelmingly passed the Sen- A century later supporting our Veter- may access VA down that was ate before Christmas and immediately reo- ans and those who serve today remains -funded care in both reckless and SENATOR pen the government. I support increased among our greatest obligations. That obli- SENATOR their communi- avoidable. De- ANGUS KING border security, because I believe it is nec- gation includes supporting America’s SUSAN COLLINS ties, such as spite being in- essary for national security, but those who “hidden heroes” – the 5.5 million family when Veterans voluntarily em- protect our shores and border shouldn’t caregivers who provide essential daily face burdens in accessing VA facilities broiled in Washington’s squabbling, Coast have to suffer as this complicated policy care to spouses, children, parents, and due to long wait times, excessive driving Guard personnel from Eastport, Maine debate unfolds. other loved ones who bear the wounds of distances, or medical conditions that to Kodiak, Alaska upheld their duties to As we move on from this unnecessary their service protecting our nation and our might affect his or her ability to trav- protect our country and continued to patrol political maelstrom, I urge my colleagues freedom. el. Veterans in Maine who might have to our waterways and coastline. to remember the damage this shutdown In June 2017, I chaired a hearing of drive great distances to the Togus VA Thankfully, with the shutdown over, created for hundreds of thousands of feder- the Senate Aging Committee to examine Medical Center in Augusta will continue Coast Guard members will receive the al employees and for thousands more fed- the challenges facing these devoted fami- to have the opportunity to continue re- paychecks they missed; I was happy to eral contractors. We cannot take for grant- ly caregivers. A report released at the ceiving care closer to home. cosponsor the bill to ensure federal em- ed the vigilance and dedication of the U.S. hearing found that these individuals pro- Veterans deserve convenient access ployees received the pay they were due. Coast Guard who, in the face of adversity, vide roughly $14 billion a year in volun- to the high-quality health care that they But it should never have to be this way. continued to stand watch. tary, uncompensated care, and they often have earned through their service, and Over the course of the shutdown, we heard sacrifice their own physical, emotional, I’ve heard from countless Maine Veterans and financial well-being to do so. about how excessive distances and long Post History provided color guards for As a senior member of the Senate wait times were getting in the way of their many civic events over the years and orga- Appropriations Committee, I advocated access to high quality care in their com- (Continued from Page 8) nized parades and other celebratory and me- for the inclusion of $181 million for the munities. I am pleased that Congress morial events. They also sponsored and sup- School. ported many patriotically oriented youth and National Family Caregiver Support Pro- passed this legislation to expand access to The Post was incorporated under State Law town activities and, of course, the various gram in the 2019 Labor, Health and Hu- health care services to all Veterans, and I in 1946. Also in 1946, the Post refurbished war efforts from World War II, to Korea, man Services, and Education Appropria- look forward to continuing to work with and moved into The Nellie Parsons estate Vietnam, Iraq, and it goes on. tions bill that was signed into law in Sep- the VA on its implementation in Maine. property. Along with the usual Memorial But as culture, as time, changed, the tember. The funding includes a $300,000 Last November, I was honored to Day activities in May held an antique show Legion and the Post moved through the vari- investment for the creation of a Family receive the first Congressional Caregiver in August and scrap drive in September. Of ous wars and a host of other conflicts: the Caregiving Council to implement the Champion Award from the Elizabeth most significance in 1946 was the renaming evolving environment and culture forced RAISE Family Caregivers Act, a new law Dole Foundation, the preeminent organi- of the Post by adding the name of Edward changes. The Legion and Post, for example, I authored that will establish a coordinat- zation empowering and supporting our Lefebvre (the first service member from broadened their membership eligibility re- ed strategy to support family caregivers. military caregivers. Kennebunk killed in World War II to the quirements to include these new Veterans In addition, following my advocacy, Former Senator Elizabeth Dole began Post's name: now Webber-Lefebvre Post 74. from these new conflicts. the 2019 Military Construction and Veter- the Foundation after she came to know In the late '40s, there were paper drives, But several others things occurred with- ans Affairs Appropriations bill that also family caregivers in 2011 when her hus- sponsored minstrel shows, adoption of a six in our society, as well. One of these was the was signed into law in September in- band, wounded World War II hero and year old boy in France, working with local growing lack of interest in our culture to cludes $865 million – an increase of $369 former Senator Bob Dole, was hospital- Scout organizations, erection of a flag at the civic group participation. So from the high million over the amount requested in the ized at Walter Reed. The Foundation’s then current Post, acquisition of a pool table membership roles of the 1930s and 1940s, and television, sponsoring of a "Battle of the Post 74 and the rest of the Legion saw a administration’s budget – for the VA Hidden Heroes campaign brings vital Acts performance, sponsoring of a fun fair steep decline in membership which we are Caregiver Program. This program, which attention to the untold stories of military and formation of a past commander's club. still struggling with today supported caregivers of post-9/11 Veter- caregivers and provides a network for These types of activities continued into later As Post 74 moves forward, as does the ans, will be expanded in the coming years military caregivers to connect with their years with sponsorships of beauty contests, rest of the Legion, we face these new and to include pre-9/11 Veterans and their peers and access vital resources. fun fairs, etc. and in the early 1950s, a Cru- continuing challenges of membership, fi- caregivers with the enactment of the VA It was a particular honor to be pre- sade for Freedom movement. In 1947, the nancing, changing social role in a changing Mission Act, which I championed. sented with that award by Maine’s 2017 old World War I German howitzer (1st ac- society, environment, the core mission of the Named in honor of the late Senator Dole Foundation Caregiver Fellow, Mar- quired in 1925), which had been sent to sup- Post, and larger organization remains the John McCain and Representative Samuel jorie Pennington, whose husband, Mat- port the necessary metal scrap drive during same: a commitment to our members, our Johnson, a Texas Republican, both of thew, was grievously wounded in Iraq. the War, found its way back and was placed shared values, and dedication to the princi- whom were prisoners of war in Vietnam, Her words describe the dedication of our next to the Civil War monument across from ples upon which our country was founded. and also for Daniel Akaka, a former Ha- family caregivers: “He fought for our the Kennebunk library. Our organizational life stretches back a long waii Democratic Senator and World War freedom, and I will always fight for him.” Through the '20s, '30s, '40s, '50s, and way, and as Col. William C. Horton said, as II Veteran, the VA Mission Act of 2018 These patriots caring for a wounded war- into the '60s and on, Kennebunk's Legion speaker, at the 1925 Memorial Day ceremo- creates a new Veteran Community Care rior are among America’s hidden heroes Post 74, as have those throughout the coun- nies, “'Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet; try and world, has seen many changes in lest we forget, lest we forget." Program to streamline the delivery of and they need our support. their size, activities, cultural environment, And as we remember individuals like and membership. James V. Day (1914-Aug 11, 1986) a WWII During the years through the early Veteran, who was a commander of Post 74 1950s, Post 74 was, as was also much of the and later went on to become head of the Monday Legion throughout the United States, very United States Maritime Association for 23 active and had large participation. For exam- years, and Joseph Lake, who was the last ple, as mentioned, the Mt. Pleasant, Pine soldier from Kennebunk who had served in Grove, Evergreen, and many other cemeter- the Civil War; we of Post 74, continue this ies in the local area were maintained with tradition of service and remembrance. May 27 flags for Memorial Day and July 4th. There were many sponsored events, such as beauty By Donald G. Beane pageants, public plays, etc. The Post also
10 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 Kittery Legion Post is Reactivated Posts Need to Change with the Times to Survive
enry Wallingford was born on Mar. 9, Post for the Saturday night socials. The H 1893 in Rochester, New Hampshire. Saturday night socials were an adult affair By the 1900’s, he was attending school and with as many as 120 people attending. living with his uncle, Samuel A. Jackson, There were New Year’s Eve parties, Hal- in Kittery, Maine. By all accounts he be- loween parties, and Costume parties. The came a well-respected and responsible Post held Bingo contests. The Post Auxilia- young adult. He owned his own motorcycle ry was very active having as many as five and worked for B & M Railroad in the or six ladies in the kitchen making dinners. roundhouse. He joined the Riverside Lodge As the Post was a rather large building, of Oddfellows in Kittery on Oct. 5, 1914. it came with a rather large heating bill He answered the nations call to war on which the Post was behind on because of May 28, 1918. He was a Private and served the lack of fundraising events and member with the American Expeditionary Forces. participation for most of the 1960’s. He was killed in action on Nov. 28, 1918. Rejuvenating the Post proved to be His gravestone reads his quote: “I realized very difficult and here is where we as Le- that this might happen, but it is all for a gionnaires could learn from the eventual good cause, and I am glad that I came.” As demise of the Post. Commander Burnell the first casualty of the war from Kittery, was “practically an outcast” in the Post as Maine, he became the namesake of its he was a Vietnam Veteran or a “new kid on American Legion Post. the block” as some others would say. Many During World War II, Keith Harris members were resistant to any change. was an aviator and the son of prominent Most World War I Veterans were stal- local Pastor C. Basil Harris. He was de- wart in their positions. They viewed Post clared missing in action and later lost. He social activities such as the dances and Sat- became the second namesake to form the urday socials as “liabilities” and not some- Wallingford-Harris American Legion Post thing the post should be involved in. They, 89 of Kittery, Maine. of course, didn’t participate in these activi- Over time, the services provided to ties leaving more work to the few. For their Veterans and the community were wide part, most World War II Veterans saw the and varied. Dinner and dances were hosted barber, Roger Gauthier, kept the post alive tation; Naval Reserve Meritorious Medal; activities as money makers and were some- early on as was assistance to help Veterans – at least on paper. Hearing of this predica- Vietnam Service Medal; Vietnam Presiden- what supportive yet the two factions could- through the “red tape” of the government ment; Vietnam Veteran Douglas Burnell tial Unit Citation; Republic of Vietnam n’t or wouldn’t get along. Add to this, and understanding their earned benefits. accepted the challenge to rejuvenate the Meritorious Unit Citation; Civil Action many were unhappy having a Vietnam Vet The Post sent numerous kids to Boys and Post. Color; Vietnam Campaign Medal with De- as Commander. Girls state programs, sponsored American Douglas Burnell joined the U. S. Navy vice; and M-16 expert medal. The different factions caused a con- Legion Baseball teams and the local Boy in 1946. He served on the USS Chadron PC In addition; he was involved in Civic stant and unpleasant churn in the Post. The Scouts. Radios were donated for Veterans 564, (a sub chaser), as an electrical engi- affairs as a member of the Elks Club, Inter- Post was no longer a fun place to be. Some at the hospital at the Portsmouth Naval neer. He was discharged in 1951 and en- national Brotherhood of Electrical Workers members felt the Post lost its identity when Shipyard. On Aug. 1, 1941, the Post spon- tered the CB reserves in 1966 where he financial secretary, and the local Veterans they couldn’t get their own way. When I sored a block party where they featured an went to school for diesel engine and was of Foreign Wars. He served as Parade Mar- asked Past Commander Burnell why the “iron lung” they had bought for the com- put on fire fighting and damage control shal for several years. Post shut down, he simply answered, munity. Of course, the Post participated in duties as part of the Reserve Mobile Con- I interviewed him and asked him what “People were tired of arguing – people Veterans and Memorial Day exercises such struction Battalion building bases and air- he remembers about the Post. He told me stopped coming.” I then asked what could as parades and flag placements. The Post fields in Vietnam. He was recalled to active the Post “did a lot for the teens” They could be learned from his experience that might itself was opened to be a home away from duty on May 13, 1968 and served as a First hang out and play pool. Once again, the help other Posts and leaders. He thought for home for traveling service members. Class electrician. Post had become a focal point in the com- a moment and answered, “We need to re- The Post had high and low points of His ribbons and awards are numerous munity. Friday night dances were very pop- main principled but change with the times.” participation over time. The late 1960’s including: Combat Action Ribbon; Navy ular; cost $4 and were held for the teenag- Submitted by Donald G. Hands was a particularly low point and the local Unit Commendation; Meritorious Unit Ci- ers, some of which would help clean up the Dept. of Maine 100th Anniversary Chairman Submitting your Post History teps for Submitting your Post History: 6. Scroll a short distance further to: S 1. Before you begin, you will need to “Tell us about your Post” There are sever- have some information ready to be up- al photos, select the one with “Tell us loaded to the National site. about your Post”, click Post namesake (if you have one or 7. Next page will ask for: State (pull more). Also provide a brief history of down and select Maine) and Post # (enter) namesake(s). Paragraph or two and click “select”. Post/District First Commander, and 8. If you have a history site it will brief history if available come up, if not you are asked to “Please Post/District significant individual(s) sign in and enter it” (historical) and history. Bio 9. Sign in (keeping your sign in info) History of the Post/District (narrative) and follow the prompts, entering info by Photos optional but great if you have hand or download. them) 10. When done, save and enter any 2. Collect these items and write up in photos, save and you’re done. advance so that they can be uploaded. Any You have successfully placed your additional information needs to be typed Post History on the Centennial National directly on the site. page for all to review (and become one 3. When you log-in. retain your log-in step closer to the Post Excellence Award.) information, so you can go back to the site Looking forward to seeing all the for edits and additions. District 2 and Post Histories on the Cen- 100th Anniversary Update: 100th Anniversary Committee Chairman 4. Go to: www.legion.org/centennial tennial Pages. Donald G. Hands gives an update on the 100th Anniversary Celebration to those page attending the Annual Mid-Winter Conference in Bangor on Jan. 19. By David Tanguay 5. Scroll down to: “share your histo- Photo by Jeffrey Stevenson ry” (about half way down the site) District 2 Adjutant
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 11 — Bits ′N Pieces — American Legion Items for VAVS at Togus, $30 each to Baseball Rockland Post 1 three Girl Scout Troops, $50 to sponsor an Auxiliary member running for Mrs. In the last seven years 175 quilts Maine, $50 to a Jr. Auxiliary member for Important Notice have been presented to Veterans who her American Heritage trip, $25 to Cedar have served during war time on foreign Ridge Resident’s Council in memory of he American Legion Baseball Com- For more information go to soil. Unit 39 Jean Fortin, $10 to Camp Capel- T mittee, Department of Maine has an- www.mainelegion.org. Click on Squadron 1 gave three $500 scholar- la, $50 worth of items for Camp Tall nounced that any American Legion Post, “Programs” and toggle to “baseball”. See ships in January to three deserving high Pines, $100 to a Legionnaire member and town or high school wishing to enroll a “registration open for the 2019 American school graduates. family who lost their house in a fire, team in American Legion Baseball in Legion Baseball season”. bought Christmas gifts for two Veterans Maine during the 2019 season must do so The mandatory Senior Legion State Meet- Gardiner Post 4 at MVHA and for three members of Mad- by April 1, 2019. Anyone interested in ing will be held on April 28, 2019 at 10 ison Post 39 who are in nursing homes having a team, should contact State Direc- a.m. American Legion Gardiner Unit 4 donated two bags of for $143, $50 each month for comfort tor David Gray at Headquarters, 5 Verti Dr., Winslow, gifts to the Betsy Ross House. Also they items at Togus for December and January [email protected] or call 778- Maine. All teams must have a representa- went shopping for three veterans for and $50 to NEADS in memory of Colo- 4375. tive present at this meeting. Christmas. nel. They also mailed out care packages to two of their deployed Legion members. Caribou Post 15 Local food cupboards will be the recipi- ent of $700. The American Legion Squadron 39 donated $500 to the Caribou Post 15 for their donations Waterville Chapter Maine Home for Lit- of $50 to Camp Sun Shine, $50 to Girl tle Wanderers, $500 to the Travis Mills Baseball Scholarship Scouts, $50 to American Heart Assoc., Foundation and $150 to Wreaths Across $50 to St. Jude, $50 to Salvation Army, America. They also helped defray the n 2018, The American Legion awarded A ninth player, selected as the most $50 to Memorial Day Foundation, $50 to cost of a Junior member’s up-coming I $22,000 in scholarships to deserving outstanding member of the All-Academic Hope & Justice, $400 to Caribou Veter- Heritage Tour trip and allocated a $250 players. Each Department Baseball Com- Team, will be awarded an additional ans Home, $100 to Angel Flight, $25 to scholarship to a senior at Madison High mittee may select a player from their De- $5,000 scholarship. Camp Capella, $125 to Team Leadership, School. partment to receive this scholarship. The All-Academic Team winners will $200 to Breakfast for Vietnam Veterans, American Legion will award several retain their $500 scholarship from their $50 to United Veterans of Maine, $75 scholarships this year depending on the department. to Holy Rosary Blanket Ministry, $50 to Pembroke Post 59 number of applicants and interest earned Scholarship recipients will be eligible Maine Blind Camp and $50 to T.A.M.C from the trust fund. to receive their scholarships immediately Survivor Health Care. Pembroke Post 59 donated $1,000 in Award Amounts upon graduation from an accredited high debit cards to the Coast Guard in Department Baseball Scholarship school. Scholarship winners must utilize Eastport. Winners receive $500. the total award within eight (8) years of South Portland Post 35 Each certified Department Baseball their graduation date, excluding active Post 35 delivered thirteen baskets to Berwick Post 79 scholarship winner shall be considered for military time. the Vet Center in Portland and seven to The American Legion All-Academic For a copy of the application, please the Coast Guard base in South Portland. Berwick Post 79 for their donations Team sponsored by Diamond Sports, an- visit Personnel at these locations move the of $400 to the Berwick Fuel Emergency nually. https://www.legion.org/scholarships/ boxes on to needy Veterans. A portion of Fund, $200 to the Table of Plenty, $50 to Eight players selected by a scholar- baseball or the cost is a budgeted item in the Post the Somersworth-Berwick Food Pantry, ship selection committee at The American http://www.mainelegion.org/pages/ $100 to the North Berwick Bethel Chris- Legion World Series will receive an addi- programs/baseball.php budget and about 35 per cent of the funds are donated. Items in the baskets include tian Church (Christmas Project), $100 to tional $2,500 scholarship. —www.legion.org a 8 – 10# frozen turkey, yams, potatoes, the South Berwick Community Food Pan- squash, carrots, celery, canned vegeta- try, $30 to the Dover, NH Police Depart- bles, sugar, flour, gravy, cranberries, cake ment (Christmas Baskets), $35 to the mix with frosting, Jell-O and pudding and Rollinsford, NH Police Department 2019 Legion Baseball many more items including apples, tange- (Christmas Baskets), $150 to the Lebanon los and bananas. Union Free Will Baptist Church Registration Now Open (Christmas Baskets), for a total of $1,065 Madison Post 39 in donations to area charities. These mon- eturning coaches may trative fees and either $155 etary donations were made possible renew their teams or for season personal acci- through the Post’s annual Fall raffle and R Madison Post 39 spent approximate- register new teams. New dent or $225 for year- the generous donations of raffle items coaches should contact round coverage. General ly $3,000 for boots and coats for Madison from Maine and New Hampshire area and Carrabec students. Thanks to all the their department’s chair- liability costs increased by businesses. man to find out more in- $6 to $106. businesses who supported this project. Thank you to Luke Perkins, a junior formation about state- Fees for junior teams will at Madison Area Memorial HS, who per- Windham Post 148 specific rules and dead- remain $25 for national formed the National Anthem and played lines. registration, $35 for admin- Taps on the trumpet at the Veterans Day Each Wednesday Post 148 collects Registration will run istrative fees and either Ceremony. non-perishable food items to be delivered through the early deadline $130 for season personal Unit 39 member Maxine Dube has to the Portland VET-CENTER on Thurs- on May 15. Teams regis- accident or $185 for year- mailed out $20,346.96 worth of coupons day to support the homeless Veteran pop- tered after May 15 will be round coverage. General over the summer. Thank you to Maxine ulation. subject to $200 late fee liability costs increased by and Barbara Wyman for their hours of Windham Post 148 Commander Mel through the final deadline $6 to $74. gathering and cutting coupons. Thank Greenier received a National Recruiter on June 1. State fees, if applicable, you to all who donated coupons. Hat Pin at the last Awards and Recogni- Each state may set an earlier deadline will vary by state. Unit 39 for their donations of $50 to tion night. for registration, however. To learn more about your specific a family who lost their home due to fire, Windham Unit 148 supported the Teams registering in 2019 will spend department’s state fees and deadlines, $50 to the Senior Citizens Thanksgiving Vet-Coffee program by a donation of two the same amount in national fees and ad- contact your department chairmen. dinner, $300 to the Gift Shop at Maine $100 Hannaford gift cards to help defray ministrative fees as they did last season, For more information on Legion Veterans Home, Augusta, $50 to the the cost of donuts and fruit for the weekly while only spending $6 more for insur- Baseball, visit www.legion.org/baseball. President’s project, $50 for Comfort event. ance. Insurance purchases will be available Fees for senior teams will remain $50 after Jan. 15.
for national registration, $35 for adminis- —www..legion.org Jan. 1, 2019
12 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 Sixth Annual Women Veteran’s Luncheon a Huge Success umford Post 24 along with support unteers again gave so much of their time port us. Senator Angus King was our guest attended and supported this event. R from the Women Veterans Advisory and are always the best at supporting our speaker. He joined us for lunch and ad- A special thank you to 1st Vice Com- Committee held their 6th Annual Women luncheons. Valerie, Carol, Rorrie, Joy B, dressed our women Veterans then opened mander Matt Jabaut and Americanism Veterans Luncheon in October. Even Keith, Sue, Pam, Rena, Jo, Kirk and Jessi- it up for discussion. Our Junior Girl Scouts Officer Alfred McKay for attending and though the weather was not the best, it was ca, your endless hours of volunteering are 910 was as usual truly amazing perform- helping with dishes and clean up. once again a huge success. truly appreciated. Our Reiki volunteers ing the National Anthem and other songs. We had a total of 39 women Veterans Our community and members are the best. Birdie, Kim, Kathy and Rodney were The Scouts brought homemade cards in attendance which was not bad consider- As always, they donated toward our free amazing. Diane did an amazing job lead- and also helped serve lunch. ing the weather we had. Thank you from giveaways. Dunkin Donuts provided cof- ing our Paint n Take. Jan and Elizabeth led Information tables were set up by the bottom of my heart for all who sup- fee and donuts. Hannaford gave a gift card our book group (Poetry in Motion) and TOGUS American Legion Service Office, ported this event. Without your communi- toward our cake. So many businesses and shared. It was amazing. Claire Starnes Vets Center, Bruce Poliquins’ and Angus ty and personal support, this would not be personal donations were given for this shared her book and spoke on her Vietnam Kings’ office. possible. event. experiences. Michelle brought her essen- Thank you to all the Women Veterans Patricia Thurston Rumford Post, Unit and SAL 24 vol- tial oils and explained how they can sup- Advisory Committee members who also Women’s Advisory/Women Veterans Action Committee Chairwoman
Marine Veterans with Navy Veterans with Air Force Veterans Army Veterans Senator Angus King Senator Angus
Should the Cadet Nurse Corps be Recognized as Veterans? They saved lives at home, so others shortage here at home. The Cadet Nursing their efforts were extremely important to ing “I believe that the women who served “ could save lives abroad”. This quote is Corps was created to provide enough nurs- our war effort. They took care of our sol- in the United States Cadet Nurse Corps etched on the plaque at the Eisenhower es for here at home while other nurses diers returning home that needed medical 1943-1948 should receive full veteran Memorial Plaza in East Meadow, New were sent away during World War II. This treatment. The Surgeon General, Tomas status.” Kent’s daughter Mary Riley shares York. This plaque was created to honor all program allowed all who were interested Parran Jr., told the U.S. House Committee “My mom said at one time they were those who served in our Cadet Nurse to apply no matter what their race was. on Affairs in 1945 “We cannot measure ‘Veterans without benefits,’” Riley said. Corps. Any woman between the ages of 17 to what the loss to our country would have “Well, that’s not really a Veteran.” I per- The U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps was cre- 35 could apply as long as they were in been if civilian services had collapsed, any sonally have to agree. “Harry S. Truman ated by Congress on June 15, 1943. Presi- good health and had graduated from a high more than we could measure the cost of told our superiors that we would earn such dent F.D. Roosevelt later signed into law school with good accreditation. If appli- failure at the Normandy beachheads.” benefits,” Kent wrote. “Unfortunately, that on July 1, 1943. The Corps began in 1943 cants were accepted, they were then eligi- As of today our Cadet Nurse Corps was not the case. I stood by my husband’s and ended in 1948. Approximately ble to have their tuition, books, uniform, are not recognized as Veterans. They do side while he received the honor, recogni- 124,000 women graduated from the Cadet as well as receiving a stipend. In order to not receive benefits that others do who tion, and benefits of being a Veteran for Nursing Corps. receive this they had to agree to serve and have served our country. How can this be over 65 years, while I received no such When World War II began, those who provide services throughout World War II. okay? I find it puzzling that these women recognition.” Doris Kent passed away on were already trained as nurses were trans- Cadet Nurses came from all walks of served our country, wore uniforms and to Jan. 5, 2019. She died receiving no Veter- ferred to military service. This created a life that spanned our entire nation. There this day have not been given Veteran sta- an’s benefits and no military honors at her were many reasons for tus. I realize that they did not go overseas. funeral service. This in my opinion is a wanting to become a In the words of Amedeo Lauria, “One disgrace. Cadet Nurse, but the Team One Fight”. To me this statement Our Veterans of WWII came home to Women Veterans most important was means that, it should not matter where a strong health care system due to these Committee because their country they served as long as they served their women serving in the Cadet Nurse Corps. Update: Women’s needed them. This pro- country. We all joined for one reason and They received critical care by these nurses. Advisory/Women Vet- gram was considered that is to support the United States of They wore their uniforms with pride and erans Action Commit- the largest of the feder- America. were promised they would receive military tee Chairwoman Patri- al programs. This pro- Several bills have been filed in Con- benefits. My answer to the question would cia Thurston speaks on gram provided a way gress over the past few decades. Nothing be “yes”, I believe they deserve the honor Women Veterans to for young women to so far has worked to help these women. of being recognized as a Veteran. My hope serve their country. Senator King shared that the Senate passed is that someday they will receive full Vet- those in attendance th during the Annual Mid- They did this in uni- his resolution honoring the 75 anniver- eran status. Winter Conference in form and without being sary of the Cadet Nurse Corps. It is won- By Tricia Thurston discriminated against. derful to honor these women but they want Women’s Advisory/Women Veterans Action Bangor on Jan. 19. Committee Chairwoman The Cadet Nurse Corps more than that. Doris Kent of Green City, worked stateside and Mo. wrote a letter to President Trump stat-
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 13
THOUGHTS ON LEADERSHIP A DIFFERENT VIEW... “From the common man (or woman) are selected the CHANGING PEOPLE’S PERCEPTIONS ABOUT leaders of tomorrow.” THE AMERICAN LEGION n our democratic government that is the one or two candidates annually each Oc- I ideal situation. Having said that, and tober to Indianapolis for the training. “There may be only one reality, but there are many truer to the issue, The Leadership of The Graduates of the last three National Col- American Legion comes from the ranks of leges have returned to Maine and are now perceptions of it.” its membership whether at the Post, Dis- Department of Maine Officers as well as trict, Department, or National level. Each leaders in their respective Districts and s Legionnaires, we are or should be Commander but he or she would be the Officer started as a Veteran and a Blue Posts. They are also the Administrators A very concerned about the public ideal person. I am speaking from my ex- Hat Legionnaire. and instructors of the more consolidated, perception of our Posts. The more in- perience; if the press knows who you are, At the last District meeting, District 2 Department of Maine Legion College. volved you are with your Post – the more you can develop creditability – they will Commander Curtis Merrill mentioned that So, where do you fit in as a relatively you realize the good your Post does. I work with you. it is not too soon to be thinking of a future new member to the Post? First, I would believe that most Posts do good work and On the subject of the press, let them leadership position in the Post or District. advise learning as much about the Post support the Four Pillars of The American know when you are doing a community The formal nomination process for most and its history as possible. Be available to Legion. Remember, you and your Post service or holding another community will start in Feb. or March with elections support the needs of the Post and learn are where people get their perceptions interest function. Most everyone knows in April/May for the 2019-20 cycle. Do about its members and their needs. Next, about the American Legion. you will be there for Veterans Day, Me- you have a skill set to offer the Post or take a look at your service history both Still, the public perceptions of our morial Day, and parades. I am talking District? Please look at these officer posi- military and civilian and assess your skill Posts are sometimes misunderstood. How about other activities such as visiting tions as an opportunity to serve your fel- sets. Look at where you might be able to many times have you heard such com- nursing homes, sending out care packag- low Veteran at the next level. Most De- make a difference. ments as? es, and donating money to charities. partment or even National Commander Some of our members prefer to be “I wouldn’t go to the Legion – all Make sure you have a sign identifying did not initially think that some day they “Worker Bees”, and, are great at what they do is drink alcohol.” your Post and contact information. While would rise to that position. It all started they do. Others may have some organiza- “That Post is dead.” we do not do these services for the per- with taking that first step, Officer in the tional skill sets and would like to help “My Dad was active but the Post sonal recognition, the press received can Post. plan or administer a program. We have doesn’t do anything anymore so I didn’t go a long way to disprove the perception One of the current issues within Post several in this category at the Post level join.” that the Post “doesn’t do anything any- and Districts is a tendency of Officers to that are making a difference. The next “Nobody ever asked me to join.” more”. remain in the same position for several step is owning a position as an Officer Or worse yet: When I hear; “Nobody ever asked me years. The comment often heard is, no one and accepting the responsibilities that go “American Legion Post – I didn’t to join”, I am generally surprised. It may wants the job, so, I’ll stay another year. with the position. At a recent training ses- know this town had one.” be that someone has asked this Veteran in I’ve got to admit, I’ve used that phrase sion, I attended one concern that was As Legionnaires, it is our responsibil- the past but it wasn’t a priority for him or myself as a Past Commander. A way voiced, was “that some members only ity to care for the reputation of The her then and the opportunity was soon around this situation is to institute “Term wear the hat”, (that they fail to compre- American Legion. There are steps we can forgotten. In any case find ways to reach Limits” in the Post and District By-laws hend or do the job required). The lack of take that that do just that. Let’s look at a out to Veterans in your area. My Post puts that limit most positions to 2-3 years be- acceptance might be due to lack of train- few of them. informational tags on windshields of Vet- fore having to be replaced. (one year to ing or lack of initiative. For whatever rea- If your Post has a bar; maintain an eran’s cars. You may get these tags learn the job and one or two to make a son, the failing places a drag on the Post atmosphere that doesn’t tolerate over in- through the Department of Maine. When difference). There are exceptions: The or District. Someone else must pick up the dulgence. Over indulgence is not good for we have Post functions or go to commu- Post Finance Officer and Adjutant often slack or the job just doesn’t get done. the drinker, will eventually get the Post nity functions, we will have a few appli- provided training and continuity in the One avenue to learn the ropes might negative publicity, and possibly even cations on us – just in case. I printed out a organization and should be retained for be to attach yourself to a mentor or to take sued. As a Legionnaire – it’s a good idea business card that says “Meet me at the longer periods (but not indefinite). an assistant position, (Assistant Sergeant- not to drink alcohol with your hat on. Post” and gives meeting times and our Rotation of Officers in the organiza- At-Arms, Service Officer, Adjutant, etc.) Something as simple as a well-meaning location. In addition, go on tion provides opportunities for newer with an Officer. This is a great way to friend could put your picture on social www.legion.org and print out meeting members to step up and make a differ- gain experience and see if the job fits. media and inadvertently feed the percep- notices you can put your Post information ence. The good news is that most members tion of alcohol abuse at the Post. on and hang up in supermarkets, libraries, This process should not be done in a that accept additional responsibility do a Make it obvious that your Post is not and town offices. Remember to ask per- vacuum. The natural progression is to take good job and are rewarded with a certain “dead”. Schedule activities at the Post and mission first. a position such as Chaplain, Sergeant-At- gratification of a job well done. That is encourage members to bring guests. Wear These are behaviors that will Posture Arms, Historian, Service Officer, etc. to really all there is. We are a volunteer or- your hat or uniform to appropriate public us well in our second hundred years of learn the internal workings of the Organi- ganization, so the rewards must be intrin- events. Develop a close liaison with com- service to God and Country. If you follow zation then move up to Adjutant, Finance sic, the feeling of helping and providing a munity leaders such as the mayor, police these suggestions, eventually you will Officer, Vice Commander, with a goal of service. chief, and other community organiza- hear less and less of “American Legion becoming the Commander a few years So, I’ve gone on way to long, the tions. Invite them. Have someone in the Post - I didn’t know this Town had one” down the road. This progression allows time is now to consider a future as a lead- Post develop a good working relationship and more of “How can I join?” for training and understanding of how the er in your organization, build on your skill with the press. It doesn’t have to be the By Donald G. Hands Post or District operates. sets, provide service where you can, get Department of Maine, 100th Anniversary Chairman One way of getting a jump on any training as an apprentice or more formal Post or District position is to attend the training at the Department of Maine, and department level training, Legion College. don’t be afraid to throw your hat into the The Department Legion College is based ring. The rewards are immeasurable!
on a one week long National Legion Col- By Windham Post 148 Adjutant David Tanguay Welcome lege Program that each Department sends Remarks: State Commander Scott Paradis, left, looks on Windham Post 149 Receives as Past National Com- Meritorious Service Award: mander Anthony Jor- Department 2nd Vice Commander dan delivers his wel- Debra Couture, left, and Department coming remarks to 1st Vice Commander Matthew Jab- those in attendance aut, right, present Windham Post 148 during the Annual Adjutant David Tanguay, center, a Mid-Winter in Bangor Meritorious Service Award at the An- on Jan. 19. nual Mid-Winter Conference in Ban- gor on Jan. 19.
14 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 THE AMERICAN LEGION, DEPARTMENT OF MAINE OFFICIAL CALL FOR THE ONE HUNDREDTH AND ONE ANNUAL CONVENTION
n accordance with Article IV of the UNIFORM OF THE DAY I Constitution and By-laws of the Depart- Uniform of the day during the con- ment of Maine, The American Legion, the vention sessions will be The American one hundredth and one Annual Conven- THE AMERICAN LEGION Legion cap. Only the official representa- tion is hereby called to convene at Brewer, tive of another veterans group may wear Maine, June 7-9, 2019. the cap of that organization in the conven- The first business session will be 101TH ANNUAL tion hall. called to order at 12:00 p.m. Daylight Sav- MEMORIAL SERVICE ings Time, on the afternoon of Friday, The Department Chaplain of The June 7, 2019, with the final business ses- STATE CONVENTION American Legion will conduct a Memorial sion scheduled for Saturday morning, June Service to be held just prior to conclusion 8, 2019, at 9:00 a.m. All general business June 7 — 9, 2019 to the Saturday session, June 8, 2019. sessions of the convention will be held at Posts wishing to have deceased members Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, Brewer, included in the Post Everlasting Ceremony Maine. Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, Brewer are requested to submit a list of the hon- PURPOSE ored dead to Department Headquarters. The convention is called for the pur- Lists must include name of deceased com- pose of electing Department Officers for PLAN NOW TO ATTEND! rades and conflict served. If your post the ensuing year; to elect delegates and files a Post Everlasting list for The Maine alternates to the 2019 National Convention Legionnaire and said list is up to date, a to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana; to re- second list is not necessary. ceive reports of all Department Officers The Department Executive Commit- inations shall be made for the offices of LAW AND ORDER and standing committees; to consider the Order will be maintained at all times resolutions and actions of subordinate tee will hold the first meeting at Jeff’s Department Commander; Department Catering & Event Center on Sunday, June First Vice Commander; Department Sec- in the convention hall under the direction bodies and to transact any other business of the Department Sergeant-at-Arms and properly brought before the convention. 9, 2019. All department officers, district ond Vice Commander; Department Adju- commanders, area commanders and Past tant, Department Finance Officer; Depart- his assistants. Delegates, alternates and REPRESENTATION members attending the convention are Each post is entitled to one delegate Department Commanders are requested to ment Historian; Department Americanism attend. Officer; and Department Sergeant-at- requested to be courteous to all speakers and one alternate, and one additional dele- and visitors to the convention. gate and alternate for each one hundred CREDENTIALS Arms. Each post will fill out the credential Nomination of officers shall be made PRESS members or fractional part thereof paid up The Department Adjutant’s staff will to May 8, 2019. A post with less than 15 blank submitted by the Department Adju- by registered delegates elected to represent tant and return same to the Department the posts of the Department or by dele- maintain press facilities during Conven- members is not entitled to any delegates. tion sessions. The Department Adjutant All department officers, district command- Headquarters listing the delegates and gates-at-large attending the convention. alternates elected to represent the Post. Nominating speeches are limited to three must approve all communications from the ers, area commanders and Past Depart- Department Convention. ment Commanders, in good standing, shall All delegates’ registration must be pre- minutes. There will be no seconds to be entitled to vote and have all the rights paid. nominations authorized (DEC Mandate INSTALLATION OF OF- of delegates in the convention. These of- All credentials must be verified by the Jan. 20, 1991) FICERS ficers and Past Department Commanders Credentials Committee, which will be in All candidates for elective department A formal installation ceremony will are delegates-at-large and must not be session at Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, office must file with the Department Adju- be held Saturday, June 8, 2019, at 5:30 named as post delegates. Brewer, Maine, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 tant, prior to May 8, 2019, a letter of intent p.m. All department officers and district Alternate delegates are entitled to a a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2019. to seek office and furnish a copy of dis- commanders will be sworn into office at seat in the convention but will have the The Department Adjutant shall issue charge papers, which makes them eligible that time and will automatically become right to vote only in the absence of the to each Post, 30 days prior to convention, for membership in The American Legion. members of the Department Executive duly elected delegates. The decision of a statement of the number of 2019 mem- The ballots for the Department Conven- Committee. the selection of alternate delegates to rep- bership cards, accompanied by state and tion will be pre-printed indicating those RAFFLES OR SALES resent absent delegates is a matter of deci- national dues, received at Department candidates who have filed for office. Any ITEMS sion within the respective delegations. All Headquarters on May 8, 2019. Listed with candidate declaring after May 8, 2019 or There will be NO sales items or raf- Legionnaires, Auxiliary members, Sons of the membership report will appear the nominated from the floor of the conven- fles at the Department Convention without The American Legion and guests are invit- number of delegates allowed each post. tion, will be a write-in candidate. Blank specific permission of the Department ed to attend the convention as guests, but Credential reports should be filed with spaces will be left for write-in candidates. Adjutant. have no voice or vote unless delegates. the Department Adjutant as soon as possi- (DEC Mandate Jan. 27, 1985). This call will be read in all posts and RULES OF ORDER ble to allow for inspection and checking, VOTING district organizations and posted upon the The rules of procedure at the Depart- thus correcting any errors. Delegates may get ballots from the bulletin boards of all posts. This call is ment Convention shall be those set forth in If there should be any changes in per- Credentials Committee at Jeff’s Catering being sent to the officers on record. If new Robert’s Rules of Order, newly revised. sonnel on the list of delegates or alter- & Event Center on Saturday, June 8, 2019. officers have been elected, please transmit nates, corrections should be made with the The Credentials Committee will be in ses- this information to them. MEETINGS Credentials Committee. Delegates must be sion for two hours on Saturday morning, The Resolutions Committee shall hold Official: registered with the convention in order to June 8, 2019, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Paul L’Heureux, Department Adjutant a public hearing on all resolutions submit- vote (1975 Convention Mandate). Regis- Each delegate will go to the convention Scott Paradis, Department Commander ted in accordance with the Constitution tration fee of $10 for each delegate and hall during the hours specified and secure and By-laws at Jeff’s Catering & Event alternate may be paid by sending a check ballots. No ballots will be issued after 10 Center on Friday, June 7, 2019, at 9 a.m. made payable to The American Legion, 5 a.m. Delegates will cast ballots immedi- All delegates and alternates and members Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine 04901- ately. Delegate’s card, badge, convention of The American Legion are invited to 0727. registration and your 2019 membership attend the session. Following this public card must be displayed during voting. hearing, the Committee on Resolutions NOMINATION & ELECTIONS At the first session of Department Ballot Boxes will close promptly at will go into executive session to vote on 10:15 a.m. resolutions to be brought before the body. Convention on Friday, June 7, 2019, nom-
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 15 Resolutions to be Time To Do It! Presented by May 1 Pay Your Legion Dues Today!!!
ll resolutions to be presented for ac- sented to the Department Adjutant’s of- egion membership is annual, the Le- If you do not have a membership card A tion at any Convention shall be pre- fice in writing, dated and signed by the L gion year running from Jan 1 to Dec. that reads “2019” then you are now a de- sented to the office of the Department Commander and Adjutant of the sponsor- 31. If dues are not paid by Jan. 1 of each linquent member. Your Post tries so hard Adjutant on or before May 1 of the sub- ing groups or Chairman and Secretary of calendar year, the member becomes delin- to get your dues collected prior to Jan. 1, ject year. Said resolutions shall be pub- sponsoring committee. Resolutions may quent. If dues have not been paid by Feb. so that you do not lose any benefits of lished and printed in the official organ of be presented by two-thirds majority of the 1, the member is suspended, is not in good your membership, including insurance the Department of Maine, The American Resolutions Committee meeting at the standing, and is not eligible for transfer. coverage. Legion in the next issue following said convention. The only method of transferring from If you don’t have a “2019” card, date of May 1. Resolutions must be pre- one post to another so the continuity of please contact your local post today and the membership in the Legion is not bro- pay them so your membership in The ken is by formal transfer, which is availa- American Legion remains continuous. Candidates Deadline: May 8 ble only to members in good standing. nyone wishing to run for a Depart- state: All current and future Department A ment Office must submit a letter of Officers elected at the Annual State Con- intent and a copy of his or her discharge vention will within forty-five (45) days Legionnaire of the Year Sought papers making them eligible for The following the conclusion of the annual American Legion to the Department Ad- Department Convention, take the “Basic s that exceptional Legionnaire, the one Maybe your Post has previously sent jutant’s office on or before May 8, 2019 Training Course” previously named the I with unquestionable leadership ability, a candidate for this award who was not to be included on the official ballot at “American Legion Extension Institute a member of your Post? Do you have that chosen. Why not submit the name again? convention in June. If you wish to be in- Course” and successfully complete said member within your post that seems to There are no rules stating how many cluded in The Maine Legionnaire, the course. Please visit https:// stand above the rest in all phases of your times you can apply. Your candidate above information, plus a photo of you www.legion.org/alei to complete the post activities? Does he or she aspire to could be this year’s winner. Remember, must be at Department Headquarters by course. Previous graduates of the course higher positions within the American Le- everything in life is a gamble. The dead- April 19, 2019. Also be advised that the upon providing confirmation would be gion? line for applications is May 1, 2019. Ap- Department Constitution and By-Laws exempted. If your post has that member who plications can be obtained through De- would qualify for the honor and prestige partment Headquarters or on-line at for the Past Department Commanders www.mainelegion.org Award, why not submit their name and Send completed applications to The Basic Training resume? Being chosen for this award is American Legion, State Headquarters, he American Legion’s official train- the nation’s largest veterans service or- indeed a great honor. When in doubt, ask Attention: Past Department Commanders T ing program for officers, members, ganization is available online at https:// those who were previously chosen. It is a Award Chairman, 5 Verti Drive, Wins- Legion College applicants and those who www.legion.org/alei title you will be known for during your low, Maine 04901-0727. simply want to expand their knowledge of entire Legion career. Humanitarian Sought The American Legion, Department of Maine he Humanitarian Award Committee one would expect in that field. Applicants Historical Contest 2018-2019 T is again seeking nominations for the may be male or female, veteran or non- annual Humanitarian Award. The Human- veteran, legionnaire or non-legionnaire. A By: Jeff Stevenson, Department Historian itarian Award, considered one of the most majority vote of the Humanitarian Award prestigious awards bestowed by The Committee will be final. Awards and Rules American Legion, is presented annually at If an individual was previously sub- TTER our State Convention. mitted and not selected, please submit it DISTRICT NEWS LE POST NEWS LETTER An American Legion Post must en- again. We will consider anyone who has dorse applicants for the annual Humani- not received the award previously. Nomi- he district newsletter will be judged hese newsletters will be judged in on informative layout and should be tarian Award. Accomplishments of the nations should be received by May 1, three categories: Posts with a T individual must be over and above his or 2019. Nomination forms can be obtained T mailed to the Department of Maine membership of less than 100, Posts ATTN: Department Adjutant. Contest her usual vocation; in most cases his/her by contacting The American Legion, De- with a membership of 100-250, and ends April 30th and entry must be in deeds would not be in their chosen field partment of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Wins- Posts with a membership greater than NLT May 1st, 2019. The first place win- of endeavor; but consideration would be low, Maine 04901-0727; Tel: (207) 873- 250. The newsletters will be judged on ner will receive a plaque at the Depart- given to someone whose activities in their 3229; e-mail: [email protected] informative layout and should be ment Convention. field of work was far in excess of what or on the web at www.mainelegion.org. mailed to the Department of Maine ATTN: Department Adjutant. Contest ends April 30th and entry must be in Eligibility Information NLT May 1st, 2019. The first place winner in each category will receive a f you have served federal active duty in December 7, 1941 to December 31, plaque at the Department Convention. I the United States Armed Forces during 1946 any of the war eras listed below, and have (World War II) POST HISTORY BOOK been honorably discharged or are still April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918 serving, you are eligible for membership (World War I) These will be judged according to the 2019 Officers Guide score sheets. in The American Legion! *Because eligibility dates remain The books must be received at the Department of Maine ATTN: De- *August 2, 1990 to date of cessation open, all members of the U.S. Armed partment Adjutant no later than May 1st, 2019. First place winners in (Operation Desert Shield/Storm) Forces are eligible to join The American each category will receive a plaque at the Department Convention and December 20, 1989 to January 31, Legion at this time, until the date of the qualify for the National Contest in October, 2019. 1990 end of hostilities as determined by the Operation Just Cause - Panama) government of the United States. August 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984 U.S. Merchant Marine eligible only (Lebanon/Grenada) from December 7, 1941 to December 31, Remember: February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975 1946 (WWII). (Vietnam) June 25, 1950 to January 31, 1955 Patriot’s Day (Korea) April 15th
16 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 Legion Activities Continue Despite Winter Weather
Dirigo Boys Boys Mid-Winter Conference State Update: Nation Dirigo Boys State Deputy Director Alumni: South China Post 179 Steve Moran gives Cony HS Stu- an update to those dent/Boys Na- De- Meritorious Service Award: in attendance at tion Alumni/ partment 2nd Vice Commander Debra Cou- Mid-Winter Con- Eagle Scout ture, left, and Department 1st Vice Com- ference on Dirigo recipient Caleb mander Matthew Jabaut, right, present Boys State as well Richardson South China Post 179 a Meritorious Service as a brief overview talks about his Award during the Annual Mid-Winter Con- of what he learned from attending the experience while attending 2018 Boys Nation in Washington DC as well as ference in Bangor on Jan. 19. Accepting the Boys State Conference in Indianapolis. award is District 9 Commander Donald the 2018 Dirigo Boys State program. Chase. Etna-Carmel Post 107 Washington Conference Meritorious Service Award: De- partment 2nd Vice Commander Debra Cou- American Legion “Storms the Hill” in Washington D.C. to ask for ture, left, and Department 1st Vice Com- support for Maine Veterans and Legion Programs. Visited with Senator Collins, mander Matthew Jabaut, right, present Etna- Senator King, Congresswoman Pingree and Congressman Golden. Also ran into Carmel Post 107 a Meritorious Service Maine Governor Mills who was in D.C. for meetings. Award during the Annual Mid-Winter Con- ference in Bangor on Jan. 19. Accepting the award is Etna-Carmel Post 107 Adjutant and District 13 Commander Donald Candage.
Public Safety Guidelines: Maine Department of Public Safety, Gambling Control Unit Inspector James Gass & Ex- A Visit with Senator Collins: A Visit with Senator King: Left to ecutive Director Left to right, Dept. 1st Vice Mat- right, Jeri Greenwell, David Patch, Dept. Milton Champion thew Jabaut, Jarrod Crockett, Da- 1st Vice Matthew Jabaut, Dept. Judge present public vid Patch, Senator Collins, Dept. Advocate Jason Hall, Senator King, Jar- safety guidelines Judge Advocate Jason Hall, Jeri rod Crockett, and Amedeo Lauria. for Post Legions to Greenwell, and Amedeo Lauria. follow.
Navy Units & Maine Army National Guard: Deployment Maine Army National Overview: Navy Guard Major General Operational Support Douglas A. Farnham Center, Commander gives a review of the Officer, LCDR Carl Maine Army National Netzler gives an over- Guard. view of Units and De- A Visit with Congresswoman A Visit with Congressman ployments. Pingree: Left to right, Amedeo Lau- Golden: Left to right, Dept. Judge ria, Congresswoman Pingree, David Advocate Jason Hall, Congressman Patch, and Jarrod Crockett. Jared Golden, Jeri Greenwell, Dept. 1st Vice Matthew Jabaut, and David Patch. A Surprise Visit: After returning from a meeting in the Northern part of Maine, Congressman Jared Golden made a surprise visit to the Annual Mid-Winter Confer- ence. He was brief but updated the Legionnaires present State Oratorical about the status of the Government Shutdown and the Committee assignments that he will serve on. Congressman Contest Winner Golden, a fellow Veteran, is also a member of Corey Edwin Garver Post 202 in Topsham. 2019 Oratory Winner: Marina Photos by Jeffrey Stevenson Long, a Junior at Sanford Christian Academy representing District 1 at the 2019 State Ora- torical Contest placed first in the constitution- al speech contest with her award winning Sweepstakes Winners Announced speech Feb. 9 at Thomas College in Water- he Mid-Winter Conference concluded Post 205, $4,000 (grand prize winner), ville. State Commander Scott Paradis, left, T on Saturday afternoon, January 19, Margaret Brady from the Auxiliary, $750 awards Miss Long with a check in the amount with our Sweepstakes drawing, which saw and Christopher Sirois, Howland Post 97, of $1500 along with a medal and Certificate of three of our Legionnaires win the follow- $250. Achievement for her accomplishment. ing amounts: Timothy Politis, Augusta
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 17 Help Support Maine American Legion Today!
Help Keep our Maine American Legion Programs Alive! Support our Veterans and Donate Today!
our donation will help support Veter- You may also mail your check paya- Y ans in the state of Maine as well as ble to The American Legion, Department Children & Youth Programs and other of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, various programs of The American Le- Maine 04901-0727. Please indicate on gion. A few of our programs are listed the check The American Legion program below. For a complete listing, please visit you are contributing to. www.mainelegion.org. Thank you in advance for your dona- Maine American Legion Programs: tion. It is generous donors like you that General Fund, Vet Aid, Homeless Vets, help provide the assistance needed to keep Support Maine Veterans and Buy Legion Baseball, Dirigo Boys State, Ora- our programs alive so we can continue to torical, Jr. Shooting Program, Beals provide support to our fellow Veterans, Hours, and Maine Special Olympics. service members and their families. your Centennial Coin Today! To pay by credit card, please visit To make a donation to The American www.mainelegion.org and select the Legion, Department of Maine Foundation, he Department of Maine recently MONEY ORDER, please send pay- a non-profit 501 (c)(3) Charitable Organi- T released a Centennial Coin in ment in the amount of $10/coin, plus button. zation , please see below. celebration of 100 years of service to $5 shipping and handling up to 5 Veterans, families and local commu- coins to: The American Legion, De- nities. All proceeds will go towards partment of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, helping Veterans in the State of Winslow, Maine 04901-0727. Please Maine, their families and various pro- make sure to include a return address grams in The American Legion that for shipping purposes. Please include require much needed assistance. an additional $5 for every 5 coins Coins can be purchased online by purchased. visiting www.mainelegion.org, call- Coins are also available for free ing Department directly at 207-873- pick up at $10 each. You may pick up 3229 or by check or money order. your order at The American Legion, he American Legion, Department of Online donations can be made by vis- The coins are $10 each plus $5 ship- Department of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, T Maine Foundation is a non-profit 501 iting us on the web at ping/handing. Winslow, Maine 04901-0727. (c)(3) Charitable Organization exclusively www.mainelegion.org. Click on the TO PAY BY CHECK OR for charitable purposes. All donations to FOUNDATION tab located on the naviga- the foundation are tax-deductible under tion bar and scroll down to the DONATE the United States Tax Code and Internal TODAY button. Revenue Service. Checks should be made payable to Car Donation Fundraising Program The Foundation's mission is to pro- American Legion Department of Maine vide resources to programs and services of Foundation and mailed to: American Le- for converting that extra car, truck, or The American Legion, Department of gion Department of Maine Foundation, 5 RV into a tax deductible donation.. Maine that will enhance the lives of our Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine 04901- Our affiliate program makes sure veterans, their families, children and com- 0727. your vehicle is properly handled so munities in the State of Maine today and Please make sure to provide your you get your tax deduction and Veter- for future generations. name and address so that we may send Please show your support to our Vet- you a tax receipt. ans in Maine get the benefit of your erans in the State of Maine and donate Thank you in advance for you gener- donation. today to make a difference! ous contribution! You can currently donate online by visiting www.v-dac.com, or call wners of unused vehicles can 877-999-8322 to make your donation. Amazon Smile Fundraising Program O donate them for possible tax For more information, contact credit and benefit Veterans in the The American Legion, Department of ear Friends of the American Legion to designate to your charity, type in Amer- state of Maine. Maine at 207-873-3229 or via email D Department of Maine: ican Legion Department of Maine Foun- This is a free, convenient service at [email protected]. We are up and running! American dation and start shopping. Legion Department of Maine Foundation Please note: (You must log in can now accept contributions from Ama- through the Amazon Smile portal each zon through the “Amazon Smile” pro- time you shop for our Foundation to gram as an IRS 501 (c)(3) Charitable Or- receive the donation. Do not go in Get your Engraved ganization. through the regular Amazon portal when Henry Rifle Raffle It does not cost anything to sign up or you shop.) Ticket Today! donate! When you make purchases on The funds come directly to “American Legion Department of Maine Ticket Price $10 “Amazon Smile” Five cents (.05) of every dollar you spend will be sent to the Ameri- Foundation to help Maine Veterans in Contact your local can Legion Department of Maine Founda- need and support Legion programs in Post for tickets or tion for veterans and community pro- Maine!” call Department HQ grams. Please help us get the word out and Here is how to sign up! email to your friends and family! at 207-873-3229. If you already have an Amazon Ac- count, there is no need to create another Drawing will be held one. June 1, 2019 You just log in at this link: http:// smile.amazon.com; When you are asked
18 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Charles S. Hatch Post 79 District 1 Recognized by York County s noted in the November 2018 issue of troops, churches, clubs, thrift shops, Sanford Post 19; Biddeford Post 26; Limerick Post 55; York Post 56; Old Orchard Post 57; A The Maine Legionnaire, Berwick Post libraries, granges, lodges and societies Kennebunk Post 74; Berwick Post 79; North Berwick Post 87; Saco Post 96; Kezar Falls Post 123; 79 was recognized by their Board of previously honored. Charles S. Hatch Post Bar Mills Post 130; Alfred Post 134; Wells Post 143; Kennebunkport Post 159; Selectmen with the Spirit of America 79 now also holds the honor of being the Dayton Post 177; Eliot Post 188; Lebanon Post 214 Foundation Tribute. That same month, first and only (thus far) recipient of the members of the Post were also lauded at the SOAF Tribute from the town of Berwick. District 1 Community Making a Difference County level and awarded a plaque Post 79 now proudly joins the handful of recognizing their selection within York other Maine American Legion Posts and “The All Veterans Monument” County. Berwick Post 79 is now listed as a Auxiliaries recognized by the Spirit of Spirit of America Foundation (SOAF) America Foundation, Wiscasset Post 54, am writing on behalf of our Veterans. If any Veteran would like to purchase a recipient on the SOAF website Mechanic Falls Post 150, and Stockton I This last year, four volunteers worked and paver, please let me know. The cost is (www.spiroaf.com), along with many other Springs Post 157. paid for the ALL VETERANS MONU- $39.04 for two lines or $44.37 for three individuals, non-profits, committees, By Roseanne Martin MENT located at the Fairgrounds Restau- lines. This entire project is being done by departments, charities, Girl and Boy Scout rant in Cornish. Its location is very nice. the owners of the restaurant, VP of the Ban- One side of the restaurant has flowers, sol- gor Bank and myself. dier’s shadows and much more. Send me an email at cal- Together, we asked our Veterans if they [email protected] if anyone you know of would like to purchase a military paver with would like to fill in those last 20 spaces. We the names on it, and it went over well. We plan on having this done before Memorial Spirit of America now have 70 pavers sitting in front of the Day. Foundation Tribute: York County Manag- ALL VETERANS MONUMENT. We love doing as much as we can for er Gregory T. Zinser, left, presents Spirit of Ameri- We have spaces left for 20 more 4x8 our Veterans. This monument is in such a ca plaque to Berwick Post 79 Commander Jeffrey granite pavers of any soldier living or nice area and the restaurant has such good Chase. passed who would like to purchase a paver. food for those who come here. I did see a I will be taking orders in March and forward van of DAV’s there this summer, I was told Photo by Bob Place the checks to the Richardson Monument in they enjoyed the monument and pavers.
South Portland who will engrave all the By Calista Cross names.
Meritorious Service Award: De- partment 2nd Vice Commander Debra Cou- 2018 Kennebunkport American Legion ture, left, and Department 1st Vice Com- Memorial Post 159 Year-In-Review mander Matthew Jabaut, right, present Dis- trict 1 Commander Gordon Kendal, center, a ennebunkport Post 159 Year-in- Kennebunk. Meritorious Service Award for Limerick Post K Review: 21-22 July 2018 – Annual Antique 55 at the Mid-Winter Conference held in 7 December 2017 – Sons of the Show held with various antique dealers Bangor on Jan. 19. American Legion Chapter 159 established from around northern New England
Photo By Jeffrey Stevenson 22 February 2018 – Legion Riders participating. Chapter 159 established. 27 October 2018 – Second Live Pro th 24 February 2018 – First annual Corn- wrestling tournament held. 100 Anniversary Celebration: hole Tournament held. Raised $1,240 for 10 November 2018 – Veteran’s Day During the regular meeting of Kennebunk Post 159 All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast held. Town Selectmen on Jan. 8, the selectmen unani- 7 March 2018 – Post 159 celebrates the Veteran’s from various assisted living mously approved designating 2019 as the Year 70th anniversary of its charter. facilities in the area (Avita in Wells – of Centennial Celebration for both The Ameri- 23 March 2018 – Live Pro wrestling specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia can Legion and Kennebunk Post 74. Represent- tournament sponsored by North Atlantic care; Huntington Commons in Kennebunk – ing Kennebunk Post 74 at the meeting, left to Wrestling Camp. assisted living facility and Atria in right, Kennebunk Post 74 Chaplain John Flesh- 26 May 2018 – First of six All-You- Kennebunk – assisted living and memory man, Paul Mossner, Kennebunk Post 74 Post Can-Eat monthly Pancake Breakfast’s held care) were transported to and from the Finance Officer Brian McBride, Post Deputy – veterans eat free. Former President breakfast by their respective facilities. All Commander John Gouviea, Shirley Deschawes, Bob De Clercq, John Dulude, George H.W. Bush attends. This would end veterans attending were given American Kennebunk Post 74 Post Commander Dennis Lamontagne, and Paul Gregoire. up being President Bush’s last public Legion Certificates of Appreciation for their appearance. Post 159 Commander John service. Leach presented President Bush with a 18 November 2018 – American Legion Berwick Legion Post 79 Donates Ten Certificate of Honorary Membership as a Memorial Post 159 annual “Turkey Shoot” member of Kennebunkport American held. Raising $700 for the post. Bicycles to 2018 Toys for Tots Drive Legion Memorial Post 159. 22 December 2018 – American Legion 28 May 2018 – Memorial Day events Memorial Post 159 “Pig Shoot” fundraiser his past Christmas, Santa wore a was for Toys for Tots and also pledged their held including: rifle salutes in held to raise money for Iraqi war veteran T somewhat non-traditional color in support for Christmas 2019! The end result: Kennebunkport at cemeteries containing who lost his home and all belongings to a addition to his usual red and white: Home ten brand new bicycles that list online for veterans; a wreath laying and rifle salute at house fire. $800 raised and presented to Depot Orange! Members of Berwick’s Post $80 each were purchased for less than $450. Post 159 first Commander’s grave; and him. 79 lent a hand to Toys for Tots by buying In addition to making Christmas special participation in three parades: Submitted by Post 159 Adjutant and donating ten boys and girls bikes. The for ten lucky boys and girls, the outstanding Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise and Mark Matthews bicycles were purchased from several area support and generosity of Home Depot Home Depot stores at a black Friday price, managers and employees, who also Pancake Breakfast: Kenne- with an unexpected additional 10 per cent assembled all ten bicycles, helped Berwick bunkport Post 159 held their first of six discount offered in support of this cause. Post 79 to “stretch” their dollars, making All-You-Can-Eat monthly Pancake Additionally, one Home Depot Manager this a Christmas to remember for all elected to provide seven bicycles at half the involved. Home Depot, we salute you! Breakfasts where Veterans eat free. black Friday price when told the purchase Former President George H.W. Bush By Roseanne Martin attends. This would end up being Presi- dent Bush’s last public appearance. Toys For Tots Drive: Berwick Kennebunkport Post 159 Commander Post 79 prepare 10 bicycle donations John Leach presented President Bush for Toys for Tots. Left to right, Pamela with a Certificate of Honorary Membership as a member of Kennebunkport and Chuck Bogdan, Post 79 Com- Post 159 on May 26. Left to right,(facing camera) Post 159 Commander John mander Jeff Chase (in disguise!) and Leach, President Bush, and Kennebunkport Post 159 member Clifton Campbell. Phil Jenks.
Photo by Bob Place More on “YEAR-IN-REVIEW”, Page 19
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 19
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Memorial. After the parade, the members of Stewart P. Morrill Post 35 welcomed all Veterans to lunch. The Maine Veterans continued Home in Scarborough brought several District 1 Veterans to share in the meal and had a chance for some of the younger Veterans to “Year-In-Review” meet some World War II and Korea (Continued from Page 18) Veterans. Everyone left warm, fed and happy.
Pig Shoot Fundraiser: Kennebunk- port Post 159 “Pig Shoot” fundraiser was held to raise money for Iraqi War Veteran Alec Adams who lost his home and all belong- South Portland Post 35 ings to a house fire. $800 was raised and pre- sented to him on Dec. 22. Left to right, Thanksgiving & Christmas Tradition Kennebunkport Post 159 Adjutant Mark outh Portland Post 35 carried on a flour, gravy, cranberries, cake mix with Matthews, Kennebunkport Post 159 Treasur- S Thanksgiving and Christmas Tradition frosting, jell-o, pudding and many more er Chris Meyer, Fundraiser recipient Alec of packing and distributing baskets for the items including apples, tangelo’s and Adams and, Kennebunkport Post 159 Com- Holiday Season. This traditional basket, bananas. This year, Post 35 packed 20 boxes mander “Skip” Descanio. which are actually Banana Boxes, was and delivered 13 to the Vet Center in started by the American Legion Auxiliary Portland and 7 to the Coast Guard Base in Kennebunk- some twenty years ago and has had helpers South Portland. Personnel at those locations Wrestling Tournament: from the DAV, American Legion, as well as move the boxes onto needy Vets. A few port Post 159 had a Live Pro Wrestling Tour- the American Legion Auxiliary over the days before Christmas, this happy band of nament sponsored by North Atlantic Wrestling years. Today, 10 people packed boxes with helpers will start the whole process over Camp on March 23. North American Wrestlers the equivalent of a turkey dinner starting again for Christmas. A portion of the cost is are seen here confronting each other during with eight 10 lbs. frozen turkeys including a budgeted item in the Post budget but about introductions. all the fixings, yams, potatoes, squash, 35% are donated funds. All photos by Post 159 Adjutant Mark Matthews carrots, celery, canned vegetables, sugar,
Partial Government Shutdown Support for WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Local Coast Guard Personnel District 2 o. Portland Post 35 Executive 25, Commander Linscott presented YNC S Committee met on Jan. 13 to discuss Zachmann with a check from Post 35 for Portland Post 17; So. Portland Post 35; Gorham Post 60; Westbrook Post 62; Bridgton Post 67; what we as a Post could do to help the $865. Half of that money was a direct Scarborough Post 76; Freeport Post 83; Gray Post 86; Yarmouth Post 91; Standish Post 128; Coast Guard Personnel station two blocks collection from Post members at and before Harrison Post 139; Peaks Island Post 142; Windham Post 148; Cape Elizabeth Post 152; away at 259 High Street in South Portland, our monthly meeting. Additional donations Naples Post 155; Portland Post 161; Falmouth Post 164; Portland Post 168; Westbrook Post 197 officially called U.S. Coast Guard Sector have been received since this morning. One Northern New England. The decision was donation for $100 cash was from a Korean made to ask our members and local citizens War Veteran, who we call Mrs. WWII Vet Leads Portland Post 17 for donations. Former Post 35 Adjutant Ed Anonymous, who said she was a Navy Tyler suggested purchasing $50 food gift Corpsman in Korea. We invited her to our Veterans’ Day Parade cards. Post 35 Commander Guy Linscott next supper and asked if she would like to ortland Post 17 put on a Veterans' Day to fall face-first down 14 granite stairs. But met with Coast Guard Representatives who join our Post. We have decided to continue P Parade on Congress Street in Portland Leo, as quick as lightening, stuck his cane stated that as Federal Employees they were collecting until the Coast Guard personnel that went from Longfellow Square to City out in front of himself stopping his fall and unable to accept cash donations. Upon pay has been restated. It never hurts to get Hall on Nov. 11. The Grand Marshal was 95 the first words of Leo's speech were, "I'm further investigation, Post Commander our message out to the public. Post -year old World War II Veteran Leo Foisy. ok!" And indeed he was ok. After a few Linscott met with YNC Mikel Zachmann, Adjutant Michael Pock gave a short TV Several hundred people waited in front of hundred people heard those words, there the President of the Northern New England interview that cast a positive light on the City Hall to hear Leo give a speech. was a loud chorus of laughter and much Chief Petty Officers Association. On Jan. American Legion. Hundreds of people let out a gasp of horror cheering. Leo proceeded to give one of the as Leo stood up and immediately tripped best speeches of the day. Indeed, he was ok, and fell forward. It looked for a horrible and then some. Showing Support: couple of seconds as though Leo was about By Thomas P. O’Connor Signage in front of So. Portland Post 35 showing support for Coast Guard personnel through the partial shutdown. Portland Post 17 Grand Marshal: Leo Foisy, 95-year old World War II Veteran and Grand Marshal at Portland Post 17 Veterans’ Day Parade after the parade on Nov. 11, 2018. Coast Guard Personnel Receive
Photo by Post 17 Official Photographer Assistance: So. Portland Post 35 Commander Thomas P. O’ Connor Guy Linscott, left, presents YNC Mikel Zachmann, President of the Northern New England Chief Petty Officers Association, right, a $865 check.
South Portland Post 35 Veterans Day Celebration South Portland Post 35 Sea Cadet Advanced outh Portland Post 35 Veterans Day was four American Legion members and one S celebrated on Nov. 12 with a parade to VFW member. The riflemen wore their to Cadet Chief Petty Officer. honor those who served our country on its CPO uniforms and the flag bearers wore st wars. The parade was a mixture of marching blue blazers with grey trousers with white adet Petty Officer 1 Class Lucas read his promotion order. Following the bands, cub scouts and brownies, fire trucks, shirt and ties. The average age of the Honor C Wright, right, was presented before order, the Cadet Chief Petty Office from Coast Guard Companies, City Dignitaries, Guard is 72. It was a crisp 1/2 mile march the Corps of Cadets on Sun., Nov. 11. the Portsmouth Sea Cadet unit placed American Legion Commanders, and VFW with the cadence counter getting hoarse at Chief Selectee Lucas Wright stood at Chief Wright’s hat on his head. The next Commanders. Leading the parade was a the end of the line. A short ceremony was attention while Sea Cadet Commanding newly formed Honor Guard consisting of held at the South Portland Veterans Officer Lt. Shannon Williamson, left, More on “SEA CADET”, Page 20
20 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Tuskegee Airman Fighter: West- brook Post 62 welcomed Robert Sheppard, District 2 continued son of an original All Black Tuskegee Air- man Fighter Group assigned during World punches. As they were dismissed, they War II at a recent meeting at the Stephen W. “Sea Cadet” all gave a resounding “Yes Chief” yell Manchester Post. In his presentation, he (Continued from Page 19) in true Sea Cadet gusto. CPO Wright is gave an eye opening and informative speech the senior “enlisted” person about his father, James Sheppard’s World in the Sea Cadet Command War II experiences which pioneered a major step was the pinning of the and shoulders a great deal military change about the role change for the collar devices by his father of responsibility. The chain All Black Fighter Group and Squadrons. and grandmother. Chief of command in the Sea EXCELLENT! Wright was then presented to Cadets is just as strong as in the Corps of Cadets. Chief the U.S. Navy and rightly gave a strong and bold but so. Congratulations CPO Flag Ladies Receive short speech to the “troops”. Wright. CPO Wright encouraged Invite To Post 62: West- them to work hard and brook Post 62 started the New someday they would be Year in grand style by inviting standing in his place. In the the famous Post 9/11 Flag Ladies true fashion of an “Old Salt” from Freeport, Maine as their CPO Wright pulled no guest on Jan. 2. Left to right, Carmen, Elaine and JoAnn with Westbrook Post 62 Commander Gary York, Westbrook Post 62 POST HISTORY 1st Vice Commander Roger Barr and Westbrook Post 62 2nd Vice Commander Dennis Marrotte. It was a Stewart P. Morrill Post 35—So. Portland great tribute to the American Flag. HAND SALUTE! Reviving the Legion RIDGTON—A group of like-minded (VA claims back log, access to VA health B Legionnaires have gathered together care, service officer, Veterans with special to revitalize and rehabilitate Bridgton’s needs, homelessness, GI Bill benefits); Historic Post 67. This is one of the origi- National Security (support of the troops, nal posts in the state of Maine going back quality of life, POW/MIA’s, Operation to 1920. The American Legion itself is th comfort warriors); Americanism (flag celebrating its 100 Birthday and it only protection, Pledge of Allegiance, illegal seemed fitting that this post be brought immigration, voter registration and partic- The Exterior of the Stewart P. Post Sign: Stewart P. Mor- back to life in Bridgton to serve our Vet- ipation, Scouts of America); Children and rill Post 35 sign in front of the erans and our community. A team has Youth (catastrophic illness, intellectual been formulated with Commander Dennis Morrill Post 35 in So. Portland Post building. disabilities, family integrity, family sup- Moynihan to begin the project. We will once again turn this post into a vital asset port networks). to Bridgton’s Veterans and communi- The first priority will be to open a ty.Plans are already underway to reestab- “Service Officer’s office” in the commu- lish contacts with the school system, nity. District 2 Service Officer Kelly Ela chamber of Commerce and other civic will now be based in Bridgton at Post 67. minded organizations. The team is excited and looking for- The revitalization and the operation ward to serving our Veterans and the community. of this post will be based once again on the “Four Pillars of The American Le- Publisher Wayne E. Rivet of The Bridgton News— January 10, 2019 gion” Veterans affairs and Rehabilitation Article submitted by District 2 Vice Commander Interior Look: The meeting Donald Mulcahy room at Stewart P. Morrill in So. Port- Banquet Kitchen land. Hall Revitalization At All Photos by Post Adjutant Michael R. Pock Bridgton Post 67: In front of Post 67 on Depot Street in Bridgton, left to right, Department Adjutant Paul L’Heureux, Bridg- ton Post 67 members Clayton “Skip” Brown, Ron Edson, Post 67 Commander Dennis Moynihan, Post 67 member Vinny Yedynak, District 2 Vice-Commander Don- ald Mulcahy, District 2 Com- mander Curtis Merrill, and District 2 Sergeant-At-Arms Bill O’Neil.
Bridgton Post 67 Inventory: Inventory displayed of all items within Bridgton Post 67. Honoring Fallen Veterans: Westbrook Post 62 Veteran’s Day was cel- ebrated and memorialized at Riverbank Park on Nov. 11 with members of the Post. Mayor Mike Sanphy and other Post 62 members were on hand to participate in this honor of fallen Veterans.
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 21
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Veterans Day Wreath Placement: Windham Post 148 held a Veterans Day Ceremony at the District 2 continued Windham Veterans Memorial Garden. The Memorial was established in 2015 American Legion Randall-MacVane Post 142 to honor the KIA from Cumberland County Lost in Vietnam. A Floral Loans Military Artifacts to the Wreath was placed on the Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Memorial by 3 Maine Military Museum USMC Veterans and Post members, front row, left to right, Walter Braley, outh Portland, Me—January 13, Montgomery, AL. The 1860 staff field Service Officer Henry "Chuck" Why- S 2019—The American Legion Randall officers’ dress sword was manufactured not and Rod Voisine. Background, left to right, Field-Allen Post 148 Honor and MacVane Post 142 of Peaks Island by the Oak Hill Clothing Company in Guard members Craig Pride, Eric Bickford, Dick Graves, Dick Drapeau, and has loaned a collection of military Boston. The name “C. Dolan” is inscribed Post Sergeant-At-Arms Larry DeHof. artifacts to the Maine Military Museum, on one side of the blade and the initials located at 50 Peary Terrace. “A.O.H” on the other. Frederick W. O’Keefe, Adjutant/ O’Keefe explained that, thru the Windham Post 148 3rd Annual Awards Judge Advocate of Post 142, presented the years, Peaks Island residents and visitors Recognition Night and Dinner items, which had been discovered in the have donated items to the Post. “We are Post’s attic. “We are pleased to be able to happy to be able to share these with the indham Post 148 celebrated their Chamard-32, William Jihnson-33, Mike bring these out into the open,” O’Keefe public thru the terrific Maine Military W 3rd Annual Awards Recognition Schwartz-33, John Boyden-39, Roger said. “In particular, we are happy to share Museum,” he added. Night on Dec. 5. Some highlights from Timmons-39, Gardner Percy-39, and a carbine from the Vietnam War and a Humiston said the items will be part the event included the celebration of Post Donald Rogers-60. Civil War era dress sword as well as a of the thousands of military history personnel achievements and the 100th Recognition for Post Meritorious steel helmet and gas masks from World artifacts the Museum displays. “We Anniversary of The American Legion. In Service Awards were presented by Wind- War I.” appreciate the Peaks Island Post’s attendance were over 70 Vets, family ham Post 148 Post Commander Mel Museum Director Lee Humiston generosity,” he said. members and guests. Greenier to Eric Bickford, Richard Small, accepted the items and will explore Museum exhibits include every During the ceremony, the following Larry Dehof, David Rendall, David displaying them at the Museum. “We aspect of military service from the members received recognition as being Horne, Henry “Chuck” Whynot, and Past appreciate the opportunity to add these Revolutionary War to Afghanistan and new members of Windham Post 148: Commander Don Rogers. items to our collection,” Humiston Iraq conflicts. One main focus is 2018-19 not previously recognized went Windham Post 148 took a pause dur- remarked. American Prisoners of War (POWs) from to Richard Drapeau, Robert Clark, Phyllis ing the Awards Ceremony, to recognize a The carbine is a 7.62mm, Type 56 the US Civil War to Vietnam. Authentic Page, Susan Walker, and Lyndon Verney. significant contribution in support of the with Bayonet from Communist China and artifacts displayed in a several formats, New members for 2019 went to Robert Post and Veterans in the community. The was retrieved in the Republic of Vietnam enable visitors to witness the experiences Almstrom, Stephen Ambrose, Maryanne Fourth Estate Award recognizes a local by U.S. Army Captain John Shute of and sacrifices of U.S. Armed Forces. Bickford, Duane Cummings, Michael media for their support to Veterans. A Eaton, Ben Emmons, Simone Emmons, citation was presented to the Windham William Keltner, David Langway, Ed- Eagle owner Kelly Manks with a certifi- ward McAlinden, Alola Morrison, James cate to Editor Lorraine Glowczak. The Vietnam War & Civil War Pruett, and Daniel Smart. Windham Eagle Writer Walter Lunt and The following members of Windham Kelly received recognition for the Wind- Sword Presentation: Maine Post 148 received recognition for Post ham Eagle Newspaper for their work with Military Museum Director Lee Longevity—In Seniority Order: Ralph Veterans. Other recipients inclunde Humiston, left, accepts a Chinese Rao-20, Don McCormick-20, Richard Melissa Carter, Mary Emerson, and Matt carbine from the Vietnam War and a Saker-20, Rod Voisine-22, William Chip- Pascarella. The Windham Eagle has Civil War sword presented by Peaks man-22, Ed Ovington-22, Peter Slivinski- “Made my job easier…” noted the Post Island. Peaks Island Post 142 mem- 23, Benerad Pagurko-24, Terry Ladd-25, Adjutant Dave Tanguay who presented bers, Fred O’Keefe, center, and Charlie Cragin-27, Chris Tucker-28, Ear- the plaque. Dominick DeAngelo, right. ly Libby-29, Ken Sawyer-30, Raymond
Post Longevity: District 2 Commander Cur- Meritorious Service: tis Merrill, left, presents Past Commander Don District 1 ALA President Rogers, center, an Eagle plaque commemorating Marian Curtis, left, presents his 60 years of continuous service to the Post. a Citation for Meritorious Windham Post 148 Commander Mel Greenier, Service Award to Unit 148 right, presents Don a 60 Year Longevity Citation. President Pam Whynot, right. 76th Anniversary Of Pearl Harbor Remembered: Each year The American Legion Field-Allen Post 148 of Windham remembers Dec . 7, “Pearl Harbor Day”, with a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Town of Wind- Honor Guard Table: Wind- ham’s Veterans Memorial in front of Windham High School. This year, joining ham Post 148 3rd Annual Recogni- the Post’s Honor Guard for the ceremony were two World War II Veterans, Bob tion and Awards Night. At the Hon- Miele and Carroll McDonald, both Post members. Left to right, World War II or Guard Table, left to right, Dick Vet Bob Miele, Carroll McDonald along with Post 148 Honor Guards, Wally Graves, Chaplain Dick Drapeau, Clark, Dick Graves, Eric Bickford and Chuck Whynot placing a wreath at the Bob Clarke, David Rendall, Craig Town of Windham’s Veteran’s Memorial in front of Windham High School. Pride, Wally Clark, Bob Christie, and David Horne. Photo by Post 148 Adjutant David Tanguay
22 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Windham Post 148 Everlasting District 2 continued Gratitude Wreath Program: Members place 900 wreaths on the graves of the fallen Veter- New Membership ans in the cemeteries of Windham. The Program has been active since Dec. 2013 with the Post rais- Recognition: Lyndon “Bo” ing the funds from the local businesses and com- Varney, center, receives a New munity to support the program.
Membership Certificate from Photo By Lin Tangauy (ALA) District 2 Commander Curtis Merrill, left, and Windham Post 148 Commander Mel Greenier, right, at the 3rd Annual Recog- nition and Awards night Dec. 5. 2018. Remembering American Legion Member Norman Spear Post t the height of the cold war, when the Cemetery, South Portland. Norm over- Service A Soviet Union and U.S. were in the heard the conversation and perked up. He midst high stakes’ nuclear sword rattling, had worked in Forrest City Cemetery in
Award: in the waters of North Korea, the North an earlier time in his life and felt he might Windham Koreans intercepted and captured a U.S. be of help in the search. He was. Within Post 148 Navy vessel purported to be in interna- two weeks, Norm had located the pau- Command- tional waters. The ship? The USS Pueblo. per’s grave site and was able to get copies er Mel Greenier, From that moment the crew of the of documents that confirmed the location right, pre- Pueblo became pawns in an ugly, interna- of Emile Lejeune, the Medal of Honor sents Ser- tional game of chess and a black mark on recipient. With that information, I was vice Award the Nixon Administration. In that ship’s able to forward the information to the plaque and citation to Post Service Officer crew, in the engineering department was a Medal of Honor Association and get ap- Chuck Whynot, left. Navy Sailor from Maine, Norman Spear. proval for a dedication of the grave by the He and his fellow crew members endured VA with a VA provided bronze plaque. brutality and severe conditions prior to On October 10th of that year, a formal their release eleven months later. The Medal of Honor dedication ceremony was Fourth Post Longevity Estate ship, after fifty years, remains a memorial conducted with the assistance of South Recognition: Windham in North Korea dedicated to the sins of the Portland Legion Post 35. Many dignitaries Award: Post 148 Commander Mel West. from the state and city were present. During Greenier, right, presents Norman Spear passed away about a Norm was invited to attend and was in- the 3rd Windham Post 148 Adjutant month ago. He was a Windham resident cluded in the ceremony with the duty of Annual David Tanguay, left, a Post and a quiet man. placing the Medal of Honor flag on the st Recogni- Longevity Certificate for 25 I met Norm on March 21 , 2016. I grave. You could see the sense of pride as tion and years. remember the day because it was the first Norm undertook the task. It became a Awards Ceremony held Dec. 5, Windham Post day of the American Legion Post 148’s defining moment in his life which he 148 Commander Mel Greenier, right, presents Veterans Coffee Social advertised as a would speak about often. the Fourth Estate Award to owner of the Wind- drop-in for local veterans to gather each Norm continued to come to each cof- ham Eagle newspaper, Kelly Manks, left, in sup- Wednesday. Norm was one of the early fee hour without fail. He could also be port of the Post and Veterans in the community. arrivals and sat quietly on the far side of seen almost daily, sitting in his car in the the table. parking lot of the Windham Veterans From all appearance he was a man Center with a cup of coffee, his newspa- who had seen a hard life, bent, but not per and a pack of smokes. Norm enjoyed Recognition of broken. He didn’t say much that first en- the solitude of the Center and even when counter and I wondered if he would return he could not drive due to a recent acci- Post the following week. dent, would ask family or Post members Meritorious He did, and except for illness, never to drive him, stop by McDonald's for a Service Awards missed a Wednesday gathering in two and coffee and take him to the Vet Center. It a half years; always the first to arrive to became his second home. claim his seat. After a few weeks, the Norm had his own table and an ele- David Rendall Richard Small group learned more about his military vated chair that allowed him to sit more service and his status as a former POW in comfortably. His table always had the Korea. He never spoke much about his same vets around him. They were family. service, but occasionally would pass on a Norm was a bit of an eccentric, but, little bit about his past. Many days he half noted once to me that the Legion Post, -heartedly played a game or two of soli- “was an organization worth belonging to.” taire as he listened to others in conversa- Norm was a member worth having in the tion and would occasionally join in. Field-Allen Post and will be missed at the In the spring of 2017, I was working weekly gathering.
on a project to locate the grave of a Medal By Dave Tanguay of Honor recipient buried in Forrest City Special to The Windham Eagle Jan. 4, 2019
Eric Bickford David Horne Larry DeHof EMBERSHIP IS Right Photo: Henry Meritorious Service “Chuck” Whynot, left, Awards were presented by receives Service Windham Post 148 Com- Award for Past Com- mander Mel Greenier, mander Don Rogers. right.
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 23
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Post 68 Veterans Day Address s we gather here today in remembrance Alsace-Lorraine, thus providing himself an District 3 A of the Centennial of the Armistice that additional vote in both the Bundesrat and restored peace to a troubled World, perhaps Reichstag. Livermore Falls Post 10; Lewiston Post 22; Auburn Post 31; Lisbon Falls Post 66; Turner Post 111; it should be a time to reflect on how that first Italy became a united peninsula, and Sabattus Post 135; Mechanic Falls Post 150; Auburn Post 153; Lisbon Post 158; Lewiston Post 210 terrible conflict of the 20th Century began: thus a sovereign power, a feat that not even It is an incontestable fact that the Ger- the Romans were able to accomplish, in man Empire started World War I by declar- 1866. Canada, former colonial territories of ing War on the Russian Empire on August 1, Britain in North America, became a Domini- 1914. Germany’s principal ally, the Austro- um in 1867. Russia, named for the Swedish Auburn Post 153 Passing In Hungarian Empire had already declared war tribe “Rus”, having been conquered in the Review: Lewiston/Auburn Post 153 Ceremony on Russia’s ally Serbia on July 28, after a 13th Century by the Mongol Golden Horde, passing in review on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11, 2018. Serbian National had assassinated the Aus- regained its sovereignty circa 1480, with the Members of William J. Rogers Post 153, left to trian heir-designate to the throne, Arch Duke Grand Duchy of Moscow becoming the most right, Donald Peck, Commander Dan St. Pierre, Ferdinand, and his wife, Sophie, in Sarajevo, dominant remnant. Fifty-three years later, David Jacobs-Pratt, and Department Adjutant Bosnia-Herzegovina, a month earlier on Moscow began its march to the East. After Paul L’Heureux. June 28. The Austrian declaration of War crossing the Ural Mountains, its mostly Cos- caused the Russians to fully mobilize, thus sack armies conquered a vast expanse span- ignoring Germany’s warning that such an act ning time zone after time zone, until it would cause Germany to order mobilization reached the Pacific in 1647, its total territory leading to a declaration of war upon Russia. (including Alaska and a small colony in mid And then the dominoes fell: -coast California) being 14 time zones in all. Germany declared war on Russia’s ally In 1867, Russia sold its interests in France on August 3, followed by France’s Alaska to the United States, mainly because ally, Great Britain declaring war on Germa- it knew it could not defend the territory if it Auburn Unit 153 Passing In ny and Austria-Hungary on August, and were engaged in another war with Britain Lewiston/Auburn Unit 153 Ceremo- what with each country’s various colonies (they lost to Britain in the Crimean War of Review: and protectorates soon following suit, before 1855). ny passing in review American Legion Auxiliary anyone had time to take a deep breath, the One last point about Russia’s conquest members on Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11, 2018. whole world, with the exception of the Unit- of Siberia (from the Urals to the Pacific) it Members of William J. Rogers Unit 153, left to ed States, was engaged in war. was not a gentle affair. The Russians only right, Laura Woodman-Travers, Vicki Jacobs- One question that has been examined cared about their fur trade, foresting, fisher- Pratt, Audrey L'Heureux, Carol White-St Pierre, by various historians is the root cause of the ies, and extracting mineral resources. They and Suzanne Travers. conflict. One rather amazing fact is that so swept across the vast continent to the East many of the belligerents involved, though exterminating whole tribes in what today their peoples may have occupied their re- would be termed genocide or ethnic cleans- spective territories for millennia and were ing. A good many of these people were ge- WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... thus known to the world-at-large, were ra- netically DNA matched and culturally the ther newly created states or had lost signifi- same as the Amerindians of the Americas. cant territories of their former selves. As an Tens of thousands of humans who had occu- District 5 address of this nature can only provide a pied the Asian steppes for more than forty quick snapshot of this phenomenon, the fol- thousand years either ceased to exist, and I Rumford Post 24; Buckfield Post 58; Lockemills Post 68; So. Paris Post 72; Bethel Post 81; Norway Post lowing points are intended as a guide for mean every man, women, child, and infant, 82; Dixfield Post 100; Oxford Post 112; Fryeburg Post 137; West Paris Post 151; Peru Post 199 anyone interested in pursuing further re- or if having surrendered, were so reduced in search on the matter. number that they had difficulty retaining The Germans have been recognized as a their identity. folk since Roman times, but were not united About the only improvement Russia Veteran’s Day Gathering: in all their various tribes until the age of made within this vastness was to build the Rumford Post 24 had a great group of Charlemagne, circa 800 AD, and that of his Trans-Siberian Rail Road from Moscow to Veterans at Post 24 to celebrate Veter- son Lothar, who inherited one third of his Vladivostok in 1914. an’s Day along with representatives of father’s empire. This German state morphed Australia, occupied by Aborigine Stone the S.G. Thibault’s Funeral Home. over time into the Holy Roman Empire, -Age humans for more than fifty thousand Thank you for always providing our which dissolved in 1806, during the Napole- years, was colonized by a combination of beautiful cake for this event. onic Wars. One of its constituent Kingdoms, civil persons, soldiers, and convicts, dis- Prussia, developing an ever more efficient patched by Britain, who arrived in January military regime, began to attract other Ger- of 1788. One hundred thirteen years later, in man states into a united Federation, as it 1901, their mutual descendants declared the Annual Boys & Girls State repeatedly won wars against other European Australian Federation. Ceremony: Napoleon Ouellette states whose reputation was that they were Then there was the expansion of the more powerful than Prussia. After alliance Austro-Hungarian Empire, which showing American Legion Post 24 and Unit 24 between three Southern German States with signs of failure, annexed Bosnia- of Rumford held their annual Boys Prussia’s North German Federation (the Herzegovina, taking it from the collapsing and Girls State supper and recogni- Norddeutsche Bund), war resulted with the Ottoman Turkish Empire in 1908. This dual tion ceremony on Sun., Dec. 2. Front French 2nd Empire of Emperor Napoleon III, province was mainly composed of Muslim row, left to right, Post 24 Commander who was decisively defeated. Two some- Slavs. It was not a happy takeover, as the William Petrie, Girls State Delegates times French Provinces, Alsace and Lor- Austrian Emperor Franz Josef immediately Leigha Carrier, Kylee Pelletier & raine, were ceded to the victorious Germans. reintroduced Roman Catholicism, albeit Courtney Carrier, and Unit 24 Presi- (This is a most interesting area of Europe, as under his own guidance, into the province. dent Rorrie Blanton. Back row, left to the populace either speaks French with a Germany quickly became a great power right, Post 24 Boys State Chairman German accent, or German with a French to be reckoned with in Central Europe. It Kirk Thurston, Boys State Delegates Alex Gorham, William Sorensen, Aaron accent, never secure in knowing to whom explored building a strong naval force to Cameron, & Bryce Cormier, and Unit 24 Girl State Chairman Tricia Thurston. they are to pay their taxes). counter Britain’s absolute dominance of the Napoleon III was deposed, a new Re- world’s oceans through its Grand Fleet. Not public of France was declared, and the enjoying a great deal of sea going experi- Three Generations French, believing they had lost a grievous ence, and only having ocean access via the portion of their national honor, swore venge- Baltic through the easily blockaded Skager- Coming Together: Rumford ance and began to prepare for the next bout. rak and Kattegat straits between Denmark, Post 24 had three generations com- Meanwhile, the last German states Norway, and Sweden (a channel leading to ing together for their Veteran’s Day signed on, and relinquished a portion of their the North Sea and thence to the Atlantic), it Ceremony. Left to right, Edward J sovereignty to a united Germany, which was quickly decided to play most of its cards on Roach III, Donald Edward Roach, led by the Prussian King, now Kaiser a European/Asian contiguous land mass Past Post 24 Commander, and Ed- (Emperor) Wilhelm II, who was the titular strategy. To this end, Germany built a truly ward J. Roach, Jr., Past Department head of 22 Kingdoms (think ancient tribal magnificent railroad system, with which it Commander & Past Post 24 Com- areas), 3 republics, 1 Reichsland. Addition- could transport its well-equipped and highly ally, the Kaiser appointed the Governor of mander. More on “ADDRESS”, Page 24
24 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... the Russian defeat at the battle of Tannen- insisted that Germany be completely hum- berg at the end of August 1914. bled, pay heavy reparations, and stripped of The Austro-Hungarian, Ottoman, and her ability to wage war. This policy led District 5 continued Russian empires, three of four imperial dyn- within twenty years to a resurgent Germany asties that had survived for centuries had and World War I, Part II –what came to be announced on August 4, 2014, coincidentally ceased to exist at the conclusion of the war. called World War II. “Address” the same day as Britain declared war on Ger- The German Empire continued to exist for Such was the legacy of World War I. many, that it would remain neutral for the (Continued from Page 23) mere decades. After the Armistice that we By Harry G. Orcutt duration of the Great European Conflict. The celebrate today, both France and Britain Jackson-Silver Post 68 Adjutant universal opinion of the populace was that trained armies with dispatch both West and they did not want to be embroiled in Eu- East. But being very much apprised that most rope’s Monarchist disputes. Approximately Post 68 Dedicates Veterans Monument at of the Atlantic/Mediterranean coastal na- 30% of the people residing in the U.S. were Armistice Centennial Ceremonies tions, all of whom possessed modern navies, legally admitted residents seeking U.S. citi- used these forces to govern and dominate zenship. Another large portion who had eterans of every declared conflict since motto being “For God and Country”, the day colonies and “protectorates” in the Americas, emigrated from Europe during and since our V Korea, members of Locke Mills Post began with a commemorative service at Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, Germa- Civil War, and were now citizens with de- 68, Officers of Department of Maine, gath- Locke Mills Union Church, presided over by ny very much wanted to enjoy like privileg- scendants, still remembered the interminable ered on Sun., Nov. 11, to dedicate a monu- Reverend Sondra Withey. It then moved to es. wars and readjustments of national borders ment in front of their Great Hall inscribed Post 68 for a full day of traditional ceremo- France and Britain, being the self- caused by one kingdom or another seeking to with the names of all Greenwood Veterans nies, which following the dedication of the appointed colony/protectorate membership expand at the cost of its neighbor. Also fresh who served in World War I, World War II, monument, included a buffet luncheon, and committee, let the Germans know that mem- in the minds of many were the programs, and the Korean Conflict. The monument had a spectacular musical program of patriotic bership was closed. France was at that time essentially war in another guise, against the been gifted to the Post by the Town of songs performed by the Mahoosuc Commu- maneuvering in Morocco to make that Sul- Jewish populations of mainly Eastern Euro- Greenwood when the original, thought to be nity Band, and a solo performance by tanate a protectorate. In 1906, the German pean countries. All had sought and found sufficient in size, as World War I was the Greenwood born James Bennett, retired Emperor, on a cruise of the Mediterranean, security in the free capitalistic society of the “War to end all Wars”, had been replaced by Director of the Norwich University (the visited Morocco and announced his intention United States that, with a total population of a larger one in the Town’s Veterans Park, Military School of Vermont) Band, accom- of recognizing the country as a sovereign about half that of Europe, produced more when no further names could be added to the panied on a portable piano by his cousin, power. France, with Britain’s full backing manufactured goods than did all the Europe- monument's face. The present town monu- Susan Hathaway, of West Paris. Major Ben- protested. By 1911, the French managed to an countries combined. ment has all of the names of the original nett performed rousing renditions of Irving insert 20,000 of its soldiers into the Moroc- In last year’s Adjutant Address we ex- inscribed upon it along with the names of Berlin’s poignant World War I song, “They can capital at Fez, whose domination France amined how and why it was that Germany men and women who have served in Ameri- Were All Out of Step but Jim”, and the hu- and Britain thought to be a fait accompli. finally induced the United States to declare can declared conflicts since then. Though morous “Oh!, How I Hate to Get Up In the Germany responded by sending “Panther”, a war upon it, and how we raised, clothed, and there is now much room to spare, we pray Morning.” Dozens of residents of Green- small gunboat, to Agadir, a small Atlantic equipped four million military personnel, and that it will not be necessary for any other wood and nearby towns were in attendance. Moroccan port. The crisis appeared to be sent half of them to Europe to preserve De- names to be added, though we know it prob- And they must have been enjoying the event heading toward a European War, when mocracy and to bring the war to a victorious ably will. as they stayed beyond the start of a major France proposed, and Germany accepted, conclusion. We also cited the U.S. casualties The event, besides being Veterans Day, national football game. dominion of certain French Colonies in Cen- in that conflict. Now, let us examine the total heralded the Centennial of the Armistice that By Harry G. Orcutt tral Africa, in exchange for Germany’s rec- cost to the warring nations in terms of those ended World War I. The American Legion’s Jackson-Silver Post 68 Adjutant ognizing France’s protectorate in Morocco. killed or wounded in combat or dead from Germany thereby joined the Imperialistic other causes. Colony Club. Needless to say, neither the No precise total is possible, given the Veterans Moroccans nor the Africans were consulted. records available. However, the best estimate Monument Soon thereafter, Germany, having built is that between 15 to 19 million people were powerful new Dreadnaughts and Cruisers, killed, of whom 9 to 11 million were military Dedication: induced China to surrender the Port of Tsing- personnel, the civilian death total being Jackson-Silver Post tao for use as a German Naval Base, and about 8 million. Military wounded amounted 68 members dedi- claimed possession of a part of New Guinea, to 22 or 23.65 million casualties. Taking a cates Veterans Mon- the island of Samoa, and the Caroline, Mar- mid-range of military killed, the ratio was ument on Armistice shall and Mariana Islands. (The United 60% for the Allies (Britain, France, Russia, Centennial Ceremo- States claimed Guam as a protectorate, and Italy), and 40% for the Central Powers nies on Veterans which it took from Spain during the Spanish- (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Otto- Day, Nov. 11, 2018. American War, when it sent the Cruiser USS man Empire). Charleston to take possession of the island, When we consider Germanic peoples as and initially employed the harbor of Agana casualties, it may be worth noting the follow- Traditional Ceremonies: After the as a coaling station for its Pacific Naval forc- ing ironies. France was largely a Germanic event, a full day of traditional ceremonies es.) Germany lost all its Pacific possessions nation in that its original Celtic population took place including spectacular music per- to Japan after that country joined the Triple was assimilated when its territory was over- formed by, left to right, Greenwood born Entente of France, Britain, and Italy, by De- run and occupied by the Franks, a Germanic James Bennett, retired Director of the Nor- claring War on August 14, 1914. tribe, and later when the Province of Nor- wich University (the School of Vermont) The Last act that led to WWI was a mandy was occupied by Danish/Norwegian Band, accompanied on a portable piano by German-inspired plan, with the cooperation Vikings. The exception in France was Britta- his cousin, Susan Hathaway, of South Paris. of Austro-Hungary, Bulgaria, and the Otto- ny, founded and occupied by Welsh peoples man Empire, to build a rail system from Ber- who had escaped the conquest of England by lin, through Vienna, the Balkans, into Tur- Germanic tribes; a majority of so-called key, at Constantinople, on to Bagdad, and French in Canada were, in fact, Bretagne. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... ending in the Persian Gulf. Germany saw England’s people had been conquered this rail connection as an opening to bind and by the Germanic tribes of Jutes, Angles, and thereby influence the Ottoman Empire. All Saxons, and again, later by Danish/ District 6 of Europe was aware that the Ottomans were Norwegian Vikings. Those not conquered on the point of collapse. If that collapse oc- were, again, the Welsh in their enclave of Rockland Post 1; Vinalhaven Post 18; Camden Post 30; North Haven Post 33; St. George Post 34; curred, Germany would be in a position to Wales, and the Scots in Scotland -- both Thomaston Post 37; Union Post 110 protect Syria, Iraq, and the Arabian Peninsu- Gaelic peoples. la. Both France and Britain were also anx- Germany had calculated that it would be ious to protect those territories themselves. faced with a disastrous two-front war, so it Serbia was the fly in the German ointment. struck at France through neutral Belgium. Its alliance with Russia, and by extension Had it not been for the valor of the small with France, was the trigger that plunged the Belgian army which refused to yield a corner Hat Presentation: Rockland Post 1 presents World World into chaos, when the Young Bosnia/ of their southern border, and what the French War II Veteran Ben Harding, seated, center, a World Black Hand member, 19 year old Serbian referred to as “The Miracle of the Marne”, War II Veterans hat. Back, left to right, Rockland Post 1 Gavrilo Princip, shot both Archduke Franz when they were able to stop the German Sergeant-At-Arms Bill Lawry, Rockland Post 1 Adjutant Ferdinand and his wife, Sophie, with a semi- drive on Paris, France would likely have Michelle Sawyer, and Rockland Post 1 2nd Vice Com- automatic pistol that had been provided to been defeated, leaving Britain to stand alone mander Russ Wolfertz, Jr. him by Serbian Colonel Dragutin Dimitri- in the West. The Germans did succeed in jevic. driving Russia out of the war by transferring As mentioned earlier, the United States armies on their railroad system, and initiating
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 25
total of five local Boy and Girl Scout Be Their Witness, and encouraging sup- WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... groups, and Explorer Scouts helped in wel- porters to keep the memories of our fallen coming the participants, helping to serve heroes alive through stories, gratitude and the evening meal and clean up after the education.” District 6 continued event. Also a big thank you to our major Grand Marshal – National President of sponsor for this event, Bangor Savings American Gold Star Mothers Inc. Bank. Local branch manager Tim Keene (AGSM), Becky Christmas, led the cara- Camden Post 30 Breakfast: Camden Post 30 and his staff along with Bangor Savings van as it traveled down the East Coast held a breakfast for our local Coast Guard Station on Regional Market Manager Tricia Duch- stopping at schools, memorials and other esneau participated, helping serve the 170 locations along the way to spread the mis- Jan. 27 in Rockland. Maine House Representative Vicki or so participants. A meal consisting of a sion and honor our nation’s Veterans. Doudera attends just about every event that Post 30 puts roast turkey dinner with all the fixings that Escort participants included American on as a supporter of our Military Veterans. Vicki was was prepared and catered by Fiona’s Cater- Gold Star Mothers, Blue Star Families, front and center wearing her red, white, and blue apron, ing of Bath was well received. Locally, Gold Star Wives of America, Veterans and handling orders, serving and washing up. Post 30 Com- people of Brunswick showed up in force to the Wreaths Across America extended mander Frank Carr, left, presents Representative view the convoy as it passed through town family. Members of the Patriot Guard Rid- Doudera, right, with an American Legion Certificate of for the Sunday evening stop in Brunswick ers, Patriot Riders of America and Rolling Appreciation for all she has done for Post 30. Representa- (with the majority of the convoy traveling Thunder, flanked the escort along with law tive Doudera is serving her first term in the Maine House to Bath for the evening stay following the enforcement from Maine, lead by West- for Camden, Islesboro & Rockport in District 94. event at Brunswick Post 20) and again on brook Police Chief Janine Roberts, all to Monday morning as they exit Bath/ ensure safe transport for all participants Brunswick headed South for the next throughout the week. scheduled stop. What began as a pilgrimage by Maine Flag Etiquette/Retirement “The Escort to Arlington is an annual wreath maker, Morrill Worcester, in a sin- Ceremony: Kinney-Melquist Post Wreaths Across America tradition that gle truck to deliver 5,000 wreaths he do- 34 in Saint George participated with allows us to interact with thousands of the nated to Arlington back in 1992 has be- local Boys Scout Troop and Girls supporters who make our mission to Re- come a national mission more than 25 Scout Troop 1831 in flag etiquette ed- member, Honor and Teach possible each years later to Remember, Honor, and ucation and a flag retirement ceremo- year,” said Karen Worcester, executive Teach.
ny on Nov. 8. Front row, left to right, director of Wreaths Across America. “This By Brunswick Post 20 Member/WAA Local Mariah, Hayzel, Natalie, Josh, Mathi- year, we’re focusing on our annual theme, Coordinator Richard Barter us, and Julian. Second row, left to right, Jordan, Winter, Addie, Lydia, Alyssa, Kayleigh, Evan, and Jack. Back row, left to right, Post 34 Legionnaires Jan Gaudio, Ray Emerson, Steve Pomakis, and Thornton Batty, Jr.
Warren Post 218 Meritorious Service: Warren Post 218 receives a Mer- itorious Service Award at the Annual Mid- Winter Conference in Bangor on Jan. 19. Presenting the award are State Department 2nd Vice Commander Debra Couture, left, and State Department 1st Vice Commander Matt Jabaut, right. Accepting the award is Boy & Girl Scout Support: Local Boy and Girl Scouts help clean up District 6 Commander Ray Lewis, center. and serve the evening meal hosted by Brunswick Post 20 for Wreaths Across America event Dec. 8. Brunswick Post Surprise Visit: Santa makes a surprise visit to the 20 Recognition: Waldoboro Post 149 weekly Bingo. Players enjoyed Wreaths Across holiday refreshments and treats from Santa and fun America Grand Mar- was had by all. Bingo is held every Saturday night at shall and Gold Star our Post at 181 Jefferson Street, Waldoboro. Doors Mother Becky Christ- open at 4:30 p.m. and games start at 6:30 p.m. Bingo is mas, center, presents open to the public and all are welcome; come join the Brunswick Post 20 fun! Left to right, Waldoboro Post 149 Adjutant Donna Past Commander Joe Wallace, Santa (John Gatcombe with his natural Donahue, left, and beard) and Unit 149 Vice President Katie Winchen- Meal Blessing: Rev- Brunswick Post Com- erend Mark Rockwood bach. mander David Wat- from Berean Baptist son, right, with a Church blesses the meal State House Wreath during the Wreaths Across and the convoy at Bruns- WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... America evening meal and recognition night hosted wick Post 20 Wreaths by Brunswick Post 20 on Dec. 8. Across America event.
District 8 Brunswick Post 20 Brunswick Post 20; Bath Post 21; Harpswell Post 171; Thompson Post 202; Phippsburg Post 216 Boys State Cap Presentation: Brunswick Brunswick Post 20 Hosts Post 20 Commander David Watson, left, and American- Wreaths Across America Convoy to Arlington ism Officer Robert Cameron, right, present a Boys State cap he annual convoy of wreaths to Arling- including twelve tractor trailers carrying to Parker Swanson, center. T ton National Cemetery from Maine has 253,000 sponsored wreaths, were destined Parker attends Region 10 become known as the country's longest for Arlington National Cemetery on the Technical High School in Veterans’ parade, and this year, the week- morning of Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 – Na- Brunswick. Parker spoke to long journey kicked off on Saturday, Dec. tional Wreaths Across America Day. the Post and shared that he 8, 2018, at West Quoddy Headlight, Lubec, Locally, Brunswick Post 20, led by had been hesitant about at- Maine. The escort wrapped vehicles which Commander W. David Watson hosted the tending - not much interested in politics, but that it had been a really good expe- included, Wreaths Across America employ- convoy on Dec. 9, 2018, with the Post host- rience. He enjoyed learning how government works and made friends with ees, volunteers and partner organizations– ing an evening meal and recognitions. A whom he plans to stay in touch...a super young man!
26 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Veterans Day Ceremony: continued Harpswell Post 171 District 8 Veterans Day Cere- mony was held at The Proposed Plaza to Honor All Maine Veterans the Old Town House in Harpswell Cen- fter a year of major planning, efforts Legion Post 20, and a Brunswick Town ter. Left to right, A are underway that will more deeply Councilor, “and it invites everyone to sit, Bugler Rollie Wee- honor Maine military Veterans through spend time, and be reminded of the efforts man with Post 171 the building of a newly designed Veterans of all our military to preserve our free- members Bill O'Connell, John Ott, Commander Mike Doyle, Bob Webber, and Plaza. It will be located on the downtown doms that none of us can ever take for Gale Doyle.
Brunswick, Maine Mall, a site currently granted. Many people have remarked that Photo By Lili Ott serving as a a Plaza with this WWII Memorial. mission is long Planning overdue.” Transitional Housing For Women thus far includes An organizing Veterans: Harpswell Post 171 visited the the design of the committee has Betsy Ann Ross House of Hope in Augusta on Plaza that has been formed and Dec. 18 to present 22 sets of bed linens to this gained full and is currently de- nonprofit that provides transitional housing for formal approval veloping efforts women veterans. It was another effort on the part from both the to attract the of Post 171 to help female veterans in Maine. Left Brunswick Town funding needed to right, Bob Webber, Al Golden, Executive Di- Council and the to construct the rector Martha St.Pierre of House of Hope, Com- Brunswick Village Review Board. The Plaza. American Legion Post 20 is serving mander Mike Doyle, Bill O’Connell, Diane architects for the Plaza are Richardson and as the fiscal agent for the Plaza Project. O’Connell and John Ott also attended the event.
Associates, the firm that designed the well Included in the Plaza will be 320 Photo by John Ott -known General Joshua Chamberlain Stat- granite honor blocks that people can adopt ue and Memorial. to permanently honor those veterans they Harpswell Post 171 held their “This unique design embraces the wish by engraving the name of their hon- Togus Christmas Party on Dec. 7. The concept of honoring ALL Veterans from oree, their branch of service, and the years major gift was a projector with sound ALL Branches of military service,” states they served. bar and a projector screen. All long- David Watson Commander of American term care and hospice patients received individual gifts and $10 in canteen cou- pons. Santa Roy Knight, Elf Rachael, Coast Guard members from Sector Bath Post 21 Northern New England, South Port- Xmas Party: land and Post 171 members Commander Mike Doyle, Bob Webber, and Bill Bath Post 21 Chil- O’Connell distributed the gifts. Post 171 members Gale Doyle, Bill Sabrowski, dren’s Christmas Par- members of the SUVCW (Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War), Auxiliary ty was held on Dec. 23 members Tracy Williams, Lee Dione, and Anne Sosnowski attended. 1st Ser- at the Post home. Left geant Kevin Kurlas, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 25th Marines came from
to right, Program Co- Brunswick. Lobster rolls and pizza were served. A good time was had by all! ordinator for 15+ years Lilly Stevenson Harpswell Post 171 Receive & Santa (Jeff Steven- son) arriving to hand State House Wreath: Harpswell Post out toys to local area 171 1st Vice Commander John Ott, left, and children. Harpswell Post 171 Commander Michael Doyle, right, receive State House Wreath from Wreaths Across America 2018 Grand Mar- shall Becky Christmas, center at the Wreaths Across America event held at Brunswick Post 20 on Dec. 8. Ringing The Bell: Bath Post 21 member and Depart- ment of Maine Histori- Topsham Post 202 Receive State House an Jeffrey Stevenson Wreath: Topsham Post 202 Historian Nancy-Laffin donates his time to ring Gillespie, left, and Topshan Post 202 Commander Conjur- the bell for the Salva- Josefine Eltzroth, right, receive State House Wreath Kids Party Magician: tion Army. ing Carroll entertains local area chil- from Wreaths Across America 2018 Grand Marshall dren at the Bath Post 21 Children’s Becky Christmas, center during the Wreaths Across Christmas Party Dec. 23. America event held at Brunswick Post 20 on Dec. 8.
Photo by Jeff Stevenson
Bath Post 21 Receive State House Wreath: Wreaths Across America 2018 Phippsburg Post 216 Receive State Grand Marshall Becky Christ- House Wreath: District 8 Sergeant-At-Arms/ mas, center, presents Bath Post Phippsburg Post 216 Past Post Commander Ken Kel- 21 Past Commander Al Mor- logg, left, and Phippsburg Post 216 Sergeant-At- ton, left, and Bath Post 21 Arms David Barnes, right, receive State House member Ed Morton, right, with Wreath from 2018 Grand Marshall Beck Christmas, a State House Wreath during center, during the Wreaths Across America event the Wreaths Across America held at Brunswick Post 20 on Dec. 8 event held at Brunswick Post 20 on Dec. 8.
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 27
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Veterans Day Ceremony, WWI District 9 & 100th Year Observance held Augusta Post 2; Gardiner Post 4; Waterville Post 5; Hallowell Post 6; Winthrop Post 40; Oakland Post Nov. 12, 2018 at the To- 51; Togus Post 90; No. Vassalboro Post 126; Richmond Post 132; So. China Post 179; gus VA Medical Center. Litchfield Post 181; Clinton Post 186; China Post 195; Monmouth Post 204; Augusta Post 205 In attendance, front to rear, Togus Post 90 Col- Augusta Unit 2 New or Guard Timothy Do- Member Initiation novan, George Eastman Jr. and Leon Cummings, Ceremony: Augusta Rumford Post 24 Fi- Unit 2 Initiation Ceremony nance Officer Joy Bordeau, Representative for Angus King Teague Morris, was held for seven ladies Representative for Senator Collins Chuck Mahaleris and Representative for who joined the American Bruce Poliquin Tim Gallant. Legion Augusta Auxiliary Unit 2 during 2017-2018 on Sept. 16, 2018. Each new member received a Certifi- cate of Initiation, an Auxilia- ry pin, a new member book- let, a poppy, a copy of the Unit By-Laws, an Auxiliary pen, and a small American flag. The four great principles, Justice; Freedom; Democracy; and Loyalty, were explained, as well as each part of the American Legion emblem. The new mem- bers were sworn in by Past Department President Joyce Thurlow after they pledged to obligate themselves to the Principles of the American Legion Auxilia- ry. Third row, left to right, Unit 2 President Soraya Umphrey, and Past Depart- ment President Nancy True. Second row, left to right, Past Department Presi- dents Ann Durost, Joyce Thurlow, Terry Owen, Alice Severence, & Mary Jane Mcloon, and Past Department Chaplain Myrtle Brown. Front row, left to right, new members Laurie Jo Farrar, Melody Rousseau, Lynn Hiner, Diana Smith, and Mary Keller. (Not pictured: Joana Hamilton) Rifle Salute & Taps: Army National Guard conducting Rifle Salute & Taps at Togus VA Medical Center in celebration of Veteran’s Day, World War 1 and 100th Year Observance held Nov. 12, 2018. Post 2 Eagle Scout Ceremony: Augusta Post 2 Commander Fred Umphrey, left, attended the Photo by Jeffrey Stevenson Eagle Scout Ceremony for Scout Joshua Hoffman, right, of Troop 603 in Augusta on Sept. 28, 2018. The Commander congratulated Eagle Scout Hoffman on his achievement and presented him with The Ameri- can Legion Eagle Scout Citizenship Certificate and the American Legion Citizenship Medal. Eagle Scout Left to Hoffman described his community support project Keynote Speaker: which he completed as part of his Eagle Scout re- right, Keynote Speaker Randall Lib- quirement. Joshua used his project requirement to erty (Warden of the Maine State Pris- complete the refurbishment of a children’s play- on and serves as Co-Commissioner of ground in Augusta. Commander Umphrey cited the Public Safety and Corrections) with importance of the Eagle Scout program and the many Medical Center Director Daniel hours of work the scout is required to do to achieve Ducker, right, at Togus VA Veterans Day Ceremony, World War 1 and the high award. th Photo by Soraya Umphrey 100 Year Observance held Nov. 12, 2018.
Photo by Jeffrey Stevenson Recognition Of Faithful Service: Past National Commander An- thony “Tony” Jordan, left, presents Water- ville Past Post 5 Commander Ernie Paradis a plaque from The American Legion Na- tional Headquarters at the Waterville Post One Man’s Dedication Above & Beyond to 5 meeting Nov. 19, 2018. This plaque was to recognize Ernie’s 25 years of faithful ser- Veterans in Veteran Hospitals & Veterans Homes vice on the Americanism Commission. Er- nie is a past Sergeant-At-Arms, past State ne Man’s Dedication Above and Be- cause it seems that unfortunately we're Assistant Adjutant, past Post 5 Adjutant as O yond to Veterans in Veteran Hospitals surrounded by wars. As his life progressed well as past Waterville Post 5 Commander. & Veterans Homes so did the wars. This article had been drafted and put In the early 1950's, we had the Korean together hoping it will be read by a large War which was first called a Police Action. number of Americans to show them the That supposedly ended and Korea was sacrifice and dedication of one person. geographically divided with a Demilita- Said person being a member of The Amer- rized Zone (DMZ) and was now known as ican Legion Post 40 of Winthrop. This North and South Korea. These divisions Eagle Carved By Inmate: An inmate at the Maine person is known to a large number of resi- were independent of each other and so State Prison took four months/1600 hours of labor to com- dents in the town of Winthrop. He is a remain today. plete the carving of an eagle. It was said that knowing this popular and sincere person and extends Early months of 1965, U.S. sent sculpture was on display at the Togus VA Mecical Center in himself to many people and in many vari- 100,000 troops and got involved in the Augusta gave him a sense of pride and honor and humility. ous ways. Now that I've got your attention ground war in Vietnam. The photo was taken during the Togus VA Veteran’s Day th let me describe him and his persona as Moving onward to 1967, the United Ceremony, World War 1 and 100 Year Observance held exhibited to the world. States assisted South Korea in the cold war Nov. 12, 2018. His name is Arthur Herbert Wells and against North Korea in the DMZ. Also the Photo By Jeffrey Stevenson he was born in the year 1942. Looking at Dominican Civil War was just ended 1965 that year we see that it was just after the thru 1966. The United States assisted Do- start of World War II, which began in De- cember of 1941. I touch upon this fact be- More on “DEDICATION”, Page 28
28 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 9 continued District 12 ed. The VA set up the Hospitals as being Bar Harbor Post 25; Ellsworth Post 63; Southwest Harbor Post 69; Blue Hill Post 85; Bucksport Post 93; “Dedication” under Quarantine and off limits. They were Stonington Post 102; Northeast Harbor Post 103; Trenton Post 207 (Continued from Page 27) still able to visit other sections of the VA hospitals, which they did. Ellsworth Post 63 minican Loyalists. Brazil, Paraguay, Nica- In 2012, the VA established and al- Meritorious Service Award: ragua, Costa Rica, El Salvador and Hondu- lowed televising the Church Services from Department 1st Vice Commander Mat- ras. VA grounds to all the Wards on Sunday thew Jabaut, right, and Department Arthur, seeing all these worldly wars, a.m.'s. This became Arthur’s duty running decided to join the armed services of the the cameras. He did this for a number of 2nd Vice Commander Debra Couture, United States. He then decided he wanted years. left, present Ellsworth Post 63 Adjutant to join the Navy and he enlisted in 1967. Another service Arthur recalled was a and District 12 Commander Albert He signed up and served two years of ac- Special service they would do for the Vet- Scott, center, a Meritorious Service tive duty, which included part of the year erans, one being on Memorial Day and Award during the annual Mid-Winter Conference in Bangor Jan. 19. 1967 into 1969. others on Military Holidays. They would During that time he was assigned to also assist at the Christmas Party. Each Photo By Jeffrey Stevenson active duty in the Vietnam war zone aboard year afghan's (clothing) were made by vol- an ammunition supply ship AE17 USS unteers and Arthur would see that these WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Great Sitkin in the year 1968. were given to the Veterans to wear and Then his next mission was assigned to keep when they ventured out into the win- AE12 USS Randell in 1969. Both of said ter cold. District 13 ships supplied ammunition to the Aircraft Speaking of winter cold, the State of Carrier "Enterprise" and the Battleship Maine is in the upper northeast quadrant of Bangor Post 12; East Millinocket Post 13; Corinna Post 73; Old Town Post 85; Lincoln Post 77; "New Jersey" and to other war ships in the the United States and the winters are very Millinocket Post 80; Orono Post 84; Howland Post 97; Brewer Post 98; Newport Post 105; Vietnam war zone. cold and snow ridden. When you stop and Etna-Carmel Post 107; East Corinth Post 115; Lee Post 160; Hermon Post 200; During his service time he attained the think about that, you ask yourself how has Dixmont Post 201; Glenburn Post 211; Hampden Post 213 rank of 3rd Class Boatswain Mate. he managed to make a Sunday weekly trip, After finishing his tour of active duty 52 weeks of the year with those weather Hero’s of the Month he was assigned an additional four years in conditions? It has taken much dedication the Naval Reserve. Upon completion this and perseverance to continue doing this and orinna Post 73 recently participated The Legion is very thankful to have being a total of 6 years he spent with the he has enjoyed the trip. C with the Maine Military Supply of participated in this meaningful program US Naval Service. In the title of this article "Veterans Holden to award two grants under the provided by Maine Military Supply. When he finished active duty with the Homes" are mentioned. There are a number newly formed "HERO'S OF THE Any organization who might know Navy, he returned home and in 1969 he of these homes located within the State as MONTH" program. of needy Veteran's in their area are en- joined The American Legion. well as throughout the U.S. The nearest The program helps out needy Veter- couraged to contact Richard White, He then found employment at Carlton Veterans Home to Togus is about five ans throughout Central Maine who need Maine Military Supply, 179 Main Rd., Woolen Mill in Winthrop and was assigned miles west. If there were any Veterans he a lift to get them by. We were fortunate Holden, Maine 04429 or call 207-989- to the 2nd shift which was the night shift. knew from Winthrop or anywhere for that to have two Legion members recommend 6783. He became friendly with his supervisor matter Arthur would always stop there on an award for two needy Veteran's in the It was our pride and honor to have Leopold (Leo) Sawtelle who was not a his way home from Togus. Again these Exeter, Maine area. participated with the Maine Military Sup- Veteran. In 1974, Leo mentioned to him visits encompassed another two hour time In late December the Grants for fuel ply to assist these two worthy Veteran's. that he made a weekly trip, every Sunday period or longer in which Arthur felt good assistance were approved and presented to the Veterans Administration Hospital raising the Veterans spirits and boosting By Dave Bolstridge, to two Veteran's in Exeter, one Veteran Corinna Post 73 Adjutant (VA) at Togus, Maine. He went and assist- their morale. ed the handicapped and medically recover- As if he had nothing else to do, he ran was 91 years old and had served our ing Veterans at said location. Arthur be- for Post Commander’s position and was Country in WWII. came interested in what he heard and told elected to same and served in that position Leo that he would start going with him on for three years from 1984 thru 1986. Hero Of The Month– Pierce: Sundays. Thus it began and it was an every To add to his idle hours, he has been Corinna Post 73 presents the Fuel Assis- Sunday thing with both of them going to very active in all his years of membership tance Program Award to Legion member st the VA. They would arrive at the VA at 9 in the Legion. He spent 25 of those years as Michael Pierce. Left to right, Post 73 1 a.m. and leave at 1 p.m. It was a 30 minute Post 40 Chaplin. Vice Commander Victor Buckland, Re- and 18 mile drive from Winthrop to the VA To help enlighten the average person cipient Michael Pierce, Richard White and a 30 minute and 18 mile ride home Arthur made these weekly trips for 44 from Maine Military Supply, and Post 73 every week. This brought the total of time years. Counting just Sundays and broken Adjutant Dave Bolstridge. donated to five hours a week. down into the number of days we have two Photo by Unit 73 Member Linda Colbath While at the VA, they would each take thousand two hundred eighty eight (2,288) three handicapped wheelchair riding Veter- days he donated in that time period. Now if ans from the Nursing Home Ward to the we count the hours as per that time, it Hero Of The Month–Weeks: cafeteria at 9 a.m. for coffee and donuts, comes to eleven thousand four hundred and Corinna Post 73 presents the Fuel Assis- and upon completion, take them to forty (11,440) hours. Now that's a lot of tance Program Award to Legion mem- Protestant Church Services on the Grounds time of which he considers well spent. ber Laurice Weeks of Exeter. Left to from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and then The question in many people's minds right, Post 73 1st Vice Commander Vic- back to their wards upon completion. They was posed and he was asked "Why he did tor Buckland, Recipient Laurice Weeks, would then go to different wards and talk it?". His response follows: quoting him, "I Richard White from Maine Military to and cheer up the sick, ailing, recovering have done it for the Veteran and their men- Supply, Post 73 Adjutant Dave Bol- and all other veterans that needed a boost in tal stability. I felt it was a good deed and stridge, and in back row Post 73 Service life. being a Veteran myself it was my responsi- Officer Stephen Colbath. These joint trips and visits to the VA bility to help them make it". for Arthur & Leo lasted until 1994 when In lieu of this short synopsis, I and Photo by Unit 73 Member Linda Colbath Leo began losing his sight and could no many members of Post 40, including Wom- longer make said trips. Being the man he an's Auxiliary, Sons of The Legion, and was, Arthur continued the journeys on his Legion Riders, all concur with the good- Have You Asked a Veteran own. ness of Arthur's charitable time given to the Among other things, they would visit many Veterans of this great Country. TO JOIN Today? VA Hospitalized Veterans and could do so God Bless you Arthur and the Veter- Help us increase membership for 2019! at their leisure. These bedridden Veterans ans and God Bless America. were very happy to have someone to con- Join online at www.mainelegion.org verse with. Sometime around 1989 or By Frank Smimmo thereabouts, the visiting privilege was end-
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 29
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 13 continued District 15 Calais Post 3; Cherryfield Post 8; Machias Post 9; Eastport Post 11; Baileyville Post 23; Danforth Post 45; Pembroke Post 59; Lubec Post 65; Jonesport Post 108; Vanceboro Post 172; Topsfield Post 191
First Time Member: Etna/ Carmel Post 107 Commander Bob Sibley, right, presents first time member of Post Committed Support From Down 107 Ansel Zetterman his membership East Credit Union: Calais Post 3 card. Support Fund receives a $1,000 check from
Photo by Hermon Post 200 Tom Carle Down East Credit Union staff. Left to right, Branch Manager Becky Perkins, Post Com- mander Mike McLean, and Loan Officer Jes- sica Brown. The Credit Union has committed to $1,000 for the Support Fund for the next four years. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT...
District 14 A Big Surprise & Great Honor: I want to thank Dr. Niayesh and the O.R. Staff for their Dover-Foxcroft Post 29; Milo Post 41; Dexter Post 53; Brownville-Jct. Post 92; Greenville Post 94; professional and courteous care I received during a Monson Post 116; Guilford Post 119; Sangerville Post 165 recent surgery I had at the Calais Regional Hospi- tal. I also want to thank the St. Croix Val- ley Chamber of Commerce for presenting me with the ARLO T. BATES Award 2018. This award is "in recognition of the time and effort dedicated Miracle Tree Event: Dover- towards serving and improving the quality of life in Foxcroft Post 29 members recently partici- the St. Croix Region"! This was a big surprise and pated in the Miracle Tree Event as a part of a great honor. Any correspondence: Commander the Hometown Holidays Celebration in Do- Calais American Legion Sherman Brothers Post #3, ver-Foxcroft. Post 29 donated a beautiful- PO Box 311, Calais, Maine 04619, email: ly decorated patriotic tree for auction. All [email protected], Facebook: Calais American money benefits local charities. Legion. Tel: 207-214-4410(cell). Please leave mes- sage. Remember our Veterans!
By Calais Post 3 Commander Mike McLean District 14 Oratorical Cherryfield Post 8 Wreaths Contest: Greenville Post 94 conducted the Post and District Across America: Scouts of Pack 14 American Legion Oratori- and Troop 139 serve as Color Guard cal Contest at Greenville High for the Cherryfield Wreaths Across School on Jan. 23. The contest America Program co-hosted by Cherry- requires the students to have field Post 8 and the Scouts on Dec. 15, an 8—10 minute presentation 2018. The program featured the Na- on a provision of the U. S. Con- tional Anthem played by Post 8 Adju- stitution on a subject of their tant Peter Duston, Pledge of Allegiance choice and to respond with a 3 led by the Webelos Scouts and the plac- to 5 minute presentation to one ing of wreaths on the WWI, WWII and of the four listed topics on the Korea/Vietnam Memorials. Following constitution that is selected at the competition. The winner of the competition the program, volunteers organized by qualifies for participation of The American Legion State Contest at Thomas Col- Vietnam War Veteran Larry Brown's lege in February. Left to right, Greenville H.S. English Teacher & Contest Coor- wife, Cheryl, spread out to the many cemeteries in Cherryfield, Union- dinator Alan Cartwright, Greenville Students, Sophomore Christian Trujillo, ville, Beddington and Deblois to place the wreaths. Freshmen Ashley Bussell, Eva Patrick, Kayla Berthiaume, Greenville Post 94 Commander Peter Johnson. 2019 results are Winner Ashley Bussell and 2nd Place Wreaths Across America Eva Patrick. Volunteer: Cherryfield Post 8 mem- ber and disabled Veteran, Clyde Mer- District 14 Places 3rd In State rill, has been a volunteer at the Wreaths Across America trucker station in Co- Contest: Ashley Bussell of Greenville is lumbia for several years and well shown receiving the third place award at known by many of the truckers. His the 2019 American Legion State Oratorical dream has been to accompany the con- Contest held at Thomas College on Feb. 9. voy to Arlington National Cemetery and Presenting the award is American Legion this was to be the year but Stage 4 can- State Commander Scott Paradis with cer intervened and Clyde had to cancel. Americanism Officer Alfred McKay look- Although disappointed, he managed to ing on. Presented with the award was a have a few good days in between treat- $300 scholarship. Ashley’s 10 minute ments and was able to be honored at the speech was based on an aspect of the U.S. send-off dinner and was able to ride in Constitution and was titled “In Search of the convoy for most of the first day ex- Equality”. ”. The presentation described periencing the excitement of a 5 mile the challenges women in the United States convoy loaded with hundreds of thou- have experienced attaining equal rights sands of wreaths to honor our deceased and the relationship of those challenges to Veterans and Warriors. Left to right, Wreaths Across American founder Merrill the rights protected by the constitution. Worcester, Volunteer Clyde Merrill, and Post 8 Adjutant Peter Duston.
30 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... days later using rented belt sanders, volunteers. Legionnaire Jack Dixon and working days and evenings, we were fi- his wife & Auxiliary member Becky Dix- nally able to see our old hardwood floor. on said, “That it had to be done and we District 16 Clear of debris, we set to work staining came together as a group and did it, and the floors and then sealing them with we enjoyed it and had fun doing it. We Caribou Post 15; Fort Fairfield Post 27; Houlton Post 47; Washburn Post 48; Oakfield Post 52; Presque polyurethane. look forward to completing the rest of it.” Isle Post 88; Mars Hill Post 118; Limestone Post 127; Easton Post 187; Masardis Post 208 As of Jan. 20, our floors are com- Post Commander Little also added, “I plete! The project took more time than we want to thank everyone who helped, had Certificates Of thought, but with the help of the crew and a part of this, and it could not be done Job Corp, the floors look awesome. We without our volunteers.” Completion: Dur- ing District 16 meeting have more work in our Post to do, includ- Written By Cuppy Johndro, Post Vice Com- held at Houlton Post 47 ing new bathrooms and ceilings, but we mander and Committee Chair for Upgrades on Nov. 3, 2018, the have come so far thanks in part to all our following Legionnaires received their Certifi- cates of Completion at the Department Post Service Officers class. Caribou Post 15 Left to right, presenting Upgrades Floors: The new the Certificates is De- and restored floor at Caribou Post partment Adjutant Paul 15. L’Heureux to Jim Bur- ton of Oakfield Post 52, Area 7 Commander Rod Collins, District 16 Commander Renee Wells, and Tom Connors of Mars Hills Post 118. Veterans Receive Pins for Holidays WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... any veterans residing in nursing er said. “Their service to our country is M homes received a special visit from what made it possible for us to be free District 17 members of Houlton Post 47 on Dec. 18, today. We are here to support our Veter- Van Buren Post 49; Fort Kent Post 133; Stockholm Post 136; Frenchville Post 145; Madawaska Post 2018, to receive a lapel pin for the holi- ans during the holiday season and to make 147; Eagle Lake Post 176; St. Francis Post 180 days. sure they are not forgotten.” Adjutant Scott Brewer, who also Legion members presented about 21 serves as the District 16 Sergeant-At- Veterans, who reside at either Madigan Arms, said the purpose of the gift, a small Estates or Gardiner Nursing Home in lapel pin with an American flag with the Houlton, with lapel pins during the visit. Van Buren Post 49 Post word Veteran on it, was simply meant as a Brewer added that Jerry Riley, who small gesture of kindness. serves as the Legion’s bugler at events in History: Van Buren Post 49 found a “There are a lot of military service- the community, was the person who spear- long lost bronze plaque made in 1953. men and women who are residing in nurs- headed the effort. Post Adjutant Roy Doucette buffed it up and re-installed it inside the building. ing homes now, and we didn’t want them By Joseph Cyr Senior Reporter/Sports Editor to feel left out this holiday season,” Brew- Houlton Pioneer Times, Houlton, ME December 26, 2018 Veterans Receive Pins For Holidays: Members of Houlton Post 47 visited sev- eral nursing homes in the area to present special lapel pins to area veterans Tues., Dec. 18, Van Buren Post 49 Continuous 2018. Receiving his pin at Year Recognition: Van Buren Post 49 Madigan Estates is Eldon Ben- Commander Harold Lausier at Recognition nett, second from left, who Night on Nov. 10, 2018 was given a Legionnaire served in the United States of the Year jacket for his 6 continuous years as Army and Army National Commander. Guard for 58 years. Bennett spent one-and-a-half years stationed in Germany. Taking part in the presentation are, left to right, Bugler Jerry Riley, Bennett, Post Commander Kris Watson, DAV of Aroostook Coordi- nator Charles Griffith, Post 47 Sergeant-At-Arms Gene Ross, Chaplin Dan Blake and District 16 Sergeant-At-Arms Scott Brewer. Caribou American Legion Upgrades Floor Quilts of Valor: At Van aribou Post 15 has had a very busy placing tiles. Because of this, one of the Buren Post 49 C January. Our Post has been in the main objectives was to replace the worn Recognition process of upgrading our Post home in floor. We had to start with the fundraising th Night held Nov. preparation of the Legion’s 100 Birth- before we could do that and thanks to the 10, 2018, Quilts day. Our Post has had a small committee, fundraising we have been able to achieve of Valor were supported by Post Commander Wayne our goal. presented to 4 Little, that has made some major up- The flooring project started on Jan. Legion members grades, but the most recent was our big- 13. The group came together along with from the Quilts gest endeavor yet. Post Commander Little Loring Job Corp and made it happen. First of Valor Organi- said, ”We were trying to get it done for was to pull up the old tile, move it to zation from the 4 Chaplains Ceremony on Feb. 3 dumpsters, sweeping and making sure South Carolina. th which is the 70 anniversary of the Chap- there was no debris left on the floor. All 4 of these lains.” The major task of removing the old quilts are regis- The Post floors were in sad shape glue used to put those old tiles down was tered in their being old, uneven, tiles pulling up, tiles now underway. It was a daunting task that Organization. Here is Post 49 1st Vice Commander Alphy Durette, right, and missing, and different colors due to re- took us the better part of the week. Five Post 49 Finance Officer Clayton Belanger, left.
THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019 31
POST NAME CONFLICT POST NAME CONFLICT Post 2 – Augusta Richard L. Lorenz Korea Post 79 – Berwick Paul Urbanski Vietnam Post 4 – Gardiner Robert C. Tarr Korea Post 80 – Millinocket Merrill D. Segee WWII Post 4 – Gardiner John F. Lasselle Jr. Vietnam Post 80 – Millinocket Donald A. Benson Vietnam Post 4 – Gardiner Chester A. Weed WWII Post 84 – Orono Othniel Thurlow WWII Post 4 – Gardiner Harold J. Shapiro Korea Post 93 – Bucksport Robert J. Hoffmann Vietnam Post 5 – Waterville Reginald Bizier WWII Post 93 – Bucksport Stanley B. Bennett Jr. Vietnam Post 20 – Brunswick Iona Osnoe WWII Post 93 – Bucksport Richard O. Chase WWII Post 24 – Rumford Earl W. Cole Vietnam Post 94 – Greenville Francis V. Whitney Vietnam Post 24 – Rumford George E. Wing Sr. Korea Post 97 – Howland Phillip L. Dawson Sr. Korea Post 30 – Camden Frank E. Stearns Korea Post 102 – Stonington Albert G. Stinson WWII Post 30 – Camden Paul G. Packard Vietnam Post 107 – Etna/Carmel Donald A. Dysart Vietnam Post 30 – Camden Clifford Cameron WWII Post 118 – Mars Hill Richard E. Mahan WWII Post 35 – South Portland Edward J. McSweeney Vietnam Post 118 – Mars Hill Cecil Theriault Vietnam Post 41 – Milo Ronald M. Gould Vietnam Post 128 – Standish Bruce M. Roubo Persian Gulf Post 49 – Van Buren Rodney V. Ayotte Korea Post 132 – Richmond Malcolm D. Hatch WWII Post 50 – Unity Laurie A. Nichols Vietnam Post 145 – Frenchville Maurice Sirois WWII Post 54 – Wiscasset Shirley Hill Korea Post 153 – Auburn Thomas G. Calder WWII Post 57 – Old Orchard Beach Richard W. Descoteaux Sr. Vietnam Post 155 – Naples Earl M. Cash Korea Post 57 – Old Orchard Beach Robert L. Pettengill Sr. Korea Post 157 – Stockton Springs Frank Costigan Korea Post 57 – Old Orchard Beach Richard W. Carbonneau Sr. Korea Post 164 – Falmouth Arthur S. Wescott WWII Post 57 – Old Orchard Beach Roger R. Boucher Vietnam Post 178 – Winslow Elmo A. Greene Jr. Vietnam Post 57 – Old Orchard Beach Leo P. Glaude Jr. Vietnam Post 178 – Winslow Dennis Lindsay Korea Post 73 – Corinna Ethan Kelley Vietnam Post 180 – St. Francis Reuben Pelletier Korea Post 77 – Lincoln Henry J. Hunter Jr. WWII Post 197 – Westbrook Ray L. Littlefield III Vietnam
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT...
District 17 continued National Resolutions Update: Department National Executive Commit- teeman Lloyd Woods gives a presentation Van Buren Post 49 on the updates of Resolutions presented to National Headquarters during Van Presentation: Van Buren Buren Post 49 Recognition night held Post 49 hosted a presentation by Nov. 10, 2018. Licensed Social Worker Peggy Gagnon with membership and community listening to the presentation about the Maine Veterans Home in Caribou con- cerning coordination and benefits provided. WHAT’S HAPPENING AT...
St. John’s Newfoundland Post No. CN-09
Potato Harvest BBQ: Every fall for the past 40+ years during Potato Harvest, mem- St. John’s Post CN09 bers of the Cyr-Plourde Post Scholarship: Post Commander 145 in Frenchville/St. Agathe John Walther, left, presents a Post has a BBQ where all the local Scholarship to Rachel Louise How- farmers buy meals by the dozen ells, right, at the annual Thanksgiv- for their crews. Part of the ing Dinner. working crew, left to right, Clifford Morneault, Philip Michaud (in the smoke), Jean Paul Cyr, Post 145 Commander & Chief cook Roger Bosse. Hockey Game Madawaska Post 147 Opener With St. Donates To Legion John’s CN09 Color Project: Members of Guard: At the opening Thomas O. Cyr Post 147, hockey game for the St Madawaska, present a check John’s Growlers. They in the amount of $500 to have a Color Guard for the Commander Paradis from first game of the month the Post to the Legion Family that is played against a U.S. Project for the wheelchairs at Hockey Team and St. Togus. The check was pre- John’s Post CN09 always sented at the Annual Mid- have a member carry the Winter Conference in Ban- American Flag. Flag Bear- gor on Jan. 19. Left to right, er’s, left to right, Corporal Russell, Post CN09 Finance Officer Ray Reiser with Commander Paradis, Post Commander Greg Morin, NEC Lloyd Woods, Gaetan American Flag, Canadian Flag Leading Seaman Hacket, Newfoundland Flag Bourgoin, and Mike Lloyd. Canadian Veteran Jim King, and Corporal Ford.
32 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, FEBRUARY 2019
Department of Maine NON PROFIT American Legion ORANIZATION Attention: Next Deadline is Apr. 19 5 Verti Drive U.S. POSTAGE Winslow, ME 04901-0727 PAID he deadline for material, stories and/ from all posts, auxiliary units, S.A.L. PORTLAND or pictures to be submitted for con- squadrons, individuals, etc. To make this MAINE T PERMIT NO. 493 sideration for use in the May 2019 Issue paper informative to you, it is imperative of The Maine Legionnaire will be April that we receive submissions from the 19, 2019. membership. Please be reminded that only those Photos should be clearly marked as articles and/or pictures which are sent in to who’s who in the picture as well as proper form will be considered for publi- who took the picture. cation. Anyone interested in submitting a Ineligible stories or pictures that guest editorial should contact The Maine cannot be reproduced will be returned to Legionnaire business office at: you. A reminder that stories must be in (207) 873-3229 story format, we are unable to compose or via email at: your information for you. [email protected]. As always, the editorial staff may edit all submissions at its discretion. We are once again asking for input Mark your Calendar!
he 101st Annual State Conven- T tion will be held June 7-8, 2019 at Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, 15 Littlefield Way, Brewer, Me. 04412.
Please plan to join us in support of our Veterans and Legionnaires around the State of Maine by mak- ing every effort to attend.
Camden Post 30 Receives Meritorious Service Award: Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr. Matthew Jabaut and Dept. 2nd Vice Cmdr. Debra Couture present a Meritorious Service Award to Camden Post 30 during the Annual Mid- Winter Conference in Bangor on Jan. 19. Left to right, District 6 Cmdr. Ray Lewis, Dept. 2nd Vice Cmdr. Debra Couture, District 6 Service Officer Dave Franclemont, Dept. 1st Vice Cmdr. Matthew Jabaut, and Camden Post 30 Cmdr. Frank Carr receiving the award.
Birthday Money Donated To Support Legion Family Project: Brycen Waugh of Mexico, Maine, visited The American Legion, Department Headquarters in Winslow on Dec. 27, 2018 to present money he raised for his birthday in the amount of $520 to Department Commander Scott Paradis. This money will be added to the Legion Commander, Auxiliary Presi- dent and SAL Commander's 2018-19 American Legion Family Project to raise DISCLAIMER money in support of purchasing Stryker wheelchairs at TOGUS. Brycen, along either The Maine Legionnaire editor nor layout editor is responsible for misinfor- with his mom Katie Waugh and grandmother Colleen Gurney were treated to a N mation, discrepancies, or embellishments, intentional or unintentional that may be con- tour of The American Legion Headquarters by Department Adjutant Paul tained in communications in any form that appear in The Maine Legionnaire. L’Heureux. Left to right, American Legion Area 2 Commander Kirk Thurston, Department Chaplain & Post 24 Finance Officer Tricia Thurston, Brycen Due to time constraints and staff limitations to fact check all material sent in, we de- Waugh and Department Commander Scott Paradis. pend on the honesty and integrity of those who submit material for publication and on the expertise of our members and readers to correct misstatements or misinformation whether intentional or not.