The American Legion 84th National Convention Official Program & Guide August 23-29, 2002
%>i\W iml of the American Legion ud Sponsor | For God and Country we
associate ourselves together
for the following purposes:
To uphold and defend the Constitution The American of the United States of America; Legion 84th National Convention to maintain law and order;
to foster and perpetuate a one-hundred percent Americanism;
to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in the Great Wars; Sons off The American Legion to inculcate a sense of individual obligation 31st National Convention to the community, state and nation;
to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;
to make right the master of might; American Legion to promote peace and good will on earth; Auxiliary 82nd National Convention to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy;
to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. La Boutique Des Huit Chapeaux Et Quarante 84th National Convention Femmes Aug. 23-29, 2002 • Charlotte, N.C. 81st Marche Nationale
Cover photo by lames V. Carroll
2002 National Convention ni "Honor to the Soldier, and Sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor also to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field, and serves, as he best can, the same cause - honor to him, only less than to him, who braves, for the common good, the storms of heaven and the storms of battle."
- Abraham Lincoln
To all members of the American Legion: Fox Associates, Inc., national advertising representatives for THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE, salutes you. Welcome 5 Commander’s Message
6 Places to Go in Charlotte 9 Registration Information & Thank Yous
1 1 Greetings from President Bush 13 Words of Welcome
Programs Si Agendas 17 Patriotic Religious Service 18 Parade Information 22 Commission & Committee Meetings 23 Reunions & Dinners 25 Standing Rules of the National Convention 26 The National Convention Agenda 29 Distinguished Guests 33 Hotel Directory 34 National Convention Commission 35 Convention Corporation & Chairmen 36 Honor Roll of Service, Past National Commanders and Distinguished Service Award Recipients 37 The American Legion Auxiliary Officers & Agenda 40 8 & 40 National Officers & Agenda 44 Sons of The American Legion Officers & Agenda
Annual Reports 49 National Adjutant's Report 50 National Officers 51 National Executive Committeemen 52 Department Service Officers 54 Youth Champions 56 Outstanding Military Academy Students 58 Commission & Committee Reports 79 Financial Reports “A good company delivers
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|| Commander’s Message
This was a year that brought out the best of The American Legion
istory shall never forget the year Soon business partners joined the effort.
we have just endured. The memory The scholarship program reflects the vision H of Sept. II, 2001, will forever play of The American Legion's founders, who back the horrific images of those passenger- were guided 84 years ago by a sense of
laden jets exploding into the World Trade obligation to help the widows and orphans
Center and the Pentagon. In terms of of their fallen comrades.
infamy, it is a date that rivals Dec. 7, 1941 We continued to stand tall and speak
That is saying a lot. boldly for our fellow veterans. We demanded The acts of terrorists unjustly took the "concurrent receipt" for military retirees.
lives of thousands of Americans. In doing We lobbied for an improved quality of life
so, they enraged millions worldwide, for men and women in uniform. We raised especially veterans, who know through hundreds of thousands of dollars for the wartime experiences the price of peace. National Emergency Fund. We battled for The attacks were less than two weeks after Medicare reimbursement to the VA.
our 83rd National Convention in San We fought undauntedly in our efforts to Antonio. These acts of violence shaped protect the U.S. Flag from desecration. my year as National Commander of We heightened the awareness to improve The American Legion. our service officer program and the On Sept. 11,1 was with a group of fellow recognition of our service officers. We Richard J. Santos Legionnaires at our nation’s Capitol, supported our troops and our civic leaders National Commander preparing to testify before a congressional in this extraordinary year of war and
joint session of veterans affairs' commit- patriotism. We have indeed "reached
tees. My presentation was suddenly wiped through the Family Support Network to out in all directions" to assist our nation's away when word came that two jetliners Guard and Reserve families divided by the veterans, their families and the people had struck the World Trade Center. sudden call to active duty. We urged the of our communities, states and nation.
Then, when the Pentagon was hit, we payment of the offset in pay by employers It was my honor to be a part of it. were ordered to evacuate the Capitol, a to deployed National Guardsmen and Our founding fathers would be proud
potential target itself. Reservists. We renewed the Blue Star that the modern American Legion is carry- The safety of the Legion family members Service Banner to distinguish families with ing out their original vision. Our members
who were accompanying me was an imme- loved ones at war. I asked members of proved that the spirit, strength and vitality diate concern. Smoke from the Pentagon Congress to display Blue Star Service of The American Legion are a flame that
in attack plumed over the Potomac River. As 1 Banners their offices as recognition of will never die. I thank those who provide
watched the smoke climb, my first impulse those who are serving in our armed forces. the fuel to that flame. I thank those who
was sympathy for the victims and their Lawmakers of divergent politics pushed will keep it burning in the years to come. families. My next instinct was to develop aside their differences and proudly Welcome to the 84th National
a plan in which The American Legion displayed the banners. Patriotism is Convention of The American Legion.
could assist. not about politics. It is about unity. And For God and Country, Not knowing the full extent of the everywhere 1 went this year, 1 saw it.
injuries, we immediately asked for blood. The American Legion swiftly responded Within hours, Legionnaires were lined up to the families of active-duty personnel at Red Cross collection centers across the who lost their lives in the attacks and in
country. In the following weeks, our the war that followed. The Sept. 1 Richard ). Santos members mobilized and reached out Memorial Scholarship Fund was born. National Commander
2002 National Convention harlotte, a world-class city with southern charm, is full of pleasures for the eyes, ears, stomach, mind and soul. The Queen City is proud of its cultural and performing-arts centers, bistros, nightclubs, C outdoor recreation areas, shopping centers and sports venues. Nature lovers may enjoy the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens (1), which feature carefully tended horticultural exhibits nestled among natural woodlands of the Piedmont region, or the Carolina Raptor
Center (2), a living museum and rehabilitation site for birds of prey in Latta Plantation Nature Preserve. Charlotte is in the middle of NASCAR country, and Lowe’s Motor Speedway (3) is home to three Winston Cup and two Busch series races. The Carolina Panthers play their home games at Ericsson Stadium (4) near uptown Charlotte. Public tours of the stadium are conducted at 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Tours are limited to the first 25 people. A walk through uptown Charlotte rewards visitors with works of art, including a bronze sculpture of the
city’s namesake, Queen Charlotte, in the courtyard at the Charlotte International Trade Center (5).
Devotees of the performing arts may prefer to enjoy a play at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center (6). Legionnaires also may pay their respects to fallen comrades by visiting the Vietnam War Memorial at
Golden Park (7).
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Thursday, Aug. 22 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 23 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. onvention registration for The American Legion and The Saturday, Aug. 24 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. American Legion Auxiliary will be taken in the lobby area Sunday, Aug. 25 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. C street level, of the Charlotte Convention Center near the Monday, Aug. 26 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. escalators that lead to Halls A & B. The Electric Mobility Corp, will be co-located with the registration and information desks Tuesday, Aug. 27 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
and will have 25 electric scooters available to attendees at no Wednesday, Aug. 28 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
All have is cost. attendees to do provide a form of identification, Thursday, Aug. 29 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. sign for the scooter and then return it prior to departure from ‘Electric Mobility Corporation only the national convention.
|| Thank You
he American Legion wishes to express its appreciation to the following individuals, companies and organizations T that have contributed substantially to the success of the 84th Annual National Convention.
k AVIS Rental Car Systems Special thanks to Eli Lilly & Company for sponsoring the k Enterprise Rental Car Systems k Hertz Rental Car Systems Exhibit Hall for the 84th Annual National Convention of The National Rental Car Systems American Legion. One of the world's leading pharmaceutical k Alamo Rental Car Systems companies, Lilly applies the latest research from its own United Airlines laboratories around the world to help people live long, k US Airways healthy, active lives. Lilly employs more than 41,000 people k Delta Airlines and markets medicines in 158 countries. The American k Northwest Airlines Legion family proudly welcomes Lilly's sponsorship at this k Markeys Audio/Visual Co. year's National Convention. Geo. E. Fern Co. k Stage Tech Inc. Charlotte Convention Center k VAMC - Salisbury, NC Charlotte Convention & Visitors Bureau k Providence High School k Charlotte Hilton & Towers Lt. Col. Frank Hood k Adams Mark Charlotte k Husqvarna Company k Children’s Miracle Network k Charlotte American Red Cross k Maestro Peter Ole’ k Piedmont Distributing Co. - Salisbury, N.C. k The Osmond Family k Carolina Golf Cars k Frank C. Corriher Beef & Sausage, Inc. k Extravaganza k Charlotte Police Department k Lowes Home Improvement k Charlotte Fire Department k Mike Williams k Florida Radio Rental Christine & Lee Brown k Brad Richardson - City Special Events Coordinator k Jonna & JW Lancaster k Susan Schwint - Director of Convention Services, k Carol Barker Charlotte CVB k Pat Suddeth k The American Legion National Convention k lames Clegg Corporation of North Carolina, Inc. k Cris & Rick Hall k America Charters/Coach USA k Betty O’Neal k Electric Mobility Corporation k Colleen Mansfield k South Rowan High School k Larry Kilgore k Davie County High School k Ed Milano k East Lincoln High School k Alan & Sharon Middlebrook k Forest Hills High School k Chip Ehlers k D.E. Baugh Co., Inc. k Steve Brooks k Charlotte Porta-Jon k Scott Brazell k Sun Valley High School k Larry & Marianne Vandawalker
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Fire & tUCO" / / Security || Welcome Letter from The President
I send greetings to all those gathered for the 84th Annual National Convention of the American Legion.
As we face the challenges of a new era, we look to our veterans for their example of courage and sacrifice. In wartime and in peace, America's veterans have protected our Nation and helped to shape
its character. I applaud the members of the American Legion for your dedication to preserve the democratic ideals and liberties for which we fight and for the important services you provide to American veterans and their families. Your work contributes to a strong national defense and improves the quality of life for our veterans.
Best wishes.
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The American Legion | Welcome to Charlotte
From North Carolina Gov. Michael F. Easley
elcome. 1 am delighted to extend greetings citizens continue to stand tall and proud, we show and welcome Legionnaires and their guests our enemies that they have not won. W to Charlotte for the 84th National Mary joins me in welcoming you to Charlotte and Convention of The American Legion Aug. 23-29. in extending our best wishes for a productive and When Legionnaires convened their first National enjoyable 84th National Convention. We invite you Convention in 1919, their primary objective was to experience all that the Charlotte area has to offer
taking care of disabled veterans from World War I. while enjoying southern hospitality at its very best.
Today, our veterans continue to need their care and And if this is your first visit to the Tar Heel State, support. Additionally, The American Legion supports we invite you to visit with us again and often.
Boys State, Boys Nation, Scouting and the National With kindest regards, I remain High School Oratorical Contest. As a result, Very truly yours, Legionnaires impact those who have served this
great nation and those who will serve it in the future.
terrorist attacks of Sept. 1 200 1 , the Since the 1 , United States has endured some of its darkest
hours. However, that darkness has brought out a Michael F. Easley sense of patriotism that is truly heartwarming. As Governor of North Carolina
From Charlotte Mayor Patrick L. McCrory
reetings. Welcome to Charlotte. I am Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable happy that you chose our beautiful city convention. G to host The American Legion National Sincerely, Convention Aug. 23-29.
While in Charlotte, I invite you to explore the wonder, the beauty and the people who make
this a great city. We have many attractions for your enjoyment, including museums, art galleries, public gardens and Paramount's Carowinds, in Mayor of Charlotte addition to many opportunities for shopping and dining
From Department of North Carolina Commander Milton H. Woodle
n behalf of the more than 47,000 North Biltmore Estate is in Asheville.
Carolina Legionnaires, it is my pleasure to The American Legion Convention Corporation of O welcome you to Charlotte and the 84th North Carolina has worked more than three years National Convention. planning and preparing for this convention. Our You will find southern hospitality throughout goal is that this will be a most enjoyable and Charlotte and North Carolina. While you are here, memorable convention for you. Our North Carolina take in some of the entertainment and sights. Legionnaires are here to assist you. Please do not Begin with a stop at the visitors' center on the hesitate to ask. corner of Tryon and Second Street to pick up maps Again, welcome to Charlotte and the "Great and information. North State." Take a few days and visit our Charlotte is home of the NFL's Carolina Panthers mountains and beaches. Kick off your shoes and the NBA's Charlotte Hornets. Among the and stay awhile. Enjoy our state. We do. numerous attractions are the Mint Museum of Art, Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord and Georgeville's Reed Gold Mine, which marks the site of the country's first gold strike. Visit Old Salem, a living-history town that takes you back to colonial Milton H. Woodle, Commander times, in Winston-Salem. The world-famous Department of North Carolina
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m The American Legion || Patriotic Religious Service
CHARLOTTE CONVENTION FOR THE AMERICAN LEGION IN REMEMBRANCE OF THOSE IN CENTER, HALL A AUXILIARY: UNIFORM WHO LOST THEIR LIVES IN THE WAR ON TERRORISM: SUNDAY, AUG. 25, 1 1 A.M. Sherry McLaughlin (Iowa), Dr. David F. Russell (Va. ), National President National Chaplain PRELUDE The American Legion
- Peter Ole' Organ Music Peggy Sappenfield (Ind .),
Blood Connected National Secretary Betty C. Turner (Ga .), National Chaplain, The American Legion Auxiliary WELCOME FOR SONS OF THE The Rev. James Jarrell (N.C.), AMERICAN LEGION: CANDLE OF REMEMBRANCE Chaplain Department 2002 Boys Nation President
The American Legion Clifford A. Smith (Mass ), National Commander * MOMENT OF SILENCE * COLOR GUARD * TAPS Brian O’Hearne (Mass ), National Adjutant * HYMN * INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE "God Bless America" FOR THE EIGHT AND FORTY: The Rev. Thomas Glander (Mich.), * BENEDICTION Past National Chaplain Venita A. Holthau (Wash.), Joyce Willis (N.C.), Sons of The American Legion La Chapeau Nationale Department Chaplain The American Legion Auxiliary MUSIC Elyline Schweitzer (Calif.), Blood Connected La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale * RETIREMENT OF COLORS
READING OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES and MEMORIAL PRAYER Betty C. Turner (Ga.), National Chaplain The American Legion Auxiliary ‘Best Wishes
MEMORIAL MESSAGE: (For ‘y'our "THE COST OF FREEDOM," b JOHN 8:32 <» 84th Dr. David F. Russell (Va ), National Chaplain e 9{ationaC Convention The American Legion D.E.BAUGH
MUSIC Blood Connected
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Richard J. Santos (Md ), National Commander
1661 West 16th Street • Indianapolis, Indiana 46202 Robert W. Spanogle (Mich ), 942-4834 National Adjutant (800)
2002 National Convention || Parade Information PARADE CONTEST DEPUTY GRAND MARSHALS ACTIVITIES Brig. Gen. Andrew Davis (USMC) Director, Division of Public Affairs SATURDAY, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps AUG. 24 Brig. Gen. Cornell A. Wilson, Jr., (USMC) Commanding General, 4th Force Service 8 a.m. Support Group, New Orleans SENIOR COLOR Brig. Gen. Gary H. Wilfong (NCANG) GUARD CONTEST Assistant Adjutant General for Air and - Hall A Charlotte Commander of the North Carolina Air Convention Center GRAND MARSHAL HONORARY National Guard, Concord, N.C. p.m. 1 GRAND MARSHAL Brig. Gen. Charles W. Collier (NCANG) SENIOR BAND Brig. Gen. Chief of Staff, North Carolina Air National CONTEST Charles E. Ray G. Smith Guard, Concord, N.C. Ballroom - Charlotte "Skip" Past National DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Convention Center McCartney Commander, COORDINATORS SUNDAY, (USAR) Benson, N.C. Lt. Col. Frank O. Hood (NCANG) Executive Director, 145th Airlift Wing, AUG. 25 Assistant Division Charlotte, N.C. 4 p.m. Commander, THE AMERICAN LEGION 108th Division (IT), PARADE CHAIRMAN 84th NATIONAL Charlotte, N.C, John D. Powell - Rocky Mount, N.C. CONVENTION PARADE
street
mcdowell
n.
street
mcdowell
s. PARADE RULES (B) All Department of Defense Units 7. ELIGIBILITY TO PARTICIPATE will be governed by applicable IN THE PARADE AND CONDUCT The official Parade of the 84th National regulations. OF PARTICIPANTS: Convention of The American Legion will be (A) Pursuant to resolution adopted at a governed by instructions contained herein (C) Each Department Commander or meeting of the National Convention together with the Organization and March appointed Parade representative will be Commission at Miami Beach on
Timetable. responsible for the Order of March and March 12, 1970, there will be no promptness of arrival at the assembly participation of any vehicles, equip- 1. TIME: area of all units of his Department. ment or items of wearing apparel of (All times in these orders are Eastern All units will conform to the following the 40 et 8. This regulation will be Standard Time) distribution and formation: enforced by the Parade Committee of (A) The leading element of the Parade will the 2002 Convention Corporation. All American Flags, the move from the "Initial Point”, (6th and (1) Colors (B) With exception of police, military Tryon Streets facing South) promptly Department and Post escort, and distinguished of each Department and the and naval at 4 P.M., Sunday, Aug. 25, 2002, Unit Colors guests, eligibility to participate in regardless of weather. Department and is limited to the of each Department of the the Parade members (B) The time and place of assembly for of American Legion and the Auxiliary will be massed at The each Department or element of the bodies of the the head of each Department uniform American Parade will be shown in detail on the Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of Delegation in that order. Organization and March Timetable, a The American Legion subject to
copy of which has been sent to each (2) American Legion Units within restriction of the following activities Department Parade Chairman. Departments will march in forma- which shall be prohibited in the line
A Meeting of all Department tion eight (8) abreast, one and of march: Parade Chairmen will be held at one-half yards between ranks. (1) The drinking of or simulated 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 24, 2002 drinking of intoxicants. in Room 207D of the Charlotte (3) BANDS AND DRUM CORPS As Convention Center. directed by Drum Majors, but not (2) Participants under the influence
to exceed eight (8) abreast. of intoxicants. (C) A Parade Official will direct Departments and elements of (3) Use of water pistols and electric (4) Authorized floats and automobiles the Parade to their assigned shocking devices. in single column. No unautho- assembly area. He will advise rized floats or automobiles will (4) Female impersonators. all bus drivers of the route to be allowed to participate. Firecrackers and any other follow to the disbanding area. (5) All vehicles must be equipped explosives. (D) Because of the nature of the assembly with identifying signs on sides 6 Any presentation or area, accurate logistics are essential. thereof and must also carry an ( ) representation either PROMPTNESS IN ARRIVAL "OFFICIAL CAR" sticker on AT THE ASSEMBLY AREA the windshield. immoral or in bad taste.
IS HIGHLY ENCOURAGED . (C) Violators of any of the above rules (5) ABSOLUTELY NO MANEUVERS will be dismissed from the parade 2. ROUTE: EXCEPT FOR A FORWARD immediately. Commencing at the intersections of 6th MOVEMENT. Marching units, and Tryon Streets, the parade proceeds bands, color guards and drill 8. FIRST AID STATIONS: South Tryon Street. Upon reaching 3rd abide by this on teams must First Aid Stations and water stations will will College Street the parade turn East to regulation. be located throughout the parade route. Street where it will turn back South to 2nd Additionally, ambulances and mobile EMT Street. At Street the parade will again (D) DISTANCES 2nd units will be available to assist parade turn East proceeding on 2nd Street. The - marchers and spectators. ( 1 ) Between Divisions 30 yards parade will proceed to the Metro School area where it will disband. The parade (2) Between Departments - 20 yards 9. PARKING OF CHARTERED route is approximately .9 of a mile. OR POST BUSES: (3) Between elements of a All buses will report to the assembly 3. Department - 10 yards ASSEMBLY AREA: area using 9th Street heading East and/or At the intersections of 11th and Tryon West. Buses will enter 9th Street off of streets heading South to 6th Street. The 5. DISBANDING AREA: either North Church or North College side streets off of Tryon also have been Adjacent to the Metro School and Marshall Streets. Buses will depart the assembly made available to use by the Charlotte Park area just East of South Davidson area from 9th Street at the intersection of Police Department. All floats will be Street. Buses will be staged at this point to the attending Police Officer and head to staged on Phifer Avenue. take parade marchers out of the disband- the disbanding area. ing area. 4. ORGANIZATION: Buses will load their personnel at the (A) All elements have been assigned to 6. OFFICIAL REVIEWING STAND: assigned area within the Disbanding Area Divisions, each under the direction of The official Reviewing Stand will be on 2nd Street. Parade officials will direct the Parade Officials. The composition located at the Charlotte Convention Center participants to their buses. of Divisions, of March, these Order on the South side of 2nd Street. time and place of assembly and (PERSONAL BELONGINGS AND ALL Parade Map have been supplied to Elements will render a salute to the EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE REMOVED each of the Department Parade National Commander while passing the FROM THE BUSES WHEN UNLOADING Chairmen. Reviewing Stand (eyes right). AT THE ASSEMBLY AREA.)
2002 National Convention m\ || A Parade of San Antonio Memories
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2002 National Convention Standing Commissions and Committee Meetings
UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, Foreign Relations Joint Meeting CONVENTION COMMITTEES ALL MEETINGS WILL BE HELD with National Security SUNDAY, AUG. 25, 2002 AT 9 A.M. IN THE CHARLOTTE Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level CONVENTION CENTER Americanism Foreign Relations (including Americanism Subcommittees) AUG. 22-25 1:30 p.m., Room 208B, 2nd Level 8:30 a.m., Room 207D, 2nd Level Resolutions Assignment Committee Hilton, Gwynn Room, 4th Floor Foreign Relations Subcommittees Children & Youth (Subcommittees will meet immediately Room 208A, 2nd Level SCREENING COMMITTEE MEETINGS following the Joint Session.) FRIDAY, AUG. 23, 2002 Constitutional Amendments Internal Affairs Hilton, Graves Room, 3rd Floor Americanism Screening 8:30 a.m., Rooms 201B & 202B, Hilton, Biltmore Executive 2nd Level Credentials and Internal Affairs Boardroom, 2nd Floor Membership & Post Activities Credentials And Other Internal - Economic Screening Room 207D, 2nd Level Matters Sections I & II Hilton, Morehead Executive Boardroom, Rooms 218A & 219A, 2ndLevel 3rd Floor Legislative Membership - Section III Rooms 206A&B, 2nd Level VA&R Screening Rooms 218B & 219B, 2nd Level Hilton, Waring Room, 3rd Floor National Security Joint Meeting with Foreign Relations Economic COMMISSIONS (Includes Employment, Veterans STANDING Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level AND COMMITTEES Preference and Other Economic Matters) SATURDAY, AUG. 2002 Room 203A, 2nd Level 24, National Security LOO p.m., Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level A.L. Insurance Finance 8:30 a m., Hilton, Ardrey Room, VIP Suite 105, Street Level National Security Committees 3rd Floor (immediately following Commission Foreign Relations Joint Meeting Session) Americanism and Subcommittees 8:30 a.m., Room 208B, 2nd Level 8:30 a.m., Hilton, Mecklenburg Hall, Aerospace Relations Subcommittees 3rd Floor Foreign Hall C2, Classroom 2, Lower Lobby Level (Subcommittees will meet immediately Children & Youth following Joint Session.) Defense Civil Preparedness 8:30 a.m., Hilton, Charlotte Hall, VIP Suite 101, Street Level Legislation and Rules 3rd Floor 10 a.m., Rooms 206A&B, 2nd Level and Constitution & By-Laws Law Order VIP Suite 102, Street Level National Security Joint Meetings Hilton, Dunn Room, 3rd Floor (includes Aerospace, Defense Civil Preparedness, Law and Order, Convention Merchant Marine VIP Suite 103, Street Level Merchant Marine, Military Affairs, 8:30 a.m., Hilton, Johnson Room, and Naval Affairs) 4th Floor Military Affairs Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level Distinguished Room 205, 2nd Level Guests National Security Committees Room 208A, 2nd Level (immediately following Joint Meeting) Naval Affairs VIP Suite 104, Street Level Economic Aerospace 203A, 2nd Level Room Hall C2, Classroom 2, Lower Lobby Level General Security Ad Hoc
Hall Classroom 1, Lower Lobby Level Emblem C2, Defense Civil Preparedness 9:30 A.M., Hilton, Johnson Room, VIP Suite 101, Street Level 4th Floor Public Relations 8:30 a.m., Rooms 201A & 202A, Law and Order Note: Emblem also will meet 2nd Level VIP Suite 102, Street Level at 9:30 a.m. Aug. 25 at the Hilton, lohnson Room, 4th Floor. The American Legion Magazine Merchant Marine Rooms 219A&B, 2nd Level VIP Suite 103, Street Level Finance 8:30 a.m., Hilton, Graves Room, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Military Affairs 3rd Floor Room 203B, 2nd Level Room 205, 2nd Level
IE9 ||§ip The American Legion - Naval Affairs Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation MONDAY, AUG. 26, 2002 VIP Suite 104, Street Level Claims & Rating and Hospitals & POW/MIA Update Medical Services Joint Meeting Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level General Security Meeting Room 203B, 2nd Level - (Hospitals National Convention (All Committees) & Medical Services will proceed to Meeting Rooms 207A&B, 2nd Level session in VIP Suite 106, Street Level, Sgt-At-Arms - and subsequently return to the Joint 8:30 a m. Room 203A, 2nd Level General Security Ad Hoc Session following Subcommittee Pre-National Executive Hall C2, Classroom 1, Lower Lobby Level actions on resolutions.) Committee Meeting Rooms 208A&B, 2nd Level
2002 Reunions, Receptions and Dinners
YOUTH CHAMPION RECEPTION CHAPLAIN’S BREAKFAST PAST DEPARTMENT Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Charlotte Convention Center COMMANDERS CLUB Carolina Hall, 3rd Floor Ballroom Terrace Charlotte Hilton & Towers Reception - Friday, Aug. 23-5 p.m. Breakfast meeting - Sunday, Aug. 25-7 a.m. Piedmont Ballroom, 3rd Floor Luncheon - Monday, Aug. 26 - Noon Ye STEIVOS RECEPTION FODPAL Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel NATIONAL COMMANDER’S BANQUET Mecklenburg Hall, 3rd Floor Carolina Hall, 3rd Floor FOR DISTINGUISHED GUESTS Reception - Friday, Aug. 23 - 5:30 p.m. Breakfast meeting - Monday, Aug. 26-7 a.m. Charlotte Convention Center Hall C, Lower Level HISTORIANS' LUNCHEON AND MEETING NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS CLUB Tuesday, Aug. 27 - 6:30 p.m. Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Charlotte Convention Center North Carolina Hall, 3rd Floor Room 201 A, 2nd Level AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY Saturday. Aug. 24-11 :30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 26, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. STATES DINNER Charlotte Convention Center SEABURY & SMITH RECEPTION NATIONAL AMERICAN LEGION Hall C, Lower Level Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel PRESS ASSOCIATION (NALPA) Wednesday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. Charlotte & Mecklenburg Hall, 3rd Floor Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Reception - Saturday, Aug. 24 - 5:30 p.m. EIGHT ET FORTY Walker Room, 4th Floor Adam's Mark Hotel Executive board breakfast - Saturday, NEF AWARDS DINNER Location to be determined by the 8 et 40 24-8 Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Aug. a.m. Installation Dinner - Saturday, Graves Room, 3rd Floor Aug. 31-7 p.m. Dinner - Saturday, Aug. 24 - 6 30 p.m Charlotte Hilton & Towers South Carolina Hall, 3rd Floor TWENTY AND FOUR ANAVICUS General meeting - Saturday, Aug. 24-11 a.m. Marriott City Center Hotel Charlotte Hilton & Towers Hotel Pre-Bivouac - Thursday, Aug. 22 Charlotte Hilton & Towers Piedmont Ballroom, 3rd Floor Bivouac - Friday, Aug. 23 Mecklenburg Hall, 3rd Floor Breakfast meeting - Sunday, Aug. 25-7 a m. Banquet - Friday, Aug. 23 Banquet - Monday, Aug. 26-7 p.m.
Other Meetings ||
FRIDAY, AUG. 23 SATURDAY, AUG. 24 SUNDAY, AUG. 25 Contests Representatives SAL National Convention Patriotic Memorial Service
Meeting 9 a.m., Hall C-2, Lower Lobby Level 1 1 a.m., Hall A, Lower Lobby Level 2 p.m., Room 203B, 2nd Level SUNDAY, AUG. 25 SATURDAY, AUG. 24 National Convention Parade FRIDAY, AUG. 23 Convention Parade Meeting 4 p.m. SAL Executive 2 p.m., Room 207D, 2nd Level Committee Meeting THURSDAY, AUG. 29 4 p.m., Hall C-2, Lower Lobby Level SUNDAY, AUG. 25 Post National Executive SAL National Convention Committee Meeting FRIDAY, AUG. 23 8:30 a.m. (immediately following adjournment of SAL National Convention Post NEC Meeting, 1-2 p.m. Convention) 7 p.m., Hall C-2, Lower Lobby Level Hall C-2, Lower Lobby Level Rooms 208A&B, 2nd Level
2002 National Convention
|| Standing Rules of the National Convention
As contained in the “Uniform Code 10 . In the event a delegation secretary is under the following provisions: If, on any Of Procedure For The Organization Of not an accredited delegate or alternate, he ballot taken, less than five candidates National Conventions Of The American shall be seated with his delegation. receive the necessary majority to elect, the Legion," the following Standing Rules of candidate or candidates receiving a majori- 11 . Past National Commanders’ votes shall the National Convention are authorized ty vote shall be declared elected and a new be cast with their delegations. under Article V, Section 6, of the National ballot shall be taken for the remaining Constitution of The American Legion. of places to be filled. The candi- 12 . Only accredited delegates or their number alternates shall participate, directly or indi- date receiving the lowest number of votes 1. Robert's Revised Rules of Order shall be rectly, in a viva voce vote on any subject on the preceding ballot shall be disquali- the authority on parliamentary procedure, before the Convention. fied: should two candidates remain to fill with the following modifications: one place, a new ballot shall be taken.
13 . Department delegations may arrive at a
2 . A delegate desiring to make a motion or vote in such manner as they choose, but 22 . The Convention will nominate and
address the Convention shall rise, address shall announce it in terms of full units and elect a National Commander, and five the Chair as "Mr. Commander" and state not in terms of a fractional part of a vote. National Vice Commanders, in this his name and the name of the Department The vote of any delegate absent and not sequence. before proceeding. represented by an alternate shall be cast by the majority of the delegates present 23 . At the conclusion of balloting on 3 . Debate shall be limited to five minutes from his Department. National Vice Commanders, each for each speaker. Department Delegation Chairman shall 14 . There shall be no unit rule of voting. deliver a written ballot to the tellers. Such 4 . Debate on any one subject presented to ballots shall be in the hands of the tellers the Convention shall be limited to two 15 . Voting shall be by acclamation, except before communication is made to the hours except under such special rule as the when a Roll Call is demanded by the National Commander for announcement of Convention shall adopt prior to debate. Chairmen of at least three Departments. the results. Election of National Officers shall be by 5 . But two delegates from any one delega- roll call. 24 . recognized the National tion shall be permitted the floor on any Those by Commander shall be entitled to a respect- one question. Where disagreement exists 16 . In the event a Department has not pro- ful hearing, and the Chair shall have the within a delegation, one delegate shall be vided the method by which alternates shall authority to clear the gallery or the floor or permitted to speak on each side of the be designated to serve in the place of absent delegates, the of the del- have the Sergeant-at-Arms escort from the question. Upon a division of the question, Chairman egation shall make such designation. Convention anyone creating a disturbance however, this rule shall be applied sepa- or interfering with orderly procedure. rately for each division. 17 . Prior to the election of National
Officers, the National Commander shall 25 . None of the above rules shall be con- 6 . The floor shall be permitted but once to appoint, subject to approval of the strued as preventing an alternate delegate any individual delegate on any one ques- Convention, a Judge of Election and such from serving on a Convention committee. tion, except by a two-thirds vote of the number of tellers as he deems necessary, Convention. Chairmen of Convention provided that the total tellers so appointed 26 . The consent of two-thirds of the voting Committees may speak as frequently as shall be an odd number. In a contested strength of the Convention is necessary for may be necessary in connection with the election each candidate going to the ballot suspension of the standing rules of the reports of their committees. The Presiding shall be entitled to one teller of his choice. Convention. Officer shall not entertain any motion
which will curtail further debate without 18 . Nominations for National Officers shall 27 . Any amendment to any resolution or affording the Committee Chairman an be from the floor on Roll Call of the report originating on the floor shall be pre- opportunity for rebuttal Departments alphabetically arranged. Each sented in writing and transmitted to the Department may present as many candi- Presiding Officer at the time of the intro- 7 . Decisions of or parlia- on Rules Debate dates as it chooses. duction of such amendment. mentary order by the Presiding Officer may 19 . Nomination speeches for National be subject to appeal by any two delegates 28 . Special rules applying to specific Officers shall be limited to five minutes under a Point of Order. Such appeal shall issues or order of business shall be written each. Not more than two seconding take precedence over any pending ques- and presented to the Convention by the speeches shall be made for any candidate, tions and shall be decided forthwith. An Legislation and Rules Committee for adop- and said speeches shall be limited to three tion majority at least hour appeal from the decision of the Chair shall by vote one minutes. before such issue or order is to be consid- be put to the Convention on the question: ered, unless such rule is agreed to by "Shall the Chair be sustained?" 20 . When more than two candidates are unanimous consent of the final session. nominated for any office, balloting shall 8 . When the poll of any Department Special rules shall prevail only when the continue until one candidate receives a Delegation is demanded by a delegate of Convention adopts them. Any delegate majority of the votes of the Convention, such Department, the Convention may apply for a special rule to the except in the election of National Vice Secretary shall poll the vote without dis- Commanders. Legislation and Rules Committee or may cussion of the question being voted upon. appeal to the Convention for such special
21 . In a contested election for National rule provided the rule be presented in writ- 9 . On the Roll Calls, the delegation Vice Commanders, balloting shall continue ing, be read once from the platform, and Chairman shall delegation the poll his on until (a) majorities and (b) pluralities are shall lay upon the table at least one hour floor and announce its vote. established for one or more candidates before the vote thereon is taken.
2002 National Convention I II 84th Annual National Convention of The American Legion Agenda
CHARLOTTE Sgt. Charles A. Cloud The Hon. Pat McCrory, CONVENTION CENTER U.S. Marine Corps Mayor of the City of Charlotte CHARLOTTE, N.C. Yeoman Second Class Francine Sak Milton Woodle, AUG. 27-29, 2002 U.S. Coast Guard 2001-2002 Department Commander, Tfie American Legion of North Carolina SSgt. Christopher Culbreth HALL A, LOWER LOBBY LEVEL J. U.S. Air Force Jerry L. Hedrick President, The American Legion National The American Legion Convention Corporation Nortk Carolina TUESDAY, AUG. 27 Youth Champions of RESPONSES TO ADDRESSES 8:30 A M. PRELUDE 2002 Boys Nation President OF Peter Ole, Organist Bradley Johnson, Cary, N.C WELCOME Richard J. Santos (Md.), 2002 lunior Shooting Sports Champion 9 A.M. CALL TO ORDER National Commander
Richard I. Santos (Md .), 2002 1st Place Winner National 12:05 P.M. ADDRESS National Commander Oratorical Contest Kay Coles James, Director, Candice Neal, Eva, Ala. ADVANCEMENT OF COLORS U.S. Office of Personnel Management American Legion Post No. 86 2001 Baseball Player of the Year
Color Guard, Rockville, Md. Jewel "Jay" Mead Threet III; 12:25 P.M. ADDRESS Adrian, Mich. Dr. Gail R. Wilensky, Co-Chair, NATIONAL ANTHEM President's Task Force To Improve Health Patriotism Lance H. Sweigart, Laurel, Md, Care Delivery For Our Nation's Veterans 82nd Airborne All American Chorus, INVOCATION Ft. Bragg, N.C. 12:45 P.M. SPECIAL REPORT - FLAG Dr. David F. Russell (Va.), AMENDMENT CAMPAIGN National Chaplain 10:20 A.M. ADDRESS Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady (USA Ret.), The Hon. Anthony J. Principi, Secretary Chairman of the Board, The Citizens Flag PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE of Department of Veterans Affairs Alliance, Inc. LIGHTING OF PEACE CANDLE 10:40 A.M. ADDRESS Raymond P. Jacquez (Md.), LTG Bryan D. Brown, USA, 1:05 P.M. ADDRESS National Sergeant-at-Arms Commanding General Headquarters, MG Nels Running, USAF (Ret.), Director, Korean ar 50th U. S. Army Special Operations Command Executive W POW/MIA EMPTY CHAIR CEREMONY Anniversary Committee - By Robert S. Turner (Ga ), Past 1 1 :00 A.M. ADDRESS TEAM National Commander Chairman, AMERICAN LEGION 1:25 P.M. NATIONAL COMMANDER’S Special POW/MIA Committee REPORT TO CONVENTION Dr. Mary Van Dyke, Team Captain (Pa.) Richard J. Santos (Md.), Thomas L. Bock (Colo.), Chairman, Vytenis Benetis National Commander (Md ) Foreign Relations Commission Steve Kreis (Pa ) 1 :45 P.M. CALL FOR CONVENTION PREAMBLE TO THE AMERICAN Jason Cappello (Pa.) Robert W. Spanogle (Mich ), LEGION CONSTITUTION National Adjutant Richard J. Santos (Md.), 11:10 A.M. ADDRESS National Commander Connie Stevens 1:55 P.M. CERTIFICATE Movie, Television and Recording Artist OF APPRECIATION 9:25 A.M. INTRODUCTION "Military Tribute to Bob Hope" By: Richard J. Santos (Md.), Sherry McLaughlin (Iowa), National National Commander
President, American Legion Auxiliary 1 1:25 A.M. WELCOME To Dr. David F. Russell (Va.), 9:35 A.M. OPENING The Hon. Michael F. Easley, National Chaplain Governor of the State of North Carolina REMEMBRANCE-FAITH-PATRIOTISM 2 P.M. PRESENTATION OF PLAQUE The Hon. Jesse Helms TO THE CITY OF SAN ANTONIO, S. Senate Remembrance - Sept. 1 1, 2001 (Letter of Greeting), U TEXAS FOR THE 2001 NATIONAL Operation Enduring Freedom The Hon. Mel Watt CONVENTION By: Ray G. Smith (N.C.), Faith - Spirit of Service Awards U.S. House of Representatives Past National Commander
SPC Eric D. Hall The Hon. Walter Jones, Jr., Accepting: John Morris, President, U.S. Army U.S. House of Representatives The Texas National Hon. Hayes, Petty Officer Jesse J. Givens The Robin Convention Corporation of U.S. Navy U.S. House of Representatives The American Legion
The American Legion Office Manager, 2:05 P.M. INTRODUCTION - SONS To: The Hon. Bob Stump, U S To Glenn C. McQueen, OF THE AMERICAN LEGION House of Representatives Employment Security Commission, Newly Elected National Commander Fayetteville, N.C. 9:40 A M. SPECIAL ADDRESS AMERICANISM 2:10 PM. GREETINGS 1 1 :45 A.M. REPORT OF 10:00 A.M. SPECIAL ADDRESS R. R. (Bob) Cassels, Dominion The Frank N. Belgrano Jr. Trophy President, A rmy, Navy and Air Force 10:20 A.M. PRESENTATION - THE Ralph T, O'Neil Education Trophy Veterans in Canada AMERICAN SPIRIT AWARD
By Richard Santos (Md.), By Richard J. Santos (Md.), Gen. Gong, Yi-min, Secretary-General, J. National Commander National Commander Veterans' Affairs Commission
To Thomas E. Franklin, - lan Cannell, Chairman, NOON PRESENTATION Staff Photographer, The Record, HEARST The Royal British Legion WILLIAM RANDOLPH Hackensack, New lersey AMERICANISM TROPHY Vice Wilfred Edmond, Dominion By: Thomas |. Hughes, VP/General PRESENTATION - Royal Canadian Legion 10:30 A.M. President, The STATEMENT OF SUPPORT Manager, Hearst Service Center Gen. Lee, Sang Hoon (Ret.), President, Employer Support of The Guard and To: Winning Department The Korean Veterans Association Reserve (ESGR) 12:05 P.M. PRESENTATION - 2002 2:35 P.M. REPORT OF 10:45 A.M. ADDRESS NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT CREDENTIALS & INTERNAL The Hon. Christopher H. Smith, OFFICER OF THE YEAR - 1 Chairman, Committee on Veterans' AFFAIRS SECTION By Richard ). Santos (Md.), Representatives Affairs, U. S. House of National Commander 2:55 P.M. REPORT OF LEGISLATION ECONOMICS To Deputy Sheriff Casey Nelms, AND RULES 1 1:05 A.M. REPORT OF Employment and Veterans Preference Lincoln County Sheriff's Department, Platte, Neb. 3:05 P.M. REPORT OF FINANCE Other Economic Matters North
- SALUTE TO COLORS 1 1:25 A.M. PRESENTATION 12:15 P.M. PRESENTATION EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS CHAPEL OF FOUR CHAPLAINS 3:20 P.M. RECESS FOR HIRING VETERANS LEGION OF HONOR BRONZE
By Richard J. Santos (Md.), MEDALLION NOTE: Times of subsequent sessions and National Commander To Richard J. Santos (Md.), times of Convention Committee Reports National Commander are subject to change by the chair To Laurel Waddingham, Personnel Manager, Wal-Mart Distribution By: The Chapel of Four Chaplains Center, Winter Haven, Florida WEDNESDAY, AUG. 28 12:20 P.M. REPORT OF Accepting: Ron Kelley, Department CHILDREN & YOUTH 8:30 A M. PRELUDE of Florida PRESENTATION OF GARLAND To: Walt Popick, Human Resource 9 A M. CALL TO ORDER MURPHY AWARD AND LEGACY Manager, M&T Company, Richard J. Santos ( Md ), AWARD Manchester, N.|. National Commander By: Richard J. Santos (Md.), National To: Colen D. Watts, Vice President, Basic Commander SALUTE TO COLORS Water Company, Henderson, Nev. 12:40 P.M. REPORT OF INVOCATION Accepting: Casey Martin, Department CREDENTIALS & INTERNAL AFFAIRS MEMBERSHIP Dr. David F. Russell (Va ), of Nevada National Chaplain PRESENTATION - AMERICAN 12:50 P.M. DEPARTMENT MEMBERSHIP AWARDS PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE LEGION LOCAL VETERANS EMPLOYEE REPRESENTATIVE YEAR 1:15 P.M. REPORT OF VETERANS 9:05 A M. SPECIAL PRESENTATION - OF THE AWARD Santos (Md.), AFFAIRS & REHABILITATION CHILDREN'S MIRACLE NETWORK By: Richard J. Claims and Rating Marie Osmond, Co-Founder and CEO National Commander Hospitals and Medical Services To: Barbara Phillips, Fort Payne, Ala 9:20 A.M. PRESENTATION ANNOUNCEMENT OF WINNING By Richard J. Santos (Md.), PRESENTATION - DISABLED DEPARTMENT WILLIAM F. LENKER National Commander VETERANS OUTREACH PROGRAM NATIONAL SERVICE TROPHY OF THE YEAR AWARD To The Hon. Robert Dole By: Richard |. Santos (Md.), By: Richard ). Santos (Md.), Co-Chairman, World War II National Commander National Commander Memorial Fund To: Ronald Mullen, Tulsa, Okla. 1 :30 P.M. REPORT OF 9.30 A M. PRESENTATION - THE CREDENTIALS & INTERNAL AMERICAN LEGION DISTINGUISHED PRESENTATION - EMPLOYMENT AFFAIRS SECTION 2 SERVICE AWARD SERVICE OFFICE OF THE YEAR
By Richard J. Santos (Md ), By: Richard J. Santos (Md.), 1:45 P.M. REPORT OF National Commander National Commander CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
2002 National Convention m SALUTE TO COLORS 9:30 A.M. REPORT OF ADMINISTERING THE OATH FOREIGN RELATIONS OF OFFICE TO THE NATIONAL RECESS COMMANDER 9:55 A.M. REPORT OF NOTE Times of subsequent sessions and NATIONAL SECURITY ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY NEWLY times of Convention Committee Reports Aerospace ELECTED NATIONAL COMMANDER are subject to change by the Chair. Defense Civil Preparedness ELECTION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS
THURSDAY , AUG. 29 Law and Order Five (5) National Vice Commanders
9:00 A.M. CALL TO ORDER Merchant Marine PRESENTATION OF COLORS
Richard J. Santos (Md .), Military Affairs TO NEWLY ELECTED NATIONAL National Commander COMMANDER Naval Affairs SALUTE TO COLORS RESPONSE BY NEWLY ELECTED 10:20 A.M. PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL COMMANDER INVOCATION PLAQUE AND COLORS TO OUTGOING Dr. David F. Russell (Va ), NATIONAL COMMANDER PRESENTATION OF NEWLY ELECTED National Chaplain By: John P. "Jake" Comer, Past National NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Commander (COLORS) AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY By: Clarence M. Bacon, Past National 9:05 A.M. ADDRESS UNFINISHED BUSINESS Commander (PLAQUE) The Hon. Thomas E. White, Secretary of the Army BENEDICTION NOON (or at the conclusion of all other 9:25 A.M. PRESENTATION - THE business, whichever first occurs) RETIREMENT OF COLORS AMERICAN LEGION FOURTH ESTATE AWARD SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS NOTE: The National Executive Committee will meet within twenty-four hours By: Richard Santos (Md (24) J. ), ELECTION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS National Commander after close of the Convention. National Commander To Kristine Willmsen, Dayton Daily News Mike Wagner, Dayton Daily News
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The American Legion Distinguished Guests for the |
2002 National Convention
Highlighted text indicates Jason Cappello Dr. Andrew P. N. Erdmann lerry L. Hedrick Distinguished Guests who Team American Legion U.S. Department of State President will give a presentation at York, Pa. Washington, D.C. National Convention Corporation the Nation Convention. of North Carolina, Inc. Russell Carollo Dale Evans Lexington, N.C. Pegi Allen Pueblo, Colo. Office of the Assistant Secretary of Tar Heel, N.C. Defense (Public Affairs) Bruce Henderson R. R. Cassels Washington, D.C. Vice President Annette Y. Aulton Dominion President Marsh Advantage America Bureau of Public Affairs ANAVIC |ohn Fales Indianapolis U.S. Department of State Stratford, Ontario N5A 3L3 President, Blinded American Washington, D C. Veterans Foundation Curtis Henderson Robin Cherry Washington, D.C. Account Executive Elsie Bailey Tar Heel, N.C. RxAmerica Vice President Mack G. Fleming Salt Lake City Charles S. Ciccolella American Legion Auxiliary Seneca, S.C. Veterans Employment and Director Whiting. N.|. Ron Henke, Training Service Marlys Fox Compensation and Pension Services H. M. "Sandy" Barba Department of Labor President, Fox Associates, Inc. Department of Veterans Affairs Chairman, Board of Directors Washington, D C. Chicago Washington, D.C. Fox Associates, Inc. Audrey Clark Harold Herring Chicago Gene E. Franks HQ TACOM Palmer, Alaska Account Manager Samuel Barney Warren, Mich. Source Corp. Diane Fuller, Assistant Director National Commander's Tulsa, Okla. Sgt. Charles A. Cloud Advisory Committee Compensation and Pension Service U. S. Marine Corps Forces Atlantic Ed Hickey Lancaster, Ohio Department of Veterans Affairs Norfolk, Va. Washington, D.C. Deputy Director Office of Personnel C. Randolph Beard III BG Charles W. Collier U.S. Management T. Les Galloway Washington, D C. Annin & Company Chief of Staff National Commander’s Advisory Roseland, N.J. North Carolina Air National Guard Committee Daniel F. Hoffmann Concord, N.C. Vytenis Benetis Clatskanie, Ore. Director, V1SN #6 Team American Legion Martha Corriher Durham, N.C. G. Roderick Gillette Hyattsviile. Md. Landis, N.C. Andy Holdt Managing Partner First National Bank of Omaha Marianne Bergamo SSgt. Christopher |. Culbreth TAOnline.com Omaha, Neb. Account Manager U.S. Air Force Atlanta ADT Security Services 15th Civil Engineer Squadron Lt. Col. Frank O. Hood Petty Officer (esse ). Givens Indianapolis Hickman Air Force Base, Hawaii North Carolina Air National Guard U. S. Navy Executive Office, 145th Airlift Wing Terry Boyles Robert F. Cutler Ingleside, Texas Charlotte, N.C. Kinston, N.C Clearwater, Fla. Lt. Gen. Gong, Yi-min Kenneth D. Danilson Julia Hromidko Maj. Gen. Patrick Brady Secretary General National Commander's Advisory Swisher, Iowa Sumner, Wash Veterans Affairs Commission Committee Republic of China Mary lane Huffman Donald Bridges Woodward, Iowa Greenbelt, Md. Emerald Isle, N.C. Larry Greer Mr. & Mrs. Thomas L. Davis Defense POW/Missing Thomas |. Hughes LTG Bryan D. Brown Chesapeake Beach, Md. Personnel Office Vice President/General Manager U.S. Army Hearst Service Center BG Andrew Davis Washington, D C. Commanding General, Headquarters, Charlotte, N.C. Director, Division of Public Affairs U. S. Army Special Operations Sean Guilfoyle Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps Command Marketing Production Manager Susan Hussar Washington, D C. Managing Director Fort Bragg, N.C. First National Bank of Omaha lames W. Delgado Omaha, Neb Marsh Affinity Group Services Michael G. Bruner Director, Voluntary Service Washington, D C Vice President Eric D. Hall Department of Veterans Affairs SPC Marsh Affinity Group Services Kay Coles James Washington, D C U. S. Army Director Washington, D C Lawrence |oel Army Health Clinic Tripp Donnelly Fort McPherson, Ga. U.S. Office of Personnel Management Capt. Steve Butler Director of Strategic Development Washington, D.C. U.S Marine Corps InPhonic, Inc. (ohn Hanson Public Affairs Division The Rev. limmy larrell Washington, D.C. Senior Vice President for Harrellsville, N.C. Washington, D C Marketing/Communication Specialist Scott Dozier USO World Headquarters Hon. Jerry Jennings Thomas Cadmus 623rd Quartermaster Company Washington, D C. POW/Missing Personnel Affairs National Commander's Advisory Fort Bragg, N.C. Committee Washington, D C Wilfred Edmond The Honorable Robin Hayes Ypsilanti. Mich, Dominion Vice President United States House of Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Johnson Charles "Bob" Cagle The Royal Canadian Legion Representatives LaPlata, Md. Taylorsville, N.C Ontario Washington, D.C. Ottawa, Eugene Johnson Mr. Ian Cannell William Elmore Marta Hedding Vice President Chairman Assistant Administrator National Treasurer Specialized Publishing Services The Royal British Legion U.S. Small Business Administration American Legion Auxiliary R.R. Donnelley & Sons United Kingdom Washington, D.C. Indianapolis Downers Grove, III.
2002 National Convention m\ Tina johnson Sherry McLaughlin Keith Pedigo Jacqueline E. Scalf Tar Heel, N.C. National President Director AMSOS-PRS American Fred Juarbe Legion Auxiliary Home Loan Guaranty Service Headquarters OSC Indianapolis U.S. Assistant Secretary Department of Veterans Affairs Rock Island, 111. Washington, D C. Veterans Employment and Training Glenn C. McQueen David Schaaf U.S. Department of Labor Office Manager Richard M. Pedro Chase, Washington. D.C, Md. Fayetteville Local Office National Commander's Advisory Mrs. Genevieve Keller Employment Security Commission Committee Earnest N. Schmit Fayetteville, N.C. Kankakee, III Owego, N Y, Past National Adjutant Mesa, Ariz. Candy Kingma Mr. & Mrs. John F. Milburn Jeff Pelcher Director of Government Marketing Baltimore President Elizabeth Schulman Cendant Corporation Source Corp. Sharon Miro Senior Associate, Public Affairs Tulsa, Carmel, Ind Okla. Eli Lilly and Co. Senior Vice President and Washington, D C. Steve Kreis Marketing Director Donell Peterman Team American Legion Fox Associates, Inc. The loshua Group Ministries Steve Schwanz Mount Wolf, Pa, Chicago Silver Spring, Md Executive Vice President
Susan Kroeger Bill Moore Barbara Phillips Fox Associates, Inc, Retention Leader National Director, Special Markets Local Veterans Employment Chicago GE Financial Assurance Source Corp. Representative Susan Schwint Schaumburg, III, Tulsa, Okla. Fort Payne, Ala. Charlotte Convention and Visitors Debra Kroninger John D. Morris Bill Pittman Bureau Tar Heel, N.C. National Commander's Advisory Department of Housing and Urban Charlotte, N.C. Development Randall D. Lange Committee DVM David Selvin Co-Founder Houston Washington, D C Keystone Uniform Cap Co. loshCo, LLC Ronald Mullen Walt Popick Philadelphia Knoxville, Tenn Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Human Resource Manager M&T Company Mick Shannon lean K. Leaver Oklahoma Employment Security Manchester, N.l. Co-Founder & CEO North Charleston, S.C. Commission Children's Miracle Tulsa, Okla. Network |. D. Powell Roy Leazer Salt Lake City Salisbury, N.C. Connie Myler Rocky Mount, N.C. David W. Shidler Business Specialist Hon. Lewis Ledwell Anthony J. Principi Cendant Corporation Account Executive Davidson, N.C. Secretary, Department of Marsh Affinity Group Services Carmel, Ind. Veterans Affairs Gen. Lee, Sang Hoon (retired) West Des Moines, Iowa Washington, D C. President Andrew Nagle Clifford A. Smith The Korean Veterans Association Vice President Rear Adm. Craig R. Quigley National A-B Emblems and Caps U.S Navy Commander Douglas W. Lesher Sons of The American Legion Weaverville, N.C. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Co-Founder Foxboro, Mass. Defense for Public Affairs loshCo, LLC Casey Nelms U.S. Central Command Knoxville, Tenn. Deputy Sheriff Ms. Ollie M. Smith MacDill Air Base, Force Fla. Director Lincoln County Sheriff's Department Kim Lipsky North Platte, Neb, Thomas L. Reis, R.Ph. Military Transition Deputy Staff Director Director, Government Sales Assistance Program Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee Sarah O'Brien Eli Lilly and Co. Department of Defense Washington, D C. Director Indianapolis Arlington, Va. Mr. & Mrs. Ernie Lizotte Member Benefits/Affinity Sales Tammy Richardson Mr. & Mrs. Michael Smith Fairhaven, Mass. Cendant Corporation Swisher, Iowa Fishers, Ind. Lombard, 111. Richard Lofgren Shari Rockwell Becky Sommers President & CEO Marie Osmond Omaha, Neb. Client Relations Manager Children's Organ Transplant Children's Miracle Network GE Financial Assurance Association Salt Lake City Robert H. Roswell Schaumburg, III, Bloomington, lnd Under Secretary for Health Jay Osmond Department of Veterans Affairs lames A. Luther, CLU Children's Miracle Network Clint Sporhase Washington, D C. President Salt Lake City Retail Production Manager Tim-Cor Financial Corporation MG Nels Running (retired) First National Bank of Omaha Indianapolis Merrill Osmond U.S. Air Force Omaha, Neb. Children's Miracle Network Executive Director Shari Marr Connie Stevens Salt Lake City 50th Anniversary of the Korean War Los Angeles First National Bank of Omaha Commemoration Committee Omaha, Wayne Osmond Neb Arlington, Va. Children's Miracle Network Neal Susten Tim Martin Keystone Uniform Salt Lake City Mr. & Mrs. Steffen W. Santos Cap Co. Senior Vice Philadelphia President/Marketing College Park, Md. Director LCDR Charles Owens Lance H. Sweigart Fox Associates, Inc. Navy Office of Information Dorothy F. Santos Chicago Washington, DC Mesa, Ariz. Laurel, Md.
Timothy May Steve Patterson Betsy Lee Santos Captain Rashone Tate Greenbelt, Director Executive Vice President Md. Office of Family Policy Washington, D.C. VA Medical Center Mercy Medical Airlift Lee M. Santos Salibury, N.C. Virginia Beach, Va. lacksonville, Fla. Lt. Brad Terrill U.S. Coast Guard BG Charles E. McCartney Jr. Kathi Paulsen Peggy Sappenfield Washington, D.C, Assistant Division Commander Officer, Client Relations National Secretary 108th Division (IT) First National Bank of Omaha American Legion Auxiliary Mr. & Mrs. Charles E. Thompson Charlotte, N.C, Omaha, Neb. Indianapolis Baltimore
The American Legion DISTINGUISHED GUESTS CONTINUED Center (NPRC) Lou Timmons National Personnel Records SAF/PCC St. Louis, Missouri Department of the Air Force Washington. D.C. Providing Essential Evidence To Those Who Served Dave Ulferts Vice President First National Bank of Omaha Omaha. Neb. Our Work: NPRC stores
Mr. & Mrs. lames D. Valentine and services millions of Henryville, Ind. military personnel, health Margaret E. Van Dyk Mrs. records of President and medical S. A. Van Dyk. Inc. retired, discharged and Oak Brook, 111. deceased veterans of all Dr. Mary Van Dyke Team American Legion services who served in the Mount Wolf, Pa. 20th and 21st centuries. Scott Wagner Second Vice President Coming This Year: Use the First National Bank of Omaha Omaha, Neb. Internet to send your Mark Ward inquiry to NPRC. Visit Office of Family Policy www.nara.gov for future Washington. D.C. availability and instructions. The Honorable Melvin Watt United States Flouse of Representatives Washington. D.C. National Personnel Records Center James D. Weiskopf Military Personnel Records Public Affairs Director 9700 Page Avenue For more NPRC information,visit: Fisher House Foundation. Inc St. Louis, 63132-5100 http://www.nara.gov/regional/mpr.html Rockville, Md. MO
Peter Wheeler Commissioner Department of Veterans Services Atlanta. Ga. Maureen Wigham Director, Product Management EyeMed Vision Care Phoenix
Dr. Gail R. Wilensky Co-Chair President s Task Force to Improve Health Care Delivery for Our Nation's Veterans Arlington, VA
lulius Williams. Director Vocational Rehabilitation Service Department of Veterans Affairs Washington, D C
Major Dan Williams Department of the Army, Public Affairs Washington. D C
LaMar Williams Director, Association Development Children's Miracle Network Salt Lake City
BG C. A. Wilson |r. Command General 4th Force Service Support Group Experian is proud to support New Orleans Milton Woodle the American Legion 2001-2002 Department Commander The American Legion of North Carolina Wilmington, N.C Ed Woolverton / HQ TACOM Warren, Mich. 888 844 1174 experian® www.experian.com Delivering on the promise of CRM ... Amy Waters Yarsinke anytime, anywhere™ Norfolk, Va
Maj. Joseph Yoswa * 4 1 #- U S. Army Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense Washington. D C
2002 National Convention The American Legion Official Program MeadWestvaco 84th National Convention
Richard ]. Santos Leading with Imagination National Commander Jeffrey L. Olson Chairman, National Convention Commission
North Carolina 2002 National Convention Corporation, Inc.
Jerry L. Hedrick Proud to be a President
David G. Desmond Vice President Sponsor of the R. Shuford Edmisten Vice President
Clinton E. Thompson Vice President
Garnett Shropshire American Secretary/ Treasurer
Gaither M. Keener Jr. General Counsel
Roy L. Pressley
Leroy Lakey
E.C. Toppin
W. Frank Stancil
George H. Willis
W. Dale Punch Distinguished Guests Call us with your envelope needs at 1-800-628-9265. Holding Area/Convention Center
Ray G. Smith Honorary Member
Marie Bolin Hedrick Ex-Officio, American Legion Auxiliary
Steve Laws Ex-Officio, Sons of The American Legion
Convention Corporation Committee Chairmen
Terry Boyles Packets/Badges
Bob Cagle Heim Utrte, 3!iic. Distinguished Guests Suite Don Bridges iHanufacturing §etoeta Information Rev. |immy Jarrell Memorial Service
J.D. Powell Parade
Lewis Ledwell Distinguished Guests/Transportation National Convention & Meetings Division
Richard Holmes Director
Jennifer Zellers Assistant Director
Produced by the American Legion Magazine
Dennis J. Henkemeyer Chairman
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on 84 years Matt Grills, Jeff Stoffer. Elissa Kaupisch, Editors James V. Carroll, Photography of service Special thanks to the Charlotte Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The American Legion 7
Hotel Directory || National Convention
Adam's Mark Charlotte Charlotte Marriott CONNECTICUT NEW HAMPSHIRE 555 S. McDowell St. Executive Park Doubletree Hotel Uptown Charlotte Charlotte Marriott City Center Charlotte, NC 28204 5700 Westpark Drive DELAWARE NEW JERSEY (704) 372-4100 Charlotte, NC 282 1 Hampton Inn Uptown Charlotte Adam's Mark Charlotte (704) 527-9650 Clarion Hotel Charlotte DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA NEW MEXICO 321 W. Woodlawn Road Omni Charlotte Hotel Hilton Charlotte & Towers Hampton Inn Executive Park Charlotte, NC 28217 132 E. Trade St. (704) 523-1400 Charlotte, NC 28202 FLORIDA NEW YORK Charlotte (704) 377-0400 Hampton Inn Uptown Holiday Inn Woodlawn Courtyard by Marriott FRANCE 237 S. Tryon St. Ramada Inn NORTH CAROLINA Hilton Charlotte & Towers Charlotte, NC 28202 3000 E. Independence Blvd. Charlotte Marriott City Center (704) 926-5800 Charlotte, NC 28205 GEORGIA 377-1501 NORTH DAKOTA (704) Omni Charlotte Hotel Doubletree Hotel Four Points Sheraton Uptown Uptown Charlotte Residence Inn by Marriott HAWAII Charlotte 895 W. Trade St. 404 S. Mint St. Hilton Charlotte & Towers Charlotte, NC 28202 Charlotte, NC 28202 OHIO IDAHO Holiday Inn Center City (704) 347-0070 (704) 340-4000 Omni Charlotte Hotel Four Points Sheraton Travelodge Center City Hotel OKLAHOMA ILLINOIS Charlotte Marriott City Center Uptown Charlotte 319 W. Trade St. Charlotte Marriott Executive Park 201 S. McDowell St. Charlotte, NC 28202 OREGON 377-1930 Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) INDIANA Doubletree Hotel Uptown Charlotte (704) 372-7550 Holiday Inn Independence Park PENNSYLVANIA Inn Executive Park Hampton IOWA Adam's Mark Charlotte 440 Griffith Road OFFICIAL Adam's Mark Charlotte Charlotte, NC 28217 PHILIPPINES DELEGATION KANSAS (704) 525-0747 Hilton Charlotte & Towers HOTELS Four Points Sheraton Hampton Inn Uptown Charlotte PUERTO RICO Uptown Charlotte Hilton Charlotte & Towers KENTUCKY 530 E. Second St. AMERICAN LEGION Clarion Hotel Charlotte RHODE ISLAND Charlotte, NC 28202 NATIONAL Holiday Inn Woodlawn (704) 373-0917 HEADQUARTERS LOUISIANA Doubletree Hotel Uptown Charlotte SOUTH CAROLINA Hilton Charlotte & Towers Adam's Mark Charlotte Hilton Garden Inn Uptown Charlotte 222 E. Third St. Hilton Charlotte & Towers MAINE Charlotte, NC Charlotte Marriott City Center SOUTH DAKOTA (704) 377-1500 AMERICAN LEGION Four Points Sheraton Uptown AUXILIARY AND 8 ET 40 MARYLAND Charlotte Hilton Garden Inn Adam's Mark Charlotte Hilton Charlotte & Towers Uptown Charlotte TENNESSEE 508 E. Second St. SONS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS Charlotte Marriott City Center Charlotte, NC 28202 AMERICAN LEGION Ramada Inn (704) 347-5972 Omni Charlotte Hotel TEXAS MEXICO Travelodge Center City Holiday Inn Center City 20 & 4 Hilton Charlotte & Towers UTAH 230 N. College St. Charlotte Marriott City Center MICHIGAN Charlotte, NC 28202 Hilton Garden Inn Uptown Charlotte ALABAMA Residence inn by Marriott (704) 335-5400 VERMONT Hampton Inn Uptown Charlotte MINNESOTA Holiday Inn Omni Charlotte Hotel Courtyard by Marriott Independence Park ALASKA Hilton Charlotte Towers VIRGINIA 3501 E. Independence Blvd. & MISSISSIPPI Omni Charlotte Hotel Charlotte, NC 28205 ARIZONA Hampton Inn Executive Park (704) 537-1010 Adam's Mark Charlotte MISSOURI WASHINGTON Charlotte Marriott City Center Holiday Inn Woodlawn ARKANSAS Holiday Inn Center City 212 Woodlawn Road Hampton Inn Executive Park MONTANA WEST VIRGINIA Charlotte, NC 28217 Charlotte Marriott City Center Omni Charlotte Hotel (704) 525-8350 CALIFORNIA Hilton Charlotte Executive Park NEBRASKA WISCONSIN Charlotte Marriott City Center Clarion Hotel Charlotte Omni Charlotte Hotel 100 W Trade St. COLORADO Charlotte, NC 28201 Hilton Garden Inn Uptown NEVADA WYOMING (704) 333-9000 Charlotte Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Uptown Charlotte Marriott City Center
2002 National Convention m || 2002 National Convention Commission
Advisory Board Advisory Board Advisory Board NEC Liaison
The American Legion Corporation, Inc. || 2002 National Convention
ROY L. PRESSLEY LEROY LAKEY E.C.T0PPIN W. FRANK STANPIL GEORGE IE WILLIS Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Board of Directors Distinguished Guests Holding Area/Convention Center
RAY G. SMITH MARIE BOLIN HEDRICK Honorary Member Ex-Officio Ex-Officio American Legion Auxiliary Sons of the American Legion
Convention Corporation Committee Chairmen
Packets/Badges Distinguished Guests Suite Information Memorial Service Parade Distinguished Guest
2002 National Convention m\ Distinguished Service The American Legion Medal Recipients II 1921 Marshal Ferdinand Foch of France Adm. Earl Beatty of Great Britain Gen. Baron Jacques of Belgium Gen. Armando Diaz of Italy Charles Bertrand of France Honor Roll of Service 1922 Gen. of the Armies John J. Pershina 1923 Adm. Robert E. Coontz Gen. Josef Haller of Poland 1926 Iqnace Jan Paderewski of Poland 1927 Comte Francois Marie Robert Deiean of France 1928 Field Marshal Viscount Allenby of Past National Commanders 1919-2002 Great Britain 1929~ Judae Kenesaw Mountain Landis 1930 Adm. William S. Sims ‘Franklin D’Olier ‘Daniel Doherty ‘Dan Daniel ‘Harry G. Wiles William Detweiler J. 1942 Gen. Doualas A. MacArthur Pennsylvania 1919-20 Massachusetts 1937-38 Virginia 1956-57 Kansas 1975-76 Louisiana 1994-95 1943 Gen. George C. Marshall
Adm. Ernest J. Kina “Frederick W. Galbraith Jr. ‘Stephen F. Chadwick *|ohn S. Gleason Jr. ). William Rogers Daniel Ludwig 1944 Hon. Frank Knox' Ohio 1920-21 Washington 1938-39 Illinois 1957-58 Maine 1976-77 Minnesota 1995-96 Henry Ford Gen. H.H. Arnold “*|ohn G. Emery ‘Raymond Kelly Preston Moore ‘Robert Charles Smith J. J. Joseph J. Frank 1945 President Franklin D. Roosevelt Michigan 1921 Michigan 1939-40 Oklahoma 1958-59 Louisiana 1977-78 Missouri 1996-97 Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr.' Ernest (Ernie) Pyle'
‘Hanford MacNider ‘Milo J. Warner ‘Martin B. McKneally John M. Carey Anthony G. Jordan Hon. Henry L. Stimson louw 1921-22 Ohio 1940-41 New York 1959-60 Michigan 1978-79 Maine 1997-98 Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz Gen. of the Army Dwiaht D. Eisenhower
‘Alvin M. Owsley ‘Lynn U. Stambaugh ‘William R. Burke Frank 1. Hamilton Butch Miller 1946 J. Edgar Hoover Texas 1922-23 Nortfi Dakota 1941-42 California 1960-61 Indiana 1979-80 Virginia 1998-99 Bob Hope William Randolph Hearst Maj. Gen. Lewis B. Hershey ‘John R. Quinn ‘Roane Waring ‘Charles L. Bacon Michael J. Kogutek Al Lance Hon. Cordell Hull California 1923-24 Tennessee 1942-43 Missouri 1961-62 New York 1980-81 Idaho 1999-00 1947 Lt. Gen. William S. Knudsen Sen. Edward Martin ‘James A. Drain ‘Warren H. Atherton ‘James E. Powers ‘Jack W. Flynt Ray G. Smith Chief Justice Fred M. Vinson Disfricf of Columbia 1924-25 California 1943-44 Georgia 1962-63 Texas 1981-82 NortA Carolina 2000-01 1949" President Harry S. Truman George Herman (Babe) Ruth' ‘John R. McQuigg ‘Edward N. Scheiberling Hon. Daniel F. Foley *Al Keller Jr. Richard Santos J. Mai. Gen. Frank Parker' Ohio 1925-26 New York 1944-45 Minnesota 1963-64 Illinois 1982-83 Maryland 2001-02 1950 Charles F. Johnson Jr. Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord ‘Howard P. Savage *|ohn Stelle ‘Donald E. Johnson Keith Kreul Rep. Edith Nourse Roaers
Illinois 1926-27 Illinois 1945-46 Iowa 1964-65 Wisconsin 1983-84 195f Gen. Charles P. Summerall 1953 Rep. Royal C. Johnson' ‘Edward E. Spafford ‘Paul H. Griffith *L. Eldon James Clarence M. Bacon 1954 Mai. Gen. Georae A. White*
New York 1927-28 Pennsylvania 1946-47 Virginia 1965-66 Maryland 1984-85 1955 Dr. Jonas E. Salk Mai. Gen. Ellard A. Walsh
‘Paul V. McNutt ‘James F. O’Neil ‘John E. Davis ‘Dale L. Renaud 1956 Vice Adm. Joel T. Boone Indiana 1928-29 New Hampshire 1947-48 Nort/i Dakota 1966-67 Iowa 1985-86 Charles Stewart Mott 1957 Gen. Mark W. Clark ‘O. Lee Bodenhamer ‘Perry Brown William E. Galbraith James P. Dean The Most Rev. Fulton J. Sheen Arkansas 1929-30 Texas 1948-49 Nebraska 1967-68 Mississippi 1986-87 1958 Bernard Mannes Baruch Unknown Servicemen of WWI, WWII and ‘Ralph T. O’Neill ‘George N. Craig ‘William C. Doyle John P. "Jake” Comer Korea, interred at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery Kansas 1930-31 Indiana 1949-50 New Jersey 1968-69 Massachusetts 1987-88 1959 Sen. Robert S. Kerr
1961 President John F. Kennedy ‘Henry L. Stevens Jr. ‘Erie Cocke |r. *J. Milton Patrick Hon. H.F. "Sparky” Gierke 1962 Gen. Lucius D. Clay Norffi Carolina 1931-32 Georgia 1950-51 Oklahoma 1969-70 NortA Dakota 1988-89 Dr. Thomas A. Doolev' 1963" Francis Cardinal Spellman ‘Louis A. Johnson ‘Donald R. Wilson ‘Alfred R. Chamie Miles S. Epling 1964 Dr. Charles W. Mavo West Virginia 1932-33 West Virginia 1951-52 California 1970-71 West Viriginia 1 989-90 1965 President Herbert C. Hoover'
Hon. James F. Bvrnes ‘Edward A. Hayes ‘Lewis K. Gough John H. Geiger Robert S. Turner 1966 Capt. Roqer H.C. Donlon Illinois 1933-34 California 1952-53 Illinois 1971-72 Georgia 1990-91 1967 Hon. Tom C. Clark 1968 President Lyndon B. Johnson ‘Frank N. Belgrano Jr. ‘Arthur J. Connell Joe L. Matthews Dominic D. DiFrancesco Gen. William C. Westmoreland California 1934-35 Connecticut 1953-54 Texas 1972-73 Pennsylvania 1991-92 1969" President Richard M. Nixon
1970 Rep. Olin E. Teaque ‘Ray Murphy ‘Seaborn P. Collins ‘Robert E.L. Eaton ‘Roger A. Munson 1971 Rep. L. Mendel Rivers* Iowa 1935-36 New Mexico 1954-55 Maryland 1973-74 Ohio 1992-93 Sen. Richard B. Russell* 1972 Sen. John C. Stennis Dewitt Wallace ‘Harry W. Colmery |. Addington Wagner ‘lames M. Wagonseller Bruce Thiesen 1974 Hon. Henry A. Kissinger Kansas 1936-37 Michigan 1955-56 Ohio 1974-75 California 1993-94 Rep. F. Edward Hebert 1975 Harrv W. Colmerv 1976 Pat O'Brien 1977 Howard A. Rusk, M.D. 1978 Bowie K. Kuhn 1979 Thomas A. Murphv Past National Commanders By Vote of National Convention 1980 President Gerald R. Ford Dead & Missina of the Vietnam War 198T American Space Shuttle Astronauts ‘Bennett Champ Clark ‘Henry D. Lindsley ‘Eric Fisher Wood * Maurice Stember John Youna and Robert Crippen 1982" President Ronald W. Reaqan Missouri-Presided at Paris Caucus, Texas-Presided at St. Louis Caucus, Pennsylvania-Temporary Chairman New York 1983 Adm. Hvman C. Rickover March 1919 May 1919 and Secretary at Paris Caucus 1984 Sen. J. Strom Thurmond 'Hamilton Fish 1985 Hon. Caspar W. Weinberger ‘Milton Foreman ‘Theodore Roosevelt )r. ‘Thomas W. Miller New York 1979 J. Fleet Adm. William F. Halsev Jr.* Illinois-Chairman, Executive New York Nevada-Chairman Pro Tempore 1987“ Hon. William H. Webster
Committee at Paris Paris Caucus *E. Roy Stone Jr. 1988 Doualas Edwards March 1919 South Carolina 1987 1989 Hon. Howard H. Baker Jr. 1990 Michael E. DeBakev, M.D. 1991 President Georae H.W. Bush 1992 Richard Thornburah 1993 Gen. Colin Powell 1994 Walter Annenbura Honorary National Commanders 1995 Crew of the Enola Gay (Paul W. Tibbets, Dutch Van Kirk, Tom Ferebee, Dick Nelson and Bob Carron*) •Gen. John Pershing 'Marshal Ferdinand Foch 1996 Rep. G.V. “Sonny” Montaomerv 1997 Sen. Robert J. Dole 1998 None 1999 Zacharv Fisher* 2000 Sen. Orrin Hatch 'Deceased "Killed in auto accident while serving by Executive Committee to fill unexpired term as Commander '"Elected 2001 Gen. Henrv H. Shelton
'awarded posthumously
The American Legion 1
National Officers
|| American Legion Auxiliary
Annual Report 2001-2002
ith the theme "There's Magic in America's Dreams," Iowa's Sherry McLaughlin led the nation's largest W patriotic organization of women through one of America's most challenging years since World War II. Elected just weeks before terrorists attacked from the skies over New York City, Washington, D C. and western Pennsylvania, McLaughlin mobilized Auxiliary's the response while directing a roster sherry McLaughlin ELSIE BAILEY of programs vital to the nation's well-being. National President National Vice President Members immediately joined the grassroots relief effort by doing all they could on the local level. The American Legion family does its best work close to home, and unit members donated blood, conducted fund-raisers for relief efforts and provided the human touch in comforting survivors. Members also provided varying levels of support to families of military personnel activated for wartime duty. Members contributed $94,239 by the time the Auxiliary stopped taking donations in mid-April. Grant recipients included USO organi- zations in New York City and Washington, along with Tragedy Assistance for Survivors (TAPS), a support group for families of military personnel killed in the line of duty. Comfort Zone Camp of Rockville, Va., received a grant from the PEGGY SAPPEIVFIELI) MARTA HERRING Auxiliary's special fund. The nonprofit group offers bereavement LYLASEMENKO National Secretary National Treasurer Northwestern Division camps for children who experience the death of a parent, sibling or National Vice President caregiver. Special camp sessions are planned for this summer for children of those killed at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. In addition, thousands of dollars in support were expended at the local level but never added to the official national tally. McLaughlin's theme, "There's Magic in America's Dreams," set the tone for her year. The combination of "dreams, hard work and a little magic" inspired Auxiliary members to reach for their own dreams and goals. Through their success, others benefit. Talented veterans skilled in the visual and performing arts saw their dreams fulfilled thanks in part to the American Legion Auxiliary. The VA's National Veterans Creative Arts Festival offers thousands of veterans a therapeutic, creative outlet for their talents. KAYMISHLER VERLA MAE SHULTZ Auxiliary units and departments have enthusiastically embraced Southern Division Central Division Eastern Division this event, and unit members have added the festival to their volun- National Vice President National Vice President National Vice President teer activities at VA medical centers, nursing homes and domiciles. The Auxiliary became one of the festival's national cosponsors with a contribution of $75,000 Veterans understand that replenishing the ranks requires effective recruiting and leadership training. McLaughlin's special emphasis on pro- moting the ranks of (unior Auxiliary members exhibited her understand- ing of the role youth plays in promoting the American Legion Auxiliary. "A child is a trust given us to ensure our future, and America's future will be determined by how well we maintain this trust," said McLaughlin, who encouraged members to donate to the Spirit of Youth Fund. In making the fund her special project this year, McLaughlin’s life- long devotion to children and fostering youth development shined CAROL DALTON SHIRLEY OLINGER BETTY TURNER through, and her spirit clearly focused on benefiting the nation's youth Western Division National Historian National Chaplain Members are fast approaching McLaughlin's goal of raising $85,000 for National Vice President the fund. Reaching that goal will ensure at least one lunior from each department attends the National lunior Convention in Charlotte, N.C. resentative in Peter R. Teahen, recipient of the Auxiliary's Public Spirit Auxiliary members in March joined with other American Legion Award at Awareness Assembly. The Cedar Rapids, Iowa, funeral direc- family members in lobbying their representatives on behalf of veter- tor is a grief counselor and disaster responder who has assisted in ans, the nation's flag and national security issues. nearly 50 disasters, from airline crashes to hurricanes. Teahen also The Auxiliary's effectiveness stems from its members' energetic dedi- spent five weeks as a volunteer in Manhattan following the Sept. 1 cation, and its work for America's veterans and families won't progress attack on the World Trade Center. without a sustained, successful membership effort. McLaughlin was McLaughlin also honored other Americans who demonstrated the especially encouraged by a special grassroots membership seminar con- ability to place "service above self." Showcase Awards went to Jim and in ducted Indianapolis in October. The sessions provided training for Debbie Noble of Bayonne, N.|. Debbie, a member of Unit 19, along recruiters, who are anxious to find new ways to attract eligible members with her husband and four friends, organized the Bayonne Fire to the Auxiliary. The results already are apparent in several departments. Canteen in 1994 to respond to natural disasters and raise funds for In addition, McLaughlin coordinated a special poppy promotion truck maintenance and supplies. through the National Poppy and Public Relations committees. Despite last fall's national trauma, the work of the American Legion Members at the unit, district, department and national levels worked Auxiliary carries on. It's important, more now than ever, that Auxiliary to make sure every public official, educator and community leader in members continue fulfilling their dreams through our members' serv- America wore a poppy on Memorial Day. The results were an encour- ice to America, its veterans and their families. aging reminder of the small red flower's symbolic power for reminding That ethic of service ensures for National President McLaughlin citizens of veterans' sacrifices. and her compatriots in the Legion family that "there IS magic in The willingness to sacrifice for the sake of others found an able rep- America's dreams."
2002 National Convention 1 82nd Animal National Convention
American Legion Auxiliary
CHARLOTTE, N.C. Group G - Symphony Ballroom VI MONDAY, AUG. 26 AUG. 24-29, 2002 Membership Charlotte Convention Center, Ballroom
Group - Ballroom III H Symphony 8:15 A.M. FRIDAY, AUG. 23 Credentials PRELUDE Resolutions National Convention Chorus Under the direction of Marie Boedeker 6:30 P.M.-7:30 PM. Group I - Carolina Ballroom C NATIONAL JUNIOR REGISTRATION Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation 8:30 A.M. Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel, OPENING PROCESSIONAL Group - Symphony Ballroom II Governor’s Foyer I Elizabeth Stewart, Convention Chairman Finance ADVANCEMENT OF COLORS SATURDAY, AUG. 24 10:45 A.M.-l 1:45 A.M. JUNIOR DIVISION CAUCUSES INTRODUCTION OF 8 A.M.-9 A.M. Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel NATIONAL PRESIDENT NATIONAL EXECUTIVE Elizabeth Stewart, Convention Chairman COMMITTEE MEETING Central - Carolina DE 8:45 A.M. Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel, Eastern - Cardinal 1 CALL TO ORDER Symphony IV Ballroom Sherry McLaughlin, National President Northwestern - Governor's 4 8:15 A.M. -8:45 A.M. INVOCATION NATIONAL JUNIOR Southern - Governor's 5 Betty Turner, National Chaplain MEETING REGISTRATION Western - Governor's 6 MOMENT OF SILENCE Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel, Governor's Foyer PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 1:30 P.M. -3:30 P.M. SENIOR DIVISION CAUCUSES Desi Stoy, Americanism Chairman 9 A.M. Adam's Mark NATIONAL JUNIOR MEETING Charlotte Hotel NATIONAL ANTHEM National Convention Chorus Adam’s Mark Charlotte Hotel, Carolina DE Central Mecklenburg Ballroom PREAMBLE TO THE CONSTITUTION 9:30 A.M.-I 1:30 A.M. Patricia Donohue, Constitution Eastern PRE-CONVENTION and Bylaws Chairman COMMITTEE MEETINGS Symphony Ballroom V, VI, VII Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel WELCOME Northwestern Sherry McLaughlin, National President Symphony Ballroom II, III Group A - Symphony Ballroom IV 9 A.M. Americanism Southern GREETINGS FROM AMERICAN Auxiliary Emergency Fund Symphony Ballroom IV LEGION AUXILIARY DEPARTMENT Community Service Western OF NORTH CAROLINA - Carolina Ballroom C Group B Mecklenburg Ballroom I Susie Woodle, President Children & Youth 1:45 P.M. Elizabeth Stewart, National Liaison to the Child Welfare Foundation NATIONAL JUNIOR MEETING Convention Chairman Education Adam's Mark Charlotte Hotel, Carolina DE Girls State GREETINGS FROM EIGHT AND FORTY Venita Holthaus, Le Chapeau Nationale 6 P.M. -7:30 P.M. Group C - Mecklenburg Ballroom II JUNIOR/SAL SOCIAL lunior Activities GREETINGS FROM PAST Adam's Mark Hotel, Carolina AB NATIONAL PRESIDENTS Cavalcade of Memories Kristine S. West, Past National President National Security Public Relations SUNDAY, AUG. 25 INTRODUCTIONS
Rehbein, of Pages Group D - Mecklenburg Ballroom III 8 A.M. -9:30 A.M. Ann Chairman PAGE’S REHEARSAL Legislative Sandy Deacon, Vice Chairman of Pages Past Presidents Parley Charlotte Convention Center, Ballroom Donna Sutton, National President’s Page Poppy 8:30 A.M. NATIONAL JUNIOR MEETING Wendy Riggle, National President's Page Group E - Symphony Ballroom VII Adam's Mark Hotel, Carolina DE Chaplains Nicole Clapp, National President's Page Historians Darla Davidson, National President's Page 1 1 A.M. Leadership PATRIOTIC RELIGIOUS SERVICE JOINT Josie Melgard, Chairman, Distinguished Charlotte Convention Center, Hall A Group F - Symphony Ballroom V Guests Committee Constitution & Bylaws 4 P.M. Lou Fairchild, Member, Distinguished Rules NATIONAL CONVENTION PARADE Guests Committee
The American Legion Tillie Davis, Member, Distinguished TUESDAY, AUG. 27 ELECTION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS Guests Committee HISTORIAN’S REPORT Marie Boedeker, Convention Pianist 8:30 A.M. Shirley Olinger, National Historian CALL TO ORDER Marjorie Vinzant Weber, Convention Sherry McLaughlin, National President LEADERSHIP REPORT Parliamentarian lacklyn Skinner, Chairman INVOCATION 9:35 A.M. CAVALCADE OF MEMORIES REPORT Betty Turner, National Chaplain CREDENTIALS REPORT Agnes Kennedy, Chairman Doris Wainwright, Chairman GREETINGS CHAPLAIN'S REPORT RULES REPORT Betty Turner, National Chaplain Michael Easley, Governor of North Carolina Lillian McGivern, Chairman PRESENTATION FROM CHAPEL OF Pat McCrory, Mayor of Charlotte CONVENTION PROGRAM REPORT THE FOUR CHAPLAINS Martha Corriher Peggy Sappenfield, National Secretary MEMBERSHIP REPORT Beverly Otterness, Chairman GREETINGS GREETINGS FROM SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMISSION 9 A.M. Clifford A. Smith, National Commander NOMINATION OF NATIONAL OFFICERS REPUBLIC OF CHINA Lt. Gen. Gong Yi-min, Secretary General JUNIOR ACTIVITIES REPORT LEGISLATIVE REPORT KOREAN VETERANS ASSOCIATION Penny Maklary, Chairman Jan Pulvermacher, Chairman Ret. Gen. Sang-Hoon Lee, President Pamela Thompson, Honorary National EDUCATION REPORT lunior President PAST PRESIDENTS’ PARLEY REPORT Kristine S. West, Chairman Carol Van Kirk, Chairman INTRODUCTION OF NEWLY COMMUNITY SERVICE REPORT ELECTED HONORARY NATIONAL AUXILIARY EMERGENCY Carlene Ashworth, Chairman JUNIOR PRESIDENT FUND REPORT Midge Farrar, Chairman NATIONAL SECURITY REPORT AMERICANISM REPORT JoAnn Cronin, Chairman Desi Stoy, Chairman CHILDREN & YOUTH REPORT Sandi Dutton, Chairman “DON’T SHOOT SKINNY RABBITS’’ Angela Follman. 2002 Girl Scout Deadra Stanton Achievement Award Recipient LIAISON TO THE CHILD WELFARE FOUNDATION REPORT AON DRAWING GIRLS STATE REPORT Virginia Hobbs, Chairman INTRODUCTION OF LOCAL Pat Kranzow Chairman CONVENTION COMMITTEES GARLAND MURPHY Kasdin Miller, 2002 Girls Nation President AWARD PRESENTATION RESOLUTIONS REPORT U.S. "Udie" Grant, President GREETINGS FROM THE RECESSIONAL OF COLORS AMERICAN LEGION The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation RECESS Jerry L. Hedrick President, FINANCE REPORT 2002 Convention Corporation 7 P.M. Phyllis Bachman, Chairman STATES DINNER Robert W. Spanogle, National Adjutant Convention Center, Hall C Richard ). Santos National Commander PUBLIC RELATIONS REPORT Rita Navarrete, Chairman POPPY REPORT THURSDAY, AUG. 29 Kathy Riordan Chairman HEART OF AMERICA 8:30 A.M. AWARDS PRESENTATION INTRODUCTION OF MISS POPPY 6-12 Charlotte Convention Center, Ballroom Anthony Principi, Secretary of Haley Cook, (111.) Department of Veterans Affairs INSTALLATION OF 2002-2003 NATIONAL OFFICERS INTRODUCTION OF MISS POPPY 13-18 Jessica Puckett, (Mich REPORT OF THE ) NATIONAL PRESIDENT PRESENTATION OF PIN AND RIBBON TO RETIRING NATIONAL PRESIDENT VETERANS AFFAIRS & REHABILITATION REPORT RECESS PRESENTATION OF COLORS TO Katherine Morris Chairman RETIRING NATIONAL PRESIDENT 12:30 P.M. AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY PAST DEPARTMENT RETIREMENT OF NATIONAL COLORS VAVS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR PRESIDENTS’ LUNCHEON Phyllis Holmberg, Department of California Charlotte Convention Center, Hall C ADJOURNMENT OF NATIONAL CONVENTION PRESENTATION TO FRED ROGERS - "MR. ROGERS" WEDNESDAY, AUG. 28 POST-CONVENTION NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS REPORT 8:30 A.M. Charlotte Convention Center, Room 207AB Patricia Donohue Chairman CALL TO ORDER (immediately following the adjournment Sherry McLaughlin, National President of National Convention) MEMORIAL SERVICE INVOCATION Betty Turner, National Chaplain Betty Turner, National Chaplain RECESS
2002 National Convention El 81 st Annual La Marche Rationale La Bnntiqne
Nationale Des Huit Chapeaux Et Qnarante Femmes
CHARLOTTE, N.C. Resolutions, MECKLENBURG BALLROOM AUG. 29-31, 2002 Ella M. Dokken, Chairman CONVENTION CENTER 2:30 P.M.-3 P.M. Leadership Constitution and Bylaws, lanet Christiansen, Chairman Thursday, Aug. 7:30 Ms. Venita Betty Robaszkiewicz, Chairman 29, P.M. | 3 P.M. -4 P.M. > jr Holthaus CAROLINA BALLROOM C
I Le Chapeau GOVERNORS 4 CONVENTION CENTER
I I National MB CONVENTION CENTER Candidates Reception Thursday, Aug. 29, 9 P.M. Nurses Scholarship, Virginia Robbins, Chairman 2 P.M. -2:30 PM. FRIDAY, AUG. 30 Awards, 8:30 A.M. -5 P.M. Ms. Elyline Cynthia Hochbrueckner, Chairman Schweitzer 2:30 P.M. -3 P.M. MECKLENBURG BALLROOM Le Secretaire Partnership, CONVENTION CENTER Caissiere Audrey (June) Woodard, Chairman LA Nationale 3 P.M. -4 P.M. MARCHE NATIONALE Opening Session, 8:30 A.M. GOVERNORS 5 La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale CONVENTION CENTER REGISTRATION presiding, Elyline Schweitzer Publicity, All packets are to be picked up at the PRESENTATION OF registration desk, Eight and Forty Marlys Exon, Chairman 2 P.M. -2:30 P.M. CHAPEAUX PASSE Headquarters Office, Governors 6 Lois Lansdale 1976 Ballroom, Governor's Foyer, open Monday L’Aumonier, Marie Smith 1977 Aug. 26 to Aug. 3 1 . Hours to be posted. Irene Stidham Treva Reimink 1979 2:30 PM. -3 P.M. EMBLEM SALES AND/OR Violet Aichholz 1981 L’Archiviste, STOCK ITEMS Eunice Staley 1983 Margaret Sheridan Emblem and/or stock-item orders will be Elyline Schweitzer 1984 3 P.M. -4 P.M. taken at the Eight and Forty Headquarters Helene Mardu 1985 Office, Governors 6 Ballroom between lean Hayes 1987 GOVERNORS 1 Aug. 26 and Aug. 30. CONVENTION CENTER Edith Still 1989 Donna Baley 1990 DISTINGUISHED GUESTS Ritual and Emblem, Elsie Hemphill 1991 All Distinguished Guests are to meet in Frances Haydel, Chairman the Convention Foyer upon their arrival 2 P.M. -2:30 P.M. Dorothy Brady 1992 to be presented. Colleen Stephens 1993 Rules and Order, Virginia Kates 1994 THURSDAY, AUG. 29 Penny Mozonna, Chairman Mille H. Nierman 1995 2:30 P.M. -3 P.M. 1 1:30 A.M. Elizabeth B. Lori 1996 Les chapeaux Handbook, Ivy Christoffers 1997 NATIONAUX PASSE LUNCHEON Eunice Staley, Chairman Reina Svacha 1998 PRE MARCHE COMMITTEE MEETINGS 3 P.M. -4 P.M. Wanda North 1999 GOVERNORS 2 MECKLENBURG BALLROOM Pauline Bonham 2000 CONVENTION CENTER CONVENTION CENTER Helen Goewey 2001 Permanent Organization. Pre-Marche Pouvoir Sandy Leeds [enkins, Chairman PRESENTATION OF Thursday, Aug. 29, 4:30 P.M. 2 P.M. -2:30 P.M. NATIONAL OFFICERS Escorted by La Concierge Mary Lou Chester, Children Youth, MECKLENBURG and BALLROOM Le Marechals and La Marche Pages Marcy Schmidt, Chairman CONVENTION CENTER 2:30 P.M. -4 P.M. Angela Dunbar, Hatbox Editor Rehearsal for La Marche La Concierge Mary Lou Chester, Elyline Schweitzer, GOVERNORS 3 Le Marechals and Pages La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale CONVENTION CENTER Thursday. Aug. 29, 6 P.M. Mille Nierman, L'Avocate Nationale Credential, Irene Stidham, L'Aumonier National Nancy Goodwin, Chairman 2 P.M. -2:30 P.M.
The American Legion 81st Annual La Marche Nationale La Boutique Rationale Des Huit Chapeaux Et Quarante Femmes
Margaret Sheridan, REPORT OF THE MINUTES Susie Woodle, L'Archiviste Nationale COMMITTEE FOR 2001 Department of North Carolina President, NATIONALE MARCHE The American Legion Auxiliary LES DIVISIONAL DEMI CHAPEAUX Elizabeth Lori, Chairman Clifford A. Smith, Jackie Bochat, PRESENTATION OF National Commander, Central Division DISTINGUISHED GUESTS Sons of The American Legion Patricia A. Fifield, Richard ). Santos, Eastern Division INTRODUCTION OF CHAPEAU National Commander NATIONAUX PASSES Elaine Ryan, The American Legion Northwestern Division Venita Holthaus. Sherry McLaughlin, Le Chapeau National Velma Rinehart, National President Southern Division The American Legion Auxiliary SPEAKING FOR THE CHAPEAU Susan Caswell, Ron Conley, NATIONAUX PASSE Western Division National Commander-Elect Helen Goewey, The American Legion Immediate Chapeau National Passe LE DEMI CHAPEAU NATIONALE )im Mareschal, Donna Morice REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES National Vice Commander Rules and Order LE CHAPEAU The American Legion NATIONALE Penny Mozonna, Chairman Venita Holthaus Peggy Sappenfield, National Secretary Permanent Organization, CALL TO ORDER The American Legion Auxiliary Sandy Leeds lenkins, Chairman Venita Holthaus. Robert W. Spanogle, Le Chapeau National SONG National Adjutant ADVANCEMENT OF COLORS The American Legion REPORT OF DIVISIONAL DEMI Mary Lou Chester, Marta Hedding. CHAPEAU NATIONAUX AND La Concierge National National Treasurer INTRODUCTION OF LES CHAPEAU The American Legion Auxiliary DEPARTEMENTAUX Veronica Spence and Ruby Walker, Les Marechals Sandi Dutton, lackie Bochat, National Children & Youth Chairman Central Division The American Legion Auxiliary INVOCATION Patricia A. Fifield, Irene Stidham, Elmer Furhop, Eastern Division L'Aumonier National National Children & Youth Chairman, Elaine Ryan, The American Legion PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Northwestern Division William Pease, Mary Lou Chester, Velma Rinehart, Executive Secretary, La Concierge Nationale Southern Division The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation Susan Caswell, NATIONAL ANTHEM Lee Hardy, Western Division Phyllis J. Hardin, Assistant Deputy Director, Marche Pianist Americanism and Children & Youth REPORT OF NATIONAL The American Legion OFFICERS FOR 2001-2002 FLANDERS FIELD Elizabeth "Lib” Stewart, Venita Holthaus, Patricia A. Fifield Convention Chairman Eastern Division Demi Chapeau Le Chapeau Nationale The American Legion Auxiliary Donna Morice, Mike Easley, AMERICA’S ANSWER Le Demi Chapeau Nationale lackie Bochat, Governor of North Carolina Margaret Sheridan, Central Division Demi Chapeau Jerry Hedrick, L'Archiviste Nationale President of 2002 Convention Corporation, RESPONSE The American Legion Mille Nierman, Venita Holthaus. L'Avocate Nationale ferry Hedrick, La Chapeau Nationale North Carolina NEC Elyline Schweitzer, La Secretaire-Caissiere Nationale ROLL CALL The American Legion Elyline Schweitzer, Jerry Hedrick, Angela Dunbar. La Secretaire Nationale American Legion Convention Chairman, Hatbox Editor North Carolina NOMINATION OF NATIONAL READING OF THE CALL TO 2002 Minnie Hughes. LA NATIONALE OFFICERS FOR 2002-2003 MARCHE North Carolina NEC Elyline Schweitzer, The American Legion Auxiliary 1 1:30 A.M. - DIVISIONAL La Secretaire Nationale Milton Woodle, LUNCHEON AND CAUCUSES Department of North Carolina Commander Central Division
The American Legion Governors 2 & 3, Convention Center
2002 National Convention EM Eastern Division PROCESSIONAL REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES Governors 4 & 5, Convention Center Les Chapeaux Nationaux Passes MARCHE Les Demi Chapeaux Divisionaux Ella M. Dokken, Resolutions Northwestern Division Center Pruitt, Registration Governors 1, Convention ADVANCING MEMORIAL BOOK Jean Southern Division Donna Morice Nancy Goodwin, Credentials Carolina D, Convention Center Le Demi Chapeau National Lighting of Memorial Candle ELECTION OF OFFICERS Western Division FOR 2002-2003 Carolina E, Convention Center PRAYER Irene Stidham, PRESENTATION OF DISTINGUISHED NOON - RECESS L'Aumonier Nationale GUESTS COMMITTEE Chairman 2 P.M. SECOND SESSION - Colleen Stephens, MUSICAL SELECTION LA MARCHE NATIONALE Elsie Hemphill, Vice Chairman Dolores Flack, Willa Romano REPORT OF STANDING Department of Vermont COMMITTEES AND INTRODUCTION Helen Goewey OF REGIONAL OR DIVISIONAL TRIBUTE TO DECEASED PARTNERS Helene Mardu CHAIRMEN Venita Holthaus, Chapeau National REPORT OF THE LA CONCIERGE Children & Youth, Partners Entering Mary Lou Chester Marcy Schmidt, Chairman Tribute to All Eternal Rest 2001-2002 Finance, PRESENTATION OF of Tapers Lighting , Violet Aichholz, Chairman LES MARECHALS Memorial Flowers Nurses Scholarship Veronica Spence - California Virginia Robbins, Chairman DIVISIONAL DEMI CHAPEAUX Ruby Walker - Indiana Partnership, Jackie Bochat, Central Division Audrey (June) Woodard, Chairman PRESENTATION OF Patricia A. Fifield, Eastern Division Rituals and Emblems. NATIONAL PAGES Elaine Ryan, Northwestern Division Frances Haydel, Chairman Betty Taylor, Chairman - Washington Velma Rinehart, Southern Division Constitution and Bylaws, Nora Novak, Vice Chairman - Maryland Susan Caswell, Western Division Betty Robaszkiewicz, Chairman PAGES Awards, RESPONSE - Kentucky Cynthia Hochbrueckner, Chairman Irene Stidham, Jackie Richardson Advisory Committee, L'Aumonier National Janet Tebe - Florida
Dorothy Brady, Chairman Vashti Washington - District of Columbia MUSICAL SELECTION Handbook Committee, Sharon Trask - Maine Dolores Flack, Solo Eunice Staley, Chairman Department of Vermont Elsa Young - Minnesota Leadership Committee, Noralee Smith - Virginia Janet Christiansen, Chairman CALL TO SALON ETERNAL Helena Falgoust - Louisiana Margaret Sheridan, Publicity, Nationale Christine Smith - Wyoming Marlys Exon, Chairman L'Archiviste Yvonne Ward - New York SONG ANSWERING CALL TO SALON ETERNAL PRESENTATION OF PERSONAL PRESENTATION OF LOCAL MARCHE Mary Lou Chester, PAGES TO LE CHAPEAU NATIONALE La Concierge Nationale COMMITTEES Betty Lehman - Washington
Marilyn Axlund - Washington RECESS MUSICAL SELECTION Dolores Flack and Assembly PERSONAL PAGE TO LA SATURDAY, AUG. 31 BENEDICTION SECRETAIRE-CAISSIERE NATIONALE THIRD SESSION OF Irene Stidham, L'Aumonier Nationale Nora Mastropieri - California LA MARCHE NATIONALE RECESSIONAL TO: Phyllis Hardin, Musicienne PERSONAL PAGE 9 A.M. - MEMORIAL SERVICE Betty Smith - California (Audience will remain seated until Recorder Please refrain IN MEMORIAM after the recessional. from taking pictures until after the SONG Irene Stidham, L'Aumonier National service concludes.) PRELUDE L’AUMONIER NATIONALE Irene Stidham - Report Phyllis Hardin, Musicienne
The American Legion IEE3 RATIFICATION OF ELECTION PRESENTATION OF LE CHAPEAU CREDENTIALS OF LES DIVISIONAL DEMI NATIONAL PASSE PIN TO CHAPEAUX NATIONAUX VENITA HOLTHAUS Nancy Goodwin, INTRODUCTION OF LES Chairman - Pennsylvania DIVISIONAL DEMI CHAPEAUX Mille Nierman, Agnes Hartman - Illinois AND PINNING BY OUTGOING LES Le Chapeau Nationale Passe, Dorothea Warrick - New Jersey DIVISIONAL DEMI CHAPEAUX and Bud Holthaus PERMANENT ORGANIZATION REPORT OF JUDGE OF ELECTIONS REMARKS BY LE CHAPEAU Sandy Leeds Ruth Gott - Michigan NATIONAL-ELECT Jenkins, Donna Morice Chairman - New Hampshire
PRESENTATION OF NEWLY ELECTED Karen Sheffield - Connecticut OFFICERS FOR 2002-2003 REMARKS BY LE CHAPEAU Jackie Lay - California NATIONAL UNFINISHED BUSINESS Venita Holthaus REGISTRATION NEW BUSINESS BENEDICTION Jean Pruitt, Chairman - Texas Irene Stidham, LAumonier Louann Johnston - California MUSICAL SELECTION Pearl Klingebiel - Virginia RETIREMENT OF COLORS RECESS Mary Lou Chester, La Concierge RESOLUTIONS MECKLENBURG BALLROOM Ella M. Dokken, Chairman - Minnesota RETIREMENT OF LE CHAPEAU Helen Bone - Arizona CONVENTION J. CENTER NATIONAL Patty Pierce - Idaho POST MARCHE POUVOIR Venita Holthaus Saturday, Aug. 31 (one half hour RULES AND ORDER ADJOURNMENT OF 2002 after recess of Third Session) Penny Monzonna, - LA MARCHE NATIONALE Chairman Kansas Norma Jean Siverson - Oregon 7 P.M. - LA MARCHE BANQUET Theresa Campagna - CAROLINA BALLROOM ABC RECEIVING LINE FOR Washington 2002-2003 OFFICERS CONVENTION CENTER JUDGE OF ELECTIONS Ruth Gott - Michigan PROCESSIONAL OF GUESTS SPECIAL MARCHE COMMITTEES Terri Harter, Banquet Chairman Betty Taylor, TELLERS Chairman of Pages, Washington INVOCATION Ardith Cooper - Ohio Nora Novak, Irene Stidham, LAumonier Lorene Bartos - Nebraska Vice Chairman of Pages, Maryland Pledge of Allegiance Veronica Spence, PERSONAL PAGES TO Mary Lou Chester, La Concierge Le Marechal, California LE CHAPEAU NATIONAL Betty Lehman - Washington Ruby Walker, Le Marechal, Indiana NATIONAL ANTHEM Marilyn Axlund - Washington Phyllis Hardin, J. Pianist PAGES PERSONAL PAGE TO WELCOME Jackie Richardson - Kentucky LE SECRETAIRE-CAISSIERE Terri Harter Janet Tebe - Florida NATIONALE Nora Mastropieri - California RESPONSE Vashti E. Washington - District Donna Morice, Demi Chapeau National of Columbia PERSONAL PAGE TO RECORDER Betty Smith - California DINNER Noralee Smith - Virginia Christine Smith - Wyoming MUSICIENNE INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS Yvonne Ward - New York Phyllis J. Hardin - Washington Venita Holthaus, Le National Chapeau DISTINGUISHED GUESTS LA MARCHE RECORDER ENTERTAINMENT Irene Belanger - California Colleen Stephens, Chairman - Oregon
RECESS Elsie Hemphill, Vice Chairman - Kansas 2002 LA MARCHE NATIONALE
Willa Romano - Washington LOCAL COMMITTEES INSTALLATION OF 2002-2003 NATIONAL OFFICERS Helen Goewey - Connecticut Terri Harter, Banquet Chairman - Helene Mardu - Connecticut Washington Dorothy Brady, Installing Officer All National Chapeau Passe Louann Johnston, Mary Clippard, Installing L'Aumonier Halls & Seating Chairman - California ivy Christoffers, Installing La Concierge Marlys Exon, Publicity Chairman
2002 National Convention ESI 1 31st Annual National Convention
Sons of the American Legion
A BRIGHT FUTURE, FRIDAY, AUG. 23, 2002 8 A.M. - REGISTRATION OF A PRICELESS HERITAGE NATIONAL CONVENTION DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES all of you for the unbelievable Clifford A. accomplishments of each and every 3 P.M. - PRE-CONVENTION NEC MEETING Smith member this year. (Mass.) The extraordinary events that have CALL TO ORDER Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), National occurred since Sept. 1 1 have helped National Commander Commander us all realize why we are proud possessors of a priceless heritage. POSTING OF COLORS We must strive to strengthen the INVOCATION bond of our American Legion family. Edward Marsden (N.J.),
Brian J. We must have faith in our political National Chaplain O’Hearne military leaders' And we must and POW/MIA CEREMONY (Mass.) remain loyal to the decisions of our National national organization. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Adjutant What an honor it has been to PREAMBLE TO THE serve with National Commander CONSTITUTION OF THE SAL Ric Santos and National President ROLL CALL hat an honor and a privilege Sherry McLaughlin this year. Their Brian J. O’Hearne (Mass.),
it has been to serve as your commitment and support through- National Adjutant W National Commander for out the year certainly contributed READING OF THE MINUTES OF to the successes of The American the past year, i want to welcome all THE PREVIOUS MEETING together, of you to the 3 1 st Annual National Legion family. Working GREETINGS Convention here in Charlotte, N.C. we were able to reach our goals John Kerestan (lnd .), for veterans and children all across I hope all the delegates, alternates, National SAL Liaison family members and friends have a the globe. COMMISSION REPORTS successful and fun-filled time during The focus of Sons of The American your visit to this wonderful city. Legion is patriotism and aid to the OLD BUSINESS veteran. We realize that America My theme for the year was NEW BUSINESS "Focus on the Future." Our great was born and exists today because OF THE SAL organization has certainly kept a of the dream and efforts of all FOR THE GOOD keen focus all year. Membership is veterans who have served in defense FINAL ANNOUNCEMENTS once again at an all-time high. Our of our freedoms. To them we owe BENEDICTION donations are at record amounts. a debt of gratitude. And to those Our volunteer hours in VA medical who are serving today we also are RETIREMENT OF COLORS centers and local communities also grateful. ADJOURNMENT have reached record numbers. The It is our duty to instill our 4 P.M. - CONVENTION COMMITTEE Sons of The American Legion have appreciation in future generations MEETINGS; REGISTRATION CLOSES certainly helped bring about a and to ensure on days like today brighter future for the veterans and that those who have served in 6 P.M. - 3IST ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION children of this great nation. defense of our freedoms will not forgotten. As our forefathers did I had the opportunity to travel be OPENING CEREMONY this year from New Hampshire to in signing the Declaration of CALL TO ORDER Hawaii and as far away as Germany. Independence, and as we must do Clifford A. Smith (Mass ), enter the millennium, it 1 want to personally thank all the as we new National Commander is important for our organization detachments for the wonderful POSTING OF THE COLORS hospitality afforded me during my and our membership to realize we Essex Squadron 148, Essex, Md. future." visits. Most of all, 1 want to thank must "focus on the 2001 National Color Guard Champions
The American Legioi 31st Annual National Convention Sons of the American Legion
INVOCATION SALUTE TO THE COLORS CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS
Edward Marsden (N .] .), COMMITTEE REPORT National Chaplain Sardo Sanchez (N.M.), SATURDAY, AUG. 24, 2002 Chairman, Convention Constitution and By- POW/MIA CEREMONY 8 A.M. - DELEGATE AND ALTERNATE Laws Committee Essex Squadron 148, Essex, Md. REGISTRATION OPENS; CONVEN- TION COMMITTEES RECONVENE LEGISLATIVE AND RULES PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE COMMITTEE FINAL REPORT George Evans (Ind PREAMBLE TO THE 9 A.M. - 3 1ST ANNUAL NATIONAL ), CONSTITUTION OF THE SAL CONVENTION RECONVENES Chairman, National Legislative Commission NATIONAL MEMORIAL SERVICE CALL TO ORDER PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL Edward Marsden (N Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), HISTORY BOOK CONTEST AWARDS | ), National Chaplain National Commander Presented by Kevin M. Harrington (N.Y.), National Historian READING OF THE SALUTE TO THE COLORS CONVENTION CALL VETERANS AFFAIRS AND INVOCATION REHABILITATION COMMITTEE Brian J. O’Hearne (Mass.), Edward Marsden (N.J.), National Adjutant REPORT National Chaplain ADDRESS PRESENTATION OF VETERANS PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AFFAIRS REHABILITATION Richard Santos (Md.), & J. COMMISSION AWARDS National Commander PREAMBLE TO THE Presented by Thomas Milligan (Mich.), The American Legion CONSTITUTION OF THE SAL Chairman, National VA&R Commission Sherry McLaughlin (Iowa), ROLL CALL National President Kirby Kepler Memorial Award - Squadron Brian J. O’Hearne (Mass.), The American Legion Auxiliary National Adjutant Allen I. O'Brian Memorial Award - District
Pamela Thompson (Conn.), Earl Webster Memorial Award - Detachment Honorary National lunior President FIRST REPORT OF Charles B Rigsby Volunteer of the Year Award The American Legion Auxiliary CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Harold Thompson (Neb ) Peggy Sappenfield (Ind INTRODUCTION OF THE AMERICAN .), Chairman, Convention Credentials National Secretary LEGION YOUTH AWARD WINNERS Committee The American Legion Auxiliary RECESS INTERNAL AFFAIRS ROLL CALL COMMITTEE REPORT NOON - REGISTRATION CLOSES Brian O’Hearne (Mass.), J. Tim Osmulski (Ind.), National Adjutant Chairman, National Internal Affairs 1:30 P.M. - CONVENTION ADDRESS OF WELCOME Commission RECONVENES Morris Dale (N.C.), FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT INTRODUCTION OF 2002 NATIONAL Chairman, National Convention Committee ( SAL COLOR GUARD CHAMPIONS Tom Knox Wis. ), OPENING REMARKS Chairman, National Finance Commission Presentation of the Clyde Stillwell Award to the Color Guard Champions Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), CHILDREN AND YOUTH Presented by Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), National Commander COMMITTEE REPORT National Commander INTRODUCTION OF PAST NATIONAL COMMANDERS FOR PRESENTATION PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL CHILD WELFARE FOUNDATION CHILDREN YOUTH OF DISTINGUISHED GUEST AND AWARDS COMMITTEE AWARDS CONVENTION BADGES Presented by Joe Gladden (Md.), Presented by Patrick Shea (Ohio), Chairman, National Children and Youth Chairman, National Child Welfare ESTABLISHMENT OF Commission Foundation Committee CONVENTION COMMITTEES REGIONAL RENEWAL AWARDS PRESENTATION OF GARLAND F. FIRST REPORT OF LEGISLATIVE MURPHY AWARD AND RULES COMMITTEE NATIONAL VICE Presented by U.S. "Udie” Grant (Kan.), George Evans (Ind.), COMMANDERS REPORTS President, American Legion Child Welfare Gary Swanlund (Wyo Chairman, National Legislative Commission ), Foundation Inc. National Vice Commander (Midwest) PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL AMERICANISM COMMITTEE REPORT MEMBERSHIP AWARDS Donald Allisot Jr. (Maine), National Vice Commander (East) PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL Presented by Kent Blanchard (Ohio), AMERICANISM AWARDS Chairman, National Membership Committee Ronnie F. Grist (Ga ), Presented by Steve Sullivan (Minn.), FIRST DETACHMENT IN REGION National Vice Commander (South) Chairman, National Americanism TO 100-PERCENT AWARDS Commission Jon Tait (Utah), Hartline Award National Vice Commander (West) MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT Largest Squadron Award Earl Ruttkofsky (Mich.), PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL Regional Renewal Awards National Vice Commander (Central) MEMBERSHIP AWARDS
2002 National Convention mi Presented by Kent Blanchard (Ohio), 12:30 P.M. - CONVENTION NATIONAL VICE COMMANDERS Chairman, National Membership Committee RECONVENES Donald Allisot Jr. (Maine), East F. (Ga. South Ronnie Grist ) , Houghton Awards CALL TO ORDER Earl Ruttkofsky (Mich.), Central Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), Gary Swanlund (Wyo.), Midwest Blue Brigade Awards National Commander Ion Tait (Utah), West PRESENTATION OF COMMUNITY SALUTE THE COLORS NATIONAL ADJUTANT SERVICE SCRAPBOOK AWARD TO Brian J. O’Hearne (Mass.) Presented by )oe Monti (Mo.), INSTALLATION OF NEWLY Chairman, National Community Service ELECTED OFFICERS NATIONAL ASSISTANT ADJUTANTS Committee Harold E. Thompson Jr. (Neb.) BENEDICTION Ed Shuebrooks (Fla INTRODUCTION OF TEAM SAL ) Edward Marsden (N I ), Clifford E. Hall (Mass.) PRESENTATION OF NATIONAL National Chaplain David Ridenour (Ind.) Robert Avery (N Y COMMANDER’S CITATIONS RETIREMENT OF COLORS J. ) A. Smith (Mass Clifford ), New National SAL Color Guard Champion NATIONAL CHAPLAIN National Commander Edward Marsden (N.|.) FINAL ADJOURNMENT ADDRESS NATIONAL HISTORIAN Clifford A. Smith (Mass ), (Mich.), Kevin Harrington (N Y Robert W. Spanogle National Commander M. ) National Adjutant NATIONAL JUDGE ADVOCATE The American Legion 2 P.M. - NATIONAL EXECUTIVE Paviglianti (N Y COMMITTEE POST-CONVENTION Joseph ) RECESS MEETING (OR WITHIN 30 MINUTES NATIONAL SERGEANT-AT-ARMS OF ADJOURNMENT OF CONVENTION) Robert Fifield (Mass.) 4 P.M. - AREA CAUCUSES (OR RECESS) IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING CALL TO ORDER NATIONAL ASST. SERGEANT-AT-ARMS Newly Elected National Commander Harry M. Means (Ky.) SUNDAY, AUG. 25, 2002 Craig Dukes (N.C.) SALUTE TO THE COLORS Tom Getz (Ohio) 8:30 A.M. - CONVENTION INVOCATION Joe Ed Neal (Texas) RECONVENES Walter A. Robison (Md.) Newly Elected National Chaplain NATIONAL COMMANDER’S AIDE CALL TO ORDER POW/MIA CEREMONY I. Trombley (Vt Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), Harold ) Commander National PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE PAST NATIONAL COMMANDERS SALUTE TO THE COLORS PREAMBLE TO THE 1968 Michael Seaton (Calif.) CONSTITUTION OF THE SAL 1969 Robert McBride (Ohio) INVOCATION 1970 J.R. Stillwell (111.) 1971 Stillwell (111 Edward Marsden (N .).), ROLL CALL J.R. ) National Chaplain 1972 John Smolinsky (Mass.) INSTALLATION OF NATIONAL 1973 Robert Faust (Calif.) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEMAN 1974 James Hartman (Md.) 1975 Gregory Reis (111.) ROLL CALL CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENTS 1976 Grant Jamieson (Mich.)
Brian ). O’Hearne (Mass.), AND 1977 Charles Gannon (Md.) National Adjutant REMARKS BY COMMISSION 1978 John M. Sherrard (Calif.) COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN 1979 Richard Kepler (Fla.) FINAL REPORT OF THE Wilson (deceased) UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1980 Ernest (N.J.) NATIONAL COMMANDER 1981 Donald Willson (Pa.) (deceased) Clifford A. Smith (Mass.), NEW BUSINESS 1982 David P. Stephens (lnd.) National Commander 1983 Christopher R. Cerullo (N Y.) GOOD OF THE SAL 1984 Fred Hartline (Ohio) FINAL REPORT OF THE FOR THE 1985 Woodrow L. Mudge (Colo.) CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE FINAL ANNOUNCEMENTS 1986 Royce Doucet (La.) SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS 1987 Douglas Bible (Minn.) BENEDICTION 1988 Richard L. League (Md.) NOMINATIONS OF SAL Newly Elected National Chaplain 1989 David Faust (Wis.) R. Belles (Va NATIONAL OFFICERS SALUTE TO THE COLORS 1990 Charles ) 1991 Robert A. Worrel (Ind.) ELECTION OF OFFICERS: ADJOURNMENT 1992 Eugene L. Sacco (Ore.) 1993 Charles Rigsby (Mich.) (deceased) National Commander Newly Elected National Commander 1994 Roland D. Matteson (Ariz ) National Vice Commanders (5) 1995 Joseph Mayne (Minn.) 4 P.M. « NATIONAL CONVENTION 1996 John T. Dietz (Ky.) National Chaplain PARADE 1997 Jack E. Jordan (Texas) 1998 William E. Matoska (Md.) 10:30 A.M. . RECESS FOR JOINT 2002 NATIONAL OFFICERS
Byron Robichaux (La ) MEMORIAL SERVICE 1999 J. NATIONAL COMMANDER 2000 Richard L. Cook (Okla.) (Mass.) 2001 Kevin N. Winkelmann (Texas) 1 1 A.M. - JOINT MEMORIAL SERVICE Clifford A. Smith
The American Legion
2002 Annual Report
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION 65 Finance Commission
49 National Adjutant’s Report 65 Foreign Relations Commission 50 National Officers 66 Internal Affairs 51 National Executive Commission Committee 66 Trophies, Awards and 52 Department Ceremonials Service Officers Covers period ending 1 2002 June , 67 Resolutions Assignment 54 Youth Champions 67 Constitution and Bylaws The following pages of this 56 Outstanding Military official program of the 84th Academy Students 67 Membership and Post Annual National Convention of Activities Committee The American Legion contain a COMMISSION & 71 The American Legion condensed annual report for the COMMITTEE REPORTS Insurance Committee year 2001-02.
Believing that delegates to the 58 Americanism Commission 72 The American Legion National Convention are entitled Magazine to receive a concise statement of 59 Counter-Subversive Activities Committee 72 Information Technology the major activities of The American Legion for the past year, 59 Committee on Education 73 National Legislative ending with this National Commission
Convention, your National 59 Administrative Services 75 National Security Headquarters provides this report Commission as a part of the official program, 59 Commission on Children & Youth in this manner, we are assured 76 Public Relations that every delegate and everyone Commission 60 Convention Commission who registers for the Convention 77 Veterans Affairs and will receive the condensed Annual 61 Distinguished Guest Rehabilitation Commission Report. Committee A full, detailed report has been submitted to the Congress of the 61 American Legion Child FINANCIAL REPORTS Welfare Foundation, Inc. United States, in accordance with the Legion’s congressionally 79 Independent 63 Economic Commission Accountants’ Report granted charter and provisions of Public 77th Congress, Law 249, 64 Condensed Report on 88 American Legion approved Sept. 18, 1941. Emblem Sales Endowment Fund
M The American Legion National Adjutant’s Report
In our nation's time of need, The American Legion sets an example in service
n Sept. 1 country project, takes into 1 , our was making sure the study stunned by cowardly terrorist account the care of our nation's veterans, O attacks against innocent Americans not just the costs behind it, when recom- in New York City, at the Pentagon and in mendations to consolidate or downsize the air above Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 facilities are made. men and women lost their lives. Shock and We lobby for better defense budgets - sorrow swept through the nation. not only the quality of the training and But through the loss rose a spirit of equipment for our armed forces, but patriotism many of us did not expect. also for the quality of life given to those
Suddenly, U.S. flags lined the streets of serving in it. neighborhoods across the country. Radio There’s so much more. The Legion stations began playing "The Star-Spangled family contributed $2.7 million to Banner" again. Attacks meant to cripple Children's Miracle Network-affiliated
America only made it stronger. hospitals this past year. The American
And there, every step of the way, was Legion Child Welfare Foundation, in its The American Legion. 47th year, awarded $547,375 to 20 non-
National Commander Richard ). "Ric" profit, youth-oriented organizations for Santos was on Capitol Hill the morning 2002. The Legion's National Emergency
of Sept. 1 1 preparing to testify before Fund has dispersed more than $46,000 , members of Congress. His appearance was this year alone. canceled because of the attacks, but that Without your work, medical centers Robert W. Spanogle didn't stop the Legion from becoming would have been without the 95,000 pints National Adjutant involved in the healing process. of blood you donated. Without you, more Our Family Support Network immediate- than 73,000 Boy Scouts would have gone ly gave relief to the families of soldiers 800,000 flags since Sept. 1 1 . And with without sponsorships. Without you, 25,000 called up to active duty. The National patriotism's rebirth has come an increased young men couldn't have taken part in our Commander called on Legionnaires, as support for the rights of our flag. Boys State program. veterans who had seen the horrors of war, Polls conducted by the Legion and the "Still Serving America" isn't just a catch- Citizens Flag Alliance the majority of i to be the pillars of their communities. show phrase for the 2.7 million members of this
And out of all this came the return of Americans believe Old Glory is a symbol organization. It's how we carry out our the Blue Star Service Banner program. First worthy of special protection. Legionnaires duties as Legionnaires. created in 1917, the banner was hung on in Vermont worked years and were finally the windows of families with loved ones able to make their state the 50th to serving in the armed forces during World support a constitutional amendment
[Wars I and II. protecting the flag from physical
A common sight back then, it has desecration. We continue to lobby become a common sight today. In the Congress to pass the amendment; the past year, the Legion has shipped more resolution has moved through the House Robert W. Spanogle than 68,000 varieties of Blue Star Service but awaits action in the Senate. National Adjutant Banners to families across the country. Fighting for Old Glory and bringing back Thanks to individual posts working the Blue Star Service Banner are just part diligently to distribute the banners, they've of what the Legion has accomplished in become fixtures in communities through- the past year. out America. Our organization continues to lobby for Along with the Blue Star Service Banner, the rights of veterans and servicemembers
Old Glory is flying prominently once again. alike. We've closely monitored the The Legion has shipped approximately Department of Veterans Affairs' CARES
2002 National Convention National Officers
he American Legion continues its commitment to serving the nation's veterans, their families and T all children. This commitment has served us well
since 1919 when the veterans of World War I returned to American soil and formed what would become the world’s largest veterans organization. As the Legion convenes in Charlotte, delegates gather to conduct the vital business of this great organization. From this convention will come policies that will direct the volunteer members as they work to make their communities - and our nation - better in the coming year.
The American Legion accomplishes its goals primarily at the grass-roots level, but with direction from the National Headquarters in Indianapolis and a major national office in Washington, D.C.
The Legion's chief executive officer is the National Commander, elected by delegates to the National RICHARD J. SANTOS RORERT W. SPANOGLE Convention for a one-year term. The five National Vice National Commander National Adjutant Commanders are also chosen by the National (Maryland) (Michigan) Convention.
Richard |. Santos is the 2001-2002 National Commander of The American Legion. The major accomplishments of the Legion during his term are represented in the following pages of this program and condensed annual report.
Robert W. Spanogle, National Adjutant, is the chief JOSEPH MILLER administrative officer of The American Legion. He, Commander’s Aide along with the National ludge Advocate, National (Maryland) Treasurer, National Chaplain, National Historian and National Sergeant-at-Arms, comprise the appointed National Officers of The American Legion.
RESSELL H. HA1VSETER CHARLES R. JOHN TERRY D. LEWIS JAMES F.MARESCHAL DALE R. SALMEIV National Vice Commander National Vice Commander National Vice Commander National Vice Commander National Vice Commander (Wisconsin) (Oklahoma) (Pennsylvania) (Missouri) (Nevada)
RAYMOND P. JACQIEZ DR. DAVID F. RESSELL WALTER L. DAVIS P.B. ONDERDONK JR. GEORGE BESKIRK JR. National Sergeant-at-Arms National Chaplain National Historian National ludge Advocate National Treasurer (Maryland) (Virginia) (Michigan) (Maryland) (Indiana)
\m The American Legion National || Executive Committee
Between National Conventions, the administrative (plus alternate) elected by each department. Past National
I authority of The American Legion is exercised by the Commanders are life members of the NEC but do not vote. National Executive Committee, composed of the National The NEC appoints the National Adjutant, Treasurer, Judge ! Commander, the five National Vice Commanders, National Advocate, Chaplain, Historian and Sergeant-at-Arms. The Chaplain and one National Executive Committeeman NEC also has complete control over the annual budget. |
National Executive Committeemen Past National
Alabama Ulas "Ray" White Montana loyce D. Babcock Commanders
Alaska loseph T. Craig Nebraska Robert H Zersen
Arizona Marco A. "Tony" Valenzuela Nevada Ernest E. McAvan (Alt.) J. Addington Wagner (Michigan)
Arkansas Claude B. Carpenter New Hampshire George V. West Preston J. Moore (Oklahoma)
California Thomas D. Hetherington New Jersey Franklin R. Sickle (r. Hon. Daniel F. Foley (Minnesota)
Colorado loseph E. Ross New Mexico Taurino ). Trevino William E. Galbraith (Nebraska)
• Connecticut Richard W. Anderson New York T.S. Coleman John H. Geiger (Illinois)
Delaware Thomas L. Burns North Carolina lerry L. Hedrick Joe L. Matthews (Texas)
District of Columbia . Clayton S. Dann North Dakota . Aaron "Moody" Dalke William J. Rogers (Maine)
Florida Robert J. Proctor Ohio lerrold W. Wilson Sr. John M. “Jack" Carey (Michigan)
France Merwyn M. "Mike" Beavers Oklahoma Donald H. Schulenberg Frank I. Hamilton (Indiana)
Georgia Ray Hendrix Oregon T. Les Galloway Michael J. Kogutek (New York)
Hawaii LeRoy P. Pulawa Pennsylvania Ronald F. Conley Keith A. Kreul (Wisconsin)
Idaho Dee Collins Philippines Ernesto P. Golez Clarence M. Bacon (Maryland)
Illinois Lloyd R. Henderson Puerto Rico Isidoro Cerpa Alicea )r. Judge James P. Dean (Mississippi)
Indiana Richard R. Quattrin Rhode Island Richard E. Verrier Sr. John P. "Jake” Comer (Massachusetts)
Iowa David K Rehbein South Carolina , Rennie M. Singletary )r. Hon. H. F. "Sparky” Gierke (North Dakota)
Kansas U. S. "Udie" Grant South Dakota Paul A. Evenson Miles S. Epling (West Virginia)
1 Kentucky Randall Coffman Tennessee lames E. Markham Robert S. Turner (Georgia)
Louisiana Russell J. Henry Texas Delbert D. Fuhrman Dominic D. DiFrancesco (Pennsylvania)
Maine Robert A. Owen Utah William E. Christoffersen Bruce Thiesen (California)
Maryland . . . . Robert M. lohnson Vermont Clark C. "Sparky" Ferris William M. Detweiler (Louisiana)
. Massachusetts . lames L. Flattes Sr. Virginia George T. Blume Daniel A. Ludwig (Minnesota)
Mexico John E Hayes Washington Wayne Sharp Joseph J. Frank (Missouri)
Michigan ...... Randy ). Browne West Virginia William W. Kile Anthony G. Jordan (Maine)
Minnesota Robert Skallerud Wisconsin David A. Korth Harold L. "Butch” Miller (Virginia)
Mississippi Charles E. Langley Wyoming Todd E. White Hon. Alan G. Lance Sr. (Idaho)
Missouri Sam Yancey Ray G. Smith (North Carolina)
2002 National Convention m Richard Anderson Nick D. Bacon Jim Benson Iowa Arizona Idaho
COMMANDER'S SALUTE TO
Kent E. Davis Stephen N. Dennison James Deremo Department New Hampshire Pennsylvania North Dakota Service Officers
Throughout my travels as National Commander, I have been awestruck by the professionalism, talent, and care exhibited by our Department Service Officers and their staffs.
Because of them, no deserving veteran is alone in the battle John W. Hickey Indiana Florida Utah for timely benefits or medical care.
Any veteran who has gone through the claims process knows how daunting it is to wade through the paperwork and bureaucracy. American Legion DSOs are properly trained experts at transiting cloudy and foggy issues and helping veterans correctly and successfully file their claims. The DSOs’ experience reduces the response time from VA and other agencies toward fulfilling government’s promises Steve Meyer to veterans. Such intervention helps veterans and reduces Minnesota the claims backlog.
The Department Service Officers, indeed, "reach out in all directions” to assist our nation’s veterans. And, they do it, day in, day out and week in, week out. Too often, this serv- ice goes unrecognized. Their diligence is often under- appreciated. Therefore, I dedicate these pages of The 84th National Convention program to our DSOs and their great contributions. They fulfill the deepest missions of The Edward Reyes American Legion. They do this one veteran at a time. Texas
With my deepest admiration, I thank them.
Lawrence Walker Wm. K. (Bob) Wallace Oklahoma Washington Louisiana : - F HOtSSk
Leon F. Bertram Walter Bledsoe Arthur W. Brest Jr. A. Burger Thomas Cook Alaska Washington, D.C. Arizona Nebraska Georgia
Anthony N. Druzbik Charles Fulkerson Joseph W. Griego Paul Gordon Harry New York Nevada New Mexico Massachusetts Virginia
Gary Jones John A. Katz John W. Kavanaugh John Mann Missouri Pennsylvania New York Mexico
Juan Moreno John T. Nelson Robert A. Owen Jerry Owens Texas Michigan Maine France & Germany
Marvin Siegfried Alabama Oregon Hawaii
PHOTOS UNAVAILABLE:
James T. Cavanaugh, Kentucky; John F. Clagett, Ohio; Paul W. Kline,
Pennsylvania; Jesus C. Wlaliby, Philippines; Angel Noriega, Puerto Rico;
Walter Pytka, Rhode island; Jimmie Ruff, South Carolina;
Frederick C. Smith, Pennsylvania
- - • jgtepfcpT ',v,
Mississippi || Youth Champions Boys Nation President Bradley A. Johnson he American Legion sponsors a radley A. Johnson of Cary, N.C., was number of programs that foster elected President of Boys Nation for T B 2002 in a ceremony at Marymount growth and development of University in Arlington, Va., on July 23.
The 17-year-old is an incoming senior at America’s young people. Thousands of W.G. Enloe High School. The son of Robert and Geraldine Johnson, Bradley was a participant students compete in these programs in the Governor's School, and served as Chairman of the County Party, every year. The five listed here repre- Secretary of State and Director of Personnel at Boys State. He has won awards in numerous extemporaneous speech contests. sent some of the brightest and most Bradley has served as chaplain for his YMCA Leaders Club and presi- dent of his high school's debate team and its art club. He has also been talented young people in America. a volunteer at the Food Bank of North Carolina and served as a develop-
ment-design intern. He is also a member of his church's youth group.
Oratorical Champion Eagle Scout of the Year Candice April Neal Paul Corsello
ith a speech titled "The Constitution.- ighteen-year-old Paul Corsello of
A Fantastic Journey," Candice April Neal Pittsford, N.Y., is the 2002 American w:of Eva, Ala., won the 65th Annual E Legion Eagle Scout of the Year. Paul, a American Legion National High School senior at Pittsford Mendon High School and
Oratorical Championship at Indianapolis in April a member of Boy Scout Troop 129, received She received an $18,000 college scholarship a $10,000 college scholarship with the award.
Sponsored by Morgan County Post 15, Decatur, Ala., Candice spoke The award recognizes Paul's practical citizenship at school, in
about the drafting of the Constitution and its sacredness, as well as Scouting and at his church, St. Catherine of Siena. For his Eagle Scout about continuing the work of America’s founding fathers. Candice project, Paul organized and directed 20 Scouts in a clean-up effort encouraged Americans to stay informed about current events. When that around Erie Canal Lock 62. He went on to create and publish a
happens, participation follows, she said. During her weekend in pamphlet on the historic lock.
Indianapolis, Candice said she has found that patriotism isn't dead Paul, an Eagle Scout since 1999, is an honors student. He plans to among her generation study biologic anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania.
Candice plans to study advertising in college.
2001 American Legion 2001 Junior Shooting
Baseball Player of the Year Sports Champion Jewel "Jay" Mead Threet III Matthew Rawlings
ewel "lay" Mead Threet ill of Adrian, Mich., atthew Rawlings of Wharton, Texas,
is the George W. Rulon American Legion claimed the National Champion I Baseball Player of the Year. He received a M Precision award at the 1 1th annual plaque, $4,000 in scholarship money and an American Legion National Junior Air Rifle
invitation to Cooperstown, N.Y., to attend the 2002 Baseball Hall of championships at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Fame induction ceremonies. Colo. A graduate of Adrian High School with a 4.02 grade point average, Sponsored by Wharton, Texas, Legion Post 87, Matthew shot a perfect
Jay is an engineering major at Purdue University. He played for Post 275 score of 800 in the Precision Prone competition and set a new record of
in Adrian, Mich., for three seasons, in high school, he lettered for three 781 out of a possible 800 in the Precision Standing competition. A score
years in basketball and was a regional medalist on the golf team. of 2,47 1 .8 earned him the overall Precision championship and put him lay has worked as a volunteer for the American Red Cross, the atop the all-time scoring list in the Precision category. His performance Salvation Army and his church youth group. In addition, he volunteered also set the new Grand Aggregate record. as a referee in two local youth basketball leagues.
The American Legion IT'S NOW LEGAL One-Stop Shopping TO DISHONOR OUR FLAG! for a Strategic Burning, defecating on, ripping apart or trampling on the symbol of the essence ofAmerica is not Benefits Solution speech. It's hateful, reprehensible conduct, pure ana simple. TIP THE Great-West offers one-stop superior service and support, SCALES OF JUSTICE shopping for a full range of our strategic benefit approach IN FAVOR OF contemporary health care, life to plan design helps employers YOUR RIGHT insurance, 401 (k) and Section offer attractive benefits while TO PROTECT 125 benefits. Combined with controlling costs. OLD GLORY.
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9229 Delegates Row • Suite 260 • Indianapolis, IN • 46240 • 1-800-756-5530 The Supreme Court in 1989 reversed five previous Supreme Court rulings, making desecration
j of the Flag of the United States legal as " speech" under the First Amendment. A proposed consti- tutional amendment that would empower Congress to restore KING LOUIE THANKS YOU FOR YOUR PATRONAGE flag-protection laws that were on the books for more than 100 years prior to 1989 was introduced in the 107th Congress, and passed the House of Representatives. The Senate leadership has not yet scheduled it for a hearing or a vote. It's easy for you to make your voice heard in Washington. Send a free e-mail to your senators through the Citizens Flag Alliance internet Website today. Tell your senators and representatives how you want them to vote; how you feel about your flag. www.cfa-inc.org 1-800-424-FLAG WEAR
KING LOUIE King Louie International • Kansas City, MO 888 • - ( ) 4-LEGION ( 888) 453 44^
2002 National Convention m\ II 2002 Outstanding Military Academy Students
Army Air Force
Paul G. Paul J. Peterson Calhoun
Cadet Paul G. Peterson Cadet 1st Class Paul ). of Westminster, Md., Calhoun of Columbus, received the 2002 Ohio, was named Top American Legion Award Academic Performer for
for highest academic standing in chemistry during a May 31 the Class of 2002. Sponsored by The American Legion in honor
awards convocation at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, of retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Robert F. McDermott, the award
N.Y. National Vice Commander lames F. Mareschal of Missouri honors the cadet who achieves the highest academic standing.
presented the award. Paul, who majored in chemistry and life National Vice Commander Charles R. lohn of Oklahoma, pre- sciences, plans to attend Georgetown Medical School in sented the award during a May 27 awards ceremony at the
Washington, D.C., and is enlisted in the Army Reserves. U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. Paul, an engineering sciences major, plans to attend graduate school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Navy Coast Guard Timothy E. Jason W. Steigelman Haag
U.S. Naval Academy Cadet 1st Class lason Midshipman 1st Class W. Haag of Elmira, Ore., Timothy E. Steigelman of received The American College Park, Md., Legion Award for high received The American Legion Award for highest overall academic achievement in athletics. National Vice Commander Terry D. standing during a May 23 awards ceremony. National Vice Lewis of Pennsylvania presented the award during a May 21 Commander Russell H. Hanseter of Wisconsin presented the awards ceremony at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New award. Timothy majored in political science with an emphasis in London, Conn. Jason, who majored in marine science, has international relations. He plans to attend Surface Warfare been assigned to the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Taftoma.
Officers School Command in Newport, R.l.
Merchant Marine Devin R. Blowes
Midshipman Devin R. Blowes of Hampton Bays, N.Y., received The American Legion Award during a ]une 14 awards convocation at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The award
is given annually to the cadet who has contributed the most to the success of the Regimental Color Guard. National Vice Commander Dale Salmen of Nevada presented the award. Mr. and Mrs. James Blowes are pictured with their son. Devin, a marine engineering major, plans to join the U.S. Marine Corps.
The American Legion I You deserve a round of applause!
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2002 National Convention ESI || The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
AMERICANISM Few can dispute the fact that our Service to God and Country is through COMMISSION civilization is the envy of the whole Basic Americanism expressed
world. It is our heritage, but it also is our The American Legion's "Service to God and
It is challenge. It is our responsibility and our Country" program. designed to help spiritual of America it and to guard it. The prevent the decay Joseph E. duty to improve and to charge our citizens with a spirit of Caouette Jr. many thousands of volunteers throughout (N.H.) The American Legion freely accept these positive Americanism characterized by a aware- Chairman challenges, responsibilities and duties by respect for law and authority and an ness of our human rights and freedoms. Marty Justis donating much time and money to conduct The first part of this dual objective is (Md.) the various programs of the National service to God through regular public Director Americanism Commission. worship, daily family prayer and the Effective Americanism programs thrive religious education of children. The second at the post level in activities that are part is to inculcate a sense of individual community-oriented. These local obligation to the community, state and he mission of the Americanism Americanism programs are the lifeblood of
is and co- nation by preparing young Americans to Commission to supervise The American Legion, helping to maintain T ordinate national committee activity; take up "tomorrow" responsibilities. a large membership base while fostering promote understanding and appreciation Coordination of this program is generally a beneficial public awareness in their of American government and activity in the responsibility of the post chaplain. respective communities. the American way of life through youth The founders of The American Legion activities, community service, instruction Flag Education had a vision of how its members could of prospective citizens and immigrants, The American Legion is recognized as impact, in a positive way, the moral fabric education and educational facilities; and one of the country’s foremost sources of of communities across this country. They to combat subversive activities. flag education and etiquette information. chartered American Legion posts to be The Americanism Commission is The National Americanism Commission the hub of those efforts. They established bound in service to America. As such, answers hundreds of inquiries on proper Americanism programs that, even today, the programs of Americanism strive to; flag display and etiquette each year. stand as testimony to the Legion's contri- • Promote understanding of the Flag education has always been a major bution to our American heritage. Many of principles of democratic government, program of the National Americanism these contributions are revealed in a quiet develop interest in governmental Commission. Posts throughout the nation and inconspicuous growth of young people problems and bring more citizens donate numerous flags and distribute who, thanks to The American Legion, gain to think seriously of the duties volumes of flag literature to schools and a greater respect for each other and for of citizenship; groups as a community service. • Encourage education by promoting their country and its flag. Publications such as "Know Your of schools and American Legion, like the country scholarship, support Today’s America," "Let's Be Right on Flag Etiquette" continuing education; support and defend, it is committed to and educational comic books are all • inform Americans about the proper faces many new challenges. To successfully available from National Emblem Sales. flag etiquette and promote respect for meet those challenges will take a renewed our national symbol; commitment to a 100-percent Americanism Youth Activities • Work for the youth of America by as advocated by the Legion founders. The youth participatory programs of sponsoring a wide variety of citizenship The Americanism Commission is charged The American Legion are designed to training programs; with the supervision and coordination of provide stimulating educational and • Combat subversion and all un-American two national standing committees; the recreational opportunities for the nation's groups and activities that work toward National Committee on Education and the young people. These programs include the downfall of democracy in America; Counter-Subversive Activities Committee. American Legion Baseball, Boy Scouts, • Assist legal aliens in adapting to the Within the Americanism Commission, American Legion Boys State and Boys American way of life through education three subcommittees (Baseball and Nation, the [unior Shooting Sports programs and to restrict immigration to Recreation, Youth Activities, and the Program and the National High School ensure this assimilation may be made Naturalization Sub- Oratorical Contest. Many other youth- smoothly; and Immigration and direction of oriented Americanism programs are • Provide worthy, practical service to our committees) help shape the sponsored and conducted at the local communities in order to make them the various programs conducted by the state levels. better places to live. commission. Those programs include: and
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
COUNTER-SUBVERSIVE ADMINISTRATIVE should have a home, health, education, ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE SERVICES character and opportunity." Its foundation is based on three principles:
F. Rodney Loper (Pa.) Daniel S. Wheeler (Va.) 1 . Strengthening the family unit.
Chairman Executive Director 2. Extending support to sound organizations that provide services
or the past 50 years, the Counter- hree major responsibilities are to children and youth.
Subversive Activities Committee has assigned to the Executive Director, 3. Maintaining a well-rounded program that meets the needs of today's F kept a watchful eye on activities of T whose office is located at the individuals and groups who threaten our National Headquarters, Indianapolis: young people. form of government. Findings are reported • During temporary absences of the Toward the accomplishment of these in the monthly publication, Firing Line. National Adjutant from The American goals, the commission continually
Single subscriptions are available for Legion National Headquarters, he acts rededicates itself to helping all young people realize their full potential. $7 annually. Bulk subscriptions, in which for him. He additionally performs such Our landmark program, Temporary at least 20 copies are mailed to a single duties as may be assigned to him by Financial Assistance, has completed 77 address, are available for $1 .50 each. the National Adjutant to assist in years of service to the children of veterans. Send check or money order to.- meeting the responsibilities of Last year, the commission granted The American Legion Firing Line that office. $380,427 to veterans' families and touched PO. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. • He is in charge of the Administrative the lives of 875 children. These precious Services Division, which has the follow- dollars afforded 413 families food, clothing ing divisions under that responsibility: and shelter, thus preserving the integrity of NATIONAL COMMITTEE Administrative Communications, the family home. ON EDUCATION Human Resources, Maintenance, Since our beginning, the Legion has Library and the E. A. Blackmore worked to increase the quality of life for Dr. Charles L. Vawter Jr. (Ariz.) Museum. Chairman all young people. Our partnership with • He serves on the Personnel Committee, Children's Miracle Network underscores Publications Board, HPC Board of this mission. Last year, the Legion family he National Committee on Education Directors and IT Committee. contributed $2.6 million to benefit was organized by The American The Administrative Services Division also local children's hospitals throughout T Legion to maintain a strong positive provides all secretarial assistance to the the country. influence on education in America. The executive officers of The American Legion. Unveiled at our national convention committee believes that where there are All division directors resident at the and continuing through July 2004, the good schools, there also are good citizens, National Headquarters report to the Legion's National Walkathon & World War and that education is the first requisite for Executive Director. II Memorial Campaign will take shape good citizenship. incrementally through grassroots efforts, The committee supervises the corporate support, television broadcasts administration and distribution of COMMISSION ON and special events. This campaign will Samsung American Legion Scholarships CHILDREN & YOUTH benefit children, reinforce the importance and the publishing of the highly successful and worth of military service, and raise scholarship and financial aid publication funds for local children’s hospitals. "Need A Lift?" The National Committee Elmer Elements of this initiative are rooted in on Education membership also includes Fuhrhop two major programs: media events and members of The American Legion Auxiliary. (Ohio) i fund-raising projects. Chairman PL Scheduled media events will dramatically Summary Marty Justis affect the public's awareness of the legacy This year-end report reflects only a I*pr (Md.) given by all veterans and the military small part of the work carried out by The Director complex in general. These include nationally American Legion's National Americanism televised two-hour patriotic music specials,
Commission. Much more time, effort and a short-subject video contest for high- money are expended by posts, districts and school students, a national high-school departments as they accept the challenges o the National Commission on essay contest for middle-school students, of sponsoring and conducting Americanism Children & Youth, children are our and national art and drawing contests for activities that feature wide-ranging T most precious natural resource. elementary-school children. community service, youth development The "Whole Child" plan, adopted in 1925, Media events will create an atmosphere and educational advancement. provides that "the child of every veteran from which The American Legion and
2002 National Convention mi .
Children's Miracle Network, in conjunction the American Legion and the Eight and forces on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2001. with our corporate partners, can launch Forty partners for their accomplishments Martha Corriher of the Department of fund-raising projects to benefit local on behalf of our country's youth. Their North Carolina sang the National Anthem children's hospitals. These include: efforts in the area of child welfare are living to open the convention.
• Paper flags A uniquely designed testaments to the ability of free men and One of the many highlights for the 2001 paper American flag, provided for a women to adapt themselves to evolving convention was the National Commander's
$1 donation, can be displayed in post needs, while maintaining high principles Banquet for Distinguished Guests in the
homes. This turnkey project offers and taking on increased responsibilities Grand Ballroom of the Henry B. Gonzalez members a meaningful opportunity under those principles. Convention Center. Larry Gatlin provided
to become involved in a cause that With your fullest support, our organiza- entertainment to a record crowd of
impacts their community, involving tion will continue to lead the way in our Legionnaires and guests.
them in a campaign to help pursuit of "a square deal for every child." children's hospitals. CONVENTION COMMISSION • Walkathons During the next two years, ACTIVITIES the Legion will conduct individual NATIONAL CONVENTION The National Convention Commission walkathons in communities throughout COMMISSION conducted three regular meetings during
this nation. In 2004, our National the year. Discussions continue regarding
Walkathon will weave through all the revisions of our request for proposal
participating states arriving in Jeffrey L. sent to cities interested in hosting the Washington, D.C., fora final walk to Olson national convention. This process is
the World War II memorial one day (Minn.) extremely important, as it provides an
prior to the dedication services. Chairman equal opportunity for all cities to be
We continue to strive for legislation that Richard D. judged the same way during the initial would establish National Family Week as Holmes review and site visit process. It is the an annual observance and emphasize, (Ind.) commission's desire to continue to by education through post activity, the Director attract new cities desirous of hosting our importance of the family unit as the convention. This provides our blue-cap cornerstone of our society. Legionnaires and their families with a
"Make Halloween a Safe and Fun Night" he 83rd Annual National Convention varied and enjoyable convention that can continues to be our most popular program. of The American Legion took place in be shared by all on an annual basis. Each year, the Legion family distributes T San Antonio Aug. 24-30, 2001 New color guard rules approved by the between 200,000 and 800,000 brochures National Commander Ray G. Smith of the National Convention Commission for the to young people throughout this country. Department of North Carolina called the 2000 convention were refined and
To our knowledge, the Legion is the only opening session to order at 9 a.m. Tuesday, improved for the 2001 convention in
organization that emphasizes this event Aug. 28. Commander Smith welcomed the San Antonio. Also included, for the first
on a national level. Legionnaires to San Antonio and thanked time, was a "post burial detail ceremony."
It could well be said that we have a lot them for "still serving America." San Additional color-guard classes and to offer, but please remember, these are Antonio Mayor Pro Tern Julian Castro, ceremonies will be added at future
simply activities the commission has taken Texas Department Commander lames C. national conventions.
on in order to provide you with direct Young and Texas National Convention The National Convention Commission support. You might want to get involved Corporation President John Morris also rewrote and submitted for approval with an activity we do not directly support welcomed Legionnaires to the national the Articles of Agreement between the
with published materials. If this is the convention. Sens. Phil Gramm and Kay host convention corporation and the
case, please contact us, and we will do Bailey Hutchinson, along with Reps. Lamar national organization of The American
our best to put you in contact with the S. Smith, Ciro D. Rodriguez, Christopher H. Legion for the conduct of the national
organization that can best support you Smith and Charlie Gonzalez, addressed convention. Included in this revision were
with what you need. Remember that it is convention attendees. Department of updated Convention Corporation Policy
not imperative to involve yourself with as Veterans Affairs Secretary Anthony |. and Procedures, which are provided to
many of these programs as you can. All we Principi and Gen. Henry H. Shelton, each corporation hosting the national
ask is that you take at least one Children chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also convention. This revision will allow both
& Youth activity and make it yours. It is addressed the convention. The Hon. organizations to more efficiently and better to do one thing well than to do George W. Bush, President of the United effectively conduct the business of the many things poorly. States of America, addressed a standing- national convention and those responsi-
The commission is proud of the room-only audience of The American bilities for each contained therein. Legionnaires, Auxiliary members, Sons of Legion family and members of our armed Beginning with the 1999 national
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
convention and continued at the 2001 of activities of all people invited to attend Children’s Performance Workshops Inc. convention, each attendee had to have the the national convention as distinguished of Virginia Beach, Va., was awarded $20,000
proper identification badge/credentials to guests. The committee arranges each for its project titled "In Service Training
enter all of the venues of The American guest's arrival and departure at the Video: Go Ahead and Tell." j
I Legion national convention. On-site national convention. Each distinguished
I registration tables were available for those guest is assisted with credentials, agendas Erikson Institute for Child Development
who needed to register at the site of the and other convention details. of Chicago was awarded $20,000 for its convention. This process proved to be project titled "Help for Children Coping
successful and will continue at all future with Violence." national conventions. Additionally, the AMERICAN LEGION
convention office was directed to procure a CHILD WELFARE Fetal Drug and Alcohol Program Wake FOUNDATION INC. new paper within plastic badge for the Forest University of Winston-Salem, N.C ,
national convention. This badge proposal was awarded $27,000 for its project titled U.S. "Udie" Grant (Kan.) was made available for the first time at the "Family-Friendly Information on Alcohol- | President 2001 convention. Traditional badges will Related Birth Defects."
| be available for purchase from our Emblem William A. Pease (Ind.) Sales division during and after the International Foundation for Functional Executive Secretary convention. Gastrointestinal Disorders of North The National Convention Commission Andover, Mass., was awarded $41 ,300 for n 1954, The American Legion endorsed reviewed bids for the 2007 convention its project titled "Digestive Health in the separate incorporation of The
I from the cities of Milwaukee; Orleans; Children-Education and Outreach New I American Legion Child Welfare Reno, Nev. conducting Initiative." and Subsequent to Foundation. Since then, the foundation site visits and after hearing formal presen- has granted almost $6 million to non-profit from each city, the National Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation tations youth-oriented organizations. Grants are Convention of New York was awarded $33,800 for its Commission recommended awarded solely based on the following two project titled "At the Crossroads: The to the National Executive Committee purposes: that the city of Reno, Nev., be tentatively Challenge of Diabetes in the Teen Years." • To contribute to the physical, mental, awarded the national convention in 2007, emotional and spiritual welfare of the being Aug. 24-30. The National dates children and youth through the KUDDLE KIDS of Payson, Utah, was
' Executive Committee later approved the its titled dissemination of knowledge about awarded $1 3,800 for project recommendation. new and innovative organizations "Forever Families." and/or their programs designed to future conventions are: Dates and benefit youth. LensCrafters Foundation of Cincinnati
• contribute the physical, mental, was awarded $30,000 for its project titled St. Louis, Missouri To to "Arthur's Eyes." Aug. 22-28, 2003 emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth through the Nashville, Tennessee dissemination of knowledge already Mercy Medical Airlift of Virginia Beach, Aug. 27-Sept. 2, 2004 possessed by well-established Va., was awarded $38,000 for its project titled "Child Patient Access to Distant Honolulu, Hawaii organizations, to the end that such information can be more adequately Specialized Medical Treatment." Aug. 19-25, 2005 used by society.
Salt Lake City, Utah In of directors National Center for Missing October 2001 , the board &
Aug. 23-29, 2006 approved grants to 20 nonprofit organiza- Exploited Children of Tustin, Calif., was
tions in the amount of $547,375 for projects awarded $16,000 for its project titled
to be completed in 2002. These grants "Coloring Book." DISTINGUISHED have been awarded to support worthwhile GUESTS COMMITTEE projects and disseminate information National Jewish Medical and Research
about them to the general public and Center of Denver was awarded $40,000 for
R. Shuford Edmisten (N.C.) specific target groups. The following is a its project titled "Celebration Broadcast Chairman brief summary of the grants awarded Telethon."
this year:
he Distinguished Guests Committee The Alliance for Children’s Rights of
exists under the umbrella of the Children's Medical Center of Dallas was Los Angeles was awarded $22,500 for its
National Convention Commission. for its titled awarded $1 1 ,315 project "The project titled "National Foster Children and
Responsibilities include the coordination Neuro-Oncology Family Manual." Children in Poverty Information Campaign."
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Customer Service National Convention Shuttle Service routes, hotel and boarding locations Decals Charlotte Convention Center 2nd Street and College Street Entrances 2 ROUTE 3 Calendars ROUTE 1 ROUTE RED BLUE ORANGE Adam’s Mark Marriott Doubletree Holiday Cards City Center Uptown Sheraton Omni Residence Inn Four Points Charlotte New Post Development Holiday Inn Travelodge City Center City Center Note Pads ROUTE 4 ROUTE 5 ROUTE 6 GREEN YELLOW PURPLE Clarion Hotel Marriott Ramada Inn Photo Albums Exec Park ind. Blvd Holiday Inn Hilton Hampton Inn Woodlawn Exec Park Exec Park and much more. ROUTE 7 - BLACK Holiday Inn Airport
Uptown, and the The Hilton lowers Uptown. Hilton Carden Inn, Hampton Inn Convention Center Marriott Courtyard are all within easy walking distance of the Hours of Operation
All Start times are FROM the Hotels. CENTER. All End times are the last run from the CONVENTION Friday —Aug. 23 2nd St. Entrance 9:30am to 4:00pm Saturday - Aug. 24 College St. Entrance 7:00am to 4:00pm Sunday — Aug. 25 College St. Entrance 6:30am to 2:30pm Monday — Aug. 26 2nd St. Entrance 7:30am to 4:00pm 10:30pm Tuesday -Aug. 27 2nd St. Entrance 7:30am to Communications 10:30pm Haynes & Partners Wednesday — Aug. 28 2nd St. Entrance 7:30am to 7:30am to 3:00pm 5745 Lee Road, Indianapolis, IN 46216 Thursday — Aug. 29 2nd St. Entrance FOR HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION: Call (317) 860-3003, Ask for Lynne Evans Please contact 704-442-1594 or 704-341-8090 with as much notice as you can provide!
The American Legion , ,
The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
The Enterprise Foundation of Columbia, that improve the quality of life for our Administration, and the Loan Guaranty
Md., was awarded $18,500 for its project nation’s children. It is important to and Vocational Rehabilitation services of titled "Youth Crime Prevention Manual." remember that every dollar given to the the Department of Veterans Affairs.
foundation is used for grants that assist Currently the National Economic
The National Exchange Club young people. Commission is vigorously opposing the Foundation of Toledo, Ohio, was awarded At the meeting of the board of directors transfer of the Veterans' Employment and
$23,000 for its project titled "National of The American Legion Child Welfare Training Service from the Department of
Shaken Baby Syndrome Education Foundation in Indianapolis on May 5, 2002, Labor to the Department of Veterans Campaign." the following officers were elected: U.S. Affairs. Staff Deputy Director loseph
"Udie” Grant of Kansas, president; lames P. Sharpe has testified before congressional
The National Marfan Foundation Inc. Holley of Texas, vice president; Kenneth D. committees on this subject. of Port Washington, N.Y., was awarded Danilson of Iowa, secretary; and Robert Since the adjournment of the last
$25,000 for its project entitled "Pediatric Turner of Georgia, treasurer. Administrative National Convention, the National
Sports Initiative Mailing." personnel appointed by the board of Economic Commission and its committees
r. directors were George A. Buskirk 1 have met on three occasions.
SUNY College at Brockport of assistant treasurer, and William A. Pease, secretary. Brockport, N.Y., was awarded $6,210 for its executive FALL 2001 NEC MEETINGS
project titled "Promotion of Camp Abilities: Under the 1969 Tax Reform Act, the The National Economic Commission
A Developmental Sports Camp for Youth foundation retains its tax-exempt status. met in Room 204 of the National Head- Gifts, therefore, are deductible for federal Who are Blind or Visually Impaired." quarters on Oct. 8 and 9, 2001 , to consider income-tax purposes to the extent permit- a number of resolutions and to conduct ted by law, and bequests to the foundation warranted. The Sturge-Weber Foundation of Mt. other business as are deductible for federal inheritance tax The commission recommended for Freedom, N.J., was awarded $12,800 for its purposes to the extent permitted by the approval resolutions dealing with veterans project titled "Guide to Living Well with Sturge-Weber Syndrome. Federal Tax Act. preference in hiring by employers receiving federal grants, contracts or assistance; investigation and enforcement provisions Think First, National Injury Prevention NATIONAL ECONOMIC of Title 38, Chapter 42; veterans’ priority Foundation of Rolling Meadows, 111., was COMMISSION of service under the Workforce Investment awarded $49,750 for its project titled "Think ." Act; eligibility under the IRS code for First for Kids Curriculum Distribution certain veterans using state veterans’ home-loan programs; affirmative action Tragedy Assistance Program for Kenneth A. Sercerchi for disabled veterans, combat veterans Survivors (TAPS) of Washington was (Maine) and veterans within five years after their awarded $58,000 for its project titled "TAPS Chairman separation from active duty; and treatment Children's Outreach Program: Caring for of federal grants under Title 38, Chapter 42 the Children of Those Who Have Died in Joseph C. of the U.S. Code. Service to America." Sharpe (Md.) The balance of the meeting included a
Deputy Director status report on the recent staff changes in WETA of Arlington, Va., was awarded the Economic Division, the Heather French $40,400 for its project titled "Helping Homeless Veterans Assistance Act and the Hands: Promoting Success for Children he National Economic Commission current status of the FY 2002 budget with LD and/or ADHD in After-School and its two standing subcommittees Programs." proposal. T on Employment and Veterans’ Preference are responsible for ensuring 2002 WASHINGTON CONFERENCE 1 am happy to report that during 2001 that America's veterans have the opportu- In conjunction with the 42nd Washington donations exceeded $626,600. More than nity to provide, with honor and dignity, the Conference, the National Economic $246,900 of that amount came from Sons
economic necessities of life for themselves Commission met on March 1 1 and 13 to of The American Legion. and their families. In order to achieve this hear speakers on various subjects of Members of The American Legion family are the primary contributors to the success goal, the commission and its committees interest to the commission. and growth of our foundation. Each member work closely with such governmental The commission convened in the
agencies as the of Labor, the Ticonderoga on March 1 1 . The and local organization is encouraged to Department Room
make an annual contribution in support of Department of Housing and Urban first speaker was Fred luarbe, assistant our foundation. Your support allows the Development, the Office of Personnel secretary of Veterans' Employment and
foundation to continue funding projects Management, the Small Business Training Service, Department of Labor.
2002 National Convention mi 3 The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
He updated the commission on new Medium Size Employer of the Year VETS transfer, homelessness programs initiatives within VETS. M&T Company, Lakehurst, N.|. including the Homeless Veterans’ Reinte- The second speaker was Keith Pedigo, Large Employer of the Year Winter gration Program, veterans' preference and director of the Home Loan Guaranty Haven Wal-Mart Distribution Center, the Office of Personnel Management, and Program, Department of Veterans Affairs Winter Haven, Fla. the Small Business Administration.
1 Economic Commission He addressed the status of programs and On March 2, the During the meeting, members discussed within the Loan sponsored a panel discussion on the initiatives Home possible speakers for the National Guaranty Program. subject of the transfer of the Veterans' Economic Commission's portion of the The third speaker to address the Employment and Training Service from 2002 National Convention. Staff members commission was William Elmore of the Labor to Veterans Affairs. The speakers also provided a briefing on their activities Small Business Administration's Veterans were Fred luarbe, DOL VETS; Richard since the Washington Conference, as well Business Development office, who spoke Larson, VA; and Rex Hall of the National as a review of how commission activities fit on SBA's new initiatives concerning Association of State Workforce Agencies. into the overall programs of The American veterans' small-business opportunities. The session was well-attended and Legion. Next to address the meeting was Roderick discussion was lively.
Gillette of Transition Assistance Online, The commission met at 9 a.m. March 1 new business partner of The American in the Bunker Hill Room of the Hyatt hotel business session, consider CONDENSED REPORT Legion in providing transition assistance to conduct a ON NATIONAL EMBLEM for new veterans seeking civilian careers. the awards subcommittee's report, discuss SALES DIVISION Dan Blair of the U S Office of Personnel two proposed resolutions and hear a Management spoke on the current status speaker. The report was approved as read. Keith H. Gwilliam (Utah) of veterans' employment within the federal Mike Cantrell of the U.S. Treasury Chairman government. Department's savings bonds program That afternoon, a panel convened to spoke concerning the new I-bonds. The Jeffrey O. Brown (Ind.) discuss the status of services to homeless commission's deputy director, loseph Director veterans and efforts to end homelessness Sharpe, briefed the commission on the among veterans throughout the federal activities of the staff since its last meeting. he Amercan Legion emblem is the government and beyond. Speakers were exclusive property of National Susan Edgerton, congressional staff SPRING 2002 NEC MEETINGS of the National Economic T Headquarters. The sale of the member; Roger Casey of the Department Members pins, merchandise carry- of Veterans Affairs; Paul Hinkhouse of the Commission and its two subcommittees emblem, emblem organi- Department of Labor, Veterans' met in executive session on May 6 and 7 ing the emblem and other items of Employment and Training Service; Walt to consider resolutions for action by the zational equipment is the responsibility of
Leginski of the Department of Health and National Executive Committee. the National Headquarters in Indianapolis. Human Services; lohn Garrity of the Two resolutions concerned affirmative The following tables show gross sales, net
Department of Housing and Urban action to employ veterans by holders of earnings, etc., for the entire calendar year
Development; Tom Lyons of the New federal contracts and grants. A third 2001 and for the first three months of 2002.
England Shelter for Homeless Veterans; resolution stated The American Legion's transfer lackie Skinner of the American Legion strong opposition to the proposed Jan. I to Dec. 31, 2001 (12 months)
Auxiliary; and Linda Boone of the National of the Veterans' Employment and Training
Coalition for Homeless Veterans. Service from the Department of Labor to Gross Sales $9,686,857 The commission's awards subcommittee the Department of Veterans Affairs. These Cost of Goods Sold 5,559,458 for met late in the afternoon on March 1 1 to three resolutions were recommended Overhead 2,889,395 select winners from among nominations approval by the NEC. Operating Profit 1,238,004
received in the Employer of Veterans and The fourth resolution considered Total number of 200 1 orders processed was Employment Service awards programs. concerned the presentation of the national 96,599.
The winners in both programs are: Employment Service award winners'
LVER of the Year; Barbara Phillips of plaques at the National Convention, Jan. 1 to March 31, 2002 (3 months) Fort Payne, Ala. including payment of a stipend to each DVOP of the Year- Ronald Mullen of winner to help defray travel costs, as is Gross Sales $2,630,334 Tulsa, Okla. done for Employer of Veterans award Cost of Goods Sold 1,477,542 ES Local Office of the Year Fayetteville winners. This resolution was not reported Overhead 750,148
Local Office, Fayetteville, N.C. out of the commission. Operating Profit 402,644
Small Employer of the Year; Basic Program issues reviewed by the National Total orders processed for first three months of Water Company, Henderson, Nev. Economic Commission were the proposed 2002 were 23,795.
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
FINANCE FOREIGN RELATIONS Republic of China. We strongly advocate COMMISSION COMMISSION the sale of sophisticated weapon systems
to Taiwan in order that it can maintain a viable self-defense capability and support
Kenneth D. \ its speedy entry into the international i>^ Thomas L. Danilson 5» :/ community. (Iowa) / 23 . OSJSi Bock Chairman (Colo.) George A. i3Bi Chairman Other issues Buskirk Jr. The war on drugs in Latin America, (Ind.) G. Michael National Treasurer Schlee potential NATO expansion in Europe and Paul M. Allen (Md.) U S. peacekeeping operations are all (Minn.) Director concerns of the commission Members Director If A J receive periodic updates at meetings on these and other foreign issues of interest.
he primary obligation of the Finance ince 1924, the goal of our
Commission is to prepare a yearly commission has been to promote MEETINGS OF THE T budget for the National Executive S an effective, bipartisan U S. foreign COMMISSION Committee, handle funds under that policy that keeps America secure and Three commission meetings were budget, and exercise reasonable oversight promotes our interests abroad. During the conducted since the conclusion of the 83rd to see that the various divisions and past year, the Foreign Relations Commission National Convention. The commission met in conjunction with the National Executive departments of the national organization worked diligently to implement our Committee meetings in October 2001 and operate within appropriations. The Finance extensive portfolio of resolutions that around the world May 2002 in Indianapolis. The most Commission includes seven members, with promote democracy and protect vital U S. interests. extensive session for the commission was the National Adjutant as ex-officio secre- conducted at the Washington Conference, tary and the National Commander and
1 MAJOR ISSUES March 1 -1 5. The highlights of these National Treasurer as ex-officio members. meetings follow: Also attending these meetings are the Support for the war executive directors of the Washington and ON TERRORISM Fall 2002 NEC Meetings Indianapolis offices and the finance In order to successfully execute the war An executive session of the Commission director, as well as liaison observers from on terrorism, the United States must main- met Oct. 8 and 9. The main topics of the National Executive Committee
tain a coalition of freedom-loving nations discussion were the Sept I 1 terrorist The national organization had an to fight the threat of terror collectively. attacks. One resolution was adopted: operating surplus of $2,376,095 for 2001. The American Legion vigorously supports "Support for the War on Terror." In that year, we received $9 dues per the State Department and other federal member, allocating $6 to the general fund agencies involved overseas fighting terror- 2002 Washington Conference and $3 to The American Legion Magazine. ism in the realm of diplomacy, intelligence, In the March 1 1 morning session, the Income of the national organization financial affairs and law enforcement. commission met jointly with the National derives from annual membership dues, Security Commission to hear several interest on investments, magazine adver- Accounting for speakers of mutual interest The Hon. tisements, Emblem Sales, contributions American POW/MIAs Richard L. Armitage, deputy secretary of and other approved activities. Achieving the fullest possible accounting state, gave an address on the department's
A full financial statement is incorporated for Americans listed as prisoners of war role in the war on terrorism as well as a in the auditor's report Your attention is or missing in action from all wars is a masterful presentation on six trends that directed also to the Reports of Committees principal goal of The American Legion. will affect U S. foreign policy in the and Trusts, which can be found in this The commission sponsors many programs decades ahead. He also fielded a variety publication. to keep the POW/MIA issue in the spotlight of questions from members of both
These entities include: The American and ensure our POW/MIAs are not commissions. As the No. 2 leader in the Inc Legion Child Welfare Foundation , forgotten. Department of State, Armitage oversees The American Legion Endowment Fund many of the day-to-day operations around
Corporation, The American Legion Life Support for Taiwan the globe.
Insurance and Trust Committee, The The American Legion has been a strong The second speaker was the Hon. Dov S. American Legion Emblem Committee and supporter of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Zakheim, undersecretary of the defense
The American Legion Overseas Graves since 1949. We stand with democratic (comptroller), the Pentagon's chief financial
Decoration Trust Taiwan in its struggle against the People's officer. He gave a highly informative and
2002 National Convention The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
detailed account of the department's commission met jointly with the National Ceremonials; Resolutions Assignment; spending and resource needs, as well as Security Commission to review the Constitution and By-Laws; and Membership detailing the proposed increases for FY "Frontline" special "Inside the Terror & Post Activities. The latter has separate
2003. He answered a dozen questions on Network," which chronicled how the reporting responsibilities to the National all aspects of DoD’s $250 billion budget. al-Qaida terrorists developed their deadly Convention and the National Executive Committee. In the March 1 1 afternoon session, both plan and infiltrated America. Commissions joined with the Special Internal Affairs is responsible for over-
POW/MIA Committee for an update. Jerry seeing and reviewing the activities of Sons lennings, deputy assistant secretary of INTERNAL AFFAIRS of The American Legion, which is not a defense and director of the Defense COMMISSION separate organization, but rather a major
Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office, program of the organization. began the afternoon session with a restate- The commission also oversees long-term ment of the administration's policies on Herman G. programs and activities as the National achieving the fullest possible accounting, Harrington Paid-Up-For-Life program and the National (N.Y.) lennings also gave an interesting historical Emergency Fund. Chairman presentation on the accounting for those Special projects of significance are missing since the nation's founding. John W. National World War 11 Memorial fund- Querfeld Ann Mills Griffith, executive director of raising in conjunction with the American (IH.) the National League of Families of Battle Monuments Commission and the Director American Prisoners Missing in Southeast 50th anniversary of the Korean War.
Asia, gave the group updates on develop- ments in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. he National Internal Affairs She also answered a variety of questions. TROPHIES, AWARDS Commission was established by Past National Commander and Special AND CEREMONIALS T resolution of the National Executive POW/MIA Committee Chairman Bob Turner Committee in 1947. The original charge for hosted the update session. Randall W. Busch (Neb.) this constitutional commission still On the morning of March 13, the Foreign Chairman remains: to formulate and recommend Relations Commission met in a business policies and to oversee the implementa- session. Newly appointed Chairman Tom his committee supervises all of tion of adopted policies relating to Bock gave an overview of his orientation the official national awards and activities conducted for organizational recommends to the National trip to Washington in February. Bock met T purposes. Among those purposes are all with officials at the State Department, the Executive Committee recipients for the those not properly the responsibility of POW/Missing Personnel Office Distinguished Service Medal; over the Defense any other national commission, as well as staffers at the House International years, some of those awarded The and membership strategies, post formation, Relations Committee. American Legion's highest honor were clerical and records administration for
Gen. |ohn |. Pershing, Ignace Ian One resolution was recommended for posts and individual members, and special for American Paderewski of Poland, Henry Ford, Ernie adoption "Support a Robust projects. The commission also is required Pyle, Bob Hope, Babe Ruth, Dr. Jonas E. Diplomacy." This resolution calls for from time to time to provide guidance and Salk, Bishop Fulton Sheen, the dead adequate funding for the State Department assistance to the National Adjutant on J. and missing of the Vietnam War, 10 U.S. and related international programs. necessary administrative operations of the and many other citizens of Finally, Assistant Director John Petersen National Headquarters. presidents, have lasting and gave a preview of National Commander Under the broad interpretation of those renown who made significant contributions. Richard |. Santos' European trip, which purposes not properly the responsibility makes included stops to visit U.S. troops in of other commissions, Internal Affairs over- Other awards this committee Germany, Macedonia and Kosovo as well sees awards, constitutional discipline and recommendations on include the
as meetings with Legionnaires in London, commemorative activities. The commission International Amity Award and the
Germany and Portugal. also monitors legislative and other regula- Canadian Friendship Award. A report also
tory activities that potentially affect posts is prepared for the NEC on miscellaneous during Spring 2002 NEC Meetings and departments, and it recommends awards that have been presented
On the morning of May 5, the appropriate courses of action. each year.
commission met in general session and The commission has four standing The committee also supervises the
discussed current world events in which committees assigned to it for supervision contents of the Manual of Ceremonies of
the Legion has an interest. On May 6, the and coordination: Trophies, Awards and The American Legion.
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
RESOLUTIONS to serve the needs of the veteran and departments have received assistance ASSIGNMENT his/her family. Your Membership & Post from this effort. Activities committee is pleased to report The success of the program is evident,
Gerald Diercks (Minn.) a continuing membership of approximately based on the revitalization and develop- Chairman 2.7 million members worldwide. ment of almost 400 American Legion posts. This adds up to a total of 19,500 Membership he Resolutions Assignment new, renewed or transferred members.
least three Many departments have been successful Committee meets at days Final 2000 membership in this program without assistance from before the convening of the annual 2,764,318 National Convention. This committee has national staff. Whether a department the responsibility to receive, consider and Final 2001 membership requests field assistance or just the train- transmit all resolutions - with or without 2,705,649 ing workshop, results will be successful if recommendation - to the appropriate the guidelines are followed. 2002 membership as of Aug. 1, 2002 convention committee for a report to the All departments are encouraged to 2,740,000* convention. During an average year, 200 to participate in this program. The program, however, requires a commitment from every 300 resolutions will be assigned. * Estimate. The year-end membership level of leadership, if it is to be successful. should equal the 2001 final membership. If you are interested in receiving additional CONSTITUTION 39th Annual National information regarding the New Post AND BY-LAWS Membership Workshop Development/Revitalization program, contact your department or write or call: The 39th annual membership meeting
Vincent Gaughan (111.) The American Legion, Membership was conducted in Indianapolis J u ly 26-27, Division, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN Chairman 2002, with more than 400 department and 46206, call (317) 630-1321 and ask for the district officers in attendance from nearly membership division or e-mail [email protected]. he National Constitution and By- all 55 departments.
Laws of The American Legion can Many of those attending arrive in Reconnect Program T only be amended by the duly elected Indianapolis with a good understanding The Reconnect Program is an initiative by delegates at a National Convention. of the membership program, especially as the Department of Defense to "Reconnect" However, the Constitution and By-Laws it pertains to their areas. But by the time America with today's military. The DoD Committee, established by the authority of the workshop concludes, they are prepared Office of the Assistant Director for Public the National Executive Committee in 1939, to face the day-to-day membership Affairs sent a letter in 2000 to all major authorizes this committee to study and challenges with a better understanding commands informing them of this Total make proper recommendations concerning of The American Legion as it relates to Force program, which includes active- all of the matters that pertain to the potential members. duty and National Guard and Reserve Constitution and By-Laws, as well as The goal of this workshop is to provide components alike. matters relating to the Uniform Code of these essential membership workers with "Reconnect” is an open invitation from Procedure, which provides rules and the tools, knowledge and desire to grow the military for groups like The American regulations for the revocation, cancellation the membership in The American Legion. Legion to establish ties between military or suspension of department and post Whether it is membership recruitment or installations and the civilian community. charters of The American Legion. program implementation, it is all about veterans helping veterans and providing This is not a free ticket to recruit on mili- communities the essential programs to tary installations, but it is an opportunity for The American Legion to showcase the MEMBERSHIP & POST maintain a quality of life for which all ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE veterans fought and served to preserve. programs and services we have in place. Legionnaires should go into an event with
Daniel M. Dellinger (Va.) New Post Development/ the attitude of providing a service military Chairman Revitalization Program members on the installation and promot- The Membership & Post Activities ing the military in the local community. Billy R. Johnson (Ark.) Committee developed a training program The national organization has conducted
Membership Director in (anuary 1996 designed to assist posts, several "Reconnect" visits at major military
districts and departments in developing installations in an effort to publicize the
embership and programs go and revitalizing posts. joint efforts of the Legion and DoD. We hand-in-hand to make The The program provides training work- find that success depends largely on the M American Legion an organization shops to interested volunteers along with participation of departments and the able to provide the people and resources practical field application. Forty-three cooperation of local Legion posts in the
2002 National Convention m\ 1 The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
community near the military installations. various awards annually to recognize percent target date are Alabama, Alaska,
An important consideration is that while membership accomplishments at all levels Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado,
"Reconnect" visits to larger installations of the organization. The promotion plan Connecticut, Delaware, France, Florida, are important from a public-relations point for the National Membership Campaign is Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, of view, the measure of success for the formulated during the annual planning Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Legion is the amount and quality of visits session of the M&PA Committee conducted Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, to the thousands of local National Guard in Indianapolis in lanuary. Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, and Reserve units in the component 1 The 200 -2002 Point Achievers are below: Nevada, New Hampshire, New lersey, New United States, as well as smaller active- • - Early Bird Contest Aug. 8, 2001: York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, duty training installations. These men and The 36 departments that qualified for the Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto women and their families are the "citizen 35-percent target date are: Alabama, Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South soldiers" who live far away from the larger Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, established military support networks. Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, They most need our support. Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Wisconsin and Wyoming The point of contact for "Reconnect" is Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, • Pearl Harbor - Dec. 12, 2001: The the Internal Affairs Division, (317) 630- 1 32 Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, 47 departments that qualified for the 75- ore-mail [email protected]. New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, percent target date are Alabama, Alaska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Direct Renewal Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Direct is The Renewal Program a Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, uniform, organized and simple way to West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Maryland, Massachusetts, Maine, invite members to renew their Legion • NEF Kickoff - Sept. 12, 2001: The Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, membership using a direct-mail system. 49 departments that qualified for the 45- Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, This program has been successful and has percent target date are Alabama, Alaska, New Hampshire, New lersey, North been funded at no cost to participating Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, departments or posts. Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Rico, The first two renewal notices are optional Oregon, Puerto Rhode Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, for posts but the final three notices go to Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, all delinquent members. Each department Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, chooses the dates its members receive the Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, first three notices: Wyoming. Nevada, New Hampshire, New lersey, New • Mid-Winter - Jan. 9, 2002: The 34 York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, 1 I I . July or Aug. departments that qualified for the 85- Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto
2. Oct. I or Nov. 1 percent target date are Alabama, Alaska, Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, 3. Dec 1 5 or |an. 11. The March 1 3 and Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, May 1 notices go to all delinquent Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, members. Wisconsin and Wyoming. Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Nevada, • Fall Meetings - Oct. 10, 2001: The New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Direct Membership Solicitation 49 departments that qualified for the 55- Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Since 1982, the Direct Membership percent target date are Alabama, Alaska, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Solicitation program has been responsible Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, for acquiring more than 2.3 million new Connecticut, District of Columbia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. members for the 52 participating depart- Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, • Big Twelve Competition - Feb. 13, ments. Obviously, the DMS Program has Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, 2002: The 35 departments that qualified proven successful in the acquisition of new Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, for the 90-percent target date are Alabama, members. But again this year, the empha- Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Arizona, Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, sis will be on the transfer, renewal and Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, retention of those members. New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Florida, France, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho,
DMS will continue to support the Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Legion’s ongoing membership efforts with Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, special emphasis on the retention of all island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New lersey, members. Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma,
Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Membership Campaign Promotion Wyoming. Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont,
The National Membership Awards • Veterans Day - Nov. 15, 2001: The Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Program distributes more than 65,000 50 departments that qualified for the 65- Wisconsin and Wyoming.
The American Legion , . The American Legion 2002 Annual Report r “Big Twelve" Competition Winners receive the 101 -Percent National Previous winners have reported how
Commander's Plaque, to be presented at much they enjoyed their opportunity to Category I no winner the National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. participate in this world-renowned racing Category II Wisconsin * Delegate Strength - 2002: July 30, event and have fond memories that will Category III no winner Delegate Strength is determined by the I Category IV South Dakota last a lifetime. membership in the hands of the National Category V Vermont Treasurer 30 days prior to the National Category VI Delaware This year's winners are: Convention. Total number of delegates
for each department is based on five FIRST-PLACE WINNERS: • Legion Birthday - March 13, 2002: delegates at large, one delegate for each Trip to the Indianapolis 500 The 19 departments that qualified for the 1 ,000 members or major fraction thereof
95-percent target date are Arizona, Category I and the members of the National Colorado, Delaware, France, Florida, Ralph Dial, Mexico Executive Committee. New Georgia, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Dist. 3 * Post Honor Ribbons: Post Honor 150.00% Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ribbons were shipped to 2,396 Posts whose Category II Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, 2002 of 3 1 membership as Dec. 1 , 200 Joe Haller, Texas Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming. exceeded their final 2001 membership. 112.89% Dist. 8 • Children & Youth - April 10, 2002: * Certificate of Meritorious Service:
1 3 for The departments that qualified the These certificates were awarded for 312 Category III
100-percent target are Arizona, Colorado, posts for attaining a new all-time-high Tom Larsen, Texas Delaware, France, Georgia, Idaho, 1 membership for 2002 by Dec. 3 1 , 200 122.49% Dist. 22 Michigan, Nevada, South Carolina, * Five Consecutive Years All-Time High: Category IV Tennessee, Utah, Virginia and Wyoming. These citations are awarded to posts with Leonard McClure, Georgia • Armed Forces Day - May 8, 2002: five or more consecutive years of all-time
1 1 1 .06% Dist. 9 By achieving 101 percent of the depart- high membership in 2002. ment's 2002 goal, winning membership Category V department and District commanders membership Commander's Walter M. Dacon, Michigan chairmen have a choice of several gifts "Race to the Top" 101.84% Dist. 7 available, based on the number of targets/ District commanders are the lynchpin of
bonuses made during the year. The American Legion's chain of command, SECOND-PLACE WINNERS: • Department Commander of the Year: serving as the vital link between the $500 Gift Certificate Any department commander who met or national and department organizations and
exceeds his or her 100-percent goal for all posts. As we are all aware, the local Category 1
2002 by April 10, 2002, will receive a plaque post is where the "rubber meets the road." Frank Hopkins, Texas
recognizing his or her achievement. The If it doesn't happen at the post level, it 119.64% Dist. 1
plaque will be presented at the National doesn't happen at all. District commanders Category II Convention in Charlotte, N.C. are the people charged with insuring all Al Dunaway, Arizona • Gold Brigade Recruiter Award: A posts in their district maintain their 105.01% Dist. 7 Legionnaire who recruits 50 or more new vitality.
members by the District Competition Consequently, this unique award was cre- Category III
target date, May 9, 2002, will qualify for ated to provide a meaningful incentive for Patrick Mars, Texas
enrollment in the elite Gold Brigade of the five top district commanders in each 112.73% Dist. 5 The American Legion. category and reward their successful mem- Category IV • Gold Brigade Drawing: All certified bership efforts. The winning district com- Gene Hilliker, Texas members of the Gold Brigade will auto- manders and guests receive: 104.05% Dist. 20 matically be entered in a drawing with the * Reserved tickets to the Indianapolis five the winners to be announced at 2002 500, "the greatest spectacle in racing." Category V National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. * First-class hotel accommodations for Robert C. Mallette, Pennsylvania The five winners of the drawing receive a four nights at an Indianapolis hotel. 100.14% Dist. 22
$ 1 ,000 award certificate. * Reserved seating for the Indianapolis • Flag Day - June 1 3, 2002: By THIRD-PLACE 500 parade. WINNERS: meeting 101 percent of the department's $375 Gift Certificate * 2001 membership goal, the department Dinner reservations Friday evening at one of Indianapolis' finest restaurants. commander and membership chairman Category I
will receive up to $1,500. Each department * Tour of the National Headquarters of Danny L. Martin, Oklahoma
that qualifies for this award will also The American Legion. 110.73% Dist. 6B
2002 National Convention The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
Category II Being there and participating is one of high in membership. The SAL closed its Joseph R. Burman Michigan the best ways to build a strong, proactive membership at the end of 2001 with a
104.26% Dist. 17 organization for the 21st century. Having a record 247,179 members, which represents membership well-informed on issues, a 5.3-percent increase over the previous Category III objectives, programs and initiatives is year. Donald E. MacFarlane, Arkansas important in providing service to veterans Membership figures for the 2002 year 109.90% Dist. 15 and their families. Having a mix of first- have already exceeded the figures for the 2001 Category IV time attendees plus those who have been membership year. By the time of National Convention in Charlotte, Bill Dalton. Ohio to past conferences is a great combination SAL will have surpassed the 2001 final figures 101.03% Dist. 12 of the new and the old, which is the bridge by from the past to the future. several thousand, giving them another Category V — No one qualified all-time high for membership year 2002. • Bring new members to mentor; SAL continues its support of American they will be tomorrow’s leaders. District Commander New Post Legion programs and is heavily involved Achievement Award Recipients The following represents the conference with support to our nation's veterans in the District commanders who achieve the schedule through 2003. Every district Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary goal of creating new American Legion Service program. In officer, program chairman and other 2001, SAL provided posts in their respective districts and aspiring leaders of The American Legion, more than 167,000 volunteer hours in VA have the new post’s temporary charter and hospitals. in Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion homes Donations cash application on file with National Head- and to these veterans exceeded should plan to attend. goods quarters by the target date "May Day” $1 ,677,400 nationwide. SAL also raised
May 8, 2002 qualify for a special 2002 CONFERENCE SERIES more than $246,000 in the year 2001 for the recognition plaque. Child Welfare Foundation, surpassing all Region Four - Dallas previous years. SAL also provided several Sept. 20-22 Department Recruiter grants through The American Legion Child of the Year Region Eight - Boise, Idaho Welfare Foundation. SAL has contributed Each American Legion post was given Sept. 20-22 more than $1 million to The American the opportunity to submit the name of the Legion Child Welfare Foundation.
"Top Recruiter" for that post who signed up 2003 CONFERENCE SERIES Sons continues to support Legion the highest number of new members for programs with major emphasis on VAVS, Region One - Nashua, N.H. the 2002 membership year by May 8, 2002. the National Emergency Fund, the March 21-23 Department adjutants determined the top National World War II Memorial, and this new member recruiter for their respective Region Five - Indianapolis year, the Children’s Miracle Network as departments and certified their March 28-30 well as other vital programs. As an integral "Department Recruiter" to National part of The American Legion family, SAL Region Three - Macon, Ga. continues to serve and provide assistance Headquarters on or before May 8. April 4-6 The "Department Recruiter," properly to posts and their communities.
- certified from each department, is awarded Region Seven Las Vegas a plaque with his or her accomplishment April 4-6 National Emergency Fund inscribed thereon. The National Emergency Fund continues Region Two - Cherry Hill, N.|. in the spirit of veterans helping veterans April 25-27 National Recruiter of the Year and their families in need as it has since The individual certified with the highest Region Six - Sioux City, Iowa 1989. Last year, grants totaling more than number of new members recruited from April 25-27 $133,000 went to 76 individuals and 10 among all the departments is declared posts, in 2002, we have sent out grants to Region Four - Dallas "National Recruiter of the Year." The winner six posts and five individuals. Total of grant Sept. 19-21 of this award received an all-expenses-paid monies awarded since the NEF was rein- trip to the 2002 National Convention in Region Eight - Boise, Idaho stated in 1989 is $3.5 million dollars.
Charlotte, N.C. Sept. 19-21 National Commander Richard J. Santos has actively continued the fund-raising Internal Affairs Programs Sons of The American Legion push for the NEF, and he has taken every
National Leadership and Information Sons of The American Legion will opportunity to ensure our Legion family
Conferences. The National Leadership and conduct its 31st National Convention at keeps this vital and important program at
Information Conferences are designed the Convention Center in Charlotte, N.C. the forefront. During the 2001 NEC Fall especially for you. For more information, or For the 28th consecutive year, the Sons Meetings, he announced the Legion family a brochure, contact your department office. of The American Legion is at an all-time hoped to raise $500,000 between then and
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
1 American Legion Insurance Program Aug. . 2002, with a goal to top the the national plan. The number of The
$1 million mark in the fund. Due to the Legionnaires who have applied for lifetime supports several national programs that generosity of our Legion family, he has membership since the beginning of the are among the most prominent and visible achieved that objective. program in 1970 is more than 250,000. activities of The American Legion. The Legionnaire in standing The Legion family has been extremely A must be good programs are listed below with the corre- to become a PUFL member, and to be in generous in the past, but more can be sponding funding for 2002: good standing, the member must have a done. Every opportunity to continue and • American Legion Baseball, $596,086 valid membership card for the current sustain local fund-raising for the National • National Oratorical Contest, $296,799 Legion year. Emergency Fund should be encouraged. • lunior Uniformed Musical Groups, — Each Paid-Up-For-Life member receives Even though the fund is plentiful today $30,000 for participation at the a permanent plastic card, as well as an more than $1 million in the fund available National Convention annual paper membership card, directly a single disaster for disbursement — can • Boys Nation, $159,615 from national, to verify continuing it very quickly. This is wipe out a golden • of Year Scholarship membership. The annual card is mailed Boy Scout The opportunity for everyone who wears the in July of each year. Award, $1 7,500 Legion cap to keep the National The cost of a PUFL membership is • An award of $2,500 per year up to four Emergency Fund alive and well. We based on the member's age at the time of years, not to exceed $10,000, for pursuit continue to help our fellow comrades, application and the current annual dues of a course of study beyond high their families and Legion posts in need. of the post; an applicant may pay by check, school VISA, or MasterCard, Discover American • Three second-place awards in the Consolidated Post Reports Express. Also, they may use the Time amount of $2,500 each also are granted The Consolidated Post Report - one of Payment Plan to purchase a national Paid- Requests for grants are approved by The American Legion’s most valuable Up-For-Life membership. No interest and The American Legion Insurance Committee, documents - is our report card to Congress. no service charge will be added to the fee. the National Finance Commission and It provides a summary of the collective For more information on The American National Executive Committee. assistance provided to the nation from Legion National PUFL membership plan, The American Legion offers a variety of our Legion posts. Nearly 51 percent of you can write to the address noted below, insurance plans, which are described as American Legion posts submitted reports or contact your post adjutant or finance follows: to National Headquarters for the 2000- officer.
2001 year. The total figures show the cost to outfit Health-Care Plans Please Write for a PUFL Application: The National Executive Committee color guards, firing squads and other uni- PUFL formed groups was $3,071 ,41 5. Legion approved the following health-care plans P.O. BOX 1055 baseball team support cost $7,524,410. that are offered nationwide: INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46206 Other athletic teams were provided • A variety of major medical plans called (Please provide your name, address,
$2, 1 28,436. Cash contributions to VAVS "Market Basket" that allows Legion and post number and department.) were $ 1 ,993,369 More than 1,527,937 hours SAL members to call and request of volunteer service were provided. A total quotes on major medical insurance. Note: Kansas and Nebraska do not participate in the of 55,883 sponsored at • Boy Scouts were national plan. They operate their own plan for their Small Business Group Insurance a cost of $1 ,742,422. And scholarships respective members. provides quotes on major medical valued at $3,930,636 were awarded to coverage for small employer groups of
9,068 students. 2 to 50 employees. Additional options
In 3, 1 spent AMERICAN LEGION addition, 43,788, hours were THE offered for employees are term life, performing community service work, valued INSURANCE COMMITTEE accidental death, long- and short-term of at ; nearly pints blood $5,559,591 95,686 disability and dental. These plans are were donated, and additional millions of Leroy S. Lakey (N.C.) for employees of the small-business dollars in goods and cash were contributed Chairman group, not the general membership. to programs helping veterans and their Posts and departments with two or families. G. Paul Dunn (Okla.) more employees also could use Remember, these facts and figures Member Benefits Administrator this plan. represent just over half of all American • Dental insurance is offered through an he American Legion Insurance Legion posts. What if all posts submitted indemnified insurance plan with a full a report? What are the true numbers? Committee provides oversight for schedule of benefits, for members and T the several insurance plans currently their dependents, including SAL. Paid-Up-For-Life offered by The American Legion and is For information on the above plans, call Many Legionnaires voluntarily choose to assigned to the National Finance become Paid-Up-For-Life members under Commission. (877) 886-01 10.
2002 National Convention EQI The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
Important Information Effective lanuary Union Fidelity Life Insurance Co., 500 The 2002 theme issue will deliver loud
2002, all life plans are transferred to Union Virginia Drive, Fort Washington, PA 19034 and clear a message of strength and
Fidelity Life Insurance Co., a GE Capital or call (800) 523-5758 resolve. Medal of Honor recipient Maj.
Company. Insured members will be Gen. Patrick Brady, Teamster President informed of this change at a later date. Health care lames P. Hoffa, Ret. Navy Adm. Bill Owens, All life-insurance plans are currently The national organization has several former New York Police Commissioner being evaluated by Union Fidelity. As health-care products that are offered to Howard Safir and author Dinesh D'Souza decisions are made on new plans or the departments on an individual basis, as are just some of the noted Americans who continuation of current plans, appropriate requested Departments must approve the answer the question "What Makes America announcements will be made to the products by a vote of their Department Strong?" in the September issue. membership. Executive Committee and certify the The American Legion Magazine will continue approval to the national adjutant to monitor national veterans’ issues, LegionPlus TRICARE Supplement. The Departments may or may not approve particularly regarding VA health care, American Legion has a National TRICARE all plans offered. Upon approval by a Medicare subvention and concurrent Supplement Program for active-duty and department, appropriate announcements retired military members and dependents. will be made to the membership. The receipt. Articles will remind readers of the
This program is designed to meet the National Health Insurance Program now need for a strong national defense, a needs of active-duty and retired military has six departments that have approved flag-protection amendment and homeland members who may be referred to civilian participation: Illinois, Minnesota, New security. facilities for care. It includes an active-duty York, North Carolina, South Carolina and The American Legion Magazine is the 2001 and retired version Pennsylvania Marketing of plans is under recipient of the Carlton Sherwood Media Requests for information on TRICARE way in those departments. Award presented by the Blinded American Supplement Plan, should be directed to Veterans Foundation.
Administrator, Seabury & Smith Inc., 1 776 Automobile advertising has returned to West Lakes Parkway, West Des Moines, IA THE AMERICAN the magazine, with |eep purchasing pages 50398, (800) 542-5547. LEGION MAGAZINE in the May and lune issues. Pharmaceutical companies continue to Birthday Life. Another plan available be loyal advertisers, and the magazine has to members and spouses is Birthday Life, Dennis }. made progress in attracting clients from underwritten and administered by Union Henkemeyer the entertainment industry. Fidelity Life Insurance (now owned by (Minn.) Chairman The American Legion Magazine has kept up GE Capital) in Trevose, Pa. This plan is with technology, publishing its first all- a guaranteed-issue, whole life plan com- Daniel S. bined with accidental death insurance, Wheeler digital issue in April 2002. with premiums at entry age that do not (Va.) Ranked No. I nationally in core reader- increase as the insured grows older. No Editor in Chief ship (Doublebase/MRl), more than 83 medical exam is required. percent of The American Legion Magazine's The plan provides a limited death subscribers read three out of four issues. benefit for the first two years for death merica's leaders continue to speak from natural causes and provides full to America through the pages of benefits during that period for accidental A The American Legion Magazine. Noted INFORMATION deaths. Full benefits in any event are authors and other distinguished Americans TECHNOLOGY payable after two years. who have been published in the magazine during the past year include Stephen Ronald E. Brooks (Tenn.) Simplified Issue Term Insurance. The Ambrose, George Will, Charlton Heston, Executive Director American Legion also offers a Simplified Sarah Brady, Alan Keyes, Georgie Anne
Issue Term plan (ideal for younger members). Geyer, Ralph Nader, Scott Harshbarger, he Information Technology Division This program is available to American Steve Forbes, Bradley Smith, William is responsible for many processes Legion and Sons of The American Legion Bennett, Balint Vazsonyi, Rowan T critical to the operations of The members and dependents. For a free infor- Scarborough, Donald Lambro, Adrian American Legion. IT staff plays a key role in mation kit, call toll-free (800) 523-5758. Cronauerand L. Brent Bozell 111. selection of all hardware and software The American Legion Magazine has under- the Headquarters and Requests for information on the Birthday gone a redesign, featuring better graphics, to be used by National
Life and Simplified Issue Term plans cleaner covers, concise sidebars and is responsible for troubleshooting and should be directed to the administrator, reader-friendly departments. maintaining the equipment.
\m The American Legion 3 The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
IT also is responsible for the computer NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE or prosecute terrorism; providing increased systems that house The American Legion's COMMISSION transportation security; repairing damaged public facilities and transportation systems; membership database. IT is also tasked and supporting national security. with keeping the national database current On Sept 18, the president also signed by adding new members, renewing existing Paul A. Morin PL 107-40. The measure authorizes the members, changing addresses of members (Mass.) president to "use all necessary and appro- or updating other information These same Chairman priate force against those nations, organi- services are also provided for the American zations or persons" that he determines Steve Legion Auxiliary, Sons of The American Robertson "planned, authorized, committed or aided" Legion and the Citizens Flag Alliance. (La.) the terrorist attacks, or "harbored such
The IT Division is in the personalized Director organizations or persons, in order to
laser printing business too. Annual mem- prevent any future acts of international terrorism" against the United bership cards, membership solicitation States. In related news, on Oct. 26, President letters, renewal notices, return address he purpose of the National Legislative Commission is to promote the Bush signed PL 107-56, a measure titled labels for departments' fund-raising, T legislative mandates of The American the "Uniting and Strengthening America by mailing labels for various publications, Legion before Congress. These mandates Providing Appropriate Tools Required to and a variety of letters and fund-raising are dictated by resolutions adopted at Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism (USA pieces are all produced by IT. . either a national convention or meetings of PATRIOT) Act of 200 1 " This new law will In conjunction with the membership the National Executive Committee. Neither give U S. law enforcement the tools needed database capabilities, The American the Legislative Commission nor its staff to effectively combat terrorism. The law's
Legion has invested in sophisticated list can make policy decisions. provisions address four primary areas of processing software. This ensures mailings The American Legion's legislative portfolio concern; money laundering, immigration laws, domestic intelligence-gathering and are done at the lowest cost using covers a large spectrum of issues, from flag protection to juvenile delinquency, from foreign intelligence-gathering. All of the features that: veterans' employment to foreign relations, provisions of this law are set to expire in from military preparedness to veterans' 2005, but Congress could reauthorize them • Eliminate duplicate names from health care. Promoting the Legion's man- if needed. National Commander Richard ]. various lists so that only one item is dates requires oral and written testimony Santos issued a statement from our sent to each addressee; at congressional hearings; writing and nation's capital urging the president
mailing thousands of letters; and lobbying "to use all means available to identify, • Sort mail in U S. Postal Service Congress by countless hours of telephone pursue and bring to justice those liable."
sequence and print the address calls and meetings involving the commis- Because of the 2000 election controversy and budget negotiations the using the USPS bar-code to receive sion's staff. The National Legislative between Council, Auxiliary and of president and Congress, the fiscal year the most favorable U S. Postal Service Sons The American Legion effectively augment the 2002 appropriations process lagged behind discounts; and
1 Legion's grassroots lobbying efforts. schedule. By Sept. 30, 2001 , none of the
After the unprecedented terrorist attacks funding measures needed to operate the • Identify addresses that would not federal government was signed into law. on America on 1 1 Sept , two measures be recognized and thus not receive passed Congress by overwhelming margins Over the next three months, all 1 3 spend- delivery by the Postal Service to support the president in the first war of ing bills were passed by Congress and
the 21st century. On Sept. 18, President signed by the president. The first session The American Legion Information Bush signed PL 107-38, the "2001 of the 107th Congress adjourned on Dec. 20. Technology Division is an integral part Emergency Supplemental Appropriations On Nov. 26, President Bush enacted PL of the Marketing Services Group, which Act for Recovery From and Response to Terrorist Attacks on the United States." 107-73, legislation to fund the Department includes Haynes & Partners Communi- Although the president originally asked of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year 2002. VA cations Inc Benefits , Member and
for $20 billion, the measure makes $40 received a total of $5 1 . 1 billion for fiscal Emblem Sales. billion available to the Executive Office of year 2002. A breakdown of individual Many of the services described above the President. These funds are appropriated accounts shows the following funding are provided to HPC and their clients, to the president to cover the costs of levels; medical care, $21.3 billion; medical which generate enough revenue to offset providing federal, state and local prepared- and prosthetic research, $371 million; more than 40 percent of the IT operating ness for responding to the attacks; general operating expenses, $1.2 billion; expenses. providing support to counter, investigate National Cemetery Administration, $121
2002 National Convention Ell The American Legion 20D2 Annual Report
million, major construction, $183 million; concurrent receipt in fiscal year 2003. The connected disabled veterans older than 65 minor construction, $2 1 1 million; state amendment would also phase-in concur- to receive treatment in a VA facility, and extended-care facilities construction rent receipt in a manner similar to the then have VA bill Medicare for reimburse- grants, $100 million; and state veterans House, but the Senate plan calls for a ment. This would allow VA to stretch its cemetery construction grants, $25 million. 10-year phase-in, as opposed to the funding further and continue treating
On |an. 10, the president signed PL 107- House's five years. The American Legion more veterans.
1 17, the fiscal year 2002 Department of is committed to implementation of full Earlier in 2001, Rep. James Saxton,
Defense appropriations bill, which provides concurrent receipt. R-N.J., introduced HR. 1911. Linder the
$3 1 7.4 billion for national defense - an As the 2003 budget process progresses, bill's provisions, the secretaries of Veterans increase of $19.2 billion over the previous Congress continues to seek more money Affairs and Health and Human Services year. The measure includes a 4.6-percent for programs that will experience shortfalls would set up a demonstration project with military pay raise-, $105.1 billion for under the administration's budget proposal. two components. The first is a coordinated- operations, training and maintenance; One of the areas that most concerns The care health plan, in which veterans would
$60.9 billion for weapons procurement; American Legion is the Department of enroll in a program which provides a full and $49 billion for research and develop- Veterans Affairs and the medical care continuum of health care similar to ment. Preliminary discussions between account. The White House-released budget Medicare+Choice. The second component the White House and Congress concerning proposal for VA still leaves VA health care is a fee-for-services plan, in which an fiscal year 2003 DoD spending levels have far short of the bare-minimum funds enrolled veteran could essentially use VA been contentious. This area will be one of needed for the departrrient to fulfill its only when he or she wished. Up to 10 sites continuing controversies in the coming mandate to America’s veterans. would be selected for this demonstration months. Also contained in the House budget project. At least two sites would be
Since the beginning of the second resolution is $56.9 billion for the VA required in rural areas, one hosting a session, members of the 107th Congress budget, a $5.9 billion increase over fiscal coordinated care health plan and the have taken steps to address the issue of year 2002 funding. The House-approved other a fee-for-service plan. concurrent receipt. Nearly 500,000 disabled budget would provide veterans’ health care On April 23, two bills were introduced military retirees have their military retired with $23.9 billion in funding for fiscal year in the Senate that also address Medicare pay offset dollar-for-dollar by VA disability 2003, which is $2.8 billion more than subvention. The first measure - S. 2232 - compensation. recommended by the White House, or a was introduced by Sen. Mark Dayton,
On March 21, Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., 12-percent increase over the current year. D-Minn. This bill would establish a introduced S. 2051, an updated version of The Senate committee-passed resolution program to provide for Medicare reim- a previous bill he introduced in 2001. supports a VA funding level of $56.2 billion, bursement for health care provided to
Linder of S. a $5.2 billion fiscal certain Medicare-eligible veterans in the provisions 2051 , language increase over year 2002 VA contained in Public Law 107-107 -the FY appropriations. This would support a facilities. The other bill - S. 2233 - was
2002 National Defense Authorization - health-care funding increase of $2.6 billion introduced by Sen. Craig Thomas, R-Wyo. requiring that qualifying offsetting above current year amounts and $1.2 This measure would establish a three-year legislation be enacted before concurrent billion more than proposed by the Medicare subvention demonstration receipt can be enacted will be removed. administration. project at 10 VA facilities.
Also, S. 2051 would repeal a special To cover the cost of adding more As we look ahead, congressional compensation program for certain severely veterans to the VA health-care enrollment, elections will occur in November, with disabled military retirees. the administration proposed a $1,500 one-third of the Senate and the entire
The House passed its budget resolution, deductible for veterans in VA's Priority House of Representatives running for
H. Con. Res. 353, on March 20 by a vote of Group 7. Both the Senate Budget panel office. Congressional Republicans will try
221-209. The House allots an additional and the full House rejected a provision to keep their razor-thin majority in the
$5.8 billion over the next five years to allow contained in the president's budget House and hope to recapture the Senate. a gradual phase-in of concurrent receipt to outlining this proposal. The American When the 108th Congress convenes in help veterans with a VA disability rating of Legion adamantly opposes the $1,500 lanuary, The American Legion will focus
60 percent or greater. The Senate Budget deductible for Priority Group 7 veterans. its attention on fiscal year 2003 VA and
Committee reported its companion One of The American Legion’s goals for DoD funding, enactment of Medicare measure, Sen. Con. Res. 100, to the full improving the VA medical system is subvention, legislation to allow full con-
Senate on March 22 by a vote of 12-1 0. enactment of Medicare subvention. More current receipt of both military retired
During floor debate on S. Con. Res. 100, than 38 percent of all veterans — and 50 pay and VA disability compensation by
Sen. Reid will introduce an amendment percent of Priority Group 7 veterans — are service-connected military retirees, and that will add an additional $516 million to eligible for Medicare. Implementation of the constitutional amendment to protect the Senate budget document to address Medicare subvention would allow service- the American flag from physical desecration.
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
NATIONAL SECURITY He also fielded a variety of questions from transmitted to the National Executive COMMISSION members of both commissions. As the No. 2 Committee for consideration. leader at the Department of State, Armitage oversees many of the day-to-day operations National Security Programs around the globe. Blood Donor Activities. The American Allen L. The second speaker was the Hon. Dov S. Legion and The American Legion Auxiliary Zakheim, undersecretary of the defense continue to be principal sources of supply Chairman (comptroller), the Pentagon's Chief Financial for blood. Through our vast network of Officer. He gave a highly informative and posts and units organized into department G. Michael detailed account of the department's programs, Legionnaires and Auxiliary Schlee spending and resource needs and detailed members continue to supply the blood needs of their own members and hospitalized Director proposed increases for fiscal year 2003. He answered questions concerning the $250 veterans, and under cooperative agree- billion budget of the Defense Department. ments, to patients in civilian hospitals.
ational Security has been one National Commander's Awards. To POW/MIA Update. On the afternoon of of the four major pillars of The stimulate activities on the part of depart- March 1 1, both commissions joined with N American Legion since its ments and posts, annual awards are given the Special POW/MIA Committee for an beginnings in 1919. The attacks on America by the National Commander. Between update, lerry lennings, deputy assistant 1 on Sept. 1 , coupled with the worldwide |une 1, 2000, and May 31, 2001, many secretary of defense and director of the war on terrorism, have spotlighted the departments actively participated in the Defense Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel need for strong, vibrant and flexible Blood Donor Program. Office began the afternoon session military power. The homeland security (DPMO), The criteria for the National Commander's with a restatement of the administration’s initiatives again demonstrate that national Awards for Post and Individual participation policies on achieving the fullest possible security is every citizen's responsibility. were based on Resolution 14, adopted at accounting, also interest- During the past year, The American Legion, lennings gave an the 1985 Spring Meetings of the National ing historical presentation on the accounting through its National Security Commission Executive Committee. The resolution for those missing since the founding of and its supporting division, has presented directs that departments be placed in one the nation. its positions and policies on this nation's of six groups based on the size of the defense needs to Congress, the executive Ann Mills Griffith, executive director of department, using standards established branch and to the American public. In the National League of Families of American by the Membership & Post Activities numerous testimonies to Congress, as Prisoners Missing in Southeast Asia, gave Committee. The winning departments well as press releases, articles and other the group updates on developments in announced at the 83rd National Convention outreach activities, we have stressed that Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Past National were Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, our national defense must be the best in Commander and Special POW/MIA Minnesota, Tennessee and Wisconsin. the world. Committee Chairman Bob Turner chaired the update session. ROTC Programs. The departments are Commission Meetings doing an excellent job of encouraging Three meetings of the commission have Business Session. The National Security posts to participate in The American been conducted since the conclusion of Commission met in a business session Legion's ROTC Medals Program. Between the 83rd National Convention. The com- March 1 3. The commission heard remarks July 1, 2001 and |une 30, 2002, nearly mission met in conjunction with the from The American Legion Auxiliary Security 10,000 medals were awarded to deserving National Executive Committee meetings in Chairman JoAnn Cronin. They also reviewed senior and junior ROTC cadets. October 2001 and May 2002 in plans for the 84th National Convention Presentations of medals were made to Indianapolis. The most extensive session in Charlotte, N.C., including a proposed ROTC units in most of the 50 states, the for the commission was conducted at the pre-convention trip to Fort Bragg. District of Columbia and in overseas Washington Conference March 11-13. Law and Order Committee Chairman departments. Highlights of this meeting follow: George Wehrli reported on the initial
Joint 1 the for Officer Session: On March 1 , commis- judging the National Law of the Paul H. Griffith ROTC Trophy. At its sion met jointly with the Foreign Relations Year, which took place March 12. The staff October 1975 meeting, the National Commission to hear several speakers of provided updates on military funeral honors Executive Committee established the Paul
mutual interest. The Hon. Richard L. and testimony before the House Armed H. Griffith Trophy for the ROTC Program. Armitage, deputy secretary of state, gave Services Committee. Two resolutions were The trophy honors the memory of Past
an address on the department’s role in the discussed and recommended for adoption. National Commander Paul H. Griffith, who war on terrorism as well as a masterful One dealt with a firefighters' award program, served as assistant secretary of defense presentation on six trends which will affect and the second was an updated defense and throughout his lifetime maintained an
U S foreign policy in the decades ahead. policy resolution. Both will be properly active interest in our nation’s defense.
2002 National Convention I The American Legion 2D02 Annual Report
The criterion for judging the winner of PUBLIC RELATIONS public the need to support American forces. the trophy is based on the department or COMMISSION National information campaigns provided departments giving the greatest degree media coverage of the reactivation of the of support to ROTC units, including the Family Support Network and the toll-free number of medals presented and Legion (800) 504-4098 number. National media Robert L. participation in award-day ceremonies. Morrill releases called on American businesses The winners announced at the 83rd National (N.Y.) and industry to join the Legion in provid- Convention were the departments of Chairman ing pay offsets to National Guard and
Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, Reserve personnel called up for Operation Joseph H. New York, Rhode Island, Tennessee and March Enduring Freedom and Operation Noble Vermont. This speaks well for these (Md.) Eagle. The Blue Star Service Banner and departments and The American Legion Director Blue Star Corporate Flag campaigns in their recognition of the youth of continue to flourish as they promote the
America enrolled in ROTC and lunior "honorable nature of military service," family
ROTC programs. he Public Relations Commission pride and national unity in support of our communicates the organizational troops. The commission also produced National Law Enforcement Officer of T image, goals, programs and legisla- videos about membership enhancement, the Year Award. This prestigious award tive positions of The American Legion to public relations, and National Leadership will be presented for the sixth consecutive national, regional and specialized media, and Information Conferences. year at the 84th National Convention. corporate America and the public. It recognizes law-enforcement officers Proactive marketing of news releases, PR Tools who have selflessly distinguished them- editorials and electronic media products The Public Relations Commission selves over and above their normal duties, are distributed using modern public- developed and distributed a vast array primarily through community service and relations strategies and technologies. of free public-service media materials, including slicks, news releases, editori- professional achievement. Nineteen Following the horrific attacks on America ad departments submitted candidates for als, fact sheets, and radio and television Sept. 1 1, American Legion public-relations spots directly to departments, districts the 2002 award. efforts focused on communicating to the and posts. Many media products were
made available for downloading from The American Legion Web site at Congratulations www.legion.org. A complete Blue Star Service Banner media package — including
on your a marketing booklet, radio and TV spots,
copy, CDs and ad slicks — enabled posts
to blanket print and electronic media in their communities. Extensive coverage of posts presenting banners to neighborhood families was highly positive for men and
84th in serving in women uniform who are Operation Enduring Freedom, recognizing National the sacrifices of their families and the work of Legionnaires. News releases, editorials and suggested Convention speeches for holidays are available for downloading from the Web site. Newspapers and Legion editors continue to use this service. The Veterans Media Data Bank continues to be a resource for news media.
Legionnaires interested in taking part in Keystone Uniform Cap this program can call the Public Relations Division or register on The American Div. M. H. Grossman Legion Web site. Manufacturers of Quality Uniform Headwear 801 N. Front Street Media Relations Philadelphia, PA 19123 The Public Relations Commission staff continued to work with major news media
The American Legion The American Legion 2002 Annual Report
outlets in the nation's capital and across who come to the United States looking for Office to assistance at the VA Board of the country, positioning The American success, money and the American dream. Appeals and the Military Discharge Review
Legion as an advocate for veterans and The newspaper found and documented Boards. A Persian Gulf Task Force is for a strong national defense. how rules are ignored and broken to bring dedicated to addressing the concerns and
Such efforts resulted in national coverage these players to America's high schools issues of Gulf War veterans, and a National of The American Legion's position on a and universities. The reporting directly Field Service reviews and assesses VA variety of issues, including compensation resulted in state and national government health-care operations. VA&R staff also for Gulf War veterans suffering from Lou agencies, as well as private education and cover insurance activities in Philadelphia
Gehrig's disease, chiropractic care in VA athletic organizations, taking quick and and the debt collection process in St Paul, hospitals, concurrent receipt, the shortage decisive action to ensure rules are followed Minn. In addition, throughout the country of national cemetery space, burial require- and that those who violate them are hundreds of department, state, county and ments at Arlington National Cemetery, punished. post service officers work in support of the administration's fiscal 2003 VA budget, veterans needing assistance. pay offsets for activated Guard and Reserve The Future VA&R is committed to "service first." troops, the Blue Star Service Banner, Family The National Public Relations During the past year, the VA&R Commission
Support Network, the Sept. 1 1 American Commission continues to explore and has worked diligently to implement an Legion Memorial Scholarship and a flag- engage the communication potential of extensive portfolio of resolutions directed protection constitutional amendment. emerging technologies. In so doing, The by an effort to protect, preserve and The Media Relations Office worked with American Legion will continue to be the improve veterans' benefits and programs.
National Commander Richard |. Santos on pre-eminent voice of and for the American This is accomplished through legislative the development of editorials picked up by veteran in our nation. channels by working with Congress in newspapers across the country on concur- tandem with The American Legion's rent receipt, a strong national defense and Legislative Division, and by maintaining the honorable nature of military service. VETERANS AFFAIRS liaison with the White House and the
Letters to the editor by the National & REHABILITATION Department of Veterans Affairs.
Commander concerning VA health care COMMISSION VA&R staff members have testified and military overseas absentee ballot on numerous occasions before congres- reform were published in The New York Times sional committees on behalf of veterans and Washington Times. Thomas P. concerning issues such as the VA budget, The National Commander participated in Cadmus co-payments for medical care and national radio interviews with the USA Radio (Mich.) improvement of the Montgomery Gl Bill. Network and twice with Radio America as Chairman Testimony also has been offered regarding a result of the staff's ongoing relationship Carol extension of Persian Gulf War veterans' national media outlets. with those Rutherford eligibility, cost-of-living adjustments in (Md.) the monthly rates of compensation and Awards Director dependency and indemnity compensation, The National Commander's Public as well as provisions that would expand Relations Award was presented to NASCAR the scope of the review of the U.S. Court for broadcasting during each of its telecasts, he American Legion's Veterans of Appeals for Veterans Claims. the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission VA&R has been particularly concerned and a salute to the men and women of the T is one of the cornerstones on which about the ever-growing claims backlog, U.S. armed forces. NASCAR earned a place The American Legion was built. Care of which reached an all-time high of more in The American Legion's winner circle World War I disabled veterans was a prime than 650,000 claims. not only for commemorating part of the objective of The American Legion when A VA Claims Processing Task Force was
unique heritage that binds us together the first National Convention convened established to recommend specific actions as Americans but for doing so free of in 1919. that the secretary could initiate within his commercial interruption. The VA&R Commission provides advocacy own authority without legislative or judicial
The American Legion Fourth Estate in support of veterans' benefits and health- relief to reduce the current veterans’ claims
Award will be presented during the 84th care programs, the National Cemetery backlog and make claims-processing more
National Convention to the Dayton Daily Administration and various other issues. efficient. The report was released in
News of Dayton, Ohio for its two-part series The daily activities of the VA&R division October 2001 . Many of the short-term
"The Foreign Game." staff are dedicated to providing the best recommendations have been implemented. The series uncovered exploitation of possible services to veterans, their widows VA&R staff have been reviewing the quality
young foreign athletes - mostly those from and their dependents. This ranges from of claims processing as these adjustments
Eastern Europe, Africa and the Balkans - claims services at the Washington Regional take effect.
2002 National Convention The American Legion 2DQ2 Annual Report
The establishment of the Tiger Team was VA to maintain quality health care and to such as Medicare reimbursement and another major initiative by the secretary ensure full utilization of VA health-care opening access for eligible dependents of to help overhaul the claims-processing facilities throughout the system. This year, enrolled veterans. system. This team has been in operation for the first time since eligibility reform, This year, staff participated in a site for nearly 18 months. The unit is based at the secretary considered limiting health visit to the Indian Health Service to look the Cleveland VA Regional Office to work care to Priority 7 veterans (those above at its experience in managing Medicare on the claims of veterans age 70 or older the "Means Test” threshold). Another reimbursement. This visit was highly for year. with a claim pending more than a consideration has been the ill-fated $1,500 successful and provided a blueprint in fairly in for Priority 7 veterans. The team has been successful "deductible” VA has support of The American Legion's efforts handling these claims expeditiously. been challenged in meeting the burgeon- to grant VA legislative authority to bill and The Veterans Claims Assistance Act ing request of new enrollees. The American collect from Medicare. (VCAA) of 2000, signed into law Nov. 9, Legion has argued that VA should seek VA health care has undergone extensive 2000, changed dramatically what the VA alternative sources of revenue rather than reorganization during the past five to seven must do to assist a claimant while a claim disincentives to discourage veterans from years. VA has gone from a hospital-based is pending before a VA regional office or seeking treatment at VA facilities. system to primarily an outpatient system. the Board of Veterans' Appeals. VA&R The Gl Bill of Health — The American New technology, improved treatments and actively monitors the progress of VCAA Legion's blueprint for VA health care — extensive academic affiliations, combined through the Quality Review program. After remains a major mandate of the VA&R with more veterans seeking VA health care, nearly 18 months, VA still struggles with Commission. VA&R has been very effective have resulted in a restructuring of assets the implementation of this act. in ensuring that provisions of the GIBOH and other resources. Health-care adminis- VA&R is a key player in monitoring VA have been accomplished. During the past tration and delivery at VA has become health-care delivery as well as the develop- several years, major components of the more complex. ment of strategies for meeting current and plan, including expanded access to care, VA's Capital Asset Realignment for future veterans’ health-care needs. For expanding access points, enrollment and Enhanced Services (CARES) is an initiative fiscal year 2003, The American Legion has establishing a defined health-benefit designed to assess veterans' health-care called for a VA medical care budget of package, have been realized. Efforts are needs, now and in the future, in each of $21.3 billion. This increase is needed for now focused on the remaining elements, the 21 Veterans Integrated Services
Networks. The process will identify service
delivery options to meet those needs and
promote realignment of capital assets —
hospitals, clinics, etc. — linked to those
needs. The CARES process is intended to
ensure VA health-care services are provided
in the most accessible and cost-effective
manner. VA&R monitored this process from the beginning and ensured stake-
holder input every step of the way. As
the next phase of CARES unfolds, VA&R
will be actively involved in coordinating
Legion involvement at the local, V1SN and
national level.
Finally, volunteers are often the backbone
Assurance More than 40,000 companies, corporations, of the services at VA health-care facilities. organizations and individuals look to to Consulting BKO Veterans have many opportunities, in the Technology provide them with solutions for success. Find changing environment of VA health care, Corporate Finance out how the united strength of Olive and Investment and to contribute via the VA Voluntary Service. Baird, Kurtz & Dobson can be a solution Financial Planning Volunteering is an expression of our for you. BKO, making tomorrow Outsourcing better than today. commitment to "mutual helpfulness." Tax The VA&R Commission has recommitted
its efforts to support and sustain The
American Legion's efforts in voluntary
services.
The American Legion Independent Accountants’ Report | dsn
Mr. Richard ). Santos, National Commander and Members of the National Finance Commission The American Legion National Headquarters Indianapolis, Indiana
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of The American Legion
National Headquarters and its wholly owned subsidiary (collectively, the Legion) as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related consolidated statements of activities and cash flows for the years then ended. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Legion's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
did not audit the 31 2001 and 2000 financial statements of Haynes and Partners We December , Communications, Inc. (HPC), a wholly owned subsidiary, which statements reflect total assets of respectively, total of $1 ,671 ,958 and $1 ,328,455 as of December 31 , 2001 and 2000, and revenues $6,684,821 and $5,468,061 for the years then ended. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report
has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for HPC as of
for is solely of December 31 , 2001 and 2000, and the years then ended, based on the report the other auditors.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of our auditors, the consolidated financial statements
referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The American Legion National Headquarters as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the changes in their net assets and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The accompanying supplementary information is presented for purposes of additional analysis and is not a required part of the basic consolidated financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audits of the basic consolidated financial statements and, in our
opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.
March 27, 2002
2002 National Convention m\ — —
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CO The O£ 2002 National Convention || American Legion endowment Fund Foreseeing the necessity of a recurring income source for funding its war veterans rehabilitation and child welfare programs, The American Legion conducted a national campaign in 1925 which raised approximately $5 million for this purpose. The funds contributed were entrusted to the custody of the American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation. The Corporation was incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware in 1925 and a trust agreement between The American Legion and the Corporation was signed. Funds are administered by the Corporation in accordance with the trust agreement and annual net investment income is paid to The American Legion for use in the aforementioned programs. The results of operations and financial condition of the American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation for each of the last five years is summarized below (taken from the annual audit report prepared by BKD LLP, Indianapolis, Indiana). December 31 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 $7,927,268 Total assets (1) $8,149,465 $7,920,880 $7,596,793 $8,035,988 Investments (1) $8,011,345 $7,773,049 $7,459,097 $7,918,724 $7,823,846 Interest income $499,833 $511,306 $489,427 $503,588 $519,819 Contributions (4) 37,885 79,857 26,167 27,964 (744,754) Net realized gains (losses) 62,712 (33,723) (1,371) 5,596 9,739 Net unrealized gains (losses) 115,842 282,086 (439,448) 133,672 39,724 Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation and Children and Youth Programs of The American Legion National (487,152) Headquarters (2) (482,923) (509,535) (435,859) (459,669) Other expenses (32,370) (43,837) (53,568) (53,252) (32,667) Change in net assets $200,979 $286,154 ($414,652) $157,899 ($695,291) Funds transferred to $502,072 The American Legion (3) $529,735 $429,535 $455,814 $508,886 Average yield on value of investments at market 7.13% 6.27% 6.35% 6.47% 6.77% of Financial (1) Investments are included at fair value in accordance with Statement Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 124. (2) Accrual basis (3) Cash basis receivable of $759,000. (4) 1997 amount includes adjustments to write off contribution The American Legion 1 Explore St. Louis at The American Leg National Convention August 22 - 28, 2003 ND1 SUDDENLY THE TABLE STARTS A SPEAKING IN YUMS. with more than a thousand one-of-a-kind restaurants, there’s no end to the incredible dining St. Louis has to explore. Like a night on The Hill, South Grand, Clayton or the Central West End. And with all there is to do come sundown, you'll call for the check long before you call it a night. Explore St Louis www.explorestlouis.com • 800-888-FUN There’s More than Meets the Arch.® MARINES Platinum VtW'vl GQOO 2000 7HBU 05/02 KARI R. CARD PREFERRED The card you can stand behind. Show your support for your Branch and The American Legion. First National Bank Omaha is the preferred bank for The American Legion. 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