The Veterans’ Home System, and a Tiered "Follow Us" Ence in State Procurement Contracts

The Minnesota American Legion and Auxiliary

LegionnaireVolume 96, Number 2 For God and Country February 2014 It should be a quiet year for vets issues in the legislature, maybe This should not be a big legislative year for veterans, and funding for Phase III, which will include tearing down the bed facility. Phase I of the project was completed last year that may be a good thing. south half of Building 17 and constructing a 100-bed skilled with the construction of Building 19, also a 100-bed nurs- “We asked for a lot last year, and we received it,” said nursing facility to replace it. ing home. Mike McElhiney, director of the legislative office at the The $36 million that is needed from the federal govern- In the end, three state-of-the-art facilities will be built Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. “We’re still ment now stands 21st on the list of government projects that with 300 beds replacing 291 substandard beds on the cam- happy that the governor and the Legislature were so sup- are eligible for $80 million the government has set aside for pus. portive of us this past year.” veterans home projects. For this year, there are only four legislative priorities that This will be a shorter session, but will include a bonding “If we don’t get the money this year, we’ll be positioned have been approved by the Commander’s Task Force, a bill which is expected to be quite substantial. The MDVA, well to get it next year,” McElhiney said. “Because of the coalition of veterans service organizations that includes The however, will only be asking for money to keep the state’s timing of the projects, we don’t actually need the money for American Legion. veterans homes in good shape. another 18 months. We should be number one or number All four will affect a portion of veterans. “None of our Last year, in an 11th hour decision, the Legislature two on next year’s list.” priorities will have sweeping implications for all veterans,” approved $18 million for Phase III of the plan to basically In the meantime, Phase II of the project is moving ahead, McElhiney said. rebuild most of the Minnesota Veterans Home at and the north end of Building 17 is scheduled for demoli- The four include: Minneapolis. That money will cover the state’s share of the tion in February. That phase will also result in a new 100- Continued on Page 2 ‘They do pretty well by us old folks’ New adult day center at Minneapolis vets home campus good for veterans, families By Al Zdon Ed Dzielsky, a veteran of three wars, says he really likes the new adult day center at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Minneapolis. “It’s outstanding. It’s a good place to rest, and a good place to get exercise. And the food is outstanding. That guy can really cook.” Dzielsky was a chief warrant officer in the Navy, serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. “I was a gunner’s mate. Big guns, little guns, you name it. I served on sub- marines, destroyers, cruisers and battleships. The 16-inch gun on the battleship was the biggest gun I ran.” Dzielsky has been a daily client of the center. “The people here are so nice. They treat us so well.” Dzielsky laughed. “And if you fall down, they pick you up. “They do pretty well by us old folks.” Dzielsky was immediately challenged by one of the other players at the domino table. “What do you mean old guys?” Bill Hamilton, younger veteran, said indignantly. “Well, I’m pushing 90,” said Dzielsky.

Dzielsky was one of 18 clients at the center on a day in January. The center has been open since 2012 and is licensed to serve 35 veterans a day. Ann Rostratter, director of the center, said the program was created with two main goals, to help veterans and to help their families and caregivers. DOMINOS ANYONE? Ed Dzielsky and and Bill Hamilton get ready for a competitive game of dominos at the “We want to keep these guys in their homes. It’s cost Adult Day Center at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Minneapolis. The center opened last year. Dzielsky, who Continued on Page 7 served as a gunner on Navy ships in three wars, said he enjoys coming to the center every day. In this A tough Irish issue: kid from St. u What’s Paul found a Happening, Page 5 home in the u The 82nd Airborne Eastern Front Page 13 u Pages 8-10 Auxiliary news, reports Pages 14-15 Page 2 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 New Legion mobile app

nowA new American availableLegion mobile app offers several rea- sons to join the nation’s largest veterans service organization, along with a direct route to join, renew, donate or find a local post from any smartphone or electronic tablet. The app is now available through iTunes and the Google Play Store. Download the app here.

The American Legion app is the fourth in a series of mobile platforms developed by National Media & Communications Division, which also produced The American Legion Claims Coach app for veterans filing benefits claims, as well as annual apps to promote and provide information about the national convention.

The new app, introduced to market last week, includes the following channels:

"About Us"

- Our Mission: The Legion’s role in advocacy, troop support, youth programs and Americanism is stated in simple terms. - How We Help: A brief explanation of the ways in which The American Legion fulfills its mission to assist veterans, military personnel, families and communities. - Member Benefits: A listing of membership benefits, from discounts on hotels and prescription drugs to a one- year subscription to The American Legion Magazine. - Find a Post: Search either by ZIP code or by simply allowing your phone to find your current location. American Legion post addresses, maps and directions are PARTS OF THE PIE -- Charts from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs show three breakdowns of presented, as well as phone numbers and websites. Minnesota veterans, by age, by war era and by sex. Such charts are used by the MDVA to plan veterans serv- - Join: The app provides easy access to The American ices and to inform the Legislature. Legion’s online membership application platform and the ability join or renew using a credit card. Legislative session approaches "Donate" Continued from Page 1 He said there may be legislation forthcoming from the - The app offers easy access to The American Legion -- An initiative that will streamline the Veteran-Owned Legislature in response to a recent report delivered by the Charities mobile giving page and the ability to make fast, Small Business certification by developing a state-level House Select Committee on Veterans Housing. The report secure, tax-deductible donations. process. At the present time, small businesses must certify had several recommendations including the decentraliza- with the federal government in order to be given a prefer- tion of oversight in the veterans’ home system, and a tiered "Follow Us" ence in state procurement contracts. Other groups, such as system of allowing veterans into the homes that would give minorities or women who get state preference, only have to veterans with disabilities top priority. - There is no faster, easier way to access American be verified at the state level, putting veterans at a disadvan- Commissioner of the MDVA Larry Shellito called the Legion Facebook and Twitter pages than through the new tage. report “anchored in state history, steeped in innuendoes, app. Under "Follow Us," you can keep up with the latest -- A change in the law that will allow all 100 percent per- short on substance regarding recommended costs, and long news and information and jump into the social media con- manently disabled veterans in the state to qualify for a on assumptions.” versation. reduction in the cost of vehicle registration. At the present Still, it is apparent that Rep. Jerry Newton, DFL-Coon time only 100 percent service-connected disabled veterans Rapids, the chair of the select committee, is determined to "Images" who access certain federal benefits can get the reduction. press ahead with legislative initiative related to the report. -- A bill that would exempt military pension payments McElhiney said the Department of Veterans Affairs has - A variety of photos and videos housed on the organiza- from state tax. Only seven states in the nation still charge been implementing the changes that were created following tion’s YouTube channel flow into the app. tax on retired military pensions. It is thought that many the problems at the Minneapolis Home, and he said he retiring military choose to live elsewhere because of hoped new legislation wouldn’t hamper the good that has "Renew" Minnesota’s tax laws. been accomplished. -- A change in a statute that would allow more widows Since the federal and state investigations of the - Anyone with a current membership number can easily or widowers of veterans to continue to receive the Minneapolis home, the veterans’ homes have been turned renew with a credit or debit card. Homestead Tax Exemption. At the present time, the veteran over to the MDVA for oversight. Major policy changes must have applied for and received this benefit for their sur- were implemented. "Contact Us" viving spouse to continue to receive it after their death. The “We’re saying that the momentum has been created, that new law would allow surviving spouses to continue the we’re going down the right path and don’t mess with that,” - All three American Legion National Headquarters loca- benefit even if they didn’t know about it, or apply for it, McElhiney said. tions – Indianapolis, the Geiger Operations Center and 1608 while the veteran was alive. The session will begin Feb. 25. Committee meetings are K Street in Washington – are listed and mapped with con- Compared to recent years, the veterans’ requests are not already being held. tact phone numbers and website links. far reaching, but McElhiney said they are important. Legion leader incensed by threat to military commissaries American Legion National Commander Daniel M. and in rural areas stateside. non-pay compensation package… Any effort to reduce or Dellinger is incensed by a threat to the survival of military "Commissaries are extremely important to young mili- dismantle the integrity of the military commissary system commissaries – the U.S. military’s grocery stores. The tary families who are just trying to make ends meet," would be seen as a serious breach of faith with a benefit Department of Defense reportedly is discussing a $1 billion Dellinger said. "By using commissaries, financially chal- system that currently serves as a mainstay for the active and cut over the next three years to the Defense Commissary lenged military families can save an average of more than reserve components, military retirees and military sur- Agency (DeCA) budget. As a consequence, all but a hand- 30 percent on their purchases compared with commercial vivors, military personnel involuntarily discharged or ful of servicemembers’ and military retirees’ grocery stores supermarkets. released from active duty, and 100 percent service connect- could be closed. "This important benefit helps compensate for the signif- ed disabled veterans and others." "This is yet another undeserved blow to our men and icant difference between military pay and comparable civil- women in service – and their families – in the name of ‘nec- ian salaries. In addition to improving the quality of life for Dellinger encouraged DoD to reconsider the proposal, essary cutbacks’ to reduce an ungainly national deficit," the troops and their families, commissary privileges help saying, "The costs in both fiscal and human terms would be Dellinger said. "Like the trimming of expenses to be made recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to far higher than the temporary savings realized. It’s a bad by reducing military retirees’ pensions, this is an inexcus- serve our country." idea, plain and simple." able way of attempting to fix a fault by penalizing the The American Legion leader’s comments echo the points blameless." made in a resolution adopted by Legion leadership in 2012, The DeCA currently operates nearly 250 stores world- which stated, "The value of commissaries in the quality of wide with a $1.4 billion annual budget. With the proposed life equation for junior enlisted families and military budget cut to $400 million annually by fiscal 2017, all but retirees and others is indisputable. Military commissary 24 stores would close. Those remaining would be overseas usage has ranked second only to medical health care in the February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 3 Nearly $50,000 raised in Endorsements annual Pheasant Dinner Anderson endorsed in Third There was a total of 31 donations of 50 or more Elysian Post 311 has activities. He has been a Vice Commander for the pheasants in 2013. Donations that came in after endorsed Duane Anderson member of Post 311 for the Third District for two years. December 1 that were not listed in the January 2014 for the position of District past 35 years. Anderson lives on Lake issue of the Legionnaire were received from the fol- Commander for the 2014- Anderson served in the Frances by Elysian with his lowing: 2015 year. US Air Force as a hydraulic wife Jane. They have three Blue Earth 437 He is currently serving technician and received a daughters and seven grand- Mankato 126 as Post 311 Adjutant and as medical retirement in 1969. children. Adams 123 the Third District He has since worked as a He is a PUFL of The Austin 106 Membership Director. He technical school instructor, American Legion and a life St. Louis Park 100 is also active in the Post 311 farmer and business owner, member of the DAV. Kimball 71 Honor Guard and other post retiring in 2010. He was a Bricelyn 63 DUANE ANDERSON Blue Earth’s donation amount places them in second place in the state on the total list of donations. Other donations of 50 or under were from: Ashby, Brandon, Barrett, Cold Spring, Coon New, simplified PUFL program explained Rapids, Delavan, Hendrum, Kenyon, Lake Wilson, Question: What is a Paid Up For Life Membership? a permanent plastic card identifying you as a lifetime mem- Lamberton, Long Prairie, Madelia, Mound, Russell, ber. You’ll also receive an annual American Legion mem- Silver Lake, Sioux Valley, and Wabasha. Answer: Paid Up For Life membership is a lifelong bership card each year. A new auxiliary donation is from the Savage unit. membership plan of The American Legion. It ensures you There were 258 donations from throughout the state receive all the benefits of Legion membership for life. Question: Am I eligible? contributing $49,939.58 (This included the legions Lifetime membership is paid either in one payment giving share of cost of pheasants). This amount is $2,135.28 you an immediate savings offer – or charged to your credit Answer: Anyone who is currently an American Legion less than last year’s amount. The money above the card in 12 equal monthly payments. Once you fulfill your member or who is eligible for membership may become a cost of the pheasants is $40,457.26 which was placed membership dues, you’ll never pay another dime in Paid Up For Life member. with the department in the American Legion American Legion membership dues. Hospitalized Veterans Pheasant Dinners Dedicated Question: Why does Paid Up For Life seem to cost fund. Question: How is my cost calculated? more than other organizations’ "life" memberships? “If your Post, Unit, Squadron or Voiture has not acted on participating in the program yet, please do so Answer: Starting on Jan. 1, 2014, The American Legion Answer: National Headquarters maintains a special Paid as soon as you can so that you can be listed with all of rolled out a new, simplified procedure and cost calculation Up For Life Membership trust. Money from this trust can the others who have already donated and be eligible to formula. only be used to pay annual dues to your post, department receive a pheasant pin at the Department Convention and national headquarters. Each year the trust pays annual being held in July. This will also let the Hospitalized Previous PUFL forms (printed in 2009) are still accept- dues amounts to your post, department and national organ- Veterans know that we of The American Legion care,” ed if submitted; however most will find the new cost struc- ization. said Chuck Stone, chairman of the Pheasant Dinner ture and incentives to be a better value. program. Though we can’t speak with authority on how other Age is the primary component used in the new pricing organizations set up their "life" memberships, they may not structure. In most cases, post dues are NOT a factor in the pay annual dues to the local, state and national organiza- calculation. tions, resulting in a different cost structure. Attention Veterans! This is your northern Minnesota resort. Barrier-free The cost is specifically calculated for you. Go to Question: What if I want to transfer to another post? and open 12 months a year. www.legion.org/join/PUFL to get your personalized Paid Gateway to the BWCA. Up For Life offer. Answer: You may transfer your Paid Up For Life mem- 800-777-7538 bership to another participating post. email: [email protected] www.veteransonthelakeresort.com Question: What if my post’s dues increase? All cabins have a lake view. Question: How do I become a Paid Up For Life mem- Answer: Being a Paid Up For Life member will protect ber? you from any future dues increases at the post, department or national levels. That alone can save hundreds of dollars Answer: It’s easy. Just go to www.legion.org/join/PUFL over the lifetime of your membership. and enter your name and member ID. You can either choose to pay by credit card or print out the personalized form and RESORT FOR DISABLED VETERANS, Question: What about my subscription to The mail it in with your check. ACTIVE DUTY AND ABLE BODIED VETERANS, DISABLED GENERAL American Legion Magazine and other member bene- PUBLIC AND FAMILIES. fits? Question: What if I still have questions?

Answer: As a Paid Up For Life member, you’ll have a Answer: Call our customer service phone number: (800) life-time subscription, plus, you’ll receive all active bene- 433-3318 (Monday – Friday). fits of American Legion membership for life. And once your lifetime membership dues are fulfilled, you’ll receive Legion: VA has problems At a Jan. 15 congressional hearing, The American Legion testified on the Department of Veterans Affairs tracking system for surgical implants. The Legion also addressed VA’s practice of allowing vendors into its operat- ing rooms, and the Veterans Health Administration’s (VHA) habit of circumventing the Federal Supply Schedule. The Legion’s testimony was presented by its assistant director for health care, Roscoe Butler, before the House Veterans’ Affairs subcommittee on oversight and investigations. “There are several problems with VHA policies and implementation of implant medicine healthcare,” Butler told the subcommittee. “Most of these problems could be Dr. Robert fixed with clear written directions from (VA) Central Shelton, D.C. Office, and better oversight and consequences to enforce compliance.” The American Legion believes that VA still has a problem tracking surgical implants, and until it is fixed veterans remain at risk. An audit made by VA’s Office of Inspector general two years ago identified expired surgical devices on VA supply shelves. The Government Accountability Office has also indicated that VA has an inaccurate tracking capa- bility in recording the serial numbers of implant devices. The American Legion is urging Congress to require VA to implement an automated tracking system that (1) initially records the serial number of a surgical implant device when procured and placed into VA’s inventory, (2) records the expiration date and (3) alerts VA staff when the product is near its expiration date. The Legion wants VA to acceler- ate its timeline for implementing a new Prosthetic Inventory System that includes these components; it also wants VA to verify that no veterans currently have expired surgical implants. Page 4 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 Commander Dellinger will shout it from the highest moun- tain. My Commander’s project, Legionville, continues to Chaplain’s move along, however, we continue to need the help of every COMMANDER’S post and district to make it “battle-ready” when schools Corner COLUMN from around the state send up their students this summer to be trained in school safety, canoeing, and first aid. Please By consider fund raisers, silent auctions, or a jar labeled “Donations for Legionville” in the post home to help us col- Richard Wog By Mike Ash lect funds to make sure the Educational Building (Barn) is ready when the first bus arrives. My heartfelt thanks to all The time has come to write another letter. There are the posts, districts and individuals who have already con- times like today when I look at the blank paper and think, tributed to this most worthy cause – it is truly appreciated “What am I going to say that I haven’t already said?” Then by me, the camp board, and most importantly the students I think about what you have not said that you wish you had. who will bring back some unforgettable memories after a I know I have many times. But then I think about what I week’s stay. have said and wish I could take back. The only thing left to Another revitalization has been planned, this time for the say then is: “I am sorry” and ask for forgiveness. I know at Mid-winters are now history (I vowed to make them all, 5th District. As we go to press, we are working with the times it seems hard to ask for forgiveness, but think about but the weather kicked me to the curb at least once – keep National organization. We have the knowledge, after the the person or people that you are asking. They too have to me informed of what’s happening at your posts and in your first event in the 4th District, to make the effort a success in make a decision to say, “Yes, I forgive.” God never has to districts, so I can drop by and say “Hi”). Now it’s time to every district and any post – however, we are greatly helped think about whether he will forgive you or not, because God really dig in. Membership goals in the past months have by the National organization with a pre-mailing to eligible is always ready to forgive. One just has to ask. Try it, been mowed down like thin blades of grass, but now we’re veterans in the surrounding area about a month prior to because it works and I know you know that is true. about to get into the taller weeds. kick-off. Nationally, our recent membership totals have been The 5th District is looking at February 21-23 at Post 435 2013 is gone and the new year of 2014 is ahead of us. I 15,000 over the previous year totals at the same time. All in Richfield. If you’re interested in conducting a revitaliza- am sure a lot of us have made some New Year’s resolutions. the districts are working hard, and all I’m asking is they tion in your district or at your post, contact the Department Maybe you made a resolution to lose weight, stop smoking, work a little harder – get the phone trees working, visit Membership Director. Now is a great time to think about or stop over-spending and budget better. I know there are a those members who have been hunkered down during the doing it, the beginning of the calendar year is a great fit for lot more resolutions than just those. The question is, “How blustery winter, and let your post and districts know we recruiting new members. is it going so far?” I used to make those types of resolutions continue to fight for veterans rights and need their help. Remember, the secret to membership is retention – you and for some reason or other I did not follow up on them. As we approach our 100th year of existence, we need to gave them a reason to join and you must give them a reason So, I stopped making them. However, I have made one for make sure that every eligible veteran knows how important to remain. Communication – letting all your members this year. If or when we happen to see each other, ask me it is to have a tried and true tested outfit like The American know what’s happening at your post and in your district -- what resolution I’ve made and I’ll share it with you, and Legion on their side and how proud we’d be to have them is the only way members will know what’s happening and how it’s going. It is so easy to say or think, I can skip today among our ranks. Just ask, then just ask again. want to remain members. Discounts are nice, the cama- and start tomorrow. I read a sign that said, “Yesterday is the National Commander Dan Dellinger will be traveling raderie is absolutely necessary, and the results of our pro- past, today is today, tomorrow never comes.” How true is through our state in early February, if you get a chance to grams from Post to National are what will keep us a strong that? Every time I read that sign, and I see it every week, it come out and meet him, please do. He’s a very personable viable organization. makes me think just how true that saying is. Live for today! individual and a strong leader of the world’s largest veter- Remember – keep your information for the Consolidated an’s organization. Whether it’s a government shut-down, a Post Reports updated, so that when they’re called for, we In my last letter I spent some time on the chaplain’s role threat to close all U.S. commissaries, or COLA reductions don’t have to send out a follow-up reminder. Thank you. in the military and how important they are to the soldiers. I for disabled and retired members built-in to the budget – know this to be true just by my time in the service. Non- you will always know where the Legion stands because military people may not understand that, but I’m sure each of you knows what I’m talking about. As the Battalion Command Sergeant Major, one of my duties was to work with the Battalion Chaplain and to help get him to the units if he didn’t have a vehicle. I would notice when we arrived Guest Editorial at the unit how happy the soldiers were to see him. The Why do you belong? after national disasters. A nice feature of charitable giving Chaplain would hold a service wherever and whenever he to The American Legion is that 100% of what you give goes could, no matter the soldiers’ denomination. They would (Editor’s Note: This opinion piece originally to support the named charity. All overhead costs of charity all be together as one. After the service, I felt like a big load appeared in the Apply Valley Post 1776 newsletter.) are absorbed by the Legion. There are no CEO’s in The had been lifted from my shoulders. The Chaplain’s duties American Legion paying themselves hundreds of thousands cover so much more than just holding a service. I really feel By Dave Adamson of dollars taken from the charitable gifts they solicit. our own Post Chaplain does the same. They do more than Recently I was asked at a social event, “Why do you Lastly, the American Legion is where one can share the just say the prayer at our post meetings. I asked Brigade belong to The American Legion?” This person had the camaraderie of veterans—people who served their country General Dean Johnson, ret., how many are in the Chaplain impression that belonging to The American Legion gave in a time of need. So many times I have heard leaders of Core in the National Guard and Reserves. He would know one a place to drink and eat. Well, I enjoyed putting that business, industry and government say, “there is nowhere I as he was in charge of them. I forgot the number, but I’ll person straight. My reply was that The American Legion is would rather be than around veterans.” That is what The tell you next time. I asked, “Why so many?” His answer; not about a place to drink and eat, although we do have a American Legion is all about for me. there are over 180 different denominations in the world club with a bar and great food. The American Legion is an today. organization that is pledged to support veterans for their medical, physical, mental and social needs as well as a large I think of our soldiers serving today and of all the places variety of other activities that support communities all over we have soldiers deployed in the world. I think a lot about Minnesota and the nation. It is also an organization that, those in Iraq and Afghanistan; those who have served and like the founding fathers of our country, believes in God given so much. There are times they must feel alone, but and Country. The philanthropy of The American Legion remember they and you are never alone because your God puts millions of dollars into activities that help young adults is with you. Always. Be safe, good health, for God and to grow into responsible adults through scholarships, country. Legion Baseball, Boys and Girls State, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and a multitude of other youth and community activities. The American Legion also supports child welfare programs and programs to assist and support veterans who have suffered injuries in service to our country. The The Minnesota American Legion is also there to support people in need Official PublicationLegionnaire of and Owned Exclusively by The American Legion, Department of Minnesota Al Zdon, Editor First published in 1920 as the Hennepin County Legionnaire, Mail Call the Minnesota Legionnaire is now in its 94th year of publica- Inspiration Passing the Buck tion. It is published monthly by The American Legion, To the Editor: To the Editor, Department of Minnesota, Room 300A, 20 West 12th Street, Thanks for doing such wonderful work as an editor. The article written in last months Legionnnaire, St. Paul, MN 55155-2000. Periodicals postage is paid at St. The January issue has the best stories of past memories "Minnesota House report gets cold reception" quite simply Paul, MN, and at additional mailing offices. The Legionnaire that are part of my life. is a member of the Minnesota Newspaper Association and should disgust all Veterans. Throughout the article I read the National American Legion Press Association. My first high school coach, Bill Martin, now living in nothing but fingerpointing from those members listed on SUBSCRIPTION: $10 for non-members. Members receive Roseville, has a son that looks just like him, Bill Martin Jr. the Minnesota House committee. From recommendations the Legionnaire as part of their dues. His moments that gave me inspiration were as a mentor such as "more federal money should be sought" which is PHONE: 651-291-1800, 866-259-9163, FAX: 651-291-1057 and coach. He wrote in my high school yearbook (Le irresponsible and nothing more than passing the buck, to POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The American Center) in 1957: “Tom, be a worker and a doer.” Representative Hausman blaming the federal government Legion, 20 W. 12th Street, St. Paul, MN, 55155-2000. (USPS The January issue has a great story about what Bud for MDVA's ills. No. 013-679.) (ISSN No. 1644270) Grant thinks of veterans. It's quite obvious that these members do not possess the ADVERTISING RATES: Contact Al Zdon, 651-291-1800 The special portion was a photo of a disabled American leadership qualities required to serve on the Select E-MAIL: [email protected] veteran, Jade Zimmerman, at the McLeod County Committee on Veterans Housing let alone in the Minnesota WEBSITE: www.mnlegion.org BOARD OF PUBLICATION MEMBERS: President MIke Memorial Park with friends and brothers who care. Legislature. I truly hope that come election time, Veterans Ash, St. Paul; Vice President, Bob Locker, Fridley; Secretary My cap and prayers go to those gentlemen with will remember this and vote accordingly. Randy Tesdahl, St. Francis; Treasurer, Richard Horn, leadership and continued patience. I pray for those leaders Richard O'Brien Melrose. Board Members include: Don Amundson, Blue who promote programs of good health, positive thoughts Albertville Earth; Bob Locker, Fridley; Clinton Burt, Slayton; Joe Bayer, for others like myself. God bless America. Minneapolis; Pat Logan, Bloomington; Virgil Persing, Tom Chouinard Columbia Heights; Shirley Frederick, Hackensack; Chris LeCenter Ronning, Maple Grove. February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 5

What’s Happeninthe organization. The deadline is Aprilg 1. Vets Art Experience Contact Kathleen Radziej at Round Tables Red Wing Arts Association has been selected by the [email protected] for information or nomi- The St. Croix Valley Civil War Roundtable will feature Minnesota State Arts Board to host the 2014 Minnesota nations forms. “Grant’s Experiments before the Siege at Vicksburg,” with Veterans Art Experience in May. There will be a gallery speaker David Page. The group will meet on Feb. 24 at the show, print project, art retreat and public presentations. All Lowell Inn in Stillwater. To make reservations for dinner or Minnesota veterans are encouraged to apply and participate. Baseball Coach Clinic for other information, call Steve Anderson at 715-386-1268 Forms are available at American Legion baseball coaches are invited to a or email [email protected]. www.redwingartsassociation.org/MNVetProject.htm or by coaching clinic being offered by the University of email at [email protected] or by calling 651-388-7569. Minnesota Baseball Coaching Staff. The clinic will be held The World War II History Round Table at Ft. Snelling The gallery show will be held from May 3 to June 22. on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Gibson-Nagurski Football prac- History Center will feature “Senior Leaders of World War Each artist is limited to one piece. Any medium is welcome tice facility at the Minneapolis Campus. Cost is $25 payable II, Insights into their Personalities.” The speaker will be including written work and music. A Veteran Print Project at the door. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the clinic Jonathan Jordan, the author of “Brothers, Rivals, Victors.” will match 20 veterans and their stories with a print artist starts at 11 a.m. Coaches can pre-register by emailing Lee The program will feature officers who won the war and vet- who will make a print based on the story. There will also be Swenson, [email protected]. erans who met them will be present. a six-day art retreat for 40 Minnesota veterans. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, with There are different deadlines for the applications for Ash Party an admission of $5. these events. A 60th Birthday Party for Department Commander Mike The Veterans Round Table in Rochester will feature, Ash will be held at the Rosetown Post at 700 West County “Korean War, 1952 to the Armistice” with Warren Potter, Mulligan Stew Cookoff Road C from 3-10 p.m. on Saturday, March 22. Bob Hermer, and Bob Nelson. The program will be held at Madison Lake Auxiliary 269 will host the second annu- RSVP to Teresa Ash, 612-499-1403, the Assembly of God church on 18th Ave. NW, and admis- al Mulligan Stew Cookoff and Scholarship Fundraiser on [email protected], or facebook, sion is $5. There will be music at 6:30 followed by the pro- Saturday, March 8, from 4-7 p.m. Admission is $5 per per- www.facebook.come/miketeresa. gram at 7 p.m. son. Those attending can sample all the stews and vote for a favorite. There will be cash prizes. Beverages and desserts Pancake Breakfast Tree Seedlings will be available for purchase. Zumbrota and Mazeppa Posts and others will sponsor a Orders for Tree Seedlings are now being accepted. Order It will be held at the post, 463 Shepard Circle. Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, Feb. 16, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. forms have been mailed to all posts, and are also available To enter a stew, call Danielle by March 3 at 507-995- at the Stary-Yerka VFW banquet room at 25 E. 1st St. in for downloading from the Department’s website: mnle- 3737 or email [email protected]. Zumbrota. Cost is $7 for adults, $3 for children, and pre- gion.org. school are free. Cakes, eggs, sausage, milk, orange juice The deadline for ordering is March 31. Shipping charges Twins Game and coffee will be served. are included with each order. The order form lists all tree Save the date for the annual American Legion Family species and prices. Day at the Twins. The game will be played on Saturday, For more information, contact the Energy and June 7, at 1:10 p.m. vs. the Houston Astros. Ticket ordering Coast Guard Reunion Conservation Chairman Carl Hendrickson at 218-393- The second All U.S. Coast Guard Reunion will be held 0079. information will be announced shortly. Saturday, Aug. 2, in Golden Valley at the VFW Post. Social hour will be from 11-noon followed by a lunch buffet. A Guard Nominations program will follow and there will be a social gathering all Department Rally The Camp Ripley Memorialization Board is now accept- afternoon. All ex-Coasties and spouses and family are wel- The next Department Rally will be the American Legion ing nominations for candidates to be inducted into the 2014 come. Family Appreciation Rally on Saturday, March 8, at Court of Honor Induction Program. Those Guard members For more information, contact Chris Kalogerson at Richfield Post 435. Membership turn-in will be from 3:4:30 nominated must have been officially recognized for acts of [email protected] or call 952-935-9065. p.m. with a plated dinner at 5 and the program to follow. heroism, and must have attained a level of prestige within Tickets are avialable through district commanders.

Preserving History For your home or community library, War Stories, Volume II, has 35 stories about Minnesota veterans and over 300 pictures.

All proceeds go to Legion youth programs including Boys and Girls State, Oratorical, Legionville and Baseball. Mail to: Books To order simply go to Room 300A www.mnlegion.org. Credit 20 West 12th Street cards accepted. St. Paul, MN 55155 Or use the blank below. Name______Phone______Address______Please send me _____ copy(ies) of War Stories Volume II Cost is $29 per book. Includes shipping and handling. Please send me _____ copy(ies) of War Stories Volume I Cost is $23 per book. Includes shipping and handling. Total amount enclosed: $ ______Membership Chart American Legion challenges VAThe American to protect Legion is challenging personal the other users. After infodiscovering the problem, As of Jan. 22, 2014 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to VA shut down the system and switched District 2014 Total Total Percent Same take whatever measures are necessary to over to an earlier version of the software. protect veterans personal information after VA’s Data Breach Core Team (DBCT) is Goal 2013 2014 of Goal Date ’12 a recent software defect on its eBenefits reviewing the eBenefits failure. According 1 10,370 10,312 9,201 88.73 9,622 website exposed the online accounts of to a statement issued by VA, once the 2 8,528 8,443 7,518 88.16 8,062 about 5,000 veterans to unauthorized users. DBCT determines the individual veterans American Legion National Commander affected, "VA will take the appropriate 3 12,927 12,862 11,467 88.71 12,009 Daniel M. Dellinger wonders why such response, which may include free credit 4 2,686 2,663 2,336 86.97 2,448 data breaches continue to plague the monitoring for the affected individuals, 5 3,112 3,089 2,661 85.51 2,842 department. consistent with VA’s standard practice." "We’ve seen VA expose sensitive infor- "There should be no ‘may’ in that state- 6 13,192 13,121 11,727 88.89 12,358 mation about veterans before," Dellinger ment," Dellinger said. "We want VA to 7 7,545 7,467 6,638 87.98 7,042 said. "Now it has happened with the rela- guarantee credit monitoring services for 8 5,049 5,008 4,402 87.19 4,625 tively new eBenefits website. How can VA every individual whose personal informa- expect our veterans to file for benefits tion may have been breached.” The 9 7,659 7,594 6,905 90.16 7,113 online when they may be risking identity American Legion encourages any veteran 10 11,741 11,688 10,228 87.11 10,920 theft by doing so?" who wants to file for benefits to contact an 1,733 1,748 2,151 124.12 1,733 The defective software allowed veter- accredited American Legion service offi- At-large ans and servicemembers logged onto cer. Find a service officer in your state by Totals 84,542 83,995 75,234 88.99 75,529 eBenefits to view account information of visiting www.legion.org/serviceofficers.

Sons of The American Legion Veterans Affairs Simplifying the veterans By and Rehabilitation John W. Affolter By process is not so simple Tom Newman

We are over half way through our year. Travel was National Personnel Records Center, Medals, SF-180. The Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard must use restricted due to January blizzards. I attended a SAL break- Corrections, Rumors, and Fees…..Oh My. SF-180. The specific medals, decorations or awards being fast at Nicollet Squadron 510 on Dec 26; District mid-win- The purpose of this article is to simplify some of our vet- requested needs to be clarified in Step 3: Comments of ters Jan 4 (10th Anoka Squadron 102); Jan 25 (3rd Elysian erans’ requests for medals and administrative corrections eVetRecs or in a written statement attached to SF-180. Squadron 311). Coming up Feb 15 is the re-scheduled 7th and to shed light on a couple issues that have been raised Available supporting documentation that validates the District at Browns Valley Squadron 58; The American recently by several veterans I’ve worked with. request should be sent with the signature verification page Legion National Commander's Tour is Feb. 2-7 and on Feb. As always, I strongly encourage all Veterans to continue or SF-180. 22th the 67th Annual Minnesota State American Legion working with your respective County Veteran Service Family Bowling Tournament at Sunset Lanes in Moorhead Officer when attempting any application for veteran related The NPRC can make clerical corrections of errors on the (runs through April 13th). I’m glad to travel where needed records, benefits, services, or assistance. DD Form 214 such as misspelled name, missing informa- to represent the Sons of the American Legion. Let me know. tion, incorrect birth date, social security number, etc. I encourage all Legionnaires and others eligible to be a According to their website the NPRC is one of the Again, the specific correction request should be detailed “son” to join us. We hope to exceed 11,000 members for National Archives and Records Administration's (NARA) in Step 3: Comments of eVetRecs or in a written statement 2014 (we ended 2013 with 10,756). We currently have largest operations. It houses 70 million records, responds to attached to SF-180. Supporting documentation validating 7,669 as of Jan. 24 at 71.30% in 15th place nationally, 3rd roughly 160,000 inquiries a month and can process several the request should be sent with the signature verification in our region (Feb 15 goal is 75%). We have renewed 7,109 kinds of requests. page or SF-180. for 66.09% (6th nationally). Send in your memberships The most common are requests for DD Form 214, now. Especially reach out to our 3,647 last year’s members. Official Military Personnel File (OMPF) and Service Contrary to recent rumors DD Form 214s, Official Legionville is my Commander’s Project. We use it. Use Treatment Record (STR). The NPRC is also authorized to Military Personnel Files (OMPF) and Service Treatment the Brick Paver program to contribute if you can, otherwise assist with medal requests and clerical corrections to DD Records (STR) are not available for viewing online. Aside any contribution will be accepted. Form 214. from the enormous cost that would be involved, Federal Our Detachment (state) Spring Conference is March 14- There are two primary ways to request individual mili- Law [5 USC 552a(b)] requires that all requests for records 15 hosted by Waseca Squadron 228 at Eagle Lake Squadron tary service information NARA’s electronic request system and information be submitted in writing, signed and dated. 617. SAL National Vice Commander (Central), Randy eVetRecs and Standard Form (SF) 180, Request Pertaining The NPRC is authorized to charge fees for many of their Eicher of Ohio, is planned to be in attendance. Please make to Military Records: SF-180. Veterans and next-of-kin of services. For now, none of them apply to former service plans on attending. Friday evening Finance and Executive decreased veterans can use eVetRecs or SF-180 to locate members or next of kin of deceased veterans requesting Committees meet with full Detachment on Saturday. their records. Everyone else must use SF-180. Since the records relating to benefits or correction of their military Contact Ron Wolff [email protected] for info. A NPRC can process multiple requests clarifying the individ- record. number of hotels in Mankato are available (please ask for ual request is a must. This can be done by indicating the Therefore, it is important to clarify that the reason for the the state SAL Conference rate): Quality Inn 507-388-5107 specific request in step 3: Comments of eVetRecs or by request in the in Step 3: Comments of eVetRecs, clearly on $80.00 - Holiday Inn Express 507-388-1880 $89/99 - attaching a written statement to SF-180. SF-180 or in a written statement. Fairfield Inn 507-386-1220 $129 - Country Inn and Suites All requests have to be validated either by the records Non-benefit and archival requests for records of veterans 507-388-8555 $125. Please consider hosting a future the NPRC has or by supporting documentation provided to that were discharged, retired or died in service 62 or more Spring Conference we need bids for 2015 and into the them. Requests for the issuance or replacement of military years ago probably will be subject to a service fee. In those future. service medals, decorations, and awards should be directed instances, the NPRC provides a breakdown of the cost to Please pass this on to those who may not receive the to the branch of the service in which the veteran served. the individual or organization making the request. Legionnaire. Visit our website http://mnsal.org hosted by Each of the military service branch addresses where the our webmaster Allen Amundson. It’s often updated with request should be directed can be found on the second page [email protected] info on all SAL activities. We can have fun and get the job of SF-180. The Army and Air Force can use eVetRecs or done.

DD214From National Adjutantno longerDan Wheeler: absolutelydirect effect on the required qualification for tax-exempt as status proof and 2. Aof document veteran’s that shows the dues structure status and classes Enclosed is latest IRS information on the DD Form 214 the deductibility of contributions. of memberships. issue. The DD Form 214 is no longer absolutely required by In order to confirm whether a veterans’ organization 3. The documentary information used by the organiza- the IRS. Various methods of proving eligibility are dis- meets statutory membership requirements, IRM tion to create the membership list(s) noted above. cussed.In short, DD Forms 214 are now required only if the 4.76.26.12(1) provides that examining agents may request, Organizations should be informed that to satisfy this request agent has any information that casts doubt on other meth- among other documents, DD Forms 214, Certificate of they may provide membership applications, membership ods. We are having this letter placed on our website. Release or Discharge from Active Duty, of veterans’ organ- cards, or other similar documents, other than DD Form 214. FROM: Nanette M. Downing Director, EO izations. DD Form 214 is a military service discharge cer- 4. Documents showing the organization’s policies and Examinations tificate issued to veterans, providing proof of military serv- procedures on how it decides an individual is eligible for SUBJECT: Verification of Statutory Membership ice. However, DD Form 214 also contains private informa- membership, including documents which show the means Requirements of Veterans’ Organizations tion, such as medical information. by which it enforces its membership requirements. This memorandum revises examination guidelines for Effective immediately, if an agent needs to determine the If an agent possesses information that contradicts docu- tax-exempt veterans’ organizations described in section composition of membership of a veterans’ organization, the mentary information provided or if the organization fails to 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) by elimi- agent shall initially request and collect from the organiza- satisfy a reasonable request, agents may then request DD nating an agent’s discretion to request DD Forms 214 at the tion four sets of documents, as follows: Forms 214 or other discharge documents from the organi- outset of examinations for the purpose of determining 1. Membership list(s) that contain the names of the zation in order to ascertain compliance with the federal tax whether the organization meets statutory membership members, the military service dates, and the status of each laws cited herein. DD Forms 214 must include the name, requirements. individual member. This status information is to indicate department, component and branch of service, and record IRC sections 501(c)(19) and 170(c)(3) provide statutory whether the member is active duty, veteran, cadet, or of service dates. All other personal information may be membership requirements for certain tax-exempt veterans’ spouse. The organization may provide list(s) from its affili- redacted. organizations. Compliance with these requirements has a ated parent organization. February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 7

Continued from Page 1 effective and it’s better for the quality of their lives.” The center allows families of veterans to bring them to the center five days a week. “It might be a wife or a daugh- Adult Day Center or ter, but it gives them a break, a chance to get their hair done or go grocery shopping,” Rostratter said. “One woman said it gave her a chance just to clean her house.” A majority of the clients have some level of dementia. ‘the veterans’ clubhouse’ They are closely supervised by a staff of ten, including two registered nurses. A typical day will include breakfast to order followed by a chance to catch up on current events. That’s followed by an exercise period. “A lot of them call it the torture cham- ber,” Rostratter said. “But if they were at home, too many of them would just sit there in front of the TV.” After exercise, there might be games such as crosswords, Uno, trivia, or dice games. Lunch is served, and after lunch there might be karaoke, bowling, bean bag toss, a musical concert, or movies and documentaries. At 3 p.m., the afternoon social begins. In the warmer months, gardening is available. “It’s good. I like coming here,” said Larry Larson, a Vietnam-era vet. “There’s always something to do. And the food is outstanding. We have our own cook. “Most of us here have some memory loss problems, and the staff is sensitive to that,” Larson said. The center serves Vietnam, Korean and World War II veterans. The cost is a $20 per day co-pay with the federal government picking up the rest. The average cost per day at a private adult day center in the Twin Cities is about $90. The center is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, and it must follow both state and federal regulations. It is located in Building 4 on the Minneapolis campus, the oldest building on the veterans home property. It was originally a “cottage” for Civil War veterans. Building 4 stood empty for several years. “It was a home for dead birds and raccoons,” Rostratter said. But a $2 mil- The day begins for most of the clients with a made-to-order breakfast. The center’s own chef also serves up a lion renovation that began with gutting the old structure has noon lunch. The building has been remodeled extensively to provide modern, comfortable spaces. restored Building 4 to its original 1888 elegance. It is on the state’s register of historic sites. The staff includes a cook, a dietician, three program assistants, a social worker, and a recreation/ therapist. “I don’t like to call it an adult day care center. I think of it as a veterans club. It’s like a big family.” “And I’m the house mother,” said Rostratter, a nurse for 36 years. “When they see me coming, they say, ‘look out.’” One of the ways the clients are watched is through an electronic gadget that each one wears. “When they get here in the morning, they know they’re going to get clipped,” Rostratter said. “They’ll get both their name tag and a locater.” The locater can tell staff exactly where every client is in the building, plus the location of every other staff member. It also will sound a computer alarm if a client is leaving a supervised area. “We’ve had veterans walk out the front door looking their wife’s car or something,” said Rostratter. “I’m pretty quick. I can get outside before they get on a city bus or whatever. We’ve never lost one yet.” The locater also contains a button the veteran can push if he needs assistance. So far, the center has been used by only men, but all women veterans are also eligible. Spouses and widows of veterans are also welcome, but must pay the full rate because there is no federal assistance for them. Director Ann Rostratter shows off a bathing unit in the Rostratter is shown in her office. “Part of the issue Rostratter said the center is only the second one in the building’s basement. right now in attacting clients is that nobody knows nation to be operated by a state’s veterans homes. The other we’re here.” one is in New York. “We’re still a baby. Part of the issue right now in attract- ing clients is that nobody knows we’re here. It can be so valuable for families. If you give the caregiver some free time, it all can run so smoothly.” One of those caregivers is Marilyn Starr, the wife of Ron Starr, a five-day-a-week client at the center. “I’m very impressed with it. They’re doing so much for my husband. He has Alzheimer’s and the neurologist tells me that social- izing can be very important for those with memory loss. “The personnel there are outstanding. The people there relate to these old soldiers so well. It’s just a happy cli- mate,” Starr said. Ron Starr served in World War II in the Navy, and then served in Korea during the war as an officer in the Army. Marilyn said, “I think the day center is slowing down his Alzheimer’s.” Marilyn said the program gives her time for chores and to have a better life. “I can run my errands, and if I want to go out with my girlfriends I can. If Ron were at home all day, I wouldn’t be able to leave him for so long.” Starr said the only drawback to the program she can think of is that the location of the home in south Minneapolis is not very convenient for some people. It can mean long drives for the caregiver, or reliance on a public transportation system that isn’t always the best. “But I’d recommend it to any veteran who wants to have a little extra in his life,” Starr said. Rostatter agrees. Building 4 is the oldest building on the Minnesota Veterans Home at Minneapolis, and it is housing the home’s “Our veterans deserve this,” she said. “You should hear newest service, adult day care. The building was constructed in 1888 as a “cottage” for Civil War veterans. It the stories some of our guys tell. This is all about them. We has undergone an extensive $2 million remodeling which preserved the building’s historic architecture and spoil them rotten.” design while making it a comfortable, modern space for the center. Page 8 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014

Bill Hannigan admits that get- From the ting in a fight was a lot of fun for him growing up in St. Paul. After a stint the National Guard and another tough streets with a tank outfit, he signed up for the Airborne. He ended up doing two combat of St. Paul to jumps and he also fought in the Battle of the Bulge. the Airborne By Al Zdon “I was interested. I wanted to observe everything, but I also needed to keep my head down. ill Hannigan admits that he was kind of a tough “What I remember was that one of our guys was hit and kid who grew up in a tough neighborhood. During killed on the other side of the canal. We couldn’t go get him, his youthful years, his nose was broken five times and he just laid there. I didn’t like that. Our philosophy is eitherB in fights or from sports. that you go and get your own.” It wasn’t surprising then that he ended up in the The Germans had the high ground, and the American Airborne. troops had to hunker down below the level of the canal. Any William J. Hannigan was born in 1921, and spent his movement might bring an .88 shell down on your position. youth in the Rice Street and Central Avenue neighborhood Hannigan saw a tall soldier standing and pointing. “I of St. Paul. He attended Washington High School, and he yelled at him that he should get the hell out of there, he was was a star basketball player. going to draw fire. He turned around and it was General In 1938, he joined the National Guard, and in 1940 his Gavin (commanding officer of the 82nd Airborne). I said, unit was federalized. “Pfffft. I was gone. They took me right ‘Sorry, sir, I didn’t know it was you.’ He said, ‘That’s okay, out of high school and I never graduated.” son. I’ll take care of it.’” His unit was sent to Camp Haan in California, but in July Harrigan also went out on his first combat patrol at of 1941 Hannigan’s three-year enlistment expired and he Anzio. “They wanted us to cross the canal and get a prison- went home. er. We found a place that the Germans had evacuated. One “I was walking to mass on Dec. 7th, 1941, when I heard of the guys reached down and pulled out a little old guy, a about the bombing of Pearl Harbor. I volunteered to go back German soldier. We took him back and they interrogated in.” him.” At first Hannigan tried his hand at tanks. “But when they All in all, Harrigan said he took his first taste of combat closed the lid on the tank, I knew it wasn’t for me. I have in stride. “At that age, you never believe that they’ll take claustrophobia. That’s when I decided to join the Airborne. you out. You’re confident that you’ll make it.” “I wanted to see if I could be a paratrooper. I was always considered kind of a tough guy. My attitude was, ‘Let’s he 504th was pulled out of Anzio on March 23 and That didn’t stop Hannigan. “They asked for volunteers have some fun, I think I’ll start a fight.’ I fit right in with the send aboard the Capetown Castle to England. But for hazardous duty. My buddy Joe Burns and I volunteered. Airborne.” because of the huge number of casualties taken by He was a hell raiser too.” theT unit at Anzio, the 504th was put in reserve for the land- They found out that they would be jumping with the e was accepted and was assigned to the parachute ings at Normandy. pathfinder part of the Airborne assault into Normandy. They school at Fort Benning, Georgia. HHe said he thrived on the training. “We’d run three miles to the river and back before they’d give us our breakfast. And then all day long it was exercise, exercise, exercise. It was challenging, but I jumped right into it, so to speak.” Harrigan recalled his first jump. “Mainly there was this eagerness to get out the door of the airplane. The actual jump is kind of a blank to me. What was important was that I accepted the fear and conquered it. After that, it was easy.” Each paratrooper is required to make five jumps in order to get his wings. “The last one was at night, and there was no moon. You just jump into the blackness, and it was blackness all the way down. You could not see the ground and you didn’t know it was coming. But a paratrooper is trained to crumple his legs when he hits, and we were all in pretty good shape. But you were really alone on that jump. It was kind of fascinating. I suppose it was dangerous, but that’s why they only made us do one night jump.” Hannigan got his wings and was able to blouse his pants, the ultimate symbol of the paratrooper. “It was a badge of honor, proudly worn.” He was shipped overseas after training. The ship went all the way down the coast of South America and then came up the coast of Africa in an effort to hide from German sub- marines. The men were put ashore at Casablanca and they traveled east across North Africa to Oujda, Algeria, and then to Kairouan, Tunisia. They practiced more jumps. “I was in a replacement depot, and we were sent across the Mediterranean to the northeast corner of Sicily where I joined the 504th, part of the 82nd Airborne.” He was assigned to Company H of the Third Battalion. He said there was no problem about being a replacement. “You’re a jumper. Everybody’s your backup.” The 504th landed on the Anzio Beachhead on Jan. 4, 1944. Company H was sent to the front and took up positions along the Mussolini Canal. It was Hannigan’s first BILL HANNIGAN BILL HANNIGAN experience at combat. During World War II At home in Woodbury February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 9 would land two-and-one half hours before the rest of the 82nd and 101st regiments and try to secure the landing zones. In the plane at 11:30 p.m., Harrigan was finally going to get his first combat jump. As the plane came over the coast of France it started taking heavy fire. “My thought was that I’ve got to get out of the plane. It was a big target. In my parachute, I’m a small target.” Hannigan weighed himself before he got on the plane and found that his total with all the gear was 274 lbs. “That means I had about 100 lbs. of stuff on me.” He was to be the third man out the door. As the paratroopers got ready to exit, Hannigan looked out the window and saw the plane carrying his buddy get hit. “A few guys got out, but not all of them.”

n the way down in the bright moonlight, Hannigan looked over and saw a fellow paratrooper get hit by a high caliber shell. “I saw his gutsO just come out of him. Except that his guts were white. Later, when I was on the ground I found out it was our medic, and what I’d seen was all his gauze and medical supplies come out. The medic was okay. “After we landed I went over to where the plane carrying my friend had crashed in the water. I found my buddy. He was dead and he was all burned. He never got out of the plane. I was amazed, and I was saddened. I really liked this guy.” The pathfinders were some of the few paratroopers that landed in the right place on June 6, 1944. And so the nice, dry ground they were supposed to secure really didn’t matter as thousands who followed two hours later were scat- The 504th was the first regiment dropped into Holland at the beginning of Operation Market Garden. Gliders, in tered all over a section of Normandy. the foreground, had landed earlier. Slowly the troops tried to find each other, using their “cricket” clickers to identify themselves as friendlies. “First there were two of us, then four of us. By morning, there were 18 in our group, and we became a combat unit. We moved out.” Hannigan joined a group from the 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment and helped capture the French town of Sainte-Mere-Eglise. On about D-Day plus 17, Hannigan was sent back to England to rejoin the 504th. All through the summer, the 504th prepared to jump, but the American advance kept overrunning the drop zones. It was one false alarm after another. Hannigan was one of the few from the unit who had made the drop on D-Day and he was one of a smaller group who came back to the regiment. His status didn’t stop him from getting into scrapes. “While I was in, I was reduced five times from sergeant to private. I had a lot of fun. I got in a lot of fights, and I sometimes didn’t get back to base on time. It cost me dear- ly, but it was worth it. As soon as we’d head into combat, they’d make me a staff sergeant and squad leader again.” Constantly getting ready to jump and then getting can- celed wore on the men. “But you couldn’t let it rule you. You had to shake it off. Besides I had a girlfriend in England.” Finally, on Sept. 17, the 504th did jump, this time into Holland as part of Operation Market Garden. The plan was to secure a series of bridges and allow an English tank division to advance all the way into Germany. It was thought the plan could shorten the war by months. “The jump went well. There weren’t many Germans around, and I didn’t fire my rifle the whole first day. We just headed for the woods and some cover. Everything looked Hannigan, second from right, sitting, was happy to good.” Hannigan, far left, trained at Fort Benning, Georgia, oblige an English boy in Nottingham who wanted But it wasn’t. Market Garden bogged down, and the where he earned his wings. “some American soldiers” for his birthday. tanks were held up from heading up to Arnhem, the furthest bridge (subject of the movie, A Bridge Too Far) because a bridge a Nijmegen was still held by the Germans. It was the 504th’s job to secure that bridge. “We had to cross the Waal Canal, but all we had were these canvas boats. I’d had enough combat experience by this time to see it was a foolish plan. But you do what you’re told to do.”

annigan was in the same boat with Lt. James Magellas, the commanding officer of H Company and the most decorated soldier in the 82ndH Airborne. By the end of the war, Magellas had earned the Distinguished Service Cross, three Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts. “He never sent us anyplace, he always led. He was a fighter. We had a lot of confidence in him.” The boat they shared was one of 13 out of 26 that made it across through the blizzard of German firepower. “I just remember keeping pretty far down in that boat.” Once on the far shore, it didn’t get any easier. “We were supposed to have a smoke cover, but the wind blew the smoke away. The Germans were dug in and opened fire. We had to make a frontal assault on the German positions. It was brutal. We lost a lot of men.” But Companies H and I prevailed, took the German positions, made a left turn and captured the bridge at Nijmegen. “They sent a signal to the British tanks that they could advance, but the British signaled back that they weren’t going to. They said they had no infantry support. I took that as a personal slam.” To be part of one of the most heroic achievements by an American unit in the war, and then to have the British refuse With their faces darkened, men from the 504th get ready for a jump, posing with the crew of their airplane. Page 10 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 to cross the bridge was the low point in the war for Hannigan. “Fifty years later I was still ticked off.”

n mid-November, The 504th and the rest of the Airborne regiments were sent back to France for some well-deserved rest and recreation. The stay at CampI Sissone was cut short. “I was sleeping when they woke me up. They said there was a German breakthrough, and that we were being sent to the front.” It was the Battle of the Bulge. “We were in summer gear, and we were being sent to the north with the cold and snow. We had no idea where they were sending us.” They were transported through Bastogne and ordered to take up a defensive position to protect the strategically crit- ical town. “Early in the battle, one of my guys, Charlie Thompson, was hit. I sent two people out to get him, and they were hit. I had to write him off as a dead man. But the British came down the next day and found him and sent him back to England. “Years later at a reunion, the door opened and there was Charlie. He said, ‘I hear there’s some son of a bitch named Hannigan here.’ I was so delighted. I hadn’t seen him since that day at the Bulge.” The shelling from the Germans at Bastogne was deadly. “We had a lot of guys killed and hurt. We just moved where they told us.”

he unit eventually did get some winter clothing. “But the best thing was to kill a German and get his white snow suit so that we could wear them.” DidT Hannigan get a snow suit? “You bet.” Sometimes the Airborne was transported by aircraft, but often the mode of conveyance was by truck. Hannigan There was a small problem of wearing the enemy’s gear is second from right. in a battle. “When he had to move, we just warned everybody. It worked.” After Bastogne was rescued, the 504th kept pushing east, attacked the Siegfried Line in February, 1945, and pushed into Germany. After a brief respite back in France, the regiment was back in Germany and crossed the Rhine in early April. Hannigan had one more interesting experience along the way. An American tank had been hit by a shell and was burning. The tank driver was trapped. “He was hollering and he was on fire. I tried to get him out. Hannigan’s first effort was pushed back by the flames. But he tried again. Again he was forced to retreat. The third time, he was able to rescue the driver. Why would he go back three times? “Because the guy was alive and he was on fire.” As Hannigan dragged the driver to safety, the tank blew up. Hannigan later got a certificate from the 504th for his heroism. Thanks to his service in the Guard and because he had earned a Bronze Star at Normandy, Hannigan was one of the first in his unit to have enough points to go home. He walked and scrounged what transportation he could, got to the French coast, and took a luxury liner transformed into a troops ship back to the United States. “All that time and all that combat, and I never got hit. Upstairs, He was looking out for me.” In Boston, Hannigan and four comrades got off the ship and found a small restaurant. “We ate all the eggs that guy had.” Back in Minnesota and discharged from the Army, Hannigan got his GED and enrolled at St. Thomas College. Four years later he got his degree. Along the way, he married Agatha, and they had seven children, 17 grandchildren It usually didn’t take any urging for Hannigan to get into a fight, but in this photo he is at center and is being and 23 great grandchildren. Agatha died 18 years ago. pushed toward one of his comrades during training at Fort Benning. “Before I married her, they called me Wild Bill. After I married her, they called me Sweet William.” Hannigan went into the trucking business and was a vice president in charge of a depot. “I never drove a truck in my life, but I sent a lot of them out.” He now lives in Woodbury, and his life is still busy. He works out at a fitness center three times a week and goes to the VA daycare program the other two weekdays. “You’ve got to stay active.” What was his most harrowing time in combat? “It was when they were picking guys to go on a patrol at night. I hated that. I was always the point man because I was good at it. I was a crouched shadow out there. I traveled really low to the ground. But when they were picking the men to go, that was the worst. But when it was your turn, you went.”

Hannigan received a Certificate of Merit from the 82nd Airborne for rescuing a tank driver from a burning After being a standout player in high school, Hannigan qualified for an Army team. He is standing, fifth from the tank. He had to go back three times. left. February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 11

DistrictFIRST Commanders who died protecting it.” Something to think about and FOURTH remember. DISTRICT DISTRICT Starting in March many posts will be celebrating the Brian Medinnus Legion Birthday and for many another opportunity to renew Commander Carroll Partridge those members that wait until the year matches the card. So Commander many won’t renew until then but get them when you can. I Greeting from the Frozen 1st District. Hello 4th district, know it probably won’t break the rut but for many posts it Mother Nature continues to raise havoc with the weath- I want to thank everyone that came to the Mid-Winter is more and more difficult to reach goal when the goal er but I am proud of the members of this district and all the conference. It was great and I want to thank our guest keeps increasing every year. If a veteran hasn’t joined the hard work that they do to make this district as great as it is. speakers. It made for some good information. Legion or one of the other veteran organizations in these Remember Commander Dellinger will be visiting the 1st The main event of the conference was Robert Holstrom smaller towns it is likely they just won’t so smaller posts District on Feb. 4th in Waseca and the 5th in Rochester. I ( from North St. Paul Post 39 ) receiving the French Legion really struggle to keep meeting goals with veterans passing would love to see as many posts as possible who made goal of Honor Medal. It was presented by Secretary of State, away and new one’s not joining. But I hope every post will have their picture taken with the National Commander. Mark Richie. Thank you Mr. Secretary of State. It was also keep trying as there are veterans out there that will join we A big thanks to Commander Mike, Membership Director Bob's birthday. (Great cake.) just need to ask. Tom, Honorary Jr.’s President Kaitlyn who attended our The next exciting happening was the first official meet- Keep your eye out for the Consolidated Reports and Mid-Winter Conference in Adams on January 4th. That fol- ing of our new Post 1975. other committee reports as they will be arriving soon. lowing Wednesday we found out the 1st District had Next I had the honor of swearing in the new officers of Please take time and fill them out and return them to com- climbed to the top of the Legion membership race. Maybe our first chapter of the ALR (American Legion Riders) mittee chair or department. Remember just writing same as Commander Mike needs to stop down and visit more often. Chapter 577. last year doesn’t cut it as last year is long gone. Even if you Remember a district is only as strong as the members Many of our Legion family started out the Sunday of VA think you didn’t do anything, review the forms and sign and who are part of it. Visitation at the lunch put on by North End Auxiliary. A lot send them back. 6th District should be 100% on reports. of food. A visit by Klondike Kate was a boost for all. Let’s break some ruts and get them filled out and returned. Think Spring. SECOND On Jan 25th the 4th and 5th districts (walked) in the Winter Carnival Parade. A good time was had by all. DISTRICT The next 4th district meeting is Feb.12th at Rosetown. Eugene Olswold SEVENTH Commander Also at Rosetown on the 6th of Feb, we are honored to DISTRICT have the National Commander. Come and have dinner and meet the Commander. 5 p.m. to get started. Dinner at 6 p.m. Harold Meyer Jr. By the time you read this, we will have had two great You will pay for dinner at the door. Commander events. The first being the Sweetheart Rally in Waite Park This has been a great year thanks to all of you. on February 1st and National Commander Dan Dellinger Stay warm at Creekside. Due to all of the call ins and the bad weather I had to visiting two Second District posts, Pipestone for breakfast postpone the midwinter conference. The new date will be and Redwood Falls for dinner on February 3rd. I anticipate February 15th at Browns Valley Post 58 at 0930 hours. I we had a good showing for the Commander's Minnesota FIFTH hope to have at least one person from each post to attend visit. this conference and to have all of my committee’s Chairmen Membership renewals have been strong these last few DISTRICT to have a report. weeks and should have many posts at goal or exceeding Robert Johnson Membership is still coming in steadily, but we still have goal. At the time of this writing, we currently have 14 posts Commander a few posts that need to get their membership up to speed. at goal and from looking at the figures and talking with post By the time you get this the sweetheart rally at Waite Park commanders, I can easily see 10-15 more posts very short- Greetings from the Fighting 5th. February means major Post 428 will be over and I would have hoped that a lot of ly. Seven of the 14 posts have exceeded goal which tells me league baseball spring training commences. Twins’ pitch- the 7th District members went. These rallys mean a lot to they are out there just waiting to be asked. Always have a ers and catchers report February 16, 2014. Spring is just the district and the state department membership. few membership applications on you so you can get them to around the corner. If any of the posts want me to come and visit. Please call sign up now. Recruiting is easy to do. Chairman Craig Deneen hosted a wonderful Oratorical me and if my date book is empty on that date I would like Now is the time to be thinking if you want to get Contest last month. Thanks to Craig for his efforts and to to visit your post. My number is 507-865-4518 or 507-530- involved in the District for the year 2013-2014 either serv- Wold-Chamberlain Post #99 for their hospitality. High 4412 or email is [email protected]. ing on a committee or as an officer in the district. There are Schools represented were: Hope Academy, Minneapolis God bless America the greatest land in the world, and always plenty of openings to fill and there might be one just Southwest High School and Gen. Colin L. Powell God bless our troops in harm’s way. for you. Let either myself or any district officer know and Leadership Academy. we will help you with what you need to do. This is your Membership continues to be a challenge in 2014. As of American Legion and an opportunity for you to serve on a January 15 we were at 2,639 memberships lagging the same TENTH higher level and work with your fellow Legionnaires. Step time last year of 209 memberships. I am asking each post DISTRICT forward and let us hear from you. commander and each post membership director to make an Upcoming events include the Appreciation Rally on extra effort to reach our Legionnaires who have not yet Richard Juhl March 8th in Richfield. Posts should be at 90%. renewed their membership. One phone call per week, from Commander On April 26th we have the Department Spring Round- both of you, to members who have not renewed their membership will get the ball rolling. You may be surprised at the Ah, February. It’s that month when we’re tired of Winter Up Rally in Montevideo with target goals at 95%. Mark (especially after our reminder around the 1st of the year), your calendars for these rallies. affect that effort has on the overall membership renewals. Membership is the ‘life’s blood’ of The American Legion and we can see Spring off in the distance. We’re thinking Remember all our troops in harm’s way and keep them about Valentine’s Day and sweethearts and loved ones. It’s safe with your prayers and their safe return home. and it is everyone’s responsibility. Thanks to all of you for your efforts so far this year. Let’s keep it up. all good, right? Our remaining 2014 meetings as follows: While you are relaxing and enjoying your life, I would THIRD • March 4 at Wold-Chamberlain Post 99 like you to take a few moments to reflect on a couple of sig- DISTRICT • April 1 at Richfield Post 435 nificant events in history that happened in February. • May 6 at Northside Post 230 at Minneapolis Post The first is often referred to as “The Four Chaplains.” On Mark Dvorak 1. February 3rd, 1943, a troop ship was transporting 900 Commander See you at Wold-Chamberlain in March. troops to Greenland when it was torpedoed by a German U- Boat. In 20 minutes, the ship sank in frigid waters. During Thank you Patti Black and Vice Commander Lori Jarrett the evacuation, there were many injuries and panic among for doing an outstanding job of organizing and running the the passengers. There weren’t enough life jackets to go Third District Oratorical Contest held at the Montgomery SIXTH around, so, four chaplains, of different faiths, gave theirs to Post 79 on January 12th. All contestants were amazing and DISTRICT needy soldiers. They then linked arms, prayed and sang congratulations to the 1st place winner and good luck to you hymns and stood on the deck as the ship went under. They at the Department Oratorical Contest. Montgomery Post 79 Vern Massie Commander couldn’t be awarded the Medal of Honor, so Congress was an excellent host. awarded them a one time award called the “Chaplains Cleveland Post 207 hosted the 5th rally of the member- Well by the time you all get this Mid-Winter will be Medal for Heroism.” ship year on January 4th and provided outstanding hospi- over; Sweetheart Rally will be over; National Commander The second event, which has been called “The Most tality. Thank you Vice Commander Dan Lee for organizing Tour and winter will be half over? Hope everyone is safe Famous Photograph of WWII,” occurred on February 23rd, the rally. Training Chairperson Barry Madson and his team and in good health and that your 2014 will be a great year. 1945, on Iwo Jima. On the fourth day of the battle, a group provided training on various Legion subjects and did an My year as Commander is about half over. It doesn’t seem of Marines finally reached the summit of Mt Suribachi and outstanding job. The next district rally will be the "Has- like it, but time flies. raised the American flag at 10:30 a.m. to inspire the advanc- Beens" rally on Tuesday, March 4th and will be organized Got to thinking the other day back when I was in the ing US troops (this included Minnesota native Chuck by past 3rd District Commander Pat Logan. service during Vietnam era and how we were told if we Lindberg). A photograph was taken by Marine photogra- Applications for "Outstanding Enlisted Man/Woman of went on leave to dress in civilian clothes because we didn’t pher Lou Lowery. A second flag raising took place about an the Year" will no longer be sent to each post. Each post will want folks to know we were in the service. That was fine hour and a half later when a larger flag replaced the earlier be sent a letter telling them to contact the District National and good but everyone else had long hair and beards and we one. This photo was taken by Joe Rosenthal of the Security/Foreign Relations Chairperson (Pat Logan) or were clean shaven and clipped short. I am glad that our vet- Associated Press, and it was later used as the model for the Department Headquarters for an application. Applications erans today are treated with the respect they deserve and I Marine Corps statue at Arlington Cemetery. are also available on the Department website mnlegion.org hope everyone thanks those young men and women when During these two events, thousands of Americans gave under post resources and forms. you get the opportunity to meet them. Want to do some- their lives. Please take time to remember them and spend thing for them find out whom locally are serving and send an afternoon on the internet to learn more about these them a note thanking them for their service. events and the heroes that were there. I noticed a sign the other day on one of the social media For God and Country. sites and thought every Post in the Country should have this on their sign. It reads “Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier Page 12 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 Taps Schattschneider, Donald, 83, Army veteran of the Korean War, died Jan. 24, 2013. He was stati- died Dec. 7, 2013. He was a member of Austin Post 91. ioned in Alaska. He was a past Ninth District Commander Fleiner, Albert H., 88, Army veteran of World War II, (1990-91), Ninth District Adjutant (2005-06) and a died Dec. 7, 2013. He was a member of Austin Post 91. Department Vice Commander (1992-94). He was a long- Weis, Leo C., 89, Navy veteran of World War II, died time member of the Legionville Board of Directors and was Dec. 30, 2013. He was a past commander of Austin Post 91. active in promoting the summer camp. He was a member of Osmonson, Donald R., 81, Air Force veteran of the Detroit Lakes Post 15. Korean War, died Dec. 31, 2013. He was a member of Austin Post 91. Schepers, Thomas J., 67, Marine Corps Paggen, David, 74, Army veteran of the Vietnam War, veteran of the Vietnam War, died Jan. 6, 2014. He was died Dec. 7, 2013. He was a member of the color guard and wounded in action and received the Bronze Star and Purple a former manager of St. Stephen Post 221. Heart. He was best known in recent years for his long-dis- Kruger, LeRoy “Bud,” 92, Army veteran of World War tance runs carrying the American Flag and POW/ MIA flag II, died Jan. 7, 2014. He was a member of Morris Post 29. in honor of veterans causes. He once ran from California to Sunder, Richard Albert, 68, Army veteran of the Washington D.C. to support the World War II Memorial. He Vietnam War, died Jan. 2, 2014. He was a member of was a member of Anoka Post 102. Willmar Post 167. Dallman, Virgil W., 90, Army veteran of World War II, Redden, Robert, 80, past department vice died Jan. 4, 2015. He was a member of Willmar Post 167. HPNC Richard Pedro commander and district commander, died Jan. 11, 2014. He Lillegaard, Kermit, 91, Army veteran of World War II, Richard M. Pedro, 87, longtime adjutant for the was 10th District Commander from 1981-82 and he was died Jan. 1, 2014. He served in Europe and earned a Bronze Department of New York, died Jan. 10, 2014. Pedro Department Vice Commander from 1989-90. He was a Star. He was a member of Windom Post 206. was strongly involved in the national American member of Osseo/ Maple Grove Post 172. Hermes, Leo, 92, Army Air Corps veteran of World War Legion and was considered one of the policy makers Stark, Glen W., 90, Navy veteran of World War II, died II, died Dec. 21, 2013. He was chaplain of St. Paul Post 8. of the organization. In 2013, he was named an Jan. 1, 2014. He served in both the European and Pacific Knapper, Henry, 91, Army veteran of World War II, Honorary Past National Commander, an honor theaters. He was a member of Princeton Post 216. died Dec. 13, 2013. He served in Germany and France. He accorded to only a handful over the years. Walch, LaVerne M., 95, Army veteran of World War II, was a member of Clara City Post 485. Pedro was a Navy veteran of World War II serving died Dec. 27, 2013. He served in the Pacific. He was a Weber, Charles, 86, Navy veteran of World War II and aboard the USS Weiss. He joined Owego Post 401 in member of Plainview Post 179. Army veteran of the Korean War, died Dec. 25, 2013. He New York in 1949. He retired as New York’s adjutant DeVetter, David L., 76, Navy veteran of the Korean was a member of Paynesville Post 271. this past year. War, died Dec. 13, 2013. He was a corpsman who served in Nelson, Dale E., 79, Army veteran of the Korean War, the Aluetian Islands and Greenland. He was a member of died Jan. 11, 2014. He was a member of Little Falls Post 46. Millville Post 579. Grotte, Luther, 85, army veteran of World War II and Fyten, Ronald, 71, Air Force veteran of the Vietnam Carter, Harold C., 88, Army Air Corps veteran of the Korean War, died Jan. 14, 2014. He was a past com- War, died Jan. 3, 2014. He served as a machinist. He was a World War II, died Dec. 23, 2013. He was a past commander of Fergus Falls Post 30 and a past adjutant of the member of Pierz Post 341. mander of Plainview Post 179. Ninth District. Veit, Leo, 89, Navy veteran of World War II, died Jan. 3, Walker, Charles, 81, Army Reserve veteran of the Messick, Donald M., 93, Army Air Corps veteran of 2014. He was a member of New Ulm Post 132. Korean War, died Dec. 29, 2013. He was a member of World War II, died Jan. 16, 2014. He was a member of Veigel, Don, 91, Army veteran of World War II, died Villard Post 175. Pequot Lakes Post 49. Dec. 21, 2013. He served on both sides of the ocean. He Vold, Irvin, 81, Army veteran of the Korean War, died Breck, Alan Lee, 73, Navy veteran of the Vietnam War, was a member of New Ulm Post 132. Dec. 20, 2013. He was a member of Graceville Post 297. died Jan. 5, 2013. He was a member of Waseca Post 228. Brinkmann, Delbert, 75, Army veteran of the Vietnam Liners, Henry L., 84, Air Force veteran of the Korean Thompson, Richard Dean, 78, Army veteran of the War, died Dec. 17, 2013. He was a member of New Ulm War, died Dec. 7, 2013. He was a member of Pequot Lakes Korean War, died Dec. 26, 2013. He served on a Navy ship Post 132. Post 49. that crossed the Arctic Circle. He was a member of Dodge Martin, Richard E., Air Force veteran of the Korean Elling, Wallace J. “Dick,” 87, Navy veteran of World Center Post 384. War, died Jan. 15, 2014. He was a member of Blue Earth War II, died Dec. 22, 2013. He was a motor machinist’s Gonsorowski, Hubert, 86, Army veteran of World War Post 89. mate third class. He was a member of Waconia Post 150. II and the Korean War, died Jan. 11, 2014. He served in a Katchmark, Bernard J., 80, Army veteran of the Jirak, Edwin George, 76, Army veteran of both the motor pool surveying the 49th Parallel. He was a member Korean War, died Dec. 26, 2013. He was a member of Korean and Vietnam Wars, died Dec. 18, 2013. He was a of Thief River Falls Post 117. Sturgeon Lake Post 361. member of Lonsdale Post 586. LaValla, Clifford Fabian, 91, Army veteran of World Kruger, Donald R., 81, Army veteran of the Korean Johnson, Kenneth Carl Sr., 88, Navy veteran of World War II, died Dec. 4, 2013. He served as a medic and an War, died Dec. 31, 2013. He was a member of Apple Valley War II, died Dec. 27, 2013. He served on the USS Kimberly ambulance driver in Africa, Sicily, Anzio Beach and south- Post 1776. in the Pacific and was in Tokyo Bay for the Japanese sur- ern France. He was a member of North St. Paul Post 39. Becker, Robert J., 97, Army veteran of World War II, render. He was a member of Morris Post 29. Schmidt, Norbert Anton, 94, veteran of World War II, died Dec. 18, 2013. He was wounded in action in April Flaherty, Robert M., 82, Army veteran of the Korean died Dec. 12, 2013. He was a member of Alexandria Post 1945 and was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple War, died Dec. 11, 2013. He was a member of Pequot Lakes 87. Heart. He was a member of Blooming Prairie Post 52. Post 49. Olson, Wallace Marvin “Pete,” 91, Army Air Corps Schnetzer, Lloyd, 77, Army Reserve veteran of the Danzeisen, Boyd K., 97, Army veteran of World War II, veteran of World War II, died Dec. 17, 2013. He was a flight Vietnam War, died Jan. 13, 2014. He was a member of died Dec. 29, 2013. He was a member of Sauk Rapids Post instructor. He was a member of Alexandria Post 87. Villard Post 175. 254. Wenner, Cyril John Henry “Sonny,” 83, Army veteran Forsberg, Maynard “Dave,” 89, Army veteran of Schmidgall, Clarence D., 85, Army veteran of the of the Korean War, died Dec. 29, 2013. He was a member World War II, died Jan. 11, 2014. He was a member of Korean War, died Jan. 1, 2014. He served in Germany. He of Alexandria Post 87. Willmar Post 167. was a member of Morris Post 29. Abts, Norris P., Army veteran of the Korean and Asmus, Ordel Paul, 83, Army veteran of the Korean Wolf, Raymond P., 93, Navy veteran of World War II, Vietnam Wars, died Jan. 12, 2014. He ended his 38-year War, died Jan. 17, 2014. He was a member of Willmar Post died Dec. 6, 2013. He was a member of Austin Post 91. career as a brigadier general. He served on three continents, 167. Loux, Virgil M., 83, Marine Corps veteran of the earned the Distinguished Service Medal, and was known as Sova, Jerome A., 81, Army veteran of the Korean War, Korean War, died Dec. 5, 2013. He was a member of Austin an expert in logistics and NATO. He was a member of died Jan. 19, 2014. He was a member of Sauk Rapids Post Post 91. Winona Post 9. 254. Ploof, Berwyn, 78, Army veteran of the Korean War, Listening Post News from around the State

VETERANS RIDE -- Nearly 100 veterans and family members and club trail guides OWATONNA SHOOTERS -- Members of the Owatonna Top Shots competed in the took part in the 2014 Veterans Appreciation Ride at Madelia. The Minnesota United U.S. Army National Junior Air Rifle Championships in Mendota Heights. The shoot- Snowmobilers Association sponsored the event. The Madelia Legion Post com- ers are sponsored by Owatonna Post 77 Junior Shooting Sports. From left are mander is holding the flag. Parker Adams (16th) Tanner Cummins (20th) and Cody Rehman (13th). February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 13 World War II Round Table at Fort Snelling So why did Germany lose World War II? So why did Germany lose World War II? Jonathon House, a professor of military history at the Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, said historians have mostly got the answer to that question wrong through the years. House, speaking at the January meeting of the World War II Round Table at Fort Snelling, said there are generally three explanations why, four years after the Nazis invad- ed the Soviet Union, the Soviet flag was flying from the Reichstag in Berlin.

u Hitler was an amateur who constantly interfered with his generals and disregarded their advice. u The weather and terrain were too much to deal with. u The outnumbered German Army was overcome by wave after wave of Red Army soldiers.

House, the co-author of Clash of the Titans, a history of the war between Germany and the Soviet Union, said that often Americans don’t understand the scale and importance of what is generally called the Eastern Front. “Eight out of 11 German soldiers who were killed in the war were killed at the hands of the Soviets.” Even the fact that the conflict in the west is called the Eastern Front is a puzzle to House. “Doesn’t the winner usually get to name the war? Shouldn’t it be the ‘Western Hitler reviews the troops early in the war as the Nazi Army blitzkreiged through Poland. Hitler has been blamed Front’ or what the Russians called it: ‘The Great Patriotic for poor military decisions throughout the war. War?’” House first takes on the notion that Hitler was to blame. “You would believe that nobody else ever made a decision success early in Barbarossa was that the Soviet Union was logisticians who foresaw the limits of the attack, and it was in Germany. Generally, heads of state create overall policy, totally unprepared for war. There had been a major purge of the ability of the Soviets to survive the initial onslaught and but do not make all the decisions.” senior officers during the prior two years. Junior officers use their youth and on-the-job experience to outmaneuver He used the example of the Holocaust, the extermination were commanding large groups of soldiers. the German Army as time went by. of the Jewish people in Europe. “Hitler may have made the “The junior officers, as would be expected, were cau- “The Red Army’s skills were just as important as their policy, but there were an awful lot of people involved.” tious, by the book. It was the only way to protect yourself numbers. The Soviets simply caught up.” Moreover, House said, there is considerable evidence when you were at your own court martial.” that Hitler did listen to his commanders, including their Every other aspect of the Red Army was also caught in advice on invading the Soviet Union in June of 1941. “All flux at the time of the invasion. “You name it, they’re in the generals agreed that the Soviets could be knocked out in transition. They were constantly adjusting. It’s amazing a matter of weeks. The only people who didn’t agree were they held it all together.” the logisticians.” But as the war ground on, those junior officers became “The supply guys looked at the map. Amateurs will usu- senior officers. “It was pure Darwinism, survival of the ally talk about tactics, but the professionals talk about logis- fittest. Those Soviet commanders who survived knew what tics. The German logisticians determined that the advance they were doing. The easy German victories disappeared.” into Russia would run out of supplies at about 700 kilome- The longer the war went on, the more the numbers ters, or about 500 miles. They would run out of ammo, fuel, favored the Soviet Union. “Germany basically had no spare parts. The armor would have to stop and wait for the reservists while the Soviet Union had 14 million reservists. infantry to catch up.” You can continue to make war as long as you have 19-year- Which was just about exactly what happened. olds who think they are bullet-proof.” A major problem for the Germans was the vast area of By the later stages of the war, the average age of a the Soviet Union that the Nazis were trying to conquer had German officer was 58 while the average age of a Soviet few major highways. Compounding the supply problem officer was 44. “A lot of the German officers weren’t up to was that the railroads in Russia were a different gauge. it anymore, while the Soviet officers were just hitting their “They had to rebuild every foot of that track. And, as the prime.” Soviets retreated, they destroyed all the water towers, tracks House said it wasn’t just lack of numbers that did in the and rolling stock.” German effort. In large part it was because the Red Army So, unlike the earlier Blitzkrieg, where the German tanks used superior tactics and strategy. The Soviets were able to rolled through parts of Europe in a matter of weeks, the concentrate their forces where they needed to be concen- 1941 Operation Barbarossa was described as “lunge for- trated. ward. Stop. Lunge forward. Stop again.” And, in the end, the Soviets turned around the German House also blames the Germans for having a weak blitzkrieg strategy for their own benefit. “The Soviets called notion of what they were trying to accomplish. “How do it ‘rapid exploitation of the rear.’” you conquer a country that spans 12 time zones? What was their goal? Even if they captured Moscow, there’s no indi- At the conclusion of the war, it wasn’t Hitler’s blunder- cation the Soviets would have quit. Napoleon captured ing, the weather or the numbers that necessarily defeated Moscow, and that didn’t mean anything. The Germans had Germany. It was poor decision-making in the field and in PROFESSOR JONATHON HOUSE a very vague mission statement.” planning the attack, it was the mistake of not listening to the Speaker at the January Round Table House argues that at both Kursk and Stalingrad, two massive battles that pretty much turned the tide of the war, Hitler did listen to his generals. They were wrong. Goering told Hitler that the army, encircled at Stalingrad, could be supplied by air. It couldn’t. Sometimes the experts make mistakes.”

Another factor in the fighting between Germany and the Soviet Union was brutal hostility between the sides. “Neither side could tolerate the other side’s survival.” House said the Germans were so confident, they were not ready for a winter campaign. “With the poor supply lines, they could either send winter gear and equipment or they could send fuel and ammo. They couldn’t do both.” Sure enough, he said, the Germans ran out of gas, liter- ally, when they reached Smolensk, almost exactly 700 kilo- meters from the starting point – just as the logisticians had predicted. House said the armored lead element could have pressed forward, but it would have exposed the rear elements to flank attacks. “The whole thing was pretty unrealistic if you think about it.” As for being outnumbered, there was never any doubt that a nation of 80 million that’s attacking a nation of 165 million would be outnumbered. “But you never hear anything about Germany being outnumbered when they were winning.” The only thing that allowed Germany to have such easy Soviet Army soldiers display their flag in Berlin in 1945. Page 14 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 The Auxiliary Bulletin No. 14-7 February 2014 President Shirley Frederick Secretary Sandie Deutsch Department Headquarters, Veterans Service Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-224-7634

The Department Junior meeting President’s Column to be held at Hopkins Post The 51st Annual Department Junior Conference will be If you haven’t placed your Poppy order yet, please do so. held April 11-12 at the Hopkins American Legion Post 320 We need to finalize the number of Poppies needed for this hosted by the Tenth District. year’s Poppy distribution so we can plan accordingly. Let’s By We are hoping that a large number of the Junior mem- have 100% Unit participation in the Auxiliary Poppy pro- bers are able to attend and participate. If your Juniors have gram. Remember our Poppies are made by our veterans Shirley Frederick never attended a Department Junior Conference, plan to and they receive a small compensation for their work. Let’s join us this year. Junior members will enjoy a “fun night” support their efforts. on Friday, April 11th, the night before the opening of the Don’t save your Poppies just for Poppy Day. Use them Conference. The 10th District has been working hard to throughout the year. Let’s make this a Poppy year in recog- make this a special evening for the Junior members. nition of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep On Saturday the Conference will be called to order at 9 America free. As I am writing this the wind chill is -35 and going deep- a.m. by Kaitlin Fernlund, the Department Honorary Junior er in the icebox. So am hoping that as you read this we are President. This is a day when the Juniors become reac- RENEW, RECRUIT, REJOIN back to a more normal winter temperature and that each of quainted with each other, make new friends, learn how to It’s time to turn our attention to winding up our 2014 you have a winter survival can in your car and keep it conduct a meeting and participate in it. This meeting is a membership drive. By now, every Unit should have at least updated on a regular basis. junior Conference and the junior members run it. They are 80% of their Unit membership goal, and be well on their Our Department National Security Chairman Raleen very capable young women. way to 85% which is milestone number 4 - February 1. sent out a flyer with this information on it in an earlier Unit The “Call to Conference” was included in the January Congratulations to the 203 Units who have already exceed- Mailing. If you did not see it please ask your Unit President Unit mailing, giving you all the details. Junior Activities ed the 85% milestone and more importantly the 43 Units for a copy of it. Make copies and post around town also. Chairmen, please obtain this information from your Unit who have reached 100% or more. Let’s have the rest of the President so you can make your plans to have your Juniors Units reach/exceed its membership goal by April 15th, the Our veterans and service men and women need us to attend. You do not need to have an organized Junior group same date annual reports are due. It can be done with every keep contacting our elected officials until they get it right. to participate. All Juniors are welcome. The information is member making personal contact and finding missing We cannot let them balance the budget on the backs of also posted on our website mnala.org members. Thank you to all the Units that brought member- the ones that have been and are serving our Country to keep Housing is available at the Minnetonka Marriott ship to their Mid-Winter Conference or have sent member- us safe in a free Country. They gave and are giving of them- Southwest, as per the information in the Call to the ship in on a regularly weekly basis. Even one or two mem- selves not knowing when or if they would come home ok or Conference. bers per transmittal are important. Don’t hold on to them. not. The Department Honorary Junior President Kaitlin has Our Department Membership Chairman, Barbara Klehr, chosen to raise monies for craft kits for the St. Cloud asks every Unit and District to use “Renew, Recruit and February is Americanism Month, a great time to take Veterans Home to be used for the Creative Arts Festival. Rejoin” and make the February 1st milestone. Let’s show those educational comic books to your schools. Read them Please bring your donation to the Conference so Kaitlin can Barbara what we can do! Keep up the good work!! Keep at home to your children and grandchildren. finalize her project. sending the membership in on a regular basis. We have Talk with them about Americanism, patriotism, freedom, been holding on to 2nd place in the Nation for quite a while our Flag, the Liberty Bell, the Statue of Liberty, The and don’t want to give up our spot. We are currently in 1st Constitution of the United States of America, the Bill of AMERICANISM MONTH place in the Northwestern Division! Rights and our responsibility relating to each of these. February is Americanism month. Chairman Jean Walker The National organization has sent out second notices to has put various aspects of this most important program in those Senior members who had not renewed their member- It is Mid-Winter Conference time, Sweetheart the February Unit mailing. All members should strive to be ship for 2014. Please disregard this notice if you have now Membership Rally, and time to be contacting your schools a patriot through Unit involvement in community events. paid your 2014 dues. We hope every Unit will once again with information about the Girls State Program. Encourage and get involved with your youth to teach them contact their non-renewals and remind them their “dues are What a great gift to our young ladies to be able to attend the importance of Americanism. Work closely with The due”. If your District President and Membership team can this wonderful program teaching them hands on about how American Legion and their Americanism programs. be of assistance to your Unit, please let them know. They our government works. are most willing to help. All scholarship applications are due March 15th. March POPPY CARDS AND POPPY DAYS UNIT TREASURERS is Community Service Month. Give a helping hand to our Those Districts within the Twin City seven-county area If your Post has gambling funds and has voted to support veterans, service men and women and their families in your met in September with the VFW to determine Poppy Card Auxiliary program such as Girls State, ALA Hospital community. Days and Poppy Days for all Units and Posts in the area. Program, $5.00 Bill Shower, etc, please note. All post gam- How often do you stop to thank a veteran for his/her Poppy Card Days will be held April 18 - 27, 2014, inclu- bling checks must be made payable to “The American service. Remember not only the injured veteran in the VA sive for closed territories, starting at 12:01 a.m. on April 18. Legion Foundation – Fund 83,” not to The American Hospital but the family also needs comforting and help and Beginning April 28 Poppy Cards maybe distributed any- Legion, not to the American Legion Auxiliary. If a check is a kind word. It is also the American Legions Birthday. where right up until Poppy Day. Poppy Cards may be dis- not made payable to The American Legion Foundation – tributed within the confines of one’s own Post home to Fund 83, the check will be returned to the Unit so it can be Patriotism: Thank out veterans -- teach our children. members and patrons only on Thursday evening, April 17 – reissued payable to The American Legion Foundation. if the Cards are hung on the wall of the Post Home and NO distributed Cards leave the building on Thursday evening. 2015 MEMBERSHIP DUES Poppy Days will be May 16 - 17, 2014, beginning at Gosh, it seems that these months go by so fast — in the Auxiliary 12:01 a.m. on May 16. Closed territories are in effect until February Unit mailing, every Unit received a notice asking noon on Friday, May 16. for the amount of your Unit’s 2015 Senior and Junior dues, This “gentlemen’s” agreement involves the VFW, and the name and address of the person whose name should Membership VFWA, the American Legion and American Legion appear on your Unit’s 2015 dues’ notices. Please make sure Auxiliary Posts and Units. Everyone’s cooperation is nec- this information gets back to Sandie at the Department as of Jan. 22, 2014 essary to ensure a successful Poppy program. Please do not Office by March 15. There are no increases in dues at either District 1-22 Total Percent Goal distribute any Poppy Cards and/or Poppies prior to these the National or Department level this year. First 4,561 80.33 5,678 dates. This applies to all Posts and Units in the seven-county metropolitan area (Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, Second 4,559 83.61 5,453 Dakota, Carver, Scott and Anoka counties). SCHOLARSHIPS Third 3,935 80.92 4,863 Just a reminder all applications for any Department and Fourth 646 76.90 840 National scholarships must be received in the department office by March 15. Let your schools know they are avail- 815 77.99 1,045 POPPY ORDERS Fifth Shipping of 2014 Poppy orders began last fall as orders able and provide them with the application forms. They are Sixth 5,508 80.01 6,799 were received and Poppies were available. All orders are also posted on our website for your convenience. If addi- Seventh 3,631 82.09 4,423 shipped according to the “need by” date indicated when the tional copies are needed, you may duplicate those you have Eighth 1,484 77.21 1,922 order was placed. Orders are shipped by first class mail. received or contact the Department office. Ninth 4,079 84.59 4,822 Upon receipt of your Poppies please check it carefully. Tenth 4,453 77.13 5,773 Contact the department office with any discrepancies. If your Unit has already ordered Poppies, but needs more, SOS FOR VOLUNTEERS 109 65.66 166 Volunteers are needed in all phases of our programs. Do Depart. please order again. Units may place as many Poppy orders Total 33,780 67.88 41,784 you have a few hours you can donate to a veteran and as they want to. his/her family? If so, contact your Unit Veterans Affairs February 2014 Minnesota Legionnaire Page 15 Girls State will be held from June 15-20 AuxiliaryContinued from Preceding Bulletin Page Information about the Legion Auxiliary. Contact bling funds that they might American Legion Auxiliary your local newspaper and be willing to use for the reg- and Rehabilitation Chairman, your Field Service Chairman Minnesota Girls State June write an article about what istration fee. The best way or the Hospital/Home Representative in your area. The 15-20, 2014 session was American Legion Auxiliary to promote the American needs are great and growing all the time. A few hours work- mailed to each high school Minnesota Girls State is, in Legion Auxiliary ing in your own home under our Home Service program on January 7th. The schools order to inform your com- Minnesota Girls State pro- would be appreciated, i.e., cutting/sorting stamps, sewing are waiting to be contacted munity about the great gram in your community is items for our hospitalized veterans, etc. This is what our by your Unit American opportunity that is just to let the public know about organization is all about so let’s each do our part. Legion Auxiliary around the corner for a girl our program. The “news” Minnesota Girls State chair- (s) in your community to this year is that the location PRESIDENT’S MEMORY BOOK man, so don’t keep them have an experience of a life of American Legion If our Department President Shirley has attended an waiting. If you have not time by participating and Auxiliary Minnesota Girls Auxiliary or Legion function in your community, be certain contacted the high school working together to learn State has moved to the to share with her through her Memory Book Chairman any guidance counselor or prin- how local and state govern- University of St. Thomas in pictures, newspaper articles, etc. that pertain to her visit. cipal yet, please do so as ment works. The registra- St. Paul and the girls will be You may send these directly to: Wanda Anderson, 28037 soon as possible. American tion fee is $300 per girl. If going home on Friday Everton Creek Rd. NE, Blackduck, MN 56632 or email Legion Auxiliary your Unit does not have the evening rather than them to Wanda at [email protected]. You can also Minnesota Girls State is a funds, consider a fundraiser Saturday. Our goal is to send them to the department office and we will forward unique patriotic program such as; a bake sale, a din- have at least 400 girls them for you. With your help Shirley will have many mem- that is only sponsored ner or silent auction, etc. attend this year. Please help SUZETTE MALUCHNIK orable moments to look back on and enjoy for years to through the American Perhaps your post has gam- us meet our goal. Girls State Chairman come. UNIT ANNUAL REPORTS February is always Americanism Month Unit Annual Reports have been mailed to each Unit in February is pocketflagproject.com or to the programs tab and January. All reports, instruction sheets and history paper Americanism Month write Pocket Flag Project then go to the Americanism will be in one envelope. If you don’t receive this envelope, The love of country, PO Box 740847 Arvada, tab and you will find all contact the department office immediately. Please note: patriotism and responsible CO 800006 kinds of helpful member The Unit reports cover the period from April 1, 2013 to citizenship. Participate in the Get resources and Web Links. March 31, 2014. American Legion Out The Vote and Kids The American Legion Reports should be distributed to your Unit Chairmen Auxiliary is dedicated to Voting USA campaigns Auxiliary’s number 1 objec- now so they can familiarize themselves with them prior to promoting patriotism in the more information at tive: Promote the American report time and be ready to write their own report. The community through a vari- www.legion.org/vote and Legion Auxiliary’s values reports are very different from the past, same information ety of activities and pro- www.kidsvotingusa.org. of Americanism through different format. Please read the instructions and if you grams, including the obser- The American Legion community education about have questions please call the Department Office. vance of patriotic holidays, Americanism programs: flag etiquette and respect by All Unit reports are due on or before April 15. Reports flag etiquette and distribu- American Legion Baseball, demonstrating leadership in are important. Let’s hear from every Unit. tion, education of our youth Oratorical Contest and the support of our country and about history and voting Junior Shooting Sports. our military. GIRLS STATE and support of veterans, The American Legion Proud to be an American Now is the time to send your $300.00 fee to reserve a service members and their Auxiliary Americanism I pledge allegiance to the place for your American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Girls families. Awards: Americanism flag of the United States of State citizen(s). Cut-off for reservations is March 31. Upon Here are some of the Essay Contest, Department America and to the republic receipt of your reservation fee ($300.00 per girl) you will programs we support: Awards, Dorothy Pearl for which it stands, one receive the needed registration packet(s). Promote community Plaque, and Junior nation under God, indivisi- Enrollment is limited to the first 445 applications awareness of yellow ribbon Americanism Award more ble with liberty and justice JEAN WALKER received. The name of the girl, information sheet, enroll- reintegration programs information on these for all. Americanism Chairman ment card, pledge and order form for the citizen’s Capitol more information at awards are in the Unit Day polo-shirt must be into the Department office by May www.armyfrg.org. Guide. Our National web- DON’T THROW AWAY THOSE UNIFORMS! 1. Participate in the Pocket site www.alaforveterans.org WE BUY UNIFORMS, MEDALS, PATCHES, AVIATION There is no restriction as to the number of delegates a Flag project by providing has an abundance of infor- GEAR, JACKETS, HELMETS. JOE, 612-801-4673 AFTER 6 Unit may send to American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota flags for deploying troops mation on Americanism, go Girls State from their high school(s). The delegate must be a Minnesota resident, or attend a Minnesota school. Each high school principal has received a mailing pertaining to American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Girls State. Contact your high school now and let them know if you will be sponsoring a girl. High schools may not register a girl on their own. All American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Girls State citizens must be sponsored by an American Legion Auxiliary Unit. American Legion Auxiliary Minnesota Girls State will be held June 15-20, 2014 at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. This year will be very exciting with many new changes in store. TESTIMONIAL DATES The following are the District Presidents’ Testimonial dates. District 1 - Jill Mueller, March 23, LaCrescent District 2 - Jeannette Mertens, April 12, Redwood Falls District 3- JoAnne Joachim, June 7, Chanhassen District 4- Paula Davis, April 25, Eagles Club-St. Paul District 5- Annette Bray, May 3, Mpls.-Richfield Post District 6-Diane Gustad, May 3, Park Rapids District 7-Pat Ecker, May 3, Browns Valley District 8-Betty Manginen, June 30, Grand Rapids District 9-Jen Morken District 10-Donna Redepenning, May 4, Anoka Contact the District President listed for more information. Our Department President Shirley Frederick’s Testimonial will be held on Saturday, May 31 at the Northern Lights Casino in Walker, Minnesota. Information was put in the February Unit Mailing and will again be in a future mailing. Please, let’s all support our wonderful President Shirley and make this a very special day for her. She puts her heart and soul in our organization and all the programs we support.

VETS HOME GIFT SHOP -- Auxiliary members and Santa’s helpers got the goods together for the annual gift shop at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Minneapolis. Page 16 Minnesota Legionnaire February 2014 Thinking of *

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