Turn down the heat, & Haband slip on one of these! ™ Think of the huskies money you’ll save! They’re Warmth without weight! for Oatmeal only 2 It’s ONE shirt that looks 2999 like TWO!

Navy

And think of all the compliments you’ll get! This handsome velour fleece shirt comes in the best colors of the season. Sewn-in insert looks like a separate turtleneck, but it’s all one easy-to-wear piece. Detailed 100% with shirt collar, handy chest pocket, Wash ribbing at cuffs & hem. Machine wash & Wear! & wear polyester fleece is brushed to supreme softness inside & out, and has built-in stretch for extra comfort. We promise, you won’t be cold! But only if you order now! Haband 99* for Rust ™ 229 Grey huskies 3 for 42.65 4 for 55.25 Heather Haband 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Peckville, PA 18452 Send ____ shirts. I enclose $______purchase price plus $4.50 toward postage. GA residents add sales tax WHAT HOW Regular Sizes: 7EY–1XK SIZE? MANY? S(34-36) M(38-40) 06 L(42-44) XL(46-48) GREY HEATHER *Big Men (just $3 more each): KD RUST 2XL(50-52) JR OATMEAL 3XL(54-56) 4XL(58-60) 03 NAVY

Discover/ Check MC ® Visa Novus ® Card # ______Exp.: ______/_____ Mr./Mrs./Ms. ______Duke Habernickel, Pres. 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Peckville, PA 18452 Address ______Apt. # ______1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Peckville, PA 18452 Imported City & State ______Zip ______100% Satisfaction Guaranteed or Full Refund of Purchase Price at Any Time! NOVEMBER 2002 12 Vol. 153, No. 5 features 12 Give Old Glory a Vote Passage of the flag amendment would demonstrate that the 34 American people still run the government. By Sens. Orrin Hatch and Tim Hutchinson 14 America the Generous President Bush opens a new front in the war on terrorism: foreign aid. By Ben Barber 20 Mystery Maladies The tide may be turning in the battle to prove war-related illnesses. By James V. Carroll 28 The Boys of Praha One small Texas town lost more than its share of soldiers during World War II. By Jim Moore 34 ‘A Heart Beating Strong’ Legionnaires reflect on a year of tragedy and triumph at the 84th National Convention. 20 By Steve Brooks departments 4 Vet Voice 8 Commander’s Message Mind, heart and hands 10 Big Issues Arming commercial pilots 50 Under the Radar High-tech smart bombs, Taiwan’s independence and the Pentagon’s new command structure. 52 Potpourri 28 54 Living Well Prostate cancer, arthroscopic knee surgery and COVER: A Navy lieutenant cutting VA jargon. is welcomed home by his 58 Legion News daughter following his Flag-protection votes, The American Legion World Series deployment in support of and the Junior Air Rifle Championships. Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy/Ethan Macnow 66 Comrades 72 Parting Shots 14

The American Legion Magazine, a leader among national general-interest publications, is published monthly by The American Legion for its 2.7 million members. These wartime veterans, working through 15,000 community-level posts, dedi- cate themselves to God and Country and traditional American values; strong national security; adequate and compassionate care for veterans, their widows and orphans; community service; and the wholesome development of our nation’s youth.

November 2002 1 The American Legion Magazine VETERANS COMMEMORATIVES PRESENTS THE PREMIER ISSUE ANOTHERIN A POWERFUL NEW SERIES OF MILITARY HILL COLLECTOR KNIVES By Taylor Oughton Featuring an original full color 700 N. Pennsylvania St. Korean battle scene P. O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, IN 46206 ROK Korean Service (317) 630-1200 Medal finished in 22 http://www.legion.org karat antiqued gold National Commander Ronald F. Conley set in handle Published by The American Legion EDITORIAL An intense battle rages on An original Editor John Raughter "Another Hill" in Korea, as troops work of art Managing Editor Jeff Stoffer advance through bitter cold. Contributing Editor Steve Brooks Assistant Editor James V. Carroll Created by Taylor Oughton, Assistant Editor Matt Grills respected artist and WWII Assistant Editor Elissa Kaupisch Hand-finished Editorial Administrator Patricia Marschand Veteran Marine, to honor those stainless steel General Administrator Brandy Ballenger who served and remember those blade imprinted with General Administrator Robin Bowman who did not return from Korea American Bald Eagle and other conflicts. GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Graphics/Production Director Jon Reynolds ORDER YOURS TODAY. Knifeback is Art Director Holly K. Soria SATISFACTION GUARANTEED BY serially numbered Actual size VETERANS COMMEMORATIVES. Designer Douglas Rollison 7 1/4” Extended Designer King Doxsee FOR FASTEST SERVICE CALL TOLL FREE TO ORDER: 1-800-255-3048 ADVERTISING MONDAY - FRIDAY FROM 9AM - 5PM EST HAVE CREDIT CARD READY WHEN ORDERING. Advertising Director Diane Andretti Advertising Assistant Sara Palmer MAIL TO: Veterans Commemoratives Order Center Advertising Assistant Leslie Hankins 1250 Easton Road, Suite 290 Signature ______ALL ORDERS ARE SUBJECT TO ACCEPTANCE Horsham, PA 19044 The American Legion Magazine Name ______P. O. Box 7068 YES. I wish to order_____ (Qty.) of the “Another Hill” PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY Indianapolis, IN 46207 commemorative knife, including a Certificate of Address ______Authenticity and Lifetime Guarantee. I need send FOX ASSOCIATES, INC. no money now. I will be billed for $39.50* per City______State____Zip ______Publisher’s Representatives knife prior to shipment. Chicago: (312) 644-3888 Telephone(______) ______* Plus $ 4.95 per knife for engraving, shipping and handling. ALLOW 4-6 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY New York: (212) 725-2106 PA residents add 6% state sales tax. ©2002 ICM AHKNI-ALM-11/02 Los Angeles: (213) 228-1250 Detroit: (248) 543-0068 Atlanta: (404) 497-7690 San Francisco: (415) 989-5804 THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE COMMISSION Dennis J. Henkemeyer, Chairman, Sauk Rapids, MN; Samuel Barney, Vice Chairman, Lancaster, OH; Charles E. Each Year 50,000 Americans Hartman, National Commander’s Representative, Eau Claire, PA; James J. Charleston, Consultant, Island Lake, Undergo Amputation Caused by IL; Casimir F. Sojka, Consultant, New Rochelle, NY. Com- mission Members: Harold F. Arnold, Statesboro, GA; J.O. Poor Circulation Berthelot, Gonzalez, LA; Vincent E. Blank, Vinton, IA; James P. Comiskey, Pittsburgh, PA; Donald R. Conn, Peripheral vascular disease is a South Bend, IN; James W. Conway, Charlestown, MA; Bet- tylou Evans, Laurel, DE; Philip B. Finley, Colby, KS; James Hall, Hopewell, NJ; Theodore Hartmann, Smithton, IL; Hoy disease that strikes the elderly, M. Haught, Huntsville, AR; Joe D. Mercer, Oklahoma City, OK; J. Fred Mitchell, Brewton, AL; Silas M. Noel, Frank- and people with diabetes. If furt, KY; Everett G. Shepard III, Woodstock, CT; George G. Sinopoli, Fresno, CA; Robert E. Vass Sr., Huntington, WV; you or someone you know has Frank C. Ward, Greenville, SC; Delores A. Ziegler, Belle- vue, WA. NEC Liaison Committee: Ray White, Chairman, diabetes or vascular disease, Huntsville, AL; William W. Kile, Petersburg, WV; Jerrold W. you may qualify for a research Wilson, Harrison, OH. Copyright 2002 by The American Legion study currently being conducted The American Legion (ISSN 0886-1234) is published monthly by The American Legion, 5745 Lee Road, India- in your area. To qualify, napolis, IN 46216. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, IN 46204 and additional mailing offices. Annual non-mem- volunteers must be: ber and gift subscriptions, $15 ($21, foreign); post-spon- sored and widows’ subscriptions, $6; single copy, $3.50. Member annual subscription price $3.00, which is includ- •Over 40 years old ed in annual member dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The American Legion, Input Services, P.O. Box • Have pain in the lower 1954, Indianapolis, IN 46206. Internet address: http://www.legion.org. legs or feet Change of Address: Notify The American Legion, Input •Have a foot wound that Services, P.O. Box 1954, Indianapolis, IN 46206. (317) 860- 3111. Attach old address label, provide old and new won’t heal addresses and current membership card number. Canada Post International Publications Mall (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 546321. Re-entered second-class mail matter at Manila Central Post office Toll Free: 1-888-216-4620 dated Dec. 22, 1991.

Sponsored by Catalyst Pharmaceutical Research LLC Printed in USA Member Audit Bureau of Circulations MEMBER FAMILIES! NEW FOR IT’S A WATCH... AND A COMPASS! Announcing the Official FIELD & STREAM® MILITARY COMPASS WATCH Engraved with your Watch Initials, Service Years flips up & Branch Emblem to reveal hidden, accurate, Stainless Steel fully calibrated Bracelet and compass. Shown matching Steel-clad with Air Force case, both decorated emblem and extra Sports with 23 Karat Gold, Band included for rugged beauty. FREE!

Designer hip-pouch with belt loop protects watch when not in use. FREE BONUS: 24 hour military time, Sport Band For YOUR Service Emblem luminous “Night- “Cushioned” engraved on back of watch Time” dial with large Comfort in High with your personal initials numerals, and date Impact Activities. and service years. window. A rugged timepiece & precision compass in one beautiful, solid stainless steel bracelet Field & Stream, since 1871, trusted apparel and • Both a gold plated steel dress bracelet and a rugged sport gear outfitters to millions of servicemen, hunters, band are included. fishermen and naturalists throughout the world is • Satisfaction guaranteed or return within 30 days for proud to issue its official Military Compass Watch, with replacement or refund–no questions asked. some features never before found in even the finest • Lifetime Service Warranty on vital watch movement. timepieces: This is not a toy. It’s a High-Tech watch and compass • Quartz crystal watch movement with date window & sweep- for dress or leisure outdoor use. THANK YOU priced second hand for accuracy within seconds per month. at just $99.*, a convenient payment plan is available • Luminous dial with 24 hour military time. Stop-second with no interest charges. So, order yours today. A “Hack” feature allows exact synchronization of time. Lifetime Service Warranty will assure you of quality • Steel-clad solid brass case water-resistant to 100 feet. performance and reliability. • Watch case opens to reveal easy-to-read compass, engraved Call toll-free to Reserve Your Watch: with YOUR military service emblem, initials and service years. ✁ORDER FORM 1-800-255-3048 Mail to: Field & Stream® Military Compass Watch Monday-Friday:9am–5pm. 1250 Easton Road, Suite 290, Horsham, PA 19044 Have your credit card ready when ordering by phone. ❑ YES! I wish to order the following Field & Stream Military Compass watch(es) engraved with my Service Emblem & Initials: (✓ Choices) Signature ______Army ❑ Navy ❑ Air Force ❑ Marine ❑ Coast Guard ❑ Daytime Phone Number (______) ______My Initials ______Service Years _____ to _____ Year Year Name______❑ Enclosed is my check for $99,* payable to “Veterans Commemoratives,” , as payment in full, OR Address______❑ Charge my credit card $99,* as payment in full, OR City ______❑ Charge four installments of $24.75* each to my credit card: State______Zip ______❑ Visa ❑ MasterCard or ❑ AMEX Exp. Date ____/____ *plus $7.95 shipping/handling and engraving ©ICM 2002 Credit Card# ______*PA residents add $6.42 for state sales tax. CMIWAT-ALM-11/02

Field & Stream® is owned by & Licensed under the authority of Field & Stream® Accessory Licenses Company, Plymouth, MN. vet voice

Education tool terity would be governed.” Let not his self-image and perspective on Your September issue is loaded that vision go to waste. life in general. with outstanding articles about – Dean Worthington, Hilliard, Ohio My thanks to Adm. Owens for American his acknowledgment of what we all history, citi- Slow justice knew: at least some of the enlisted zens’ respon- Using the reasoning of author guys were just as bright or more so sibilities and Judith A. Best (“Sovereign Citi- than their officers. His honesty and the precious zens,” September), a majority of frankness are truly refreshing. values of our Americans were denied the right – David P. Burkart, Miami great nation. to vote throughout most of his- Your maga- tory, thereby making them sub- A true hero zines are all jects rather than citizens. Why Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady’s excellent, but did the wheels of U.S. justice “The Last Refuge of a Free People” this one is so move so slowly for almost 200 (September) is a magnificent piece outstanding years until the Voting Rights Act written by a true hero of America. that I am of 1965? Because our rulers, of- I was so touched by his writing taking it to school and encourag- ten for political reasons, shame- that I pulled up on the Internet his ing teachers to use the informa- fully failed to distinguish right citation for the Medal of Honor. I tion to educate our youngsters from wrong and act accordingly. salute him, for he is the embodi- about the true America. No doubt It is ironic, with universal suf- ment of who he describes as the it will make them better citizens. frage now assured, that voter “uncommon common American.” – Joe Ginter, Elkhart, Ill. turnout has taken a header – a His writing tells it like it is and fact that surely contributed to the speaks to anyone willing to listen. Worth keeping “selection” of our president and God saw fit to preserve his life, A masterpiece has been laid “hired servant,” George W. Bush. perhaps to write such an article as before us. The September issue is – Ted S. Corin, Austin, Texas this. Thank you from the bottom brilliantly done. You have turned a of this old man’s heart. magazine into a keepsake. Forever changed – Eugene D. Rhodes, Roswell, Ga. – J.C. Cooper, Lissie, Texas I am one of those Cold War “warriors” mentioned by Adm. Negative tirade Great magazine Bill Owens in his excellent essay Gen. Patrick Brady’s diatribe is I have been a member of The “Duty, Honor, Country” (Septem- inexcusable. Its tone and content American Legion for more than 30 ber). It is difficult to add anything could be applied to most totalitari- years. Your magazine is not just to his exposition of the contribu- an systems. Certainly love of the best veterans magazine but tions made by all those who an- country and ideals should be one of the best magazines period. swered the call to serve. I have taught. Few would argue. But his Thanks so much for the Septem- never met a veteran – even a type of exclusive “patriotism” ber issue and your plans for next draftee like myself – who did not should be studied rather than September to honor those of us believe that his military experi- learned by rote and by force, just who served in Vietnam. Keep up ence forever and positively altered as the Bill of Rights and the Con- the good work. stitution should be studied and – Samuel D. High, Lonoke, Ark. appreciated as living documents. – John Mallan, Jamesville, N.Y. Debt to founders WE WANT I just finished reading Professor YOUR OPINIONS South left out Akhil Reed Amar’s article on the The American Legion Magazine wel- “America the Beautiful” (Sep- Constitution (“We the People,” comes letters concerning articles tember) had no pictures of the September), and he has hit the that appear in the publication. Be South – Georgia, Alabama, Missis- nail directly on the head. Every sure to include your hometown and sippi, Louisiana and Texas. I’ll generation has benefited from this a daytime phone number for verifi- grant you one small picture of a great document, and we all owe a cation. All letters are subject to edit- Florida swamp. Are we not part of duty to our country to ensure that ing. Send your opinions to: the beautiful American scene? the spirit of our founding fathers – Frank L. Leggett, Oxford, Miss. continues forever. This duty is de- The American Legion Magazine rived from the debt we owe to our P. O. Box 1055 Unity, not diversity founders, which Amar so Indianapolis, IN 46206 Virtually every author in the eloquently delineated when he You can also contact us via September issue praised the diversi- wrote that “never before in e-mail directly or through the ty of the American people and indi- human history had so many ordi- World Wide Web: cated that this is what makes Amer- nary persons registered their ex- e-mail: [email protected] ica strong. These writers surely plicit consent to the supreme law Internet: http://www.legion.org know better, and by falling in line under which they and their pos- with the politically correct drum-

4 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine DID YOU KNOW: PRAVACHOL IS THE ONLY CHOLESTEROL LOWERING DRUG PROVEN TO HELP PREVENT BOTH FIRST AND SECOND HEART ATTACK. Landmark clinical studies involving more than 20,000 people show: For people with high cholesterol or heart disease, Pravachol, with diet, is the only cholesterol lowering drug proven to do this much to help protect your heart.

When diet and exercise aren’t enough, ask your doctor if Pravachol is right for you. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Pravachol® (pravastatin sodium), a prescription drug, is not for everyone, including women who are pregnant or nursing or may become pregnant, or people with liver problems. And because serious side effects can result, tell your doctor about any unexplained muscle pain or weakness you experience while on Pravachol, and about any other medications you are taking. Your doctor may do blood tests to check for liver problems. Some mild side effects, such as slight rash or stomach upset, occur in 2-4% of patients. IT’S ALL IN THE PROOF.

Please see important product information on following page.

D3-K0110

1-877-PRAVA-CALL Princeton, NJ 08543 U.S.A. www.pravachol.com intrauterine exposure to other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. In a review1 of approximately 100 prospectively followed pregnan- ® cies in women exposed to simvastatin or lovastatin, the incidences of congenital anomalies, spontaneous abortions and fetal PRAVACHOL Rx only deaths/stillbirths did not exceed what would be expected in the general population. The number of cases is adequate only to exclude a three-to-four-fold increase in congenital anomalies over the background incidence. In 89% of the prospectively followed (pravastatin sodium) Tablets pregnancies, drug treatment was initiated prior to pregnancy and was discontinued at some point in the first trimester when preg- nancy was identified. As safety in pregnant women has not been established and there is no apparent benefit to therapy with Brief Summary of Prescribing Information. For complete prescribing information, please consult official package circular. PRAVACHOL (pravastatin sodium) during pregnancy (see CONTRAINDICATIONS), treatment should be immediately discontinued CONTRAINDICATIONS: Hypersensitivity to any component of this medication. Active liver disease or unexplained, persistent ele- as soon as pregnancy is recognized. PRAVACHOL should be administered to women of child-bearing potential only when such vations in liver function tests (see WARNINGS). Pregnancy and lactation. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process and discontinuation patients are highly unlikely to conceive and have been informed of the potential hazards. Nursing Mothers: A small amount of of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should have little impact on the outcome of long-term therapy of primary hyper- pravastatin is excreted in human breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, women tak- cholesterolemia. Cholesterol and other products of cholesterol biosynthesis are essential components for fetal development ing PRAVACHOL should not nurse (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in individuals less than 18 (including synthesis of steroids and cell membranes). Since HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors decrease cholesterol synthesis and pos- years old have not been established. Hence, treatment in patients less than 18 years old is not recommended at this time. Geriatric sibly the synthesis of other biologically active substances derived from cholesterol, they are contraindicated during pregnancy and Use: Two secondary prevention trials with pravastatin (CARE and LIPID) included a total of 6,593 subjects treated with pravastatin in nursing mothers. Pravastatin should be administered to women of childbearing age only when such patients are high- 40 mg for periods ranging up to 6 years. Across these two studies, 36.1% of pravastatin subjects were aged 65 and older and ly unlikely to conceive and have been informed of the potential hazards. If the patient becomes pregnant while taking this 0.8% were aged 75 and older.The beneficial effect of pravastatin in elderly subjects in reducing cardiovascular events and in mod- class of drug, therapy should be discontinued immediately and the patient apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus (see PRE- ifying lipid profiles was similar to that seen in younger subjects. The adverse event profile in the elderly was similar to that in the CAUTIONS: Pregnancy). overall population. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses to pravastatin between elderly and WARNINGS: Liver Enzymes: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, like some other lipid-lowering therapies, have been associated with younger patients. Mean pravastatin AUCs are slightly (25-50%) higher in elderly subjects than in healthy young subjects, but mean biochemical abnormalities of liver function. In three long-term (4.8-5.9 years), placebo-controlled clinical trials (WOS, LIPID, CARE; Cmax,Tmax and t¹⁄₂ values are similar in both age groups and substantial accumulation of pravastatin would not be expected in the see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Clinical Studies), 19,592 subjects (19,768 randomized), were exposed to pravastatin or place- elderly (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics/Metabolism). bo. In an analysis of serum transaminase values (ALT, AST), incidences of marked abnormalities were compared between the ADVERSE REACTIONS: Pravastatin is generally well tolerated; adverse reactions have usually been mild and transient. In 4-month pravastatin and placebo treatment groups; a marked abnormality was defined as a post-treatment test value greater than three long placebo-controlled trials, 1.7% of pravastatin-treated patients and 1.2% of placebo-treated patients were discontinued from times the upper limit of normal for subjects with pretreatment values less than or equal to the upper limit of normal, or four times treatment because of adverse experiences attributed to study drug therapy; this difference was not statistically significant. (See the pretreatment value for subjects with pretreatment values greater than the upper limit of normal but less than 1.5 times the also PRECAUTIONS: Geriatric Use section.) upper limit of normal. Marked abnormalities of ALT or AST occurred with similar low frequency (≤1.2%) in both treatment groups. Adverse Clinical Events: Short-Term Controlled Trials: All adverse clinical events (regardless of attribution) reported in more Overall, clinical trial experience showed that liver function test abnormalities observed during pravastatin therapy were usually than 2% of pravastatin-treated patients in placebo-controlled trials of up to four months duration are identified in the table below; asymptomatic, not associated with cholestasis, and did not appear to be related to treatment duration. It is recommended that also shown are the percentages of patients in whom these medical events were believed to be related or possibly related to the liver function tests be performed prior to the initiation of therapy, prior to the elevation of the dose, and when otherwise drug: clinically indicated. Active liver disease or unexplained persistent transaminase elevations are contraindications to the use of pravastatin (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). Caution should be exercised when pravastatin is administered to patients who have a Adverse Events in >2 Percent of Patients Treated with Pravastatin 10-40 mg recent history of liver disease, have signs that may suggest liver disease (e.g., unexplained aminotransferase elevations, jaundice), in Short-Term Placebo-Controlled Trials or are heavy users of alcohol (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacokinetics/Metabolism). Such patients should be close- All Events Events Attributed ly monitored, started at the lower end of the recommended dosing range, and titrated to the desired therapeutic effect. Patients to Study Drug who develop increased transaminase levels or signs and symptoms of liver disease should be monitored with a second liver func- tion evaluation to confirm the finding and be followed thereafter with frequent liver function tests until the abnormality(ies) return Body System/Event Pravastatin Placebo Pravastatin Placebo to normal. Should an increase in AST or ALT of three times the upper limit of normal or greater persist, withdrawal of pravastatin (N = 900) (N = 411) (N = 900) (N = 411) therapy is recommended. Skeletal Muscle: Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure secondary to myoglo- % of patients % of patients % of patients % of patients binuria have been reported with pravastatin and other drugs in this class. Uncomplicated myalgia has also been reported in Cardiovascular pravastatin-treated patients (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Myopathy, defined as muscle aching or muscle weakness in conjunc- Cardiac Chest Pain 4.0 3.4 0.1 0.0 < tion with increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values to greater than 10 times the upper normal limit, was rare ( 0.1%) in Dermatologic pravastatin clinical trials. Myopathy should be considered in any patient with diffuse myalgias, muscle tenderness or weakness, Rash 4.0* 1.1 1.3 0.9 and/or marked elevation of CPK. Patients should be advised to report promptly unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, Gastrointestinal particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. Pravastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels Nausea/Vomiting 7.3 7.1 2.9 3.4 occur or myopathy is diagnosed or suspected. Pravastatin therapy should also be temporarily withheld in any patient Diarrhea 6.2 5.6 2.0 1.9 experiencing an acute or serious condition predisposing to the development of renal failure secondary to rhabdomyoly- Abdominal Pain 5.4 6.9 2.0 3.9 sis, e.g., sepsis; hypotension; major surgery; trauma; severe metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte disorders; or uncon- Constipation 4.0 7.1 2.4 5.1 trolled epilepsy. The risk of myopathy during treatment with another HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor is increased with concurrent Flatulence 3.3 3.6 2.7 3.4 therapy with either erythromycin, cyclosporine, niacin, or fibrates. However, neither myopathy nor significant increases in CPK lev- Heartburn 2.9 1.9 2.0 0.7 els have been observed in three reports involving a total of 100 post-transplant patients (24 renal and 76 cardiac) treated for up General to two years concurrently with pravastatin 10-40 mg and cyclosporine. Some of these patients also received other concomitant Fatigue 3.8 3.4 1.9 1.0 immunosuppressive therapies. Further, in clinical trials involving small numbers of patients who were treated concurrently with Chest Pain 3.7 1.9 0.3 0.2 pravastatin and niacin, there were no reports of myopathy. Also, myopathy was not reported in a trial of combination pravastatin Influenza 2.4* 0.7 0.0 0.0 (40 mg/day) and gemfibrozil (1200 mg/day), although 4 of 75 patients on the combination showed marked CPK elevations versus Musculoskeletal one of 73 patients receiving placebo. There was a trend toward more frequent CPK elevations and patient withdrawals due to mus- Localized Pain 10.0 9.0 1.4 1.5 culoskeletal symptoms in the group receiving combined treatment as compared with the groups receiving placebo, gemfibrozil, or Myalgia 2.7 1.0 0.6 0.0 pravastatin monotherapy (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions). The use of fibrates alone may occasionally be associated Nervous System with myopathy. The combined use of pravastatin and fibrates should be avoided unless the benefit of further alterations Headache 6.2 3.9 1.7* 0.2 in lipid levels is likely to outweigh the increased risk of this drug combination. Dizziness 3.3 3.2 1.0 0.5 PRECAUTIONS: General: PRAVACHOL may elevate creatine phosphokinase and transaminase levels (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Renal/Genitourinary This should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chest pain in a patient on therapy with pravastatin. Homozygous Familial Urinary Abnormality 2.4 2.9 0.7 1.2 Hypercholesterolemia. Pravastatin has not been evaluated in patients with rare homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. In this Respiratory group of patients, it has been reported that HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are less effective because the patients lack functional Common Cold 7.0 6.3 0.0 0.0 LDL receptors. Renal Insufficiency. A single 20 mg oral dose of pravastatin was administered to 24 patients with varying degrees Rhinitis 4.0 4.1 0.1 0.0 of renal impairment (as determined by creatinine clearance). No effect was observed on the pharmacokinetics of pravastatin or its Cough 2.6 1.7 0.1 0.0 α ¹⁄₂ 3 -hydroxy isomeric metabolite (SQ 31,906). A small increase was seen in mean AUC values and half-life (t ) for the inactive *Statistically significantly different from placebo. enzymatic ring hydroxylation metabolite (SQ 31,945). Given this small sample size, the dosage administered, and the degree of The safety and tolerability of PRAVACHOL at a dose of 80 mg in two controlled trials with a mean exposure of 8.6 months was individual variability, patients with renal impairment who are receiving pravastatin should be closely monitored. Information for similar to that of PRAVACHOL at lower doses except that 4 out of 464 patients taking 80 mg of pravastatin had a single eleva- Patients: Patients should be advised to report promptly unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if accom- tion of CK >10x ULN compared to 0 out of 115 patients taking 40 mg of pravastatin. panied by malaise or fever (see WARNINGS: Skeletal Muscle). Drug Interactions: Immunosuppressive Drugs, Gemfibrozil, Niacin (Nicotinic Acid), Erythromycin: See WARNINGS: Skeletal Muscle. Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors: In vitro and in vivo Long-Term Controlled Morbidity and Mortality Trials: Adverse event data were pooled from seven double-blind, placebo- data indicate that pravastatin is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 to a clinically significant extent. This has been shown controlled trials (West of Scotland Coronary Prevention study [WOS]; Cholesterol and Recurrent Events study [CARE]; Long-term in studies with known cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (see diltiazem and itraconazole below). Other examples of cytochrome P450 Intervention with Pravastatin in Ischemic Disease study [LIPID]; Pravastatin Limitation of Atherosclerosis in the Coronary 3A4 inhibitors include ketoconazole, mibefradil, and erythromycin. Diltiazem – Steady-state levels of diltiazem (a known, weak Arteries study [PLAC I]; Pravastatin, Lipids and Atherosclerosis in the Carotids study [PLAC II]; Regression Growth Evaluation inhibitor of P450 3A4) had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of pravastatin. In this study, the AUC and Cmax of another HMG-CoA Statin Study [REGRESS]; and Kuopio Atherosclerosis Prevention Study [KAPS]) involving a total of 10,764 patients treated with reductase inhibitor which is known to be metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 increased by factors of 3.6 and 4.3, respectively. pravastatin 40 mg and 10,719 patients treated with placebo. The safety and tolerability profile in the pravastatin group was Itraconazole – The mean AUC and Cmax for pravastatin were increased by factors of 1.7 and 2.5, respectively, when given with comparable to that of the placebo group. Patients were exposed to pravastatin for a mean of 4.0 to 5.1 years in WOS, CARE, itraconazole (a potent P450 3A4 inhibitor which also inhibits p-glycoprotein transport) as compared to placebo. The mean t¹⁄₂ was and LIPID and 1.9 to 2.9 years in PLAC I, PLAC II, KAPS, and REGRESS. In these long-term trials, the most common reasons for not affected by itraconazole, suggesting that the relatively small increases in Cmax and AUC were due solely to increased bioavail- discontinuation were mild, non-specific gastrointestinal complaints. Collectively, these seven trials represent 47,613 patient- ability rather than a decrease in clearance, consistent with inhibition of p-glycoprotein transport by itraconazole. This drug trans- years of exposure to pravastatin. Events believed to be of probable, possible, or uncertain relationship to study drug, occurring port system is thought to affect bioavailability and excretion of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, including pravastatin. The AUC and in at least 1% of patients treated with pravastatin in these studies are identified as follows: Adverse Events in ≥1 Percent of Cmax of another HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor which is known to be metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 increased by factors of Patients Treated with Pravastatin 40 mg in Long-Term Placebo-Controlled Trials [Pravastatin (N = 10,764) % of patients 19 and 17, respectively, when given with itraconazole. Antipyrine: Since concomitant administration of pravastatin had no effect vs. Placebo (N = 10,719) % of patients] in each Body System/Event Cardiovascular: Angina Pectoris (3.1 vs. 3.4); on the clearance of antipyrine, interactions with other drugs metabolized via the same hepatic cytochrome isozymes are not Dermatologic: Rash (2.1 vs. 2.2); Gastrointestinal: Dyspepsia/Heartburn (3.5 vs. 3.7); Abdominal Pain (2.4 vs. 2.5); expected. Cholestyramine/Colestipol: Concomitant administration resulted in an approximately 40 to 50% decrease in the mean Nausea/Vomiting (1.6 vs. 1.6); Flatulence (1.2 vs. 1.1); Constipation (1.2 vs. 1.3); General: Fatigue (3.4 vs. 3.3); Chest Pain (2.6 AUC of pravastatin. However, when pravastatin was administered 1 hour before or 4 hours after cholestyramine or 1 hour before vs. 2.6); Musculoskeletal: Musculoskeletal Pain (includes arthralgia) (6.0 vs. 5.8); Muscle Cramp (2.0 vs. 1.8); Myalgia (1.4 vs. colestipol and a standard meal, there was no clinically significant decrease in bioavailability or therapeutic effect. (See DOSAGE 1.4); Nervous System: Dizziness (2.2 vs. 2.1); Headache (1.9 vs. 1.8); Sleep Disturbance (1.0 vs. 0.9); Depression (1.0 vs. 1.0); AND ADMINISTRATION: Concomitant Therapy.) Warfarin: Concomitant administration of 40 mg pravastatin had no clinically sig- Anxiety/Nervousness (1.0 vs. 1.2); Renal/Genitourinary: Urinary Abnormality (includes dysuria, frequency, nocturia) (1.0 vs. 0.8); nificant effect on prothrombin time when administered in a study to normal elderly subjects who were stabilized on warfarin. Respiratory: Dyspnea (1.6 vs. 1.6); Upper Respiratory Infection (1.3 vs. 1.3); Cough (1.0 vs. 1.0); Special Senses: Vision Cimetidine: The AUC0-12 hr for pravastatin when given with cimetidine was not significantly different from the AUC for pravastatin Disturbance (includes blurred vision, diplopia) (1.6 vs. 1.3). when given alone. A significant difference was observed between the AUC’s for pravastatin when given with cimetidine compared Events of probable, possible, or uncertain relationship to study drug that occurred in <1.0% of pravastatin-treated patients in to when administered with antacid. Digoxin: In a crossover trial involving 18 healthy male subjects given 20 mg pravastatin and the long-term trials included the following; frequencies were similar in placebo-treated patients: Dermatologic: pruritus, der- 0.2 mg digoxin concurrently for 9 days, the bioavailability parameters of digoxin were not affected. The AUC of pravastatin tended matitis, dryness of skin, scalp hair abnormality (including alopecia), urticaria. Endocrine/Metabolic: sexual dysfunction, libido to increase, but the overall bioavailability of pravastatin plus its metabolites SQ 31,906 and SQ 31,945 was not altered. change. Gastrointestinal: decreased appetite. General: fever, flushing. Immunologic: allergy, edema head/neck. Cyclosporine: Some investigators have measured cyclosporine levels in patients on pravastatin (up to 20 mg), and to date, these Musculoskeletal: muscle weakness. Nervous System: paresthesia, vertigo, insomnia, memory impairment, tremor, neuropathy results indicate no clinically meaningful elevations in cyclosporine levels. In one single-dose study, pravastatin levels were found (including peripheral neuropathy). Special Senses: lens opacity, taste disturbance. Postmarketing Experience: In addition to to be increased in cardiac transplant patients receiving cyclosporine. Gemfibrozil: In a crossover study in 20 healthy male volun- the events reported above, as with other drugs in this class, the following events have been reported rarely during postmar- teers given concomitant single doses of pravastatin and gemfibrozil, there was a significant decrease in urinary excretion and pro- keting experience with PRAVACHOL (pravastatin sodium), regardless of causality assessment: Musculoskeletal: myopathy, tein binding of pravastatin. In addition, there was a significant increase in AUC, Cmax, and Tmax for the pravastatin metabolite SQ rhabdomyolysis. Nervous System: dysfunction of certain cranial nerves (including alteration of taste, impairment of extra- 31,906. Combination therapy with pravastatin and gemfibrozil is generally not recommended. (See WARNINGS: Skeletal Muscle.) ocular movement, facial paresis), peripheral nerve palsy. Hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, lupus erythematosus-like syndrome, In interaction studies with aspirin, antacids (1 hour prior to PRAVACHOL), cimetidine, nicotinic acid, or probucol, no statistically sig- polymyalgia rheumatica, dermatomyositis, vasculitis, purpura, hemolytic anemia, positive ANA, ESR increase, arthritis, arthral- nificant differences in bioavailability were seen when PRAVACHOL was administered. Endocrine Function: HMG-CoA reductase gia, asthenia, photosensitivity, chills, malaise, toxic epidermal necrolysis, erythema multiforme, including Stevens-Johnson inhibitors interfere with cholesterol synthesis and lower circulating cholesterol levels and, as such, might theoretically blunt adre- syndrome. Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis, hepatitis, including chronic active hepatitis, cholestatic jaundice, fatty change in liver, nal or gonadal steroid hormone production. Results of clinical trials with pravastatin in males and post-menopausal females were cirrhosis, fulminant hepatic necrosis, hepatoma. Dermatologic: A variety of skin changes (e.g., nodules, discoloration, dryness inconsistent with regard to possible effects of the drug on basal steroid hormone levels. In a study of 21 males, the mean testos- of mucous membranes, changes to hair/nails). Reproductive: gynecomastia. Laboratory Abnormalities: elevated alkaline phos- terone response to human chorionic gonadotropin was significantly reduced (p<0.004) after 16 weeks of treatment with 40 mg of phatase, and bilirubin; thyroid function abnormalities. Laboratory Test Abnormalities: Increases in serum transaminase (ALT, pravastatin. However, the percentage of patients showing a ≥50% rise in plasma testosterone after human chorionic gonadotropin AST) values and CPK have been observed (see WARNINGS). Transient, asymptomatic eosinophilia has been reported. Eosinophil stimulation did not change significantly after therapy in these patients. The effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors on spermato- counts usually returned to normal despite continued therapy. Anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia have been reported genesis and fertility have not been studied in adequate numbers of patients. The effects, if any, of pravastatin on the pituitary- with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. Concomitant Therapy: Pravastatin has been administered concurrently with cholestyra- gonadal axis in pre-menopausal females are unknown. Patients treated with pravastatin who display clinical evidence of endocrine mine, colestipol, nicotinic acid, probucol and gemfibrozil. Preliminary data suggest that the addition of either probucol or gem- dysfunction should be evaluated appropriately. Caution should also be exercised if an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or other agent fibrozil to therapy with lovastatin or pravastatin is not associated with greater reduction in LDL-cholesterol than that achieved used to lower cholesterol levels is administered to patients also receiving other drugs (e.g., ketoconazole, spironolactone, cimeti- with lovastatin or pravastatin alone. No adverse reactions unique to the combination or in addition to those previously report- dine) that may diminish the levels or activity of steroid hormones. CNS Toxicity: CNS vascular lesions, characterized by perivas- ed for each drug alone have been reported. Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis (with or without acute renal failure) have been cular hemorrhage and edema and mononuclear cell infiltration of perivascular spaces, were seen in dogs treated with pravastatin reported when another HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor was used in combination with immunosuppressive drugs, gemfibrozil, at a dose of 25 mg/kg/day. These effects in dogs were observed at approximately 59 times the human dose of 80 mg/day, based erythromycin, or lipid-lowering doses of nicotinic acid. Concomitant therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and these on AUC. Similar CNS vascular lesions have been observed with several other drugs in this class. A chemically similar drug in this agents is generally not recommended. (See WARNINGS: Skeletal Muscle and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions.) class produced optic nerve degeneration (Wallerian degeneration of retinogeniculate fibers) in clinically normal dogs in a dose- OVERDOSAGE: To date, there has been limited experience with overdosage of pravastatin. If an overdose occurs, it should be treat- dependent fashion starting at 60 mg/kg/day, a dose that produced mean plasma drug levels about 30 times higher than the mean ed symptomatically with laboratory monitoring and supportive measures should be instituted as required. (See WARNINGS.) drug level in humans taking the highest recommended dose (as measured by total enzyme inhibitory activity). This same drug also produced vestibulocochlear Wallerian-like degeneration and retinal ganglion cell chromatolysis in dogs treated for 14 weeks at REFERENCE: 1Manson JM, Freyssinges C, Ducrocq MB, Stephenson WP.Postmarketing Surveillance of Lovastatin and Simvastatin 180 mg/kg/day, a dose which resulted in a mean plasma drug level similar to that seen with the 60 mg/kg/day dose. Exposure During Pregnancy. Reproductive Toxicology 10(6):439-446, 1996. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility: Please see Full Prescribing Information. Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category X. See CONTRAINDICATIONS. Safety in pregnant women has not been established. Pravastatin was not teratogenic in rats at doses up to 1000 mg/kg daily or in rabbits at doses of up to 50 mg/kg daily. These doses resulted in 10x (rabbit) or 120x D3-B001A-07-02 Revised July 2002 (rat) the human exposure based on surface area (mg/meter2). Rare reports of congenital anomalies have been received following 5154DIM19 vet voice beat of multiculturalism they the list of other great nations missed the mark. Pure diversi- SEND US YOUR who fell. ty in itself is divisive and is VIETNAM MEMORIES – Steven Mettler, Menno, S.D. what caused Serbs, Croats and Muslims to delight in their mu- The American Legion Not about money tual genocide and the Afghan Magazine is planning a I love America and was a tribes to destroy each other. It September 2003 theme patriot before Sept. 11. It now is not our differences that unite issue on the legacy of the Viet- appears post-Sept. 11 America us, but our sameness of goals nam War. Brief, well-written is a bandwagon many want to and desires. personal anecdotes about veter- ride. Books, posters, medals, – Ernest Wade, Atlanta ans’ most vivid memories of the war, knives – there’s money to be made. As great as the tragedy whether in Vietnam, stateside or else- Going down of Sept. 11 was and is, what I read the article “Only in where are needed to complete this bothers me is the families of America” (September). Hav- important special issue. Family members the victims fighting about ing traveled to Germany, of those who served also are invited to many millions of dollars the Austria, Canada, Australia submit their recollections. Authors lost are worth. What of my and Japan, I take pride in of anecdotes chosen for publi- brothers-in-arms who died on saying America’s greatness is cation will be paid $25 each. the battlefield? Can their lives in allowing immigrants to Submit neatly printed or be judged in dollars? We must come to our shores and be typed stories no later than Dec. 1, 2002, to: make every effort to keep accepted as Americans with “Vietnam” their memories alive. unlimited opportunities. Our c/o The American Legion Magazine – John F. Morgan, Cohasset, Mass. glaring weaknesses are as P. O. Box 1055 follows: we lead the world in Indianapolis, IN 46206-1055 No fix needed the number of serial murder- Hurray for Dr. Omega Silva Submissions cannot be acknowledged or ers and people behind prison defending the current status walls, substandard housing returned. Authors of submissions selected for of VHA (“Loyal to VHA,” Au- for our military families and publication will be notified. Please include gust). Having recently experi- professional ball players your name, address, phone number and e-mail enced the excellent care at the making 10 times more than address. medical center in Salem, Va., I our president. think any changes made Americans want unfettered fore. We share ideas, concerns and would be damaging. If it works, freedoms but not responsibility for intelligence among our agencies. why fix it? our own actions. Perhaps our I Proud. Those heroes who – Robert A. Kipley, Roanoke, Va. country will be the shortest-lived have given their lives in the line of superpower in world history. “To duty have not died in vain. There A special reward whom much is given, much is re- has never been a more patriotic I found the article “Legion quired.” So sayeth Holy Writ. posture among our heroes. Supports Tribute to Hope” (Le- – Floyd A. Laubham, Fairchance, Pa. I Faithful. We have examined gion News, August) to be note- ourselves and have thought about worthy. I was privileged to be Stronger than ever what we believe and how we re- selected as the Army’s represen- It was refreshing to read late to God Almighty. We have a tative to participate in the Bob Howard Safir’s article (“A Special new sense of purpose, which is to Hope show at Wonsan, Korea, in Breed,” September) about our na- walk in the path of righteousness. October 1950. It was a tremen- tion’s firefighters, police officers Safir is a man who understands dous honor for me to meet Bob and EMTs. As a former sailor and our “special breed.” and his entire troupe. During now as a fire lieutenant, I’d like to – David Paff, Waukegan, Ill. mail call sometime in March comment on our public-safety per- 1951, I received a letter from Bob sonnel after Sept. 11. We are: God the author Hope Enterprises. To my surprise, I Stronger. We have a much In the September issue, you it was a check referenced to my stronger resolve and commitment published the responses of 10 participation in the show. to our jobs and the overall prominent Americans to the ques- Every veteran and the nation in preparedness of our agencies. tion “What Makes America general should be proud to honor I Dedicated. We are more dedi- Strong?” Nine listed “people vir- this wonderful man who was will- cated than ever to supporting our tues.” Jennifer O’Neill, however, ing to give so much of himself to country and communities – and hit the nail on the head: “God ... comfort and entertain so many to ready ourselves for any future is the author of our country’s young men and women so far attacks. greatness.” Unfortunately, an in- from home. I expect Bob will re- I Unified. As a body of people creasing number of people want to ceive a special reward when the who have the job of public safety, push God out of our lives. If they Lord calls him home. we are more unified than ever be- succeed, America will be added to – Harvey L. Hyslop, San Diego

November 2002 7 The American Legion Magazine commander’s message Mind, heart and hands

hen our country was formed, our our mission as advocates for veterans. founding fathers were rebels with One of the eight discussions at the 1919 Wa cause. They all were intelligent, St. Louis caucus was about using alien sta- dedicated to an idea, workaholics – strong- tus as protection against military service minded, ordinary men. They were differ- while continuing to reap the benefits of ent ages and from different backgrounds. wartime employment. We see that today – They had egos, and some had a real dis- both legal and illegal aliens reaping the like for each other. But they had a blessings of our nation while veterans wait common cause: freedom. How many men in line at VA hospitals and while 40 percent would sacrifice their fortunes, families and of our homeless are veterans. homes for a principle today? Certain groups in this country want to If we look back to when The American protect noncitizens and use the Constitu- Legion was founded, we know that four tion to benefit al-Qaida and the Taliban. friends gathered in Paris during World War They have no concern for those who died I and discussed forming a veterans group. in the terrorist attacks or those fighting the At the St. Louis caucus, the delegates tried war, or those in VA hospitals or those who to draft Teddy Roosevelt Jr. as chairman. He cannot get into VA hospitals. National said, “We are gathered together for a high They want God out of our life; they Commander purpose. I want every American through want God out of our Pledge of Allegiance. Ronald F.Conley the length and breadth of this land to real- They believe it’s OK to desecrate Old Glory. Chase Studios ize there is not a man in this caucus who is Remember that no matter how old you seeking anything for himself personally, but are, how tired you are or how many years We have that he is simply working for the good of you have been involved in The American the entire situation.” Legion, you can still contribute to the good survived as Roosevelt’s words ring true today. That of the Legion if you remember how our na- a nation is why you are here: for the good of the tion and our organization were founded. It entire situation. An organization has been was because people responded to the idea because handed down to us that is the foundation that the mind conceives it, the heart for which the citizen soldier fought and believes it and the hands achieve it. the mind some died for. This organization is based Our country was founded on the princi- upon the three Ps: patriotism, principles ple of fighting tyranny. Our founding conceived and participation. The American Legion is fathers gave up tangible assets to fight for an idea, about real people, real beliefs and love of an intangible belief: the right to be free. We God, country, family and service. will not and cannot forget our fellow veter- the heart We have survived as a nation because ans and those who gave their very lives for the mind conceived an idea, the heart be- the free nation we are today. believed it lieved it and the hands achieved it. By the We will support the brave men and and the grace of God and the will and endurance of women of our armed forces and their fami- many dutiful men and women since the lies. They are America’s newest veterans. hands Revolutionary War, America has endured. We will not fail our country’s veterans. We Today, we are a nation at war once again. will fight until the promises made to them achieved it. Thousands of young children are being are fulfilled by a grateful nation. taught in radical Islamic schools both over- We shall continue to grow in numbers, seas and even here in the United States to recruiting the 19 million eligible veterans hate and even kill Americans. We are fight- who still do not carry a membership card ing a war not only of bullets, but of ideas. for The American Legion. In the end, however, we shall endure be- We shall engage America’s young people cause we are right. Because we are free. We in programs that educate, inspire and grow will do whatever it takes to remain free. responsible citizens of our great nation. As Thomas Paine once said, “Those And we will fight the good fight both in who expect to reap the blessings of free- Washington and in our own congressional dom must, like men, undergo the fatigues districts to work with our elected represen- of supporting it.” We need to re-energize tatives in fielding legislation that will em- ourselves and carry the torch for those brace our veterans, their families, national whose voices are silent, those in the VA security and our flag. hospitals, those who are homeless, and for As Theodore Roosevelt Jr. said, we will the security of our nation. We must sustain work for “the good of the entire situation.”

8 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine EXTRAORDINARY MEN. EXTRAORDINARY TIMES. AN EXTRAORDINARY STORY.

TOM HANKS AND STEVEN SPIELBERG PRESENT

The epic miniseries about the men of Easy Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. All 10 episodes plus “We Stand Alone Together: The Men Of Easy Company,” an 80-minute documentary, on 6 Discs or 6 VHS cassettes. NOW AVAILABLE WHEREVER VIDEOS AND DVDS ARE SOLD.

© 2002 Home Box Office, A Division of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. All Rights Reserved. HBO® is a service mark of Time Warner Entertainment Company, L.P. big issues Arming commercial pilots Sen. Conrad Burns Sen. Ernest F. Hollings SUPPORT R-Mont. D-S.C. OPPOSE I’ve never met a door that America can prevent another couldn’t be opened nor a pilot airplane hijacking by following who’s ever seen an air marshal. the lead of the Israeli airline El Our faith is put in “fortified Al, which puts up impenetrable doors,” a seemingly nonexist- cockpit doors with one rule: ent army of air marshals and, if once the door is secured, it is all else fails, in-flight maneu- never opened in flight. Period. vers to throw terrorists off Should a threatening distur- guard. Instead, we should be bance in the cabin occur, as thinking like the kamikaze ter- happened on Sept. 11, no one rorists these pilots could face. If people want to die can enter the cockpit. The plane will land as quick- hijacking planes, it makes sense to this old cowboy ly as possible, and the troublemakers will be taken that it would help if they died before they get the off to jail. job done. No one has hijacked an El Al plane in 30 years. That’s why I co-authored a bill to create a vol- Last September, El Al’s chief pilot told me, “Even if untary program to arm pilots and establish a train- my wife is being assaulted in the cabin I do not ing program for flight open that door. I go Deadly force is attendants. Deadly force straight to the ground Our focus should is the only language of with law enforcement the only language deterrence a terrorist waiting.” be on protecting of deterrence understands. Securing the door the security of We are foolish to ex- solves many problems. a terrorist pect that security efforts No longer would you airline passengers understands. will be 100-percent effec- have to worry about and people on tive 100 percent of the planes flying into the time, just as we are foolish to believe in a perfectly White House, the Em- the ground. impregnable door. A fortified door is not fortified pire State Building or a when the door is opened, just as it is when atten- nuclear power plant. No longer would you need to dants open them to bring pilots their meals. Rather worry about military jets flying overhead, ready to than allow pilots to protect themselves, their aircraft shoot you down. and passengers with guns, should the government And no longer would you need to worry about the mandate that pilots abstain from eating? debate of arming pilots with pistols or stun guns. As Once airborne, American flights are virtually de- far as I’m concerned, you could put a machine gun fenseless. There are only 1,000 air marshals to serv- in the cockpit – and the door would stay closed. ice more than 30,000 flights a day in the United Imagine if terrorists tried attacking a plane with States. To build up a force sufficient to man every an armed pilot. A flight attendant screams, “Open flight we’d need to create something nearly the size the door, he’s strangling me!” The pilot, feeling re- of the U.S. Marine Corps. sponsible to help, might get off a shot but would in- This is no time to be gun-shy about terrorism. stantly have a broken neck. And with the pilot’s pis- We give our soldiers guns and send them to tol the terrorists would have command of the aircraft Afghanistan, but we are prepared to let airline pi- and control of any passengers attempting to act like lots fend for the plane and passengers with their those on Flight 93 that crashed in Pennsylvania. bare hands. Hunters know you lie still and get your heart rate American soldiers aren’t asked to fight terrorists down to fire accurately. Would that be the case dur- with toys and temerity. Let’s give trained men and ing a turbulent flight, with terrorists busting women the right to self- through an open door? defense. And let’s do that Absolutely not. by using frangible ammu- YOUR OPINIONS COUNT Washington has it nition, which disinte- Senators and representatives are interested in wrong if it thinks pilots grates on impact with a constituent viewpoints. You may express your views should be armed. Our fo- metal surface but is strong in writing at the following addresses: cus should be on protect- enough to take down a The Honorable (name) The Honorable (name) ing the security of airline terrorist. That’s how the U.S. Senate House of Representatives passengers and people on terror and the hijackings Washington, DC 20510 Washington, DC 20515 the ground. President Bush can end – not with a Phone: (202) 224-3121 Phone: (202) 225-3121 could order tomorrow that whimper, but a bang. cockpit doors be locked.

10 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine A SALUTE TO THOSE WHO GIVE SO MUCH.

VETERANS AND CURRENT MILITARY PERSONNEL GET AN ADDITIONAL $500CASHALLOWANCE ON A NEW

JEEP
VEHICLE.

For over 60 years we’ve stood together in a shared commitment to freedom. Now in honor of those who’ve given so much to this ideal, Jeep and your local dealer are offering this expression of gratitude.
Right now all U.S. veterans and current military personnel will receive—in addition to current incentives—a $500 cash allowance good toward a new Jeep vehicle, including Grand Cherokee, Liberty, and Wrangler.* It’s a small sign of gratitude for those who’ve done and continue to do so much.

SEE YOUR JEEP
DEALER.

*Proof of current or previous military service required. Offer not available on 2002 Grand Cherokee Laredo Sport. Jeep is a registered trademark of DaimlerChrysler. “THE CONGRESS SHALL HAVE POWER TO PROHIBIT THE PHYSICAL DESECRATION OF THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES.” Give Old Glory a vote BY SENS. ORRIN G. HATCH think they are protecting Ameri- Americans who fought for it and AND TIM HUTCHINSON cans from our own bad judgment. the ideas it represents. For each of We call on those senators to vote those graves, there is a family mem- s longtime supporters of the for the amendment, allowing it to ber and friend who traded the life of proposed constitutional go back to the states for debate a loved one for a flag folded at a Aamendment to protect the and ratification. funeral. Inside those graves rest the American flag, we are pleased but Some critics say the flag amend- remains of people who recognized not surprised by the way Ameri- ment would offend the right to that some ideals are larger than self cans have been waving the flag as free speech. But as recited above, and that some responsibilities are a symbol of solidarity following the it would not affect anyone’s ability greater than individual rights. Sept. 11 attacks. The emotion to express opinions about the flag, Almost every reader of this mag- Americans feel when they see the the country, the government’s ac- azine has pledged allegiance to Stars and Stripes confirms our view tions or anything else. Americans “the flag ... and to the Republic for that the flag is much more than a will continue to have the right to which it stands ...” The history of piece of cloth – it is a unifying express views in public, in private, our country shows that this never force that represents the common in newspapers, on the Internet and has been an idle pledge. Although core ideals all Americans share re- through broadcast media. The fact a few persist in the self-centered gardless of their race, religion, eco- is, acts of disrespect to the flag notion that freedom means “doing nomic status or anything else. such as burning it and urinating whatever I want,” most Americans The flag-protection amendment on it add nothing to any debate understand that our precious rights is simple and narrow. It reads: about our nation’s polices, priori- come at a cost. That cost includes “The Congress shall have power to ties or direction. reasonable limitations on our per- prohibit the physical desecration of The flag amendment’s passage sonal conduct in order to preserve the flag of the United States.” It and ratification would demonstrate the common spirit of our country does not make anything illegal. If that the American people still run and to demonstrate the unity of enacted, it would simply author- the government and not the other our belief in the American system ize, but not require, Congress to way around. The most basic ques- of government. pass a law protecting the flag. tion about the structure of our fed- If the Senate passes the flag Such laws existed for 200 years eral government is the balance of amendment this year, the debate prior to two Supreme Court deci- power among the three branches: over state ratification will be one of sions in 1989 and 1990, and those executive, legislative and judicial. the greatest discussions in Ameri- laws were enforced by five other For almost 200 years, the legislative can history. It will encourage a Supreme Court rulings and numer- branch had the power to make laws deeper study of our history and ous state court cases. concerning physical desecration of values. It will inspire young people James Madison and Thomas the flag. That changed in 1989 and to understand and appreciate the Jefferson supported legal protec- 1990, when the Supreme Court heroic selflessness displayed in pre- tions for the flag, and so did ruled that flag burning is “speech.” vious generations. And it will Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black, The effect of that decision was a cause many Americans to renew who was perhaps the leading expo- reallocation of power from their faith and commitment to the nent of First Amendment freedoms Congress to the Supreme Court, ideals and values of America that ever to sit on the Supreme Court. which is now the only branch of are greater than anyone’s personal All 50 states have approved government that can decide self-interest. We call on our resolutions calling on Congress to whether a flag-desecration law can colleagues to allow this great dis- pass a flag amendment. The U.S. exist. An overwhelming number of cussion to begin. I House of Representatives has Americans disagree. By giving the passed the amendment in each of power back to Congress, the flag Sen. Orrin G. Hatch, R-Utah, is the the past four sessions of amendment would restore the pow- ranking Republican on the Senate Congress. President George W. er of the people to determine flag- Judiciary Committee. Sen. Tim Bush supports it as well. The only desecration policy through their Hutchinson, R-Ark., is a member thing stopping the amendment elected representatives. of the Armed Services Committee. from progressing toward ratifica- Buried beneath our flag around tion is a handful of senators who the world are tens of thousands of Article design: Doug Rollison

12 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine The

Only Mattress Recommended By PAUL HARVEY! FirmerFirmer

“Before my Softer Sleep Number bed, I spent from 3 to 4 hours in my recliner most nights because of backaches, shoulder aches and generally sore muscles.Not any longer.I sleep well and deeply in my bed now.This was a very good investment.” —William B., Lindon, CO Why Back PainSufferers Sleep Better On Air®! “For the past ten years, until I bought my Sleep Number bed, I suffered from lower back The Sleep Number® bed Metal coil mattresses can pain due to an injury I sustained while on comfortably contours to your body, create uncomfortable pressure active duty.Ever since I began sleeping in my to more properly support your back and points and provide uneven Sleep Number bed, I have not suffered any spine, and help to reduce pressure points. support over time. pain and I sleep 100% better.” TRY IT FOR 30 NIGHTS! —Ramon R., Levittown, PR We’re so sure you’ll sleep better on air,you can

TM take up to 1 month to decide,or your money The Sleep Number Bed by Select Comfort. back.You’ve got to sleep on it to believe it! It’s not just a better bed, but a better way to sleep. Even back pain sufferers can sleep For a FREE VIDEO and Brochure, call now! more comfortably! 1-80 0-831-1211 The SLEEP NUMBER® bed doesn’t rely on Ext. 28715 springs or water, but on a cushion of air. Air gently Yes! Please rush me a FREE contours to your body’s Video and Brochure. shape,helping to reduce Name______uncomfortable pressure Address______points, and tests show City______State ______it also helps to more Zip______Phone______properly support your Ext. 28715 back and spine. Find your Sleep Number® with the Easy Push Button Mail to: Select Comfort Direct Firmness Control! 6105 Trenton Lane North, Minneapolis, MN 55442 © 2002 Select Comfort Direct Direct © 2002 Select Comfort America Corbis theGenerous BY BEN BARBER eign aid by 50 percent, he stunned In the war on world leaders as well as Republi- merican wheat, corn, cans and Democrats at home. terror, President schoolbooks, vaccines and “As we wage war today to keep Aeconomic advisers sent to the world safe from terror, we must Bush resurrects an the poorest countries in the world also work to make the world a bet- collectively form the spearpoint of ter place for all its citizens,” Bush a new and unlikely front in the said prior to the summit. old weapon: war on terrorism: foreign aid. Then, in an appearance with When President George W. rock star Bono at Monterrey, Bush foreign aid. Bush told the world at a summit recalled how America, during in Monterrey, Mexico, in March World War II, fought to make the that he would increase U.S. for- world safe – then worked to re-

14 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Afghanistan was the No. 1 recipient of say humanitarian U.S. humanitarian assistance before the aid has always had Sept. 11 tragedy, and the country support from the left and remains so. Since October 2001, the U.S. government has provided more than right alike – the president de- $420 million in assistance, $220 million clared that America’s national se- of which has been through USAID. Corbis curity was at stake. The new front he opened up in the war on terror- build it. The Marshall Plan he re- ism is aimed directly at billions of ferred to provided some $13 bil- desperately poor people, increas- lion to 13 shattered European ingly crowded into the teeming countries between 1948 and 1952 slums of Africa, Asia, the Middle as a hedge against the siren call East and Latin America. Just as the

n o of communism. Marshall Plan shipped U.S. tractors is ll o R Foreign aid has been called and bulldozers to Greece and other ug money “thrown down a rathole” war-damaged European nations Do by Sen. Jesse Helms of North Car- after World War II to provide hope olina. The Heritage Foundation for a decent living and stave off insists foreign aid is mainly wel- communism, the new Bush Millen- The Bush foreign-aid fare that keeps inefficient, corrupt nium Challenge Account aims to plan is driven not so governments in power. Other crit- drain terrorism’s swamp amidst ics say trade, not aid, helps poor the poverty of the Third World. much by new approaches countries. They point to Taiwan, “Half the world’s people still South Korea, China, Thailand and live on less than $2 a day,” Bush to development as by Malaysia, all of which graduated said. “For billions, especially in from aid to trade, as examples. Africa and the Islamic world, fear of what 3 billion or Still, many countries in Africa, poverty is spreading, and per- 4 billion hungry and Asia, the Middle East and Latin capita income is falling.” He America remain destitute. Their called it a “challenge to our com- hopeless people will countries lack the ancient Chinese passion and a source of instabili- tradition of a merit-based bureau- ty. We must confront it. We must mean for the world’s cracy and the experience of cen- include every African, every stability and security. turies of trade in a money economy. Asian, every Latin American, So for both humanitarian and politi- every Muslim, in an expanding cal reasons, the U.S. government circle of development.” together the poorest of the poor – continued its role as the largest sup- What is development? those without land – and offered plier of foreign aid during the Cold Development is one of the fuzzi- them free reading classes. But the War and only 10 years ago was est concepts of modern internation- teachers began teaching words overtaken by Japan as top donor al affairs. It means that countries such as “hunger” and “illness” to nation. U.S. aid flowed even to its grow from poverty, illiteracy, ill ignite a debate on why people were enemies such as North Korea, health and subsistence economies hungry, what could be done about which received $591 million in food to approach modern standards and it and who could do something. aid between 1995 and 2001 to cope styles of living. Development does Group members were asked to chip with a famine. Total U.S. aid was not simply mean that the total in- in about five cents a week to pay about $10 billion in 2001, roughly come of a country increases but the bus fare for one of them to at- 20 percent of all foreign aid given that the wealth is used to lift up tend a two-month medical course. by wealthy nations. Still, U.S. aid social indicators such as health, Afterwards, the medic treated the was only 0.1 percent of the U.S. education and nutrition. Nigeria, group for free but charged others in gross national income (GNI), far for example, earned billions from the village. He could treat the big short of the U.N. target of 0.7 per- its oil exports but failed to use the killers – diarrhea, malaria and res- cent of GNI – a goal met only by money to lift its 100 million people piratory infections – but knew to Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, from poverty. send more difficult cases to a clinic. Luxembourg and Sweden. In a village about two hours BRAC then loaned the villagers At Monterrey, Bush proposed west of the Bangladesh capital of small sums to rent land for crops upping the U.S. aid budget from $10 Dhaka, I visited one of the world’s and buy a small diesel pump for billion to $15 billion within three best development systems: the irrigation. It also gave small loans to years – still far short of 0.7 percent Bangladesh Rural Advancement women to buy chickens or looms. of GNI but a huge and unexpected Committee, or BRAC. At a village Now considered the largest develop- boost from the conservative leader. near the main town of Manikganj, ment agency in the Third World, rail-thin villagers told me how with 35 million Bangladeshis en- To the Left. In turning the Bush they had joined together to rolled in classes or holding small administration foreign policy improve their lives. loans, BRAC is typical of grassroots sharply to the left – some would BRAC literacy workers gathered development agencies.

November 2002 15 The American Legion Magazine At the other end of the scale have tried to bypass the corruption roads, dams, power plants, are mammoth development proj- of developing countries by offering schools, ports and the infrastruc- ects such as dams and roads. aid directly to non-governmental ture of modern countries. It also These have often proved less suc- organizations such as BRAC, hop- means training or providing cessful, in part because of corrupt ing to get help directly to those in experts in economics, trade, public governments. For example, when need. President Bush has gone a health, transport and government. I was in Bangladesh, officials at step further. In his new offer to U.S. foreign aid includes mili- the U.S. Agency for International increase foreign aid, he says funds tary as well as economic aid, Development told me their small- will only go to countries that move leading some critics to say it has est project was a $25 million set toward good governance and free been used to keep friendly but of water gates to improve control markets, fight corruption and corrupt governments in power. over irrigation channels. But local adopt “transparent” budgets. Other critics note that to support Bengali journalists told me that “Many of the old models of eco- the 1979 Camp David Peace when the large landowners in the nomic development assistance are Treaty, the United States gives Parliament learned of the project, outdated,” Bush said. “Money that about $3 billion a year in military they swiftly bought the farms ad- is not accompanied by legal and and economic aid to Israel and jacent to the channels for a small economic reform is oftentimes another $2 billion to Egypt. Mean- sum and expelled the poor share- wasted. In many poor nations, cor- while, direct U.S. development cropping peasants who became ruption runs deep. Private proper- aid to impoverished African and landless laborers. ty is unprotected. Markets are other societies was but $2.2 bil- Another development project – closed. Monetary and fiscal poli- lion last year. funded by the World Bank, of cies are unsustainable. Private During the Cold War, military which the United States is the contracts are unenforceable. and economic aid went to dictators largest contributor – was a road “When nations refuse to enact in Indonesia, the Congo and Soma- through the Amazon rain forest sound policies, progress against lia. So long as they backed the West state of Rhondonia in the 1980s. poverty is nearly impossible,” Bush against the Soviet bloc, the United Instead of leading to what is said. “In these situations, more aid States did not raise a fuss when called “sustainable” or renewable money can actually be counterpro- economic aid was siphoned off to development, millions of acres of ductive, because it subsidizes bad the dictator’s elite supporters. Huge Brazil’s forest were burned off to policies, delays reform and crowds amounts of cash went into costly create grazing land for big cattle out private investment.” white elephants. The dictator of barons. Those who objected were Since 1960, when President Ivory Coast, for example, used his intimidated or killed. John F. Kennedy introduced the country’s funds to build the world’s Even small-scale projects ran Alliance for Progress in Latin tallest Catholic church in his home- amok when a justice system wasn’t America, the United States has town and a highway to the capital present to protect the fruits of devel- been committed to helping Third city at a cost of hundreds of mil- opment aid. In Haiti, USAID gave World countries develop. This aid lions of dollars, while social devel- farmers high-yield coffee plants. But is far different from humanitarian opment – jobs, income, education “macoutes,” or thugs, attached to aid for crises such as floods, earth- and health – stagnated. the sheriffs began to seize the lands quakes, famines and refugees. De- What is worse, much of the when they saw such good crops on velopment aid means building wasted foreign aid was given in the bushes. So the the form of low-inter- peasants tore up the est loans from the good plants and World Bank and the replanted the old vari- International Mone- eties – better to remain tary Fund, two multi- poor than lose the lateral financial insti- land, they reasoned. In tutions based in another abuse, Congo Washington operating dictator Joseph Mobu- with U.S. and other tu – after receiving a donor-country contri- U.S. education grant of butions. Long after $20 million – simply the corrupt dictators reduced his education who borrowed the budget by $20 million money have died or and deposited that been replaced, their sum in a Swiss bank countries are saddled account. with huge debt bur- dens, consuming far Strings Attached. In USAID Administrator Andrew S. Natsios attends a groundbreaking for new more money in inter- recent years, U.S. for- construction in Kabul, Afghanistan, during a visit to the region. Natsios has est and principal each eign-aid programs voiced support for Bush’s increase in foreign aid. Cpl Matthew Roberson, USMC/USAID year than the country

16 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine “ ™

WORKS 2 WAYS TO GIVE ME BETTER BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL.”

Two powerful medications combined to work together: HELPS YOUR BODY RELEASE MORE INSULIN and HELPS YOU USE INSULIN MORE EFFECTIVELY

lowers blood sugar better than the leading diabetes pill* If you need better blood sugar control, ask your doctor about Glucovance. When diet and exercise are not enough, adding Glucovance can help you lower your blood sugar better than the leading diabetes pill.* Glucovance works differently than other leading medications: it helps your body release more insulin and works, in part, by helping your body use insulin more effectively. Glucovance works in these ways to provide powerful blood sugar control. By taking Glucovance, you may be able to take less medication to control your blood sugar. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: GLUCOVANCE is not for everyone. In rare cases, GLUCOVANCE may cause lactic acidosis (buildup of lactic acid in the blood), which is serious and can be fatal in half the cases. This occurs mainly in people whose kidneys are not functioning properly. Tell your doctor about your alcohol use because it can affect your risk. You should not take GLUCOVANCE if you: have kidney problems, are 80 or older (unless your kidneys have been tested), are taking medication for heart failure, are seriously dehydrated, have a severe infection, or if you have or have had liver disease. The most common side effect is diarrhea. Symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as lightheadedness, dizziness, shakiness or hunger may also occur. Please see additional important patient information on next page. ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT WWW.GLUCOVANCE.COM 1-800-263-1980 1.25mg/250mg 2.5mg/500mg 5mg/500mg

A leader in type 2 diabetes care.

* Metformin HCl is the leading diabetes pill.

Glucovance® is a registered trademark of Merck Santé S.A.S., an associate of Merck KGaA of Darmstadt, Germany. Licensed to Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. ©2002 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ 08543 F7-H0013M Issued: July 2002 Printed in USA Rx only There is no evidence that GLUCOVANCE (Glyburide and Metformin HCl Tablets) causes harm to the kidneys or liver. Q11. Are there other risk factors for lactic acidosis? PATIENT INFORMATION ABOUT Your risk of developing lactic acidosis from taking GLUCOVANCE is ® very low as long as your kidneys and liver are healthy. However, some GLUCOVANCE factors can increase your risk because they can affect kidney and (Glyburide and Metformin HCl Tablets) liver function. You should discuss your risk with your physician. You should not take GLUCOVANCE if: WARNING: A small number of people who have taken metformin hydrochloride have developed a serious condition called lactic • You have chronic kidney or liver problems acidosis. Properly functioning kidneys are needed to help prevent • You have congestive heart failure which is treated with medications, lactic acidosis. Most people with kidney problems should not take e.g., digoxin (Lanoxin®) or furosemide (Lasix®) GLUCOVANCE. (See Question Nos. 9-13.) • You drink alcohol excessively (all the time or short-term “binge” drinking) Q1. Why do I need to take GLUCOVANCE? • You are seriously dehydrated (have lost a large amount of body Your doctor has prescribed GLUCOVANCE to treat your type 2 dia- fluids) betes. This is also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. • You are going to have certain x-ray procedures with injectable con- trast agents Q2. What is type 2 diabetes? • You are going to have surgery People with diabetes are not able to make enough insulin and/or • You develop a serious condition such as a heart attack, severe respond normally to the insulin their body does make. When this infection, or a stroke happens, sugar (glucose) builds up in the blood. This can lead to • You are 80 years of age and have NOT had your kidney function serious medical problems including kidney damage, amputations, ≥ tested and blindness. Diabetes is also closely linked to heart disease. The main goal of treating diabetes is to lower your blood sugar to a nor- Q12. What are the symptoms of lactic acidosis? mal level. Some of the symptoms include: feeling very weak, tired or uncom- fortable; unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, unusual or unex- Q3. Why is it important to control type 2 diabetes? pected stomach discomfort, feeling cold, feeling dizzy or lighthead- The main goal of treating diabetes is to lower your blood sugar to a ed, or suddenly developing a slow or irregular heartbeat. normal level. Studies have shown that good control of blood sugar may prevent or delay complications such as heart disease, kidney If you notice these symptoms, or if your medical condition has sud- disease, or blindness. denly changed, stop taking GLUCOVANCE tablets and call your doc- tor right away. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency that must be Q4. How is type 2 diabetes usually controlled? treated in a hospital. High blood sugar can be lowered by diet and exercise, by a number of oral medications, and by insulin injections. Before taking Q13. What does my doctor need to know to decrease my risk of lactic GLUCOVANCE you should first try to control your diabetes by acidosis? exercise and weight loss. Even if you are taking GLUCOVANCE, you Tell your doctor if you have an illness that results in severe vomiting, should still exercise and follow the diet recommended for your diabetes. diarrhea, and/or fever, or if your intake of fluids is significantly reduced. These situations can lead to severe dehydration, and it may Q5. Does GLUCOVANCE work differently from other glucose-control be necessary to stop taking GLUCOVANCE temporarily. medications? You should let your doctor know if you are going to have any surgery Yes it does. GLUCOVANCE combines two glucose lowering drugs, or specialized x-ray procedures that require injection of contrast glyburide and metformin. These two drugs work together to improve agents. GLUCOVANCE therapy will need to be stopped temporarily the different metabolic defects found in type 2 diabetes. Glyburide in such instances. lowers blood sugar primarily by causing more of the body’s own insulin to be released, and metformin lowers blood sugar, in part, by Q14. Can I take GLUCOVANCE with other medications? helping your body use your own insulin more effectively. Together, Remind your doctor that you are taking GLUCOVANCE when any they are efficient in helping you achieve better glucose control. new drug is prescribed or a change is made in how you take a drug already prescribed. GLUCOVANCE may interfere with the way some Q6. What happens if my blood sugar is still too high? drugs work and some drugs may interfere with the action of When blood sugar cannot be lowered enough by GLUCOVANCE your GLUCOVANCE. doctor may prescribe injectable insulin or take other measures to control your diabetes. Q15. What if I become pregnant while taking GLUCOVANCE? Tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or have become Q7. Can GLUCOVANCE cause side effects? pregnant. As with other oral glucose-control medications, you should GLUCOVANCE, like all blood sugar-lowering medications, can cause not take GLUCOVANCE during pregnancy. side effects in some patients. Most of these side effects are minor. However, there are also serious, but rare, side effects related to Usually your doctor will prescribe insulin while you are pregnant. As GLUCOVANCE (see Q9 - Q13). with all medications, you and your doctor should discuss the use of GLUCOVANCE if you are nursing a child. Q8. What are the most common side effects of GLUCOVANCE? Q16. How do I take GLUCOVANCE? The most common side effects of GLUCOVANCE are normally minor ones such as diarrhea, nausea, and upset stomach. If these side Your doctor will tell you how many GLUCOVANCE tablets to take and effects occur, they usually occur during the first few weeks of thera- how often. This should also be printed on the label of your prescrip- py. Taking your GLUCOVANCE with meals can help reduce these side tion. You will probably be started on a low dose of GLUCOVANCE effects. and your dosage will be increased gradually until your blood sugar is controlled. Less frequently, symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as lightheadedness, dizziness, shakiness, or hunger may occur. The Q17. Where can I get more information about GLUCOVANCE? risk of hypoglycemic symptoms increases when meals are skipped, This leaflet is a summary of the most important information about too much alcohol is consumed, or heavy exercise occurs without GLUCOVANCE. If you have any questions or problems, you should enough food. Following the advice of your doctor can help you to talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider about type 2 diabetes avoid these symptoms. as well as GLUCOVANCE and its side effects. There is also a leaflet (package insert) written for health professionals that your pharmacist Q9. Are there any serious side effects that GLUCOVANCE can cause? can let you read. GLUCOVANCE rarely causes serious side effects. The most serious side effect that GLUCOVANCE can cause is called lactic acidosis. GLUCOVANCE® is a registered trademark of Merck Santé S.A.S., an associate of Merck KGaA of Darmstadt, Germany. Licensed to Q10. What is lactic acidosis and can it happen to me? Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Lactic acidosis is caused by a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. ® Lactic acidosis associated with metformin is rare and has occurred Micronase is a registered trademark of Pharmacia & Upjohn Company. mostly in people whose kidneys were not working normally. Lactic acidosis has been reported in about one in 33,000 patients taking metformin over the course of a year. Although rare, if lactic acidosis does occur, it can be fatal in up to half the cases. It’s also important for your liver to be working normally when you take Distributed by GLUCOVANCE. Your liver helps remove lactic acid from your blood- Bristol-Myers Squibb Company stream. Princeton, NJ 08543 USA Your doctor will monitor your diabetes and may perform blood tests on you from time to time to make sure your kidneys and your liver are F7-B001B-07-02 Revised: July 2002 functioning normally. 607211DIM-05 budgets for education and health. has raised a new wrinkle in his Bush has proposed that the World insistence that developing coun- Bank stop giving loans and switch tries reform their economies in or- to grants, so developing countries der to receive aid. While this won’t have to keep begging for makes sense to developed coun- debt forgiveness every few years. tries, it could create instability in However, a Canadian aid official countries already unable to cope told me recently that many aid with global competition and rising experts fear this plan could un- populations. For example, when dermine the World Bank, which is Haiti dropped tariffs on imported able to lend at low interest rates rice a few years ago to satisfy U.S. only because its loans are repaid. demands, it drove down the price The IMF also required, before of rice so far that Haitian farmers giving aid, that each country move went broke and domestic rice pro- to balance its budgets, cut inflation duction fell. and stabilize its currency – all es- Fundamentally, the Bush sential for economic development. foreign-aid plan is driven not so But that meant each country – much by new approaches to devel- from Egypt to Indonesia to Brazil – opment as by fear of what 3 billion had to slash spending on subsidies Up to 12.8 million people in six African or 4 billion hungry and hopeless for bread and rice, cut education countries are in need of humanitarian people will mean for the world’s spending and require the poor to food aid. At a value of more than $230 stability and security. The Sept. 11 million, the U.S. government is the largest pay part of the cost of medical donor to the World Food Program’s oper- hijackers were not driven to their care in government clinics. These ations in South Africa. USAID attacks by poverty. Many were Sau- painful “structural adjustment pro- di Arabians with good income and grams” sparked riots across the years U.S. foreign aid dropped the education. As Bush said in March, Third World as citizens rebelled ball on agricultural assistance with “Poverty doesn’t cause terrorism … against the austerity programs “disastrous consequences.” Most yet persistent poverty and oppres- falling on the shoulders of the of the Third World lives off the sion can lead to hopelessness and poor. Governments found it hard land, and food production is despair. And when governments to say no to the IMF because in strained by the rapidly growing fail to meet the most basic needs of addition to granting loans, it also population – 2.5 billion in 1950 their people, these failed states can gave developing countries the and 6 billion in 2002. become havens for terror. equivalent of Standard-and-Poor While Natsios admitted trade is “Development provides the re- approval ratings that could attract better than aid in fighting poverty, sources to build hope and pros- or drive away foreign investors. he noted that 49 of the poorest perity and security.” countries in Africa garner less than Among the most recent ideas National Defense. USAID Admin- 1 percent of world trade. Without development experts are studying is istrator Andrew Natsios recently help in setting up the basics of a proposal by South American spoke at the conservative Heritage trade – electricity, roads, an educat- thinker Hernando de Soto to allow Foundation in Washington, a ed workforce, marketing skills, sta- peasants to use their property to group highly skeptical of foreign ble currencies, financial systems – obtain mortgage loans. He calculat- aid. Natsios defended the new these countries have been unable ed that poor peasants hold some Bush increase in aid. Chief among to sell to the world market. He said $9.3 trillion worth of land but are his justifications was the threat to USAID will now focus on trying to unable to use it to get loans national security. “In Afghanistan, help these countries get off the because they lack ownership pa- if there is no economy, you join ground as traders. But even so, pers or banks are not geared up to the militants,” he said. “Or you many developing countries now do business with the poor and une- join the poppy economy or crimi- complain that they face U.S. trade ducated. Add this plan to the mi- nal syndicates.” barriers and subsidies. The recent crocredits or small loans pioneered He noted that some countries U.S. farm bill is one example. The by BRAC and Grameen Bank in receiving U.S. foreign aid, such as ambassador of a Southeast Asian Bangladesh, as well as the World South Korea, flourished since the rice-exporting nation told me his Bank’s massive projects, and you 1960s while other countries failed country could lose customers due have the kernel of a strange new to progress. Natsios recalled in an to the new U.S. subsidies for form of national defense: defending interview recently that his grandfa- American rice farmers. In Mexico, world and American peace by fight- ther’s native village in Greece was farmers told me U.S. beans are ing poverty in the Third World. I in desperate poverty after World sold cheaper than their cost of pro- War II. After Marshall Plan help, duction in Mexico, in part due to Ben Barber covers the State Depart- he saw the village rebuilt and the U.S. farm subsidies. ment for The Washington Times. economy thriving. He said he re- While Bush has promised in- gretted, however, that in recent creased U.S. foreign aid, he also Article design: Doug Rollison

November 2002 19 The American Legion Magazine Veterans historically have faced homeland battles to prove their war-related illnesses. Is the burden of proof finally shifting?

20 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine BY JAMES V. CARROLL Long after the sound and smell This is the battlefield of unex- of war subside, too many U.S. vet- plained, poorly understood war- ar is hell, it has been erans still find themselves engaged related illnesses. It is fought daily said. Young soldiers are in battle – this time at home. Un- in VA hospitals and outpatient Wtrained to face death. On able to explain their aches and clinics and in administrative hear- the battlefield, they may go face to pains, night sweats or other more ing rooms around the world. face or bayonet to bayonet against serious maladies, they seek assis- The battlefield may be chang- an enemy equally motivated to tance at VA medical centers or out- ing. Government appears to be return home whole. Most survive. patient clinics. They believe their reacting, albeit slowly, to develop Some return with life-altering conditions came from military serv- more timely methods of determin- wounds. Others carry with them ice. Sometimes VA cannot deter- ing whether an illness is war-re- physical illnesses or debilitating mine a service-connected link. For lated or not. Lessons that psychological trauma. A few re- some, doctors can’t find a cause followed the Vietnam and Gulf turn in flag-draped caskets. before death resolves the issue. wars prompted VA and DoD to

November 2002 21 The American Legion Magazine develop strategies to provide fits were turned down three times “We know these veterans are quicker and more effective care to between 1984 and 1993. His ill when they walk in,” Natelson U.S. soldiers and veterans return- American Legion service officers said. “We don’t always know why ing from Afghanistan. reached the end of their wits. or how they contracted their ill- Progress is glacial, say veterans Jackson ultimately appealed, and nesses. It’s easy to spot a bullet already caught up in the uncer- in 1997 the Veterans Board of Ap- wound or traumatic injury to a tainties of their unexplained mal- peals heard his case. soldier fresh from the battlefield. adies. For them, help cannot Unable to prove a link to Agent It’s quite another to link other come too soon. Orange, American Legion appeals physiological or psychological dis- representative Clayton Klemm still eases to military service, especial- A Case Study. Harold Jackson of argued successfully that Jackson’s ly if the condition crops up years Houston remembers his wife illnesses were service-connected. after the soldier left the military.” shuffling a mountain of bills at Jackson contracted a high fever Soldiers have returned from their small kitchen table, hoping shortly after returning from Viet- battle with unexplained illnesses to discover a way to pay since armies first clashed. them all. She could not. U.S. military personnel He would sit helpless- have faced mysterious ly, feeling her angst. He war syndromes at least hoped somehow to help, since the Civil War, says but he was too ill. Dr. Kenneth C. Hyams, an A 59-year-old Vietnam infectious-disease special- War veteran, Jackson has ist and Gulf War veteran. not worked a full day In the report “War since 1984 and has been Syndromes and their sick since his 1967 Evaluation: From the discharge from the U.S. U.S. Civil War to the Per- Army. He has learned all sian Gulf War,” Hyams too well the meaning of and Drs. Stephen Wig- such words as hardship, nall and Robert Roswell poverty, foreclosure and share their research to bankruptcy. He blames help others better under- his intimate knowledge of stand the health prob- those terms on another lems of Gulf War veter- set of words – shunt, hy- ans. They analyze war- drocephalus, prostate can- related illnesses dating cer and febrile illness. He back to the 1860s to dis- blames it all on Vietnam. cover unifying factors. After his discharge, Hyams found that Jackson withered from a More than 17 years passed before Harold Jackson was found from the Civil War to the healthy 5-foot, 11-inch eligible for VA disability compensation. Pam Francis Gulf War, medical and soldier who was physical- scientific experts have ly fit to a fragile 5-foot, 8-inch nam, Klemm said. The febrile ill- attempted to discover whether man, confined, for the most part, ness was a result of his duty, and battlefield veterans exhibit symp- to a wheelchair. He has since lost subsequent medical problems toms of an unidentified organic practical use of the right side of were linked to the original illness. physical disease or symptoms his body. His speech is unclear. The VBA sent the case back to the with a psychological basis. He forgets the names of regional VA in Houston, but Jack- Since the Civil War, two gener- household objects. son’s claim was again denied. Two al categories of war-related Jackson says he struggled and years later, VBA overturned the illnesses have been recognized, failed for more than 15 years to get regional VA decision. Hyams says. The first is thought disability compensation from VA. Thirty-four years after leaving to be associated with physiologi- He claimed his lingering illnesses Vietnam, and 17 years after filing cal disease and the second a resulted from Agent-Orange expo- his first claim, VA finally com- group of psychological illnesses sure during his 1966-1967 stint as pensated Jackson for his war- attributed to wartime stress. Diag- an Army truck driver with the 4th related illnesses. noses of these illnesses in individ- Infantry Division in Vietnam. ual patients have been imprecise, “They just wouldn’t listen,” A Historical Problem. Jackson’s dependent on self-reported symp- Jackson said. “VA would have no plight is no isolated incident, says toms and doctors’ impressions. part of it. All I ever heard was the Dr. Benjamin H. Natelson, direc- A problem for physicians and word ‘no.’ And I just kept getting tor of the newly created Center scientists has always been finding sicker and weaker.” for the Study of War-Related Ill- a common cause. Is it physical or Jackson’s attempts to get bene- nesses in East Orange, N.J. psychological? And is the illness

22 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine unique to the battlefield? Answers Natelson agrees. The lapse be- pressing against the chest. But by are elusive. tween a soldier’s battlefield expo- war’s end, effort syndrome The quest for answers prompt- sure and a diagnosis of related ill- evolved into a group of conditions, ed VA Secretary Anthony J. Prin- ness has always taken too long. including constitutional nervous cipi to appropriate money specifi- VA is developing new strategies weakness, physical weakness, in- cally for the study of war-related to predict battlefield risks and fectious disease or debility from illnesses. The mission of the new- perfect timely postwar therapies, previous infection, effects of poi- ly created Centers for the Study says VA’s Dr. Frances M. Murphy. son gas and exhaustion from lack of War-Related Illnesses is to in- “Modern medicine cannot fully of sleep and exertion in the vestigate the treatment of those explain the causes of some illness- trenches. In some cases, effort- illnesses among military patients es suffered by returning veterans,” syndrome symptoms also were and veterans. In addition to the Murphy said. “Therefore, finding associated with acute stress from New Jersey facility, another cen- creative therapies is difficult. Find- combat or burial duties. Heart dis- ter is located in a VA medical ing effective prevention and treat- ease was a rare diagnosis. center in Washington. ment will be the primary purpose When doctors linked effort “We’ve learned that combat of these two new centers.” syndrome to heart disease, a sol- casualties do not always result in dier’s recovery and return to duty visible wounds,” Principi said. By Any Other Name. Throughout were jeopardized. World War I “Inevitably, some veterans return U.S. military history, different physicians were advised not to with health problems that, while names and causes have been as- tell soldiers they had a heart con- difficult to diagnose, are no less sociated with war illnesses, dition so they would not think of debilitating. although the symptoms have re- themselves as patients who “Experience from the Gulf and mained strikingly similar for more required evacuation from the Vietnam wars has shown that tra- than 130 years. front, the Hyams study revealed. ditional medical care to prevent Some Civil War soldiers By the end of World War I, stud- and treat casualties caused by di- suffered from a problem known ies suggested that effort syndrome rect combat does not address all as “irritable heart,” or “Da Costa was psychologically rooted. There the health-care needs of combat syndrome.” The afflicted com- was little agreement on the specific veterans. The centers will develop plained of fatigue, shortness of symptoms, whether it was a physi- ways to minimize illness and in- breath, headaches and problems ological or psychological response jury that can be implemented be- sleeping, remembering and con- to war or even what the official fore, during and after future con- centrating. Hyams noted that name of the condition should be. flicts and peacekeeping missions. symptoms exhibited by Gulf War However, there was consensus that The centers also will explore ways veterans mimic those reported effort syndrome was not caused to improve care.” among Civil War sol- diers. Research shows Never Been Easy. Veterans have veterans after each always had difficulty linking major war had simi- mysterious illnesses to foreign lar physical and psy- battlefields. chological complaints “It’s easy to spot a bullet Vietnam veterans struggled for as did their Civil War 30 years to convince doctors they predecessors and wound or traumatic injury were ill due to exposure to the Gulf War successors. to a soldier fresh from the defoliant Agent Orange. Only in During World War recent years have they partially I, irritable heart be- battlefield. It’s quite another succeeded. For more than 10 came known as “sol- years, unexplained illnesses have dier’s heart” or “effort to link other physiological or plagued Gulf War veterans. They syndrome.” Doctors continue to fight to prove they are believed symptoms psychological diseases ill from exposure to chemical, bio- were exacerbated by to military service, especially logical, environmental or radia- effort. It also was tion sources while serving in the called “Da Costa syn- if the condition crops up Gulf War. Only in 1988 did the drome,” “disordered government attribute illnesses of action of the heart” years after the soldier left certain veterans and civilians to and “neurocirculatory the military.” radiation exposure as far back as asthenia.” World War II. At the beginning of – Dr. Benjamin H. Natelson, “There has to be a better way World War I, doctors to go about finding the causes,” believed effort syn- director, Center for the Study Jackson says. “I am grateful for drome was caused by of War-Related Illnesses the care I have received by VA, but the weight of heavy 17 years is a long time to fight.” marching packs com-

November 2002 23 The American Legion Magazine exclusively by a unique a link at this time between wartime exposure. specific diseases and expo- Shell shock, or trench Shell shock, or trench sures among Gulf War veter- neurosis, was another acute ans. The IOM report exam- illness traced to World War neurosis, was another ined depleted uranium, pyri- I combat stress. The acute dostigmine bromide, stress reaction was first at- acute illness attributed vaccines and the nerve tributed to a strange new to World War I combat agent sarin. disease, possibly caused by However, VA continues to concussion from modern stress.The acute stress study health problems of weapons. But later, psycho- Gulf War veterans, says Dr. logical reasons were reaction was first John R. Feussner, VA chief blamed. Symptoms of shell research and development shock included breakdown attributed to a strange officer. “As the federal in battle, a dazed or new disease, possibly research program continues detached manner, exagger- to provide more results, we ated startle response and caused by concussion will substantially increase severe anxiety. our understanding of Gulf Soldiers with shell shock, from modern weapons. War veterans’ illnesses, like combatants afflicted by which, in turn, will enhance effort syndrome, could be our ability to diagnose and rapidly rehabilitated if treat- treat them,” Feussner told ed near the front, the report stress, while acute combat stress the House Veterans Affairs claimed. Soldiers taken away from reaction is the immediate conse- Subcommittee on Health. “In addi- their comrades and treated as pa- quence of psychological trauma, tion, this newly gained knowledge tients in a hospital were less likely Hyams noted. may enhance prevention and inter- to be able to return to combat. Controversy continues over vention in illnesses in participants It wasn’t until World War II Agent Orange. Vietnam veterans of future deployments.” that Dr. Paul Wood determined have struggled more than 30 years As a result of ongoing research, that effort syndrome was a psy- to prove physical illnesses resulted Principi recently authorized free choneurosis and not a physical from exposure to the toxic defoliant medical care and disability com- heart condition. Acute combat sprayed on jungles in Vietnam. pensation to Gulf War veterans stress – known as battle fatigue, As knowledge has grown from who have Lou Gehrig’s disease. combat exhaustion or operational studies of Agent Orange, some dis- The disease, scientifically known fatigue among aviation personnel eases that perhaps were not evi- as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, – also became better understood. dent during service are now recog- destroys nerve cells that control As in World War I, soldiers with nized as service-connected, VA muscle movement. It is a fatal acute combat stress during World says. VA now presumes that all neurological disease. War II were more likely to return military personnel who served in A study found Gulf War veter- to duty if treated near their units Vietnam and who have one of the ans are twice as likely to develop and diagnosed as simply having a dozen or so diseases included on ALS as soldiers not deployed to normal response to extreme stress. its Agent Orange list were exposed the Persian Gulf. Families of Gulf For this reason, use of such diag- to the chemical defoliant. War veterans who died from the nostic terms as “war neurosis” Gulf War veterans face a strug- disease also are eligible for com- was discouraged, Hyams found. gle similar to that of their pensation and VA assistance in a Reports of effort syndrome Vietnam War predecessors. number of other programs. were minimized during the Kore- Eleven years after Desert Storm, Despite a failure to find eviden- an War, possibly because it had questions remain about illnesses tiary links for many mysterious ill- been attributed during World War among its veterans. Debate rages nesses, DoD and VA clinical evalu- II to psychological causes, the as it did over irritable heart after ators have concluded that Gulf War study concludes. But as in World the Civil War, effort syndrome af- veterans, much the same as their War I and World War II, acute ter World Wars I and II, and battlefield predecessors, exhibit a combat stress reaction continued Agent Orange of Vietnam. wide range of physical and psychi- to be a significant clinical prob- Many Gulf War veterans con- atric disorders. The challenge is to lem during the Korean War. tend their illnesses are unique. find out why and develop effective The most prominent illness re- They say exposure to chemical, preventative strategies. lated to the Vietnam War was post- biological and radiation sources traumatic stress disorder. PTSD caused many of their maladies. Lessons Learned. Veterans of the and acute combat stress reaction On the basis of a National war in Afghanistan may fare bet- differ in that PTSD most often Academy of Sciences Institute of ter. Recent efforts by VA and DoD refers to the long-term conse- Medicine report, Principi deter- to change the way scientific and quences of extreme psychological mined evidence does not support medical information is collected

24 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Keep America Strong.

With The American Legion Credit Card, part of every purchase goes to Legion programs. Show support for your Branch and The Legion with The American Legion Credit Card. It’s the only card that helps fund Legion programs. So apply today by calling 866.LGN.VISA (866.546.8472) extension 32193.

Fixed 1.9% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on purchases and balance transfers for the first six billing cycles the account is opened. After that, your APR for purchases may vary (13.99% APR as of 10/31/02). The APR for cash advances may vary (19.99% APR as of 10/31/02). A variable Non-Preferred Rate applies (full details provided with card) if you fail to make a payment to us or any creditor when due, you exceed your credit limit, or you make a payment that is dishonored for any reason (up to 23.99% as of 10/31/02). Minimum finance charge: $.50 (any month a finance charge is imposed). Transaction Fee for Cash Advances and Cash Advance Checks: The greater of $10 or 3% of the transaction (the greater of $10 or 5% of the transaction for certain “Cash Equivalent Transactions”). Cards are issued by First National Bank of Omaha. may shed light on mysterious ed health problems, Murphy wrote. logically traumatized war veter- military illnesses. In Afghanistan, they are especially ans who fought in combat Since the Gulf War ended, ex- at risk for local infectious diseases, theaters since then. The centers perts have reordered priorities and traumatic injuries, and injuries due offer readjustment counseling, techniques hoping to get a better to cold exposure and operations at extensive case management, re- handle on causes of war-related high altitudes. Environmental haz- ferrals and other social services. illnesses. A major complaint by ards also may pose a health risk to Improved surveillance and medical researchers has been the soldiers, including exposure to new treatment programs alone do absence of baseline information. sewage, agricultural and industrial not solve the problem. Scientists New guidelines call for collection contamination of water and food and medical experts must have of real-time information from sol- supplies, localized air pollution, access to accurate information diers before they deploy and while and severe sand and dust storms. regarding environmental hazards they are in the field. As in all wars, returning troops and other agents facing soldiers The guidelines call for collec- can be expected to suffer from the during deployment, says Gulf tion of blood serum and battle- psychological effects of surviving War veteran Steve Smithson, as- field-sensitive samples such as a dangerous experience, and sistant director of The American water, soil and other materials to some will return with symptoms Legion Veterans Affairs & Reha- help experts discover elements that are difficult to explain. bilitation Commission. that might expose soldiers to im- The military is already dealing Information was withheld too mediate or latent health risks. with these risks by providing long on Agent Orange, he said. It Military environmental teams, are vaccinations, securing potable took decades to learn about the expected to scout ahead of big water and food from outside results of radiation exposure after deployments so military planners Afghanistan, and using standard Cold War nuclear detonation tests can avoid sites where potential pest-control procedures, Murphy or biological warfare defense test- health hazards exist, says Dr. said. These measures are taken ing in the 1960s. And DoD has Colleen Weiss, of the Army’s Cen- with the understanding that no been slow to inform veterans about ter for Health Promotion and Pre- matter what, some veterans will hazards they faced in Desert Storm. ventative Medicine. “It doesn’t come home with difficult-to-diag- “The Gulf War is no different,” make a whole lot of sense to be nose symptoms. Smithson said. “It took five years near a lead smelter or near a run- In 1998, VA was authorized to for the Pentagon to admit that way where the ground looks like provide a broad range of health- U.S. troops were exposed to low there’s some sort of sludge or oil care services to any veteran who levels of nerve agents following spills, if you could go somewhere served on active duty in a designat- the destruction of an Iraqi muni- else,” Weiss said in a radio inter- ed theater of combat operations. tions depot in southern Iraq in view earlier this year. This means eligible combat veter- March 1991.” In February, Murphy released a ans are entitled to VA hospital care, It is likely that U.S. soldiers letter listing the main health con- medical services and nursing home will return from Afghanistan with cerns for servicemembers in care for two years after leaving the some type of illness that bears Afghanistan and South Asia. It military, even if insufficient med- resemblance to those carried also listed relevant medical care ical evidence exists to conclude home by soldiers of the Civil War programs the VA has developed in that their illnesses were a result of and Gulf War alike. anticipation of the health needs of combat service. War-related illness centers, pre- veterans returning from combat More than 200 community- ventative surveillance practices, and peacekeeping missions. based Vet Centers around the and medical and scientific As in all hazardous deployments country sprang up to help return- advances might one day unlock abroad, some military personnel ing Vietnam War veterans; the the mysteries of unexplained war will return with deployment-relat- centers continue to serve psycho- maladies. Until that day, it’s the responsibility of Congress, VA and DoD to ensure that U.S. soldiers returning from any theatre, now “It is imperative that Congress monitors and in the future, are not assaulted by the same postwar skepticism and exercises strict oversight to ensure their predecessors faced. The gap between war-illness mystery and DoD does not repeat this pattern today reality must continue to close at a in the war in Afghanistan.” faster clip. Lives depend on it. I James V. Carroll is an assistant – Steve Smithson, assistant director, American Legion editor for The American Legion Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation Commission Magazine.

Article design: King Doxsee

26 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine From The National Motor Museum Mint™ EIGHTEIGHT NEWNEWBeautiful Classic Cars In Stunning Detail At Prices That Will Make Everyone A Collector nce again The National Motor Museum Mint™ is offering to the American public valuable detailed Whether your favorites are Classic Fords, Chevy’s, or other great cars, you will find them in our large selection. It die-cast cars at giveaway prices. Our low introductory prices will offer collectors of fine automobiles is truly a revolution in valuable die-cast collecting. Cars selling by others from $40 up to $150 are now offered to the world’s most beautiful classic cars. you in 1:32 size scale for only $10 each. Since all of our models are fully authorized and O ™ Working with some of the world’s most talented tool and die makers, The National Motor Museum Mint licensed by America’s great car makers, you are assured of a true authentic collectible has created authentic replicas in precision detailing that has made us the leading seller of beautiful and which should increase in value. For your protection you will also receive a valuable 1:32 scale die-cast cars in America. Check out our detailing: hoods open, doors open, detailed ONLY Certificate of Authenticity with each model. engines, rubber tires plus much more. $ Hurry, order the car or cars of your dreams now. Scale 1:32— 10 First of the 5" Long Victoria Coupes EACH

Last of the $500 Chevys

1 " Scale 1:32—5 /2 Long 1930 Ford Victoria Coupe 1932 Chevy Phaeton

Most Beautiful Amazing Scale 1:32— Scale 1:32— Ford Ever! 5" Long Detail on Built Ford 5" Long all Cars! Tough

1936 Ford Deluxe Cabriolet 1936 Ford Pickup Scale 1:32— THESE CARS ARE NOT SOLD IN STORES The King 1 " 5 /2 Long of Coupes!

The Original Scale 1:32— Taxi Cab! 4" Long

1932 Chevy Coupe

The Original Our Cars Are Seen On Mother-In-Law Car! 1912 Ford Depot Hack TV 1932 Chevy Coupe and 1936 Ford Cabriolet Shown As An Example of Features On All Cars Scale 1:32— 4" Long

1909 Ford Sport Runabout CALL TOLL-FREE These are all actual 1-888-215-6468 photos of Department COAL-0801 our cars! MON–FRI, 9 AM–9 PM, Eastern Time; SAT & SUN, 9 AM–5 PM, Eastern Time

MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE The National Motor Museum Mint™, Dept. COAL-0801 Little Boxcar 22 S. Smith St., Norwalk, CT 06855-1018 Please send me the cars listed below SAVE ON MULTIPLE ORDERS! on Wheels on your money-back guarantee less p&h. K Order any 4 cars for a total of $40, free postage. Scale 1:32—5" Long Order any car for $10 each. Add $5 p&h K Order any 8 cars for a total of $80,

All Die-Cast Replicas Have: for orders of less than 4 cars. free postage PLUS A FREE DIE-CAST CAR! PLEASE INDICATE QUANTITY BELOW: (CT residents please add 6% sales tax) 1929 Ford Model A Station Wagon 1932 Chevy Phaeton Enclosed is $ Check or Money Order OR Charge it: K Visa K MasterCard K Amex 1932 Chevy Coupe OUR IRON-CLAD GUARANTEE 1936 Ford Deluxe Cabriolet Acct # Exp. Return privileges on these cars are forever. We will buy back any car at any time. Real Operating Parts • Precision Engineering 1936 Ford Pickup Truck Name 1912 Depot Hack Address We will pay you at least the price you paid. We will even pay more than the original 1909 Sports Runabout City State Zip price if the trading value of your car has risen. 1929 Station Wagon 1930 Ford Victoria E-mail Address • Opening Doors, Hood Detailed Engines Solid Die-Cast Metal VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT: www.motormint.com Add $5 p&h for orders under 4 cars Daytime Tel. # Veterans Day is special in one small Texas town that lost more than its share of young soldiers during World War II.

BY JIM MOORE hey no longer exist. And even in the Texas farm coun- try where they were boys, their names are slipping Tfrom memory. People who live among the green hills here are hardly more likely to know about Praha’s loss than the strangers who travel the dark farm-to-market roads in their pickups and minivans, taking scenic detours on their way to Houston or San Antonio. This is understandable. Be- ing told the factual history does not make the truth about Praha more believable. A trip, however, to the church and cemetery there will leave the visitor carrying away a distinctly American heartache. The few thousand visitors travel to Praha each year for Veterans Day ceremonies. They approach from the north, noticing first the stark, white steeple of the parish church that hovers brightly over the landscape. The blacktop of Farm Road 1295 runs south off of U.S. Highway 90, directly at the Church of St. Mary’s Assumption. Close to the ceme- tery, the pavement curls back deferentially to the west and infrequent traffic passes quietly, the distant hiss of wheels on asphalt insufficient to disturb the serenity of a spot many U.S. military veterans have come to view as almost holy. Praha provides old soldiers a measurement of sorts for concepts like the price of freedom. There is, though, some- thing incalculable, impossible to assess or even understand, about the sad history of Praha. Today, it is little more than a ghost of a town with only about two dozen residents. “The New Handbook of Texas” claims the population never surpassed 100 people during the 20th century. Those num- bers are where the anguish begins in Praha’s tearful truth. After Veterans Day ceremonies conclude, the curious and the proud stand in front of the nine graves. There, they try to comprehend how war’s bloody arm could reach this far, gather up this much life and at Pelelieu Island. All their lives of Praha, is barely acknowledged destroy it. By the dates on their were lost, ironically, as an Allied by history. The commonality of tombstones and the locales of the victory appeared inevitable. their sacrifice, it has been argued, deaths, the Allied offensive In the space of 12 months and is what made it so powerful and against the Nazis, Mussolini and nine days, Praha gave up most of its gave America a source of right- the Japanese is recorded in the youth – and nearly all of its future – eousness. Veterans who gather on destinies of these nine fallen farm to confront unimaginable forms of the Praha church grounds each boys. Little Praha was not protect- evil on faraway continents. Nov. 11 tell bystanders, “Without ed from World War II by statisti- Seven of the soldiers are buried places like Praha, there would be cal improbabilities. in the Praha cemetery in two rows no place like the United States.” of four and three. Eddie Sbrusch’s But what war did to Praha still The Boys. Pfc. Robert Bohuslav empty grave lies just to the north- hurts. And it always will. Finally, died Feb. 3, 1944, after Patton’s east; George Pavlicek’s remains rest the town itself – mortally wound- and Rommel’s tanks had already in a family plot across the walk. ed by circumstance – became a driven deep into North Africa, and Veterans Day 2002 finds the tomb- casualty. the worst of the combat had stones marked with small fluttering When the route alignment of passed. Three more sons of Praha flags, toppled vases of plastic flow- the Southern Pacific Railroad situ- went down in France, beginning ers, and wooden posts the week after D-Day. The War De- mounted with military partment sent notices of death to service shields and the families of Pfc. Rudolph L. Bar- American Legion em- In the space of 12 months ta, June 16, 1944; Pfc. George D. blems. The graveyard is and nine days, Praha gave up Pavlicek, July 7, 1944; and Pfc. unprotected from the Jerry B. Vaculik, July 23, 1944. In pressing Texas sun, but most of its youth in those Italy, Pfc. Adolph E. Rab became a nearby a centuries-old casualty of war two days after post oak tree reaches out nine soldiers – and nearly all Christmas 1944. Pvt. Joseph Lev, with a promise of even- shot in the stomach during the at- tual shade. of its future – to confront tack of Luzon Island, died July 24, These men are unimaginable forms of evil on 1944. Pfc. Anton Kresta Jr.’s life remembered, but not ended in that same tropical theater widely, and they are far continents, defending on Feb. 12, 1945. On Sept. 7, 1944, honored by name each Pvt. Eddie Sbrusch was lost at sea Veterans Day. The loss principles they would in the Pacific. Nineteen days later, to their families, how- never live to enjoy. Pfc. Edward J. Marek died in battle ever, and to the parish Photos by David Keenan

November 2002 29 The American Legion Magazine What war did to Praha ated the tracks about a mile 16 grandchildren. Bohuslav, north, Praha’s population still hurts. And it always will. however, has neither bitter- and economy were drawn ness nor anger over his away to the prospects of a The town itself, mortally brother’s fate. rail line. A town named Fla- “I’m sure what he did, he tonia, just over the rise from wounded by circumstance, did for us,” Bohuslav said. the Praha Catholic Church, became a casualty. “I mean, there were some became an agricultural evil people in the world crossroads and a stop on the back then, you know. And Southern Pacific route. Money more war bonds. The message, something had to be done. My and business left Praha to grow with its stirring illustration, must brother was a part of what need- with Flatonia. Praha was never to have undone every conscience in ed to be done.” become much grander than a a five-county region. The drawing A scan of subsequent editions small country parish with farm in the ad shows a soldier with his of the Flatonia publication offers and ranch families settled on mouth open and eyes bulging in no additional information of how acreages around the gothic shock. Beneath his stricken coun- Pfc. Bohuslav encountered his church structure. tenance, the bold typeface asks, fate. No mention of the battlefield At the outset of World War II, “I died today. What did you do?” or his mission in Africa. The de- Flatonia and Praha were no differ- tails of the end of his life are un- ent than many other rural com- The First Casualty. In Praha, they doubtedly locked up in Pentagon munities across the American began to suffer. A notice of the files in Washington on a database landscape. Patriotic fervor led community’s first casualty was or in a drawer where his story is people to gather scrap metal and delivered in March 1944. Instead not easily accessed. Beyond the rubber, delivering the materials of a bold headline and a photo, fence line of the Praha cemetery, further east on the rail line to the The Flatonia Argus reported the Bohuslav is hardly more than a larger town of Schulenberg. death with a few matter-of-fact statistic. Young men were coming in from lines of copy in its March 16, To his family, however, he is the countryside to enlist and say 1944, edition. the one who missed all the years their goodbyes before leaving for “The War Department has noti- with children and travel and vaca- boot camp and deployment over- fied Mr. and Mrs. Thomas tions and holidays. He might have seas. To call it a simpler time, Bohuslav that their son, Pfc. lived to 90, as did his father, or to though, is to belittle the emotion- Robert Bohuslav, was killed in his mid-80s, like his brother and al and intellectual complexity in- action in Northern Africa. sister. Bohuslavs are given to volved in the decision to serve. Services were held in St. Mary’s longevity. The private’s oldest sis- Even along the dirt roads of Church in Praha this past Sunday. ter is 85 and his eldest brother is Fayette County, Texas, families Bohuslav died in Africa on Feb. 3, 83. Instead of working the farm, understood that Hitler and Japan 1944. In addition to his parents, though, he commanded a represented more than just a he is survived by two brothers, bazooka, received two Purple threat to Europe and the Pacific. Ernest Bohuslav of Halletsville Hearts and died on foreign soil. Nonetheless, no one was able and Herman Bohuslav of Praha.” to ignore the patriotic enthusiasm The reporter did not mention the Dying Wish. The public was told that followed the boys through names of Bohuslav’s sisters. slightly more about Pfc. Joseph their military careers. As they “There is not a Sunday in Lev. As the United States began went away for training and duty, church when I don’t think about an offensive against the Japanese, stories about them began to ap- him and pray for him,” said Her- Lev was part of the ground pear on the front pages of the lo- man Bohuslav of Corpus Christi. assault at Luzon Island. The an- cal newspapers. The Flatonia Ar- “He was my big brother and he nouncement of his death was gus ran photos and headlines of was everything to me. I can still published in the Flatonia paper hometown soldiers whenever they see the two men from the Army with the imminently predictable were promoted in rank or had coming up our farmyard to give language. been dispatched to an important the message to Momma and Dad- “Mr. and Mrs. Emil J. Lev were battle. Letters written home from dy. It took me several years before notified by the War Department the front or from basic training I was even able to believe it had last week ….” were often printed on the front happened. I just kept believing Lev, who came from a family of page of The Schulenberg Sticker. my brother would come home.” six children, was killed in action in Caught up in the national com- At age 74, Herman Bohuslav July 1944. Apparently, the Lev pulsion to sacrifice and serve, no has enjoyed the full life that war household had too many children headline was too bold nor any robbed from his brother. He set- for the paper to list their names, copy too extreme. tled on the Texas coast with his and the two short paragraphs con- A 1943 edition of the weekly wife, opened a grocery store and cluded with the information that Flatonia paper included a full- gas station, and raised five chil- one brother and four sisters sur- page ad urging residents to buy dren who have provided him with vived Lev. The Argus headline pro-

30 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine If you have diabetes and are on Medicare... Making this phone call could be as important as checking your blood. Liberty knows it is important to check 1- 800-781-2797 your blood sugar often. It is what you need to do when you have diabetes. Wilford Brimley They can make it easier. They are the nation’s Actor and Liberty leader in home delivery of diabetes testing supplies. Customer Hundreds of thousands of people just like you rely on Liberty. Call now and find out how Liberty can help you live a better life. Delivered directly to your home with no charge for mailing. Liberty carries the top brands you know and trust. Your diabetes testing supplies arrive on time so you never have to worry about running out. No upfront costs.* When you order from Liberty, you pay no money upfront. With qualified Medicare may supplemental insurance, you cover testing may owe nothing at all! supplies for No claim forms to fill people with out. Liberty is a Medicare type I and participating provider. They fill type II diabetes. out the claim forms and bill Medicare and your insurance company for you. Think of the time you will save. And your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Call Liberty now for more information: *Deductibles and co-payments apply. Liberty’s family of companies also provides Toll-free1-800-781-2797. respiratory medications and supplies, impotency systems and shoes for people with diabetes.

Find out how Liberty can help you live a better life. Yes, I would like to know more about home delivery of diabetes testing supplies from Liberty.

First Name MI Last Name ( ) Address Apt. # Telephone

City State Zip Code

Signature

By signing this reply form, you are authorizing a Liberty representative to contact you by telephone. Mail this Reply Form to: Liberty Medical Supply, PO Box 9529, Port St. Lucie, FL 34985-9529 Or, call Liberty toll-free at 1- 800-781-2797 If every leader of every nouncing Lev’s death was these men never knew, the accorded no larger type than country were first made work they never lived to articles of lesser conse- perform, the dreams they quence, such as “Garden to visit Praha before declaring never pursued. Club to Meet Sat.” and “Bar- Unlike Veterans Day, on becue Set for Labor Day.” war, the world might be most days of the year no one Regardless of how Lev’s forever changed. is present to learn the stories days unfolded prior to Lu- of these men. Visitors spot zon, his ending bore the the faded flag over Eddie drama of a movie. Were it script- the rising sun. American com- Marek’s headstone and the vase ed, producers might have called manders, unaware their own men of plastic buttercups, tipped on its his death too saccharine a scene were in the hold of the Japanese side where Anton Kresta lies. On to be plausible. The Rev. John An- ship, launched a torpedo and either side of the graveyard fence, ders, pastor of St. Mary’s Church sank the transport. Japanese au- the land lowers easily into a green in Praha, notified The Schulenberg thorities later reported 750 Ameri- world where things are growing Sticker of a plea from Lev as he cans were aboard. Sbrusch’s re- and people are living another sea- lay mortally wounded. Anders had mains were never recovered. The son in freedom. received a letter from a soldier Flatonia Argus wrote that his par- Nothing ever changes here un- who had been next to the Praha ents, two brothers and one sister til the Sunday morning before man. Lev suddenly took a bullet survived him. Veterans Day when U.S. military in the stomach from a Japanese servicemen and women from sniper and went down, doomed to In Others’ Memories. The boys across the country gather to listen slowly bleed to death after surviv- of Praha live now only as fading to speeches, which never come ing the island’s fiercest battle. memories and sepia-toned photo- close to explaining this loss. Their The narrative of the letter to graphs. A small sheet of paper minds are forced to simplify the Anders claimed Lev begged his posted on the western wall of tragedy of Praha. Vintage aircraft comrade to write home to his par- their Praha church displays all fly overhead; one peels off into ents about the disposition of his their portraits. In the sanctuary the missing man formation, and will. In New Guinea – before ship- where they sat through Mass and flowers are dropped, settling like ping out for the front – Lev had Sunday sermons as boys, the dis- a sad rain across the cemetery. been emotionally overwhelmed by play gets no more attention than The tears fall faster. the work of the Divine Word Mis- might a group photo of a local If they were to look in a Fayette sionaries, who had been serving championship baseball team. On County phone book before return- the native children. In his final the church grounds, however, ing home, visitors to Praha might breath, Lev dictated to the soldier three separate prayer chapels recognize a few surnames. Most- that his life’s savings be sent to the have been built in their honor. ly, though, the family members of New Guinea missionaries. On Feb. In his picture, Lev’s service cap the nine lost boys of Praha have 15, 1945, Divine Word Missionar- is cocked to the side of his head to spread out, moved away and lived ies received a check for $4,204.11 suggest indifference, but his soft, out their time in quiet anonymity. from a Praha boy, who died in the boyish features give him away as Their lineages are disappearing tropical sands not far from where sensitive and intellectual. Jerry while war survives. the missionaries served. Vaculik and Anton Kresta appear Before he died, Vietnam Medal thoughtful, while Eddie Marek is of Honor recipient Roy Benavides Friendly Fire. Death in combat, of happy and dimpled. Looking at of nearby El Campo, Texas, told a course, is rarely glorious. Acciden- the expectant grin of Rudolph Bar- Veterans Day crowd at Praha that tal, almost meaningless casualties ta, anyone might think he lived a “people need to know about this can be even more painful. Mr. and healthy and financially rewarding place. They need to hear about Mrs. Joe Sbrusch of Praha had life, which ought to be just con- what happened. They need to heard their son, Eddie, had been cluding with the laughter of understand.” taken as a prisoner of war in Lu- grandchildren at his feet. Understanding may prove eter- zon. In uniform, photographed be- Behind the church at the gated nally impossible. But if every fore going overseas, Sbrusch had a entry to the cemetery, a memorial leader of every country were first head of curly, disorganized hair stands to honor the lost sons of made to visit Praha before declar- offset by almost pointed ears. His Praha. Names and photos are ing war, the world might be for- face made him appear diminutive, arranged in a perfect row along ever changed. I but his wide smile showed him the bottom of the marble eager and his eyes ready. pedestal. Dates and locations of Jim Moore is a freelance writer On Sept. 7, 1944, the Japanese their deaths are carved into the living in Austin, Texas. Readers were moving POWs from the stone. No one can easily enter may contact him by e-mail at Philippines to an unknown loca- the cemetery without first con- [email protected]. tion when a U.S. vessel attacked fronting the rock monument and the transport carrying the flag of pondering the wives and children Article design: Holly K. Soria

32 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine SSgt. Barry Sadler The Ballad Of The Green Berets plus•The A Team•I'm A Lucky One I’m Watching The Raindrops Fall WWANTED!ANTED! • •Letter from Vietnam•Saigon CLASSIC COUNTRY LOVERS! •Garet Trooper•Badge of Courage CLASSIC COUNTRY LOVERS! •Salute To The Nurses•Trooper's Lament•Bamiba •The Soldier Has Come Hom•Lullaby. Order Toll Free 1-800-334-2053 Cass 372-C $9.98 CD D-372 $12.98 1000’s Of Titles Available Walter Brennan www.PureCountryMusic.com Old Shep•Life Gets Tee- EDDY ARNOLD 14 Greatest Hits CARL SMITH The Legendary jus Don’t It•Shiftin’ Whis- Cass 3000-C $12.98 CD D-3000 $16.98 Cass 6026-C $10.98 CD D-6026 $17.98 perin’ Sands Part 1•Shiftin’ ERNIE ASHWORTH Greatest Hits HANK SNOW 14 Greatest Hits Whisperin’ Sands Part 2•Back Cass 77463-C $ 9.98 CD D-77463 $12.98 Cass 3004-C $12.98 CD D-3004 $16.98 To The Farm•I Believe•Six Feet Away•Tribute To A Dog CHET ATKINS RED SOVINE Dutchman’s Gold Suppertime. East Tenn. Christmas Best of Red Sovine • • Cass 28810-C $6.98 CD D-28810 $12.98 Cass 6011-C $14.98 CD D-6011 $19.98 Cass 112103-C $10.98 CD D-112103 $13.98 BOBBY BARE STATLER BROS. Walter Brennan-Old Rivers & The 14 Greatest Hits Christmas Card Cass 3001-C $12.98 CD D-3001 $16.98 Cass 822743-C $10.98 CD D-822743 $17.98 Night Before Christmas Two albums in one! JIM ED BROWN 14 Greatest Hits ERNEST TUBB Retrospective 1 & 2 Cass 10272-C $10.98 CD D-10272 $15.98 Cass 3002-C $12.98 CD D-3002 $16.98 Cass 205056-C $12.98 CD D-205056 $19.98 JOHNNY CASH 30 Essential Hits CONWAY TWITTY 40 #1 Hits Jim Reeves Cass 03722-C $17.98 CD D-03722 $19.98 Cass 4593-C $21.98 CD D-4593 $24.98 12 Songs Of Christmas DANNY DAVIS & THE NASHVILLE BRASS PORTER WAGONER 14 Greatest Hits Blue Christmas•O Little Town Of Cass 77879-C $7.98 CD D-77879 $ 9.98 Cass 3005-C $12.98 CD D-3005 $16.98 Bethlehem Senor Santa Claus An • • RED FOLEY GENE WATSON Old Christmas Card•Jingle Bells • Hall of Fame 18 Greatest Hits The Merry Christmas Polka•White Cass Not Available CD D-10084 $13.98 Cass 6033-C $14.98 CD D-6033 $20.98 Christmas•Silver Bells•Mary’s TENN. ERNIE FORD Christmas Favorites KITTY WELLS 20 Greatest Hits Little Boy Child•C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S Cass 56621-C $7.98 CD D-56621 $10.98 Cass 6023-C $11.98 CD D-6023 $19.98 •O Come All Ye Faithful (Adeste Fideles)•Silent Night. TOMPALL GLASER & THE GLASER BROS. MAC WISEMAN 24 Greatest Hits Cass 44887-C $8.98 CD D-44887 $12.98 Cass 248-C $10.98 CD D-248 $15.98 Cass 7790-C $14.98 CD D-7790 $18.98 Jim Reeves-I Love You More 24 Hits! VERN GOSDIN Truly Great Hits FARON YOUNG 20 Best Hits Cass 45433-C $10.98 CD D-55433 $15.98 Cass 77012-C $10.98 CD D-77012 $15.98 Cass 7879-C $11.98 CD D-7879 $17.98 MERLE HAGGARD & BONNIE OWENS John Wayne Cass 5119-C $10.98 CD D-5119 $15.98 America, Why I Love Her His classic narra- FREDDIE HART The Best Of CATALOG MUSIC CO. ✃ tions feat. 8 patriotic favorites! You’ll be standing proud! Cass 19030-C $ 7.98 CD D-19030 $10.98 4301 Hillsboro Rd., Nashville, TN 37215-6622 Cass 8105-C $14.98 CD D-8105 $17.98 HEE HAW GOSPEL QUARTET Cass 3162-C $14.98 CD D-3162 $17.98 Name Brother Dave Gardner BURL IVES Rudolph Red-Nosed Reindeer Address Cass Not Available CD D-22177 $11.98 Two Pack Of Hits Two albums in one! City Classic Clean Truly Hilarious Comedy. Loads of fun! GEORGE JONES 24 Greatest Hits Cass 022-C $10.98 CD D-022 $14.98 Cass 6012-C $10.98 CD D-6012 $16.98 State Zip BUCK OWENS Christmas Shopping Phone Marty 20 Hits! Cass Not Available CD D-6163 $19.98 WEBB PIERCE 22 Country Hits Card # Cass 45423-C $10.98 CD D-55423 $15.98 Robbins Exp. Date #1 Cowboy PORTER & DOLLY 20 Greatest Hits El Paso•Big Iron•Cool Water• Cass 6018-C $11.98 CD D-6018 $17.98 Artist Item# Price Running Gun•El Paso City•The RAY PRICE 20 Hits Hanging Tree•Red River Valley• Cass 6022-C $11.98 CD D-6022 $17.98 Streets Of Laredo•San Angelo•All Around Cowboy•The CHARLEY PRIDE 14 Greatest Hits Fastest Gun Around Mr. Shorty Ballad Of The Alamo Cass 3003-C $12.98 CD D-3003 $16.98 Tennessee Residents • • Check or Add 9.25% Sales Tax •The Cowboy In The Continental Suit plus 6 more! JIMMIE RODGERS Hall of Fame Money Order Shipping (Foreign Orders Add $6.00 Extra) $2.95 Cass 6003-C $14.98 CD D-6003 $19.98 Cass 3824-C $10.98 CD D-3824 $17.98 Visa, MasterCard Marty Robbins-Christmas Remembered Discover, AmEx TOTAL CAL SMITH Cal Smith Cass 2002-C $12.98 CD D-2002 $17.98 Cass 0103-C $ 8.98 CD D-0103 $15.98 AL-302 Order Toll-Free 1-800-334-2053 84TH NATIONAL CONVENTION CHARLOTTE, N.C.

Legion’s support vital in aftermath of Sept. 11.

BY STEVE BROOKS Those killed in the Sept. 11, of the American spirit,” he said. 2001, terrorist attacks on Ameri- “Within that spirit, heart beating s names scrolled across ca and in the war on terrorism strongly, is the fortitude of The the big screen in Hall A that followed received a fitting American Legion.” of the Charlotte Conven- tribute from those who know Santos praised those who put tion Center, Legionnaires personally the sacrifices of serv- him in office and achieved his goal paid silent respect. Some ice. “It was overwhelming, ab- of “reaching out in all directions.” heldA hands. Some fought back solutely perfect,” Department of “It’s truly been a very produc- tears. “Amazing Grace” sounded Connecticut Commander Boyd tive year for The American Legion from bagpipes in the background. Saxton said of the ceremony. because of the vast number of Le- Grandfathers wearing Legion “The room was packed, but it gionnaires who have reached out caps stood next to their grandsons was like everyone was united.” in all directions,” he said. “From in Sons-of-The-American-Legion It was an opening ceremony to the grass-roots level to national, colors. Auxiliary members stood remember at the end of an unforget- Legionnaires have been working arm in arm with their husbands. table year for The American Legion. together to serve our nation. They came from all over the “Eleven months ago, the Amer- “For more than 84 years, our country and, in some cases, from ican illusion of invincibility was organization has proven time and as far away as Europe and the shattered,” National Commander time again that we care about South Pacific. Richard J. “Ric” Santos told the American veterans, their families 13,000 Legionnaires gath- and the communities where we ered Aug. 23-29 at the 84th live. This year was no exception. In National Convention in the face of (the terrorist attacks), Charlotte, N.C. “During Legionnaires from all over the that fateful September country mobilized, creating morning last year, a per- triumph in the wake of tragedy. verted war sponsored by a “You rushed to the blood banks faceless enemy was and hospitals, donating your brought to our shores on blood to help keep up with the an unprecedented scale.” sudden surge in demand. You re- Santos was in the nation’s newed your dedication to the capital during the attacks. Family Support Network, ensuring He was preparing to testify that families of active-duty and before Congress but did not Reserve servicemembers suddenly get the chance. Ultimately, facing long deployments had what that didn’t matter. “Over the they needed to survive.” American Red Cross Nurse Laura Boyd draws course of this year, Ameri- While doing its part in the war blood from Legionnaire Wayne Bracy of Iowa dur- cans have provided testimo- on terrorism, the Legion didn’t ing the convention. Tom Strattman ny of their own, a testimony neglect any of its other missions,

34 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine “Over the course of this year, Americans have provided… a testimony of the American spirit. Within that spirit, heart beating strongly, is the fortitude of The American Legion.” – 2001-2002 National Commander Richard J. “Ric” Santos

Santos said. “We’ve stood tall in Protecting the Homeland. Ridge, a Ridge outlined the many respon- protecting the American flag from member of Post 773 in Erie, Pa., sibilities of the new office and why desecration,” he said. “It was a said that through the tragedy of it merits Cabinet-level status. One banner year for The American Le- Sept. 11, Americans found a way to responsibility is to closely monitor gion’s Child Welfare Foundation. grow. “I have been asked if Ameri- foreigners coming into the country. We raised money for our Sept. 11 ca lost its innocence Sept. 11,” “We are a nation of immigrants, fund and met and exceeded the Ridge said. “Maybe we didn’t lose and we don’t want to lose sight of $500,000 goal set for the National it. Maybe we traded it for aware- that,” he said. “But we need a new Emergency Fund, proving once ness. We’re still getting used to the entry-and-exit policy. again The American Legion idea that we are vulnerable to ene- “This is a new kind of war indeed does care for its own.” mies. Americans saw against an enemy who Santos also praised the Legion’s what The American Le- turns innocent citizens membership efforts, up 60,000 gion has always known: into combatants and our from 2001, its work toward gain- freedom is never free. Al- cities into battlefields. ing concurrent receipt for disabled though we are safe and Just to move boxes military veterans, and its steadfast better prepared, we still around on an organiza- effort in improving quality of life have work to do.” tional chart and then call for U.S. servicemembers. Ridge said Legion- it a day will not be Santos was not alone in his naires can help. enough. The new agency praise of the Legion. Several dis- “Our homeland is se- or department must be tinguished guests at the event – cure when our as agile as the enemy.” including Office of Homeland Se- hometown is secure,” he Ridge to Legion: curity Director Tom Ridge, Depart- said. “As veterans, we National security A Mixed Bag for Veter- ment of Veterans Affairs Secretary have some pretty unique begins at home. ans. Inadequate funding Anthony J. Principi, Secretary of talents, some pretty ex- for the Department of the Army Thomas E. White and traordinary experiences to call Veterans Affairs continues to be a World War II Memorial Fund Co- upon. We know how to give or- critical concern of The American Chairman Bob Dole – all thanked ders, and we know how to take Legion. With a budget that barely the Legion for its support while orders. Your communities look to keeps up with inflation, VA has speaking on a variety of issues. you for leadership.” an overwhelming backlog of dis-

November 2002 35 The American Legion Magazine “When our new veterans re- turn home from their tours of duty, they deserve to be greeted with doors wide open in welcome at the employment offices of fed- eral agencies throughout America. Veterans’ preference is one very tangible way that we can show our gratitude as a nation to those now serving and to the 25 million living veterans in whose footsteps they follow in selfless sacrifice.” While VA Secretary Anthony J. Principi talked about doing the right thing, his speech undoubtedly alarmed many veterans. The Le- gion has encouraged Category 7 veterans – no service-connected disabilities and not indigent – to enroll in the VA system. Congress has mandated that VA accept Robert J. White of Garner, N.C., played the bagpipes for victims of the Sept. 11 attacks them. But Principi said increased and for late Past National Commander Daniel Foley, as Legionnaires paid their respects during the convention’s opening ceremony. James V. Carroll Category 7 numbers is one reason for VA’s backlog of benefits claims. ability compensation claims and care should be seamless. If we can “Veterans are coming into VA in long waiting times for patients in put a man on the moon, why can’t record numbers,” Principi said. its health-care system. we get computer-records software “We’re a victim of our own suc- Santos said the situation is un- from DoD and VA to talk to each cess. Since 1996, the number of acceptable. “Once again, veterans other? We must have a clear com- Category 7 veterans (in the system) have been placed between Con- mitment to collaboration ... We’re has risen 500 percent, from gress and the president for the looking for recommendations that 200,000 to more than 1 million. sake of saving money,” he said. transcend personalities.” They’ll make up 45 percent of our “Affordability was not an issue The task force also is examining workload by the end of the decade. when we were called to active the budgeting processes, timely Without an increase in money, that duty. It should not be an issue billing, cost accounting, informa- will be a recipe for failure. when fulfilling the promises to tion technology and reimburse- “Service-connected veterans those who served.” ment. But Wilensky said the task are the very reason VA exists. We Gail Wilensky, co-chair of the force would not recommend slic- actively must focus on them and Presidential Task Force to Improve ing health-care funding. “We will establish a priority for care. Veter- Heath-Care Delivery for not scale back military or ans waiting weeks or months or Our Nation’s Veterans, veterans’ health-care years (for care) are not impressed said the task force is budgets,” she said. “We by the praise for that care.” charged with helping ful- will not balance the VA has made strides in reduc- fill those promises. budget on the backs of ing the backlog of claims and the “What’s different about veterans.” processing time for each claim, this task force is that it’s Kay Coles James, direc- Principi said. He also defended the president’s task tor of the U.S. Office of Bush’s decision to withhold $275 force,” she said. “Our Personnel Management, million in supplemental VA fund- mandate is clear. We have said her office will contin- ing, saying Congress tied an addi- been directed to improve ue to fight for the employ- tional $5.1 billion to the amount, and determine how VA Principi ment rights of veterans, forcing Bush to choose between and the Department of thanks in part to the sup- spending all or none of it. Defense can work together to im- port of President George W. Bush. “The president decided not to prove access and quality health “The debt that we owe to you, add $5.1 billion to the deficit,” care to veterans and military the defenders of freedom, can Principi said. “But with (the $142 retirees. We’ve already been able to never fully be repaid,” James said. million), we were able to add knock down a number of barriers.” “But I want you to know that our nurses and expand clinics.” Wilensky said many obstacles president is taking an aggressive Principi said a stronger part- still exist, including lack of com- role in seeing to it that veterans nership with DoD, using Medicare munication between the two de- are treated with the respect, fair- as a VA provider and using rec- partments. “The transition from ness and dignity befitting their ommendations from the presiden- military health care to VA health service and sacrifice to the nation. tial task force are steps in the

36 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine right direction, VA improvement Annual Award Recipients isn’t going to happen overnight. Presented in Charlotte, N.C., in August during the 84th National Convention of The Amer- “VA has a tough climb in front ican Legion were the organization’s prestigious annual awards: of it, and the climb is only begin- ning,” he said. “We will stay the SPIRIT OF SERVICE AWARDS Enlisted armed services members honored for volunteering in their local communities course with strong leadership and Army a focus on accountability.” Spc. Eric D. Hall Navy The War on Terrorism. Army Engineman 2nd Class Jesse J. Givens Secretary Thomas E. White Marine Corps expressed confidence that Ameri- Sgt. Charles A. Cloud ca will win the war on terrorism Air Force “because it has national leader- Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Culbreth ship committed to victory. We Coast Guard will win because we have the best Yeoman 2nd Class Francine Sak armed forces the world has ever YOUTH PROGRAM HONOREES known. Our Boys Nation President soldiers are Bradley Johnson flat-out the Junior Shooting Sports Champion best soldiers Jamie Beyerle I’ve ever seen. National Oratorical Contest Champion We collapsed Candice Neal Fourth Estate Award for Outstanding Journalism the al-Qaida Christine Willmsen and Mike Wagner of the Dayton Daily News for the two-year inves- machine and tigative project “The Foreign Game,” which brought to light exploitation of young foreign put the Taliban athletes. on the run. William Randolph Hearst Americanism Trophy Technological Department of Ohio advances, as Frank N. Belgrano Trophy White For support of the Boy Scouts we all know, Department of California are happening at a blistering Ralph T. O’Neil Education Trophy pace. But we fully understand For showing the greatest Americanism activity in use of that technology does not change The American Legion School Medal Awards the fundamental challenge of war. Department of Wyoming War remains a personal and bru- EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR tal experience, and man’s ability For companies and businesses dedicated to hiring veterans to prevail through this ordeal will Small Business always be the ultimate challenge Wal-Mart Distribution Center, Winter Haven, Fla. in securing victory.” Mid-Size Business White said the Legion can – M&T Company, and does – help. “We have the Manchester, N.J. Large Business complete support of the American Basic Water Company, people, but we must sustain that Henderson, Nev. support,” he said. “You, The NATIONAL LAW American Legion, have a critical ENFORCEMENT role in sustaining that support as OFFICER OF leaders, role models and mentors THE YEAR in your communities. We will win Lincoln County Sheriff Deputy this war and future wars because Casey Nelms, of those like you.” North Platte, Neb. U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Bryan D. LOCAL VETERANS REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR Brown, commanding general of the Barbara Phillips, Fort Payne, Ala. Army’s Special Operations Com- mand, provided insight into the WILLIAM F. LENKER NATIONAL SERVICE TROPHY For best supporting and implementing programs to benefit veterans and their families war in Afghanistan and the Department of Minnesota soldiers fighting it. “In the earliest days of conflict GARLAND MURPHY AWARD For providing the most contributions to the Child Welfare Foundation in Afghanistan, only a few weeks Department of Alabama after the first U.S. Special Forces had been covertly inserted into the CWF LEGACY AWARD For contributing the most funds to the Children’s Miracle Network country, a radio message was re- by the department’s entire Legion family layed to the Army Operations Cen- Department of New York ter in the Pentagon,” Brown said.

November 2002 37 The American Legion Magazine “It came from a Special Forces captain who had linked up with soldiers of a group of the Northern Alliance. The message stated, ‘We have not slept in four days. Have not eaten in two days. Water is running low, and we have only about 10 rounds of ammunition per man. Tonight we attack.’ “Special Forces has been preparing for this fight, and our forces are the best trained in the world. They have been proving that since the start of Operation Enduring Freedom.” Brown presented the Bronze After receiving a Bronze Star, Special Forces Capt. John P.Spanogle gets a kiss from his Star to U.S. Army Capt. John P. mother, Ruth, while his father, National Adjutant Robert W. Spanogle, watches proudly Spanogle, son onstage. James V. Carroll of Legion Na- tional Adjutant ble environment in Kandahar. Gen. Patrick H. Brady, chairman of and Mrs. Capt. Spanogle’s incisive Special the Citizens Flag Alliance, told Le- Robert W. Forces skills, as well as his astute gionnaires the time is right to get Spanogle, be- understanding of military-political the flag-protection amendment cause, accord- dynamics of the incredibly com- passed in the Senate. The key, he ing to the cita- plex environment he operated in, said, is voter awareness and creat- tion, “His reflect great credit upon him, 5th ing a public outcry similar to that peerless lead- Special Forces Group (Airborne) which occurred when the San Fran- ership of oper- and the United States Army.” cisco 9th Circuit Court of Appeals Brown ations of Capt. Spanogle is a member of ruled that the Pledge of Allegiance strategic signif- Post 225 in Michigan. was unconstitutional because of the icance directly contributed to the phrase “under God.” establishment of a secure and sta- Getting the Word Out. Retired Maj. “There’s not a shred of differ- ‘Everyday heroes’ Marie Osmond thanks Legion for helping children. Entertainer Marie Osmond says that no matter the importance of giving through service,” Osmond where we are in life, we all start out as helpless said. “There are thousands of you out there who are children, dependent upon others for support. That heroes in everyday life. You may never get a place is why it is essential, she says, for in the spotlight, but you will always The American Legion to keep deliv- have a place in my heart.” ering assistance for the Children’s As part of her presentation, Osmond Miracle Network. introduced Legionnaires to young Sam Osmond is co-founder and chief Wise, son of Perry and Crystal Wise of executive officer for CMN, a non- Concord, N.C. Sam was born 16 weeks profit corporate partner of the premature in August 2001. Thanks to Legion that raises funds and aware- care he received at a CMN hospital, he ness for 170 children’s hospitals recently celebrated his first birthday around the world. Last year, those and now weighs more than 13 pounds. hospitals treated 17 million chil- His survival is nothing less than a dren regardless of their families’ medical miracle, made possible Marie Osmond and CMN mira- abilities to pay. cle baby Sam Wise expressed through charitable contributions. The That sort of service is possible thanks in Charlotte. Tom Strattman American Legion’s support for such only because of organizations like miracles was not lost on the boy’s the Legion, which raised about $2.6 million last mother, who told the crowd, “Thank you, from the year for CMN and has produced about $6 million in bottom of a grateful mother’s heart.” the past four years. “I was taught by my parents of – Steve Brooks

38 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine A Family of ‘Good Guys’ Alan Osmond, who has multiple sclerosis, and Osmonds ‘exemplify the his wife, Suzanne, founded the One Heart Foun- dation, which seeks to strengthen families by spirit’ of Good Guy award. providing guiding principles with the advice of experts, live events and activities for children. The Osmonds have sold millions of albums The foundation also supports TheFamily.com and entertained people around the world. But and Deaf.net Web sites. there is much more to this quintessentially Amer- In 1991, Merrill Osmond produced “Operation ican family than song and dance. Their offstage Family Front,” a special television variety show to work is just as impressive, and because of that, assist families of Utah servicemembers fighting in they received The American Operation Desert Storm. Legion’s James V. Day Good He also is the co-founder Guy Award at the annual Past of the annual Freedom Department Commanders’ Festival in Provo, Utah. Club luncheon during the Le- In accepting the fami- gion’s 84th National Conven- ly’s award, Merrill, tion in Charlotte, N.C. Wayne and Jay Osmond “The Osmond family is the were quick to thank recipient of this award Legionnaires for what because of their actions off they do for America. the stage,” PDCC President “What’s really important Jerry L. Hedrick said. “With The Osmond Brothers perform at the National to us is being around in- Commander’s Banquet after receiving the James their perseverance and gen- V. Day Good Guy Award. Tom Strattman dividuals like yourselves uine spirit of giving and their who understand the commitment to family values, the Osmonds ex- meaning of dedication to community and coun- emplify the spirit of the award.” try,” Jay Osmond said. Olive Osmond, mother of the celebrated family, “The Osmonds love America,” Merrill launched the Osmond Foundation, which spon- Osmond said. “We love being Americans. And sors the Children’s Miracle Network. Her daugh- it’s neat to be called a ‘good guy’ in this coun- ter, Marie, serves as chief executive officer of CMN try today.” and as chairperson of the network foundation. – Steve Brooks ence between the pledge ruling Fund to more than $187 million. raised $187 million, and less than and flag ruling,” said Brady, a Dole said the memorial, to be $10 million came from the govern- Medal of Honor recipient. “Both dedicated in Washington in ment. The rest came from private fly in the face of common sense. spring 2004, isn’t only for those individuals across the country.” The public was outraged because who fought in the war. “World it was aware of the War II veterans don’t Stump Honored. The American pledge ruling. The three need a memorial,” said Legion awarded U.S. Rep. Bob keys in our fight to pro- Dole, a former U.S. sen- Stump, R-Ariz., its highest honor, tect the flag are voter ator. “It’s not for us. the Distinguished Service Award. awareness, voter aware- Most of us have passed Santos thanked Stump, a ness and voter away. And between now World War II Navy veteran and awareness. and the time of the dedi- 26-year member of Congress, for “No senators would cation, we’ll lose anoth- his staunch support of the Legion vote against the flag if er 1.5 million. But some- on many issues, including the they thought it would times we need to flag-protection amendment. cost them the election. remember the past if Unable to attend the conven- They hide behind the Dole we’re going to make tion due to health reasons, Stump ignorance of the voters.” sure we’re on the right in turn thanked the Legion via a path for the future.” videotaped presentation. World War II Memorial. The Dole said fund-raising support “Without the strong support of American Legion family presented from the Legion is critical in get- The American Legion, we couldn’t World War II veteran Bob Dole with ting the memorial built. “We didn’t have won legislative battles to fulfill a check for $4.6 million, bringing want to ask the government for promises to our veterans,” Stump the total raised by private citizens any money; save that money for said. “The award you’ve honored for the World War II Memorial the veterans who need it. We me with today is very humbling.”

November 2002 39 The American Legion Magazine Left, Ronald F. Conley of Pennsylvania was unanimously elected national commander. Tom Strattman

ABOVE: Conley’s 4-year-old grandson, Brian Gilfoyle, enjoys his marbles while his grandfather assumes leadership. Tom Strattman BELOW: Conley and new American Legion Auxiliary President Elsie Bailey of New Jer- sey lock hands in unity. Tom Strattman Membership Gains. On the way to last year’s membership gains, seven departments hit all-time highs: Arizona, South Carolina, Nevada, Utah, Virginia, Delaware and Florida. Five departments recorded 100-percent marks through traditional carried out every day by The efforts: Arizona, France, Conley, with wife Barbara at his side, is sworn into American Legion. “Our country Georgia, South Carolina office by PNC John Geiger. Tom Strattman was founded on the principle of and Delaware. fighting tyranny,” he said. “Our The Harold D. Lindsley Trophy Post 290, Conley has held numer- founding fathers gave up tangible went to the Department of ous Legion leadership positions, assets to fight for an intangible Delaware for the second straight including post and department belief: the right to be free. year for the greatest percentage in- commander and National Execu- “Fellow Legionnaires, we will crease in membership in a domes- tive Committeeman. In 1988, he not and cannot forget our fellow tic department. The North Carolina founded and still serves as presi- veterans and those who gave their Trophy, which is the foreign equiv- dent of The American Legion for very lives for the free nation we alent of the Lindsley Trophy, went Homeless Veterans Corp., which are today. to Puerto Rico. operates eight veterans’ homes in “We will support the brave W.C. “Gene” Franks, of Palmer, Pennsylvania. He also was men and women of our armed Alaska, was named the Legion’s appointed to the Vietnam Veterans forces and their families. They are National Recruiter of the Year. Herbicide Commission. America’s newest veterans. We Franks, commander of the In his acceptance speech, Con- shall not fail our country’s veter- Department of Alaska, ley said, “No matter how ans. We will fight until the prom- brought in 392 new old you are, how tired ises made to them are fulfilled by members last year. you are or how many a grateful nation.” years you have been in- Legionnaires also were intro- Conley Takes Command. volved in The American duced to new American Legion Ronald F. Conley of the Legion, you can still con- Auxiliary National President Elsie Department of Pennsylva- tribute to the good of the Bailey of Whiting, N.J., and Sons nia was unanimously Legion if you remember of The American Legion National elected by delegates to how our nation and The Commander Steve Laws of Hicko- serve as national com- American Legion were ry, N.C. Bailey replaced Sherry mander for 2002-2003. founded. It was because McLaughlin, while Laws takes Conley, who served in SAL Commander people responded to the over for Clifford Smith. I Steve Laws the Air Force during the idea that the mind con- Vietnam War, was joined by his ceives it, the heart believes it and Steve Brooks is editor of The wife, Barbara, at the lectern when the hands achieve it.” American Legion Dispatch. he was sworn in. Conley said the principles upon A member of Scott Township which America was founded are Article design: Holly K. Soria

40 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine NOW YOU CAN WEAR THIS LIMITED EDITION G-1 GOATSKIN FLIGHT JACKET IS THE REAL DEAL! Price Reduced! A PIECE OF You won’t find a more recognizable symbol of military fashion history and pride than this— the G-1 leather jacket worn by Navy and Marine pilots, navigators, flight surgeons and air crews. The G-1 saw action throughout WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm. AVIATION In that tradition, we are offering for the first time the actual jacket issued to today’s Navy “top gun”pilots. Now, you can proudly wear the same jacket worn by those who command F-14 Tomcats, F-18 Hornets and EA6B Prowlers. This is their flight jacket HISTORY and it can be yours for only $269.99 $239.99. MADE IN THE USA AND GUARANTEED AUTHENTIC. Official Navy and Marine This is no imitation. Excelled Leather is the exclusive USA manufacturer of the G-1 supplied to the US Navy and Marines. Others may say it, but this is the real thing. Issue G-1 Flight Jacket Our G-1 is handmade from 4 pounds of rugged, premium goatskin leather and meets MIL-SPEC J-8223E(AS). Not only does the G-1 look great, it gets better looking the more you wear it. What’s more, you’ll get the same exact features on your G-1 that all US Navy pilots get with theirs! • Plush, synthetic mouton collar with closing tab fastens to create a stand-up collar. • Extra heavy duty YKK® brass zipper with leather pull zips fully up to the collar. • Double, underarm gussets with three air vents for extra comfort. • Two front cargo pockets and one inside snap pocket. • “USN”perforation on the front windflap. • Heavy gauge, full nylon lining. • Bi-swing back for ease of movement. Don’t miss this opportunity to own the actual jacket issued to US Navy and Marine aviators. These “Top Gun” flyers work a career for one of these jackets and now you can get your own for only $269.99 $239.99. In fact, make it easy on yourself. Spread out the pay- ments (credit cards only) in 3 monthly installments of $90.00 $80.00 each. Order yours today. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back!

Excelled Sheepskin & Leather Coat Corp. ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-948-9300 7AM–7PM C.S.T. (24 HOUR FAX ORDERS: 1-309-852-0690) Call or write for information on other mil. spec. garments and visit www.leathercoatsetc.com for special offers To order your G-1, send check or money order to: Excelled Sheepskin & Leather Coat Corp., Dept. 700 1700 Burlington Ave., Kewanee, IL 61443-3278 ✯ Limited Check here ■ if you are paying by check or money order. Enclosed is my payment of $239.99. FREE Shipping & Handling. ✯ Time Credit card customers please fill in card # and expiration date below. ■ ✯ Offer: (Circle One): VISA Master Card AMEX Discover Check here if you wish to pay in 3 installments $80.00 per month. FREE Please indicate size and if you prefer regular or long: Size (even sizes 36-52): ______■ Regular ■ Long ✯ Shipping Card #______Exp. Date:______Name: ______Address:______City:______State:______Zip:______Signature:______Tel: ( )______(All orders subject to acceptance) Washed away, but not a washout Rain halts parade but doesn’t dampen the spirits of Legionnaires.

BY STEVE BROOKS

Dark clouds moved in overhead and cast shadows over the streets of Charlotte, a city well into its fourth straight year of drought. Sprinkles began falling onto the hot streets. Soon, those sprinkles became a steady stream of rain that grew into a torrential downpour. As the storm pounded the city, the a. James V. Carroll bands played on, for those still marching in the 84th American Legion National Convention Parade last August. But when lightning flashed across the skies, more than an hour into the parade, National Commander Richard J. Santos called off festivities for the sake of safety. “Veterans have been through rain, snow, the cold, everything,” said Jerry Hedrick, president of the North Carolina b. Convention Corp. and North Carolina’s James V. Carroll National Executive Committeeman. “A little rain wasn’t going to stop them. And it wasn’t the rain that stopped it. It was an electrical storm that stopped it. I sat there and got wet, but I didn’t mind. I don’t think anyone did.” Two departments in particular did not mind at all. Even after the parade was called off, Legionnaires from Pennsylva- nia and New Jersey stuck it out. “We were already soaked, so we decided to c. om Strattman T keep going,” Pennsylvania Adjutant Kit Watson said. “We marched on, carrying our banners and everything.” Watson said Pennsylvania’s parade contingent initially consisted of 138 mem- bers. “I know that some dropped out, but we still had a good amount marching at the end of the parade,” he said. “I hate that the lightning came, because despite the rain, I think every-

d. om Strattman one would have finished up the parade,” T said Hedrick, attending his 25th straight a. Rain beads off the hat of a parade participant at the 84th American Legion convention. “I wasn’t surprised a few National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. Though the rain poured, the parade departments kept going.” continued until lightning forced its cancellation. More than 100 entries were registered b. Convention Corp. President Jerry Hedrick, right, stays at least a little dry while watching the parade. to march in the parade, with Air Force c. National Commander Richard J. "Ric" Santos and his national vice com- Brig. Gen. Charles E. McCartney as grand manders wave to spectators before taking their places on the viewing stand. marshal and Past National Commander d. A band member ignores the downpour and delivers music to the crowd. Ray G. Smith, honorary grand marshal.

42 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Ampli-Ear 2002... SO SMALL & POWERFUL YOU’LL THINK YOU HAVE BIONIC HEARING ! 100% Guaranteed ! NOT So Powerful Your Signature is required! $79.00!

100% State-of-the-Art Yes! The Ampli-Ear 2002 ONLY is fully adjustable, fits both men and women $9.95! and is nearly invisible in your ear. So, end those Direct from the embarrassing moments. Manufacturer! Never apologize again for not being able to NEARLY hear. Begin to: INVISIBLE ✔ Hear whispers and quiet conversations Clearly ✔ Listen to Faint Phone Conversations with Ease ✔ Watch TV with the volume on Low ✔ Even Hear quiet footsteps on a carpeted floor

YOURS Rush Delivery... Don’t Delay! Send Order To: American Research Institute 21 Bridge Sq., Dept HD2-AL7, Westport, Ct. 06880 FREE: ☛❏ YES! Please RUSH me (1) Ampli-Ear 2002 unit for only $9.95 + $4.95 rush delivery ☛❏ SAVE 20%: 2 Ampli Ears Only $15.95 + $6.95 P&H ☛❏ Lifetime Damage Replacement Guarantee $5.95 ☛❏ Bonus Deal! 1,000 Hours of Batteries Only $5.95! Postpaid! ORDER ☛ ☛❏ Super Bonus! Both the Lifetime Guarantee & the 1,000 Hours of Batteries Offer for Only $9.00! Postpaid! NOW ❏ Postal Insurance only 99¢ ❏ SUPER RUSH Service only 99¢ AND ❏ Check or money order enclosed FREE: ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ RECEIVE 4 Batteries Charge my: Visa Amex MC Discover FREE: Cleaning Brush Card #: Exp: THESE Name: GREAT FREE: Full Color Guide Address: FREE: City: State: Zip: ITEMS 3 Custom Fitting REQUIRED Signature: I am 18 years old or older and voluntarily sign this waiver which indicates that I do not wish a medical evaluation or test before purchasing the Ampli-Ear 2002. I understand that The FDA has determined that my best interests FREE! Ear Pieces would be served if I had a medical evaluation by a licensed physician who specializes in diseases of the ear, before purchasing the Ampli-Ear 2002 - or a test by a licensed hearing aid dispenser utilizing established procedures and ©2002 WMG ( 00-27B ) instrumentation in the fitting of hearing instruments. Resolutions of the 84th National Convention of The American Legion

These are summaries of the 194 take necessary action to stop the massive Res. No. 247 – Supports the Office of Juve- flow of illegal immigration into this country. nile Justice & Delinquency Prevention. resolutions passed at the 84th Res. No. 306 – Urges law-enforcement Res. No. 248 – Supports protecting children National Convention of The Amer- agencies to work together to apprehend, from the unrestricted media. detain and deport those who are in the Unit- Res. No. 249 – Supports comprehensive ican Legion in Charlotte, N.C., in ed States illegally. health care for children and youth. August. For the full text, contact Res. No. 307 – Opposes amnesty for illegal immigrants. Constitutional Amendment the Legion Library at (317) 630- Res. No. 308 – Oppose financial aid for Res. No. 170 – Authorizes the National 1366, e-mail [email protected] or illegal alien students. Legislative Commission to petition Congress Res. No. 309 – Urges reform of the student to further amend Section 5 of the act enti- visit the Web site at visa system. tled “An Act to Incorporate The American http://www.legion.org. Written Res. No. 310 – Urges Congress to improve Legion, Public Law No. 47, 66th Congress” U.S.-Canada border security. regarding Legion membership eligibility. requests for all approved resolu- Res. No. 311 – Urges Congress to adopt tions, in booklet form, can be immigration policy for the 21st century. Economics Res. No. 312 – Urges Congress to amend Res. No. 21 – Requests adequate funding sent to: The Library, The American the “Temporary Protected Status” portion of for Local Veterans Employment Representa- the Immigration Act of 1990. tives and the Disabled Veterans Outreach Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapo- Res. No. 313 – Urges Congress to provide Program. lis, IN 46206. agencies of the federal government with Res. No. 24 – Supports Veterans Preference the necessary resources to track the arrival in the federal and state work forces. and departure of foreign visitors to the Res. No. 107 – Amends the Internal Rev- Americanism United States. enue Code for qualified veteran definition. Res. No. 200 – Seeks the appropriate legis- Res. No. 111 – Supports any legislative or lation or presidential proclamation to alter, Children & Youth administrative initiative that will give prefer- amend, or modify provisions of the U.S. Flag Res. No. 99 – Seeks legislative action to ence to American veterans and their families Code, Title 4, U. S. Code, Chapter 1. amend the Immigration and Nationality Act in obtaining housing through the programs Res. No. 292 – Expresses support for the to provide equal treatment in admission of of the Department of Housing and Pledge of Allegiance in its current form. all children of U.S. citizens. Urban Development. Res. No. 293 – Urges the president and Res. No. 239 – Opposes depiction of chil- Res. No. 132 – Opposes any weakening of Congress to strengthen federal intelligence dren in pornographic literature. the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program and security agencies. Res. No. 240 – Opposes any attempt to and Local Veterans Employment Represen- Res. No. 294 – Asks Congress to mandate weaken laws governing the penalties for the tative Programs. that the English language be the official U.S. production, sale and distribution of porno- Res. No. 151 – Supports full funding for language. graphic or obscene materials. small business loans in VA. Res. No. 295 – Urges return of patriotic Res. No. 241 – Reaffirms position of sup- Res. No. 169 – Supports VA’s Home Loan holidays to traditional dates. porting the fullest use of any licensed vac- Guaranty Program. Res. No. 296 – Encourages Congress to cine to combat communicable diseases. Res. No. 189 – Urges adding active conduct oversight hearings of the naturaliza- Res. No. 242 – Recommends school Reservists to those eligible for certain job tion process to ensure comprehensive back- boards and state education agencies de- training service. ground checks are made on all applicants velop a balanced and effective program Res. No. 254 – Reaffirms support of the for U.S. citizenship. and provide community support to reduce Small Business Administration’s Office of Res. No. 297 – Supports heavy penalties for and prevent violence and vandalism in Veterans’ Business Development. employers who knowingly hire illegal aliens. educational institutions. Res. No. 255 – Support preference for vet- Res. No. 298 – Supports injured or dis- Res. No. 243 – Urges the president and eran-owned businesses. abled noncitizen veterans applying for nat- Congress to establish “National Family Res. No. 256 – Supports priority of service uralization. Week” during the week of Thanksgiving as for veterans in all State Employment Ser- Res. No. 299 – Supports a constitutional an annual observance. vices Agencies (SESA) One-Stop Centers. amendment permitting voluntary prayer in Res. No. 244 – Urges Congress to provide Res. No. 257 – Reaffirms support for the public buildings. appropriate sufficient funds for school nutri- Transitional Assistance Program (TAP) for all Res. No. 300 – Requests awarding Medal of tion programs to reflect the increased cost separating and retiring personnel. Honor to the Four Chaplains. of food and to provide needed facilities and Res. No. 258 – Supports full funding for Res. No. 301 – Supports a constitutional trained personnel in an adequate school Veterans Employment and Training Service amendment to protect the U.S. Flag. lunch program. (VETS). Res. No. 302 – Opposes foreign manufac- Res. No. 245 – Reaffirms position in urging Res. No. 259 – Supports improvement of ture of American flags. federal and state governments to enact the VETS. Res. No. 303 – Opposes legislation that necessary legislation to assist financially Res. No. 260 – Supports licensure and cer- would give conscientious objectors a voice those individual families faced by the cata- tification of active-duty service personnel. in diverting monies from military spending. strophic illness of one of their children. Res. No. 261 – Supports improvements of Res. No. 304 – Oppose changes to “Title V Res. No. 246 – Urges the president and VETS performance standards. of the Immigration and Nationality Act.” Congress to fully support with adequate Res. No. 262 – Support the National Veter- Res. No. 305 – Opposes illegal immigration funding all border state, federal and military ans Training Institute. and urges state and federal government to drug trafficking prevention programs. Res. No. 263 – Continued support of Vet-

44 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine erans Preference in hiring by federal con- Foreign Relations Res. No. 252 – Supports legal immunity for tractors. Res. No. 1 – Supports bringing pressure to volunteers. Res. No. 264 – Urges that VA’s Home Loan bear on North Korea to immediately cease Res. No. 253 – Supports awarding Medal of Guaranty limit be raised to at least $300,000 its efforts to develop nuclear weapons, Freedom to Harry Colmery. and be geographically adjusted as local mar- chemical and biological weapons and long- ket conditions require. range ballistic missiles. National Security Res. No. 265 – Opposes the transfer of Res. No. 2 – Supports and encourages the Res. No. 56 – Urges notification of TRICARE VETS to VA. continued sales of sophisticated American for Life eligibility. Res. No. 266 – Supports retaining the 10- weapon systems to the armed forces of the Res. No. 59 – Recognition of Merchant Ma- year delimiting period for veterans to use Taiwan. rine Service. Montgomery GI Bill educational benefits. Res. No. 8 – Condemns the cowardly at- Res. No. 60 – Supports upholding several Res. No. 267 – Supports major enhance- tacks on America by terrorists and urges the national-security principles as fundamental ments for the Montgomery GI Bill. president of the United States to use any to the best interests of the United States. Res. No. 268 – Opposes eliminating or out- and all means necessary to determine who Res. No. 61 – Supports establishment of sourcing VETS programs. is responsible for the attacks on America Department of Homeland Security and the Res. No. 270 – Amends Veterans Employ- and punish the perpetrators. war on terrorism. ment Opportunities Act of 1998. Res. No. 10 – Supports a robust American Res. No. 63 – Supports a national missile Res. No. 271 – Supports Congress estab- diplomacy. defense system. lishing “Hire a Veteran Week” during the Res. No. 12 – Petitions for Japanese com- Res. No. 65 – Supports adequate funding week of Veterans Day each year. pensation and equity to American POWs. and human resources for American Battle Res. No. 272 – Supports staffing Local Vet- Res. No. 33 – Urges the president and Con- Monuments Commission. erans’ Employment Representatives (LVERs) gress to develop a comprehensive biparti- Res. No. 66 – Urges government to include as required by law. san U.S. policy which identifies the areas clearly defined principles as an integral part Res. No. 273 – Reaffirms support for Ser- where the United States can make a differ- of its national security and foreign policy vice Members Occupation Conversion and ence in Africa. decision-making process when considering Training Act. Res. No. 93 – Urges the president and Con- the commitment of U.S. military forces. Res. No. 274 – Supports tax credits for em- gress to speak out to expedite the return of Res. No. 67 – Opposes foreign investments ployers who either pay regular salaries to U.S. servicemen who are still prisoners of in American defense industries. employees called to active duty or who war or missing in action. Res. No. 68 – Resolves to continue to close- make up the difference between an employ- Res. No. 94 – Advocates that several objec- ly monitor the progress of the Anthrax Vac- ee’s military pay and regular civilian salary. tives should be incorporated into U.S. foreign cine Immunization Program. Res. No. 275 – Supports recognition of policy in order to maintain peace with free- Res. No. 69 – Urges that the DoD require military service and pay when calculating dom while preserving and promoting commanders to institute proper protective starting federal civilian salaries. democracy. measures for personnel working with or Res. No. 276 – Urges the president to en- Res. No. 95 – Urges the government to around depleted uranium munitions. force Veterans Preference in all federal seek several reforms in the United Nations Res. No. 70 – Supports collegiate and high agencies and urges Congress to conduct and to use American leverage to obtain the school ROTC programs. oversight investigations of all federal agen- desired ends. Res. No. 71 – Supports retaining and ex- cies to determine equitable application of Res. No. 96 – Calls for comprehensive hear- panding the Uniformed Services University Veterans Preference. ings to ascertain the influence that foreign of the Health Sciences. Res. No. 277 – Supports disabled veterans governments and their agents have in the Res. No. 72 – Urges support and funding of as priority under Americans with Disabili- nation’s capital, particularly in financial con- the Armed Forces Retirement Homes. ties Act. tributions to political campaigns. Res. No. 73 – Urges Congress to retain Na- Res. No. 278 – Supports job protection for Res. No. 98 – Supports legislation that tional Guard units at reasonable levels so service-connected veterans requiring visits would authorize the flying of the POW/MIA that in addition to their active-duty missions to VA facilities. flag at federal facilities and installations, they may continue to perform non-federal Res. No. 279 – Urges state employment including post offices, every day of the year. functions. security agencies to report veterans’ wages Res. No. 125 – Petition Congress to fully Res. No. 74 – Urges that several measures at placement. investigate the circumstances surrounding be considered by municipal, state and feder- Res. No. 280 – Seeks and supports legisla- the downing of Lt. Cmdr. Michael Scott Spe- al authorities for application to repeat youth- tion to allow military retirees entering federal icher and urges the government to insist ful offenders, including more frequent charg- service to credit all military service to accru- upon his release from captivity or the repa- ing of juveniles as adults. al of annual leave. triation of his remains. Res. No. 75 – Supports the Second Amend- Res. No. 281 – Urges Congress to amend Res. No. 120 – Supports current U.S. policy ment. the covered groups by removing the terms on Cuba. Res. No. 76 – Supports Firefighter of the “Vietnam era” and “special disabled” and Res. No. 122 – Supports policy on ending Year Award Programs. replacing with “veteran” and “special em- drug trafficking in Latin America. Res. No. 77 – Urges Congress and the DoD phasis on disabled veterans.” Res. No. 123 – Supports current policy on to support and fund military quality-of-life Res. No. 282 – Supports veterans hiring aid to Central American nations. features. preference from employers with federal Res. No. 180 – Urges the administration to Res. No. 78 – Seeks concurrent receipt of grants. insure that pledges made by Vietnam are military retired pay and VA disability com- Res. No. 283 – Renews Legion commitment honestly fulfilled and that in the absence of pensation. to assisting homeless veterans and their fulfillment of these pledges, the Legion op- Res. No. 79 – Supports Selective Service families through a variety of methods. poses any further economic and political System. Res. No. 284 – Supports reimbursement steps to improve bilateral relations between Res. No. 80 – Urges guidelines be incorpo- for correspondence and distance learning the United States and Vietnam. rated into DoD health care for military bene- courses. ficiaries. Res. No. 285 – Petitions Congress to open Internal Affairs Res. No. 81 – Supports DoD authorizing up homestead privileges to U.S. military vet- Res. No. 4 – Supports National D-Day Muse- TRICARE eligibility for members of the Re- erans on a priority basis. um exhibit. serve components and their dependents. Res. No. 286 – Supports job protection for Res. No. 113 – Encourages proper mainte- Res. No. 82 – Supports coordination, not service-connected disabled veterans requir- nance for memorials and monuments. integration, of VA and DoD health services. ing medical treatment or examinations at Res. No. 250 – Expresses appreciation to Res. No. 83 – Urges reforming the military VA facilities. the host city of the 2002 National Convention. absentee voting system. Res. No. 288 – Supports the development Res. No. 251 – Supports amending tax- Res. No. 84 – Urges codifying burial eligibili- of veterans’ on-the-job training opportunities. exempt status of posts. ty for Arlington National Cemetery. Res. No. 85 – Urges Congress to mandate

November 2002 45 The American Legion Magazine and appropriately fund DoD and military of the armed forces into a modern force Res. No. 195 – Supports providing Emer- services, to include reimbursing the National capable of providing for the security of all gency Response Service for independent- Guard, so as to provide military honors upon Americans. living veterans. request at veterans’ funerals. Res. No. 196 – Supports increasing the Res. No. 86 – Urges DoD and Congress to Veterans Affairs amount of authorized per-diem payments continue full federal funding of the military & Rehabilitation (40 percent) for nursing home and domicil- commissary system. Res. No. 31 – Seeks legislation to pay ac- iary care provided to veterans in State Veter- Res. No. 87 – Supports the exclusion of crued benefits in a pending claim to date the ans Homes. military women from direct ground combat deceased veteran’s claim was filed. Res. No. 202 – Supports legislation to pro- roles including special operations units as Res. No. 32 – Petitions for all veterans to vide for periodic cost-of-living adjustments well as permanent assignment on receive “wartime” benefits for active mili- in DIC at the same percentage rate to both submarines. tary service between Feb. 28, 1961, and current-law and prior-law DIC recipients. Res. No. 89 – Urges congressional hearings Aug. 5, 1964. Res. No. 203 – Supports Medicare reim- on the Uniformed Services Former Spouses Res. No. 34 – Supports the establishment of bursement for the Department of Veterans Protection Act and supports the principle Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis as a Gulf War Affairs. that spouses of military personnel have the presumptive disease. Res. No. 204 – Requests The American right to adequate support. Res. No. 35 – The American Legion policy Legion be appointed to serve as a member Res. No. 90 – Supports the Korean Defense on VA compensation. on the CARES Commission to ensure that Service Medal. Res. No. 36 – The American Legion policy the implementation of CARES does not jeop- Res. No. 91 – Supports retention of the on Agent Orange. ardize VHA’s ability to carry out its responsi- Vieques Weapons Range. Res. No. 37 – Supports special pension for bilities as part of the government’s response Res. No. 92 – Supports funding to maintain World War I veterans. to disasters and national emergencies. readiness of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Res. No. 51 – Urges improvement in VA Res. No. 205 – Supports legislation to pro- Res. No. 115 – Urges that all future Status procedures for the issuance of Veterans vide presumptive service connection for of Forces Agreements negotiated, renegoti- Preference letters. several conditions, including Hepatitis or ated, or revised with host countries should Res. No. 100 – Extends presumptive period other infectious diseases of the liver, in the allow for the unimpeded use of all U.S. mili- for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) to absence of demonstrable inter-current dis- tary facilities by retired U.S. military members seven years. ease or injury. and their dependents. Res. No. 102 – The American Legion policy Res. No. 206 – Urges that appropriate ac- Res. No. 131 – Commends President on Gulf War veterans illness. tion is taken in support of legislation to George W. Bush for his steadfastness in pur- Res. No. 103 – Supports open-ended pre- amend title 10, U.S. Code, so as to eliminate suing the terrorist enemies of the United sumptive period for undiagnosed illnesses all time limitations for the correction of mili- States in the war on terrorism. for Gulf War veterans. tary records. Res. No. 149 – Supports naming next Res. No. 133 – Seeks priority treatment for Res. No. 207 – Supports providing full fund- guided-missile destroyer the USS Charles World War II veterans. ing for VA construction program. G. Abrel. Res. No. 141 – Supports enacting additional Res. No. 208 – Supports improving the Res. No. 162 – Supports the national space components of the GI Bill of Health through disability and death pension program. program. the “GI Bill of Health – Medicare Reimburse- Res. No. 209 – Supports presumption of Res. No. 163 – Supports aeronautical re- ment” and the “GI Bill of Health – Depen- service connection for hepatitis C. search. dents in VA.” Res. No. 210 – Seeks legislation to elimi- Res. No. 164 – Urges the United States to Res. No. 142 – Affirms a strong commit- nate the radiation dose estimate require- maintain its hard-won status as the world ment and support for the mutually beneficial ment in claims of veterans who were ex- leader in aeronautics and aircraft production affiliations between the Veterans Health posed to ionizing radiation during their mili- and in space exploration and research. Administration and the medical schools of tary service. Res. No. 197 – Petitions naming a ship the this nation. Res. No. 211 – Supports legislation to USS American Legion. Res. No. 143 – Restore and increase burial restore entitlement to service connection Res. No. 229 – Supports a strong national and plot allowance. for disability or death related to veteran defense. Res. No. 144 – Supports the establishment use of tobacco products during the period Res. No. 230 – Supports Total Force Policy of additional national and state veterans of active military service from June 9, 1998, and viable National Guard and Reserve cemeteries and columbaria wherever a the date of the enactment of Public Law Forces. need is apparent. 105-178, the “Transportation Equity Act for Res. No. 231 – Supports awarding a Cold Res. No. 145 – Supports project “Shipboard the 21st Century.” War Victory Medal. Hazard and Defense.” Res. No. 214 – Seeks legislation to plainly Res. No. 232 – Urges Congress and the Res. No. 146 – Urges amending Title 38, U.S. identify and further clarify “service in the administration to pursue further develop- Code, to remove the specific date for the Republic of Vietnam beginning Jan. 9, 1962, ment of domestic sources of energy. awarding of DIC benefits for surviving spous- and ending May 7, 1975” to include those Res. No. 233 – Calls on the president and es of former POWs. who served in the territorial waters offshore. Congress to compel the Department of En- Res. No. 154 – Supports legislation to per- Res. No. 221 – Requests Congress provide ergy to comply with the requirements of the mit states to place supplemental guide signs adequate funding for medical and prosthetic Nuclear Waste Policy Act. relating to veterans national cemeteries on research activities. Res. No. 234 – Supports rebuilding Ameri- federal-aid highways. Res. No. 222 – Supports the automatic ca’s defense industrial base. Res. No. 159 – Supports VA benefits and waiver of VBA debts of $250 or less. Res. No. 289 – Urges Congress to appro- services for eligible WWII veterans of the Res. No. 223 – Supports protecting disabili- priately support the U.S. Air Force’s com- Philippine Commonwealth Army, Recognized ty rating after 10 years. mitments. Guerillas and New Philippine Scouts. Res. No. 318 – Urges that The American Res. No. 290 – Supports the Jones Maritime Res. No. 181 – Supports exempt VA bene- Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and Act and Related Cabotage Laws. fits and services from pay-go provisions. Sons of The American Legion become ac- Res. No. 291 – Supports the U.S. Coast Res. No. 187 – Supports amending legisla- tively involved in the CARES process at the Guard. tion regarding the Geographical Means Test. local, VISN and national level and formally Res. No. 314 – Supports the retention of Res. No. 191 – Opposes any initiative to es- requests that The American Legion have the U.S. Maritime Administration. tablish a deductible for Priority Group 7 veter- representation on the CARES Commission. Res. No. 315 – Supports modernization of ans on a provision to receive VA health care. Res. No. 319 – Urges that Congress desig- the U.S. Army. Res. No. 193 – Allows veterans to retain nate VA medical care as mandatory spend- Res. No. 316 – Urges Congress to act early $90 of their compensation while in Medic- ing and urges Congress to continue to pro- and vigorously to stop the erosion of our aid-covered nursing homes. vide discretionary funding required to fully vital maritime capability. Res. No. 194 – The American Legion policy operate other programs within VHA’s budg- Res. No. 317 – Supports the transformation on VA National Service Life Insurance. etary jurisdiction.

46 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’ Legion authorized to sue VA for lethargy on appeals cases.

The American Legion has a The resolution is worded as WHEREAS, VBA’s failure to comply green light to sue VA or the U.S. follows: with its statutory and regulatory duty is illegal and creates delays and hardships government, if necessary, to force WHEREAS, When a claim for service- connected or nonservice-connected dis- for disabled veterans, which is totally timely processing of thousands of ability or death benefits is denied by a unacceptable to The American Legion; undecided veterans’ appeals cases Department of Veterans Affairs regional now, therefore be it now gathering dust in regional VA office, the claimant has the right to ap- RESOLVED, By the National Executive peal to the Board of Veterans Appeals in Committee of The American Legion in offices. According to findings by a regular meeting assembled in Charlotte, Legion quality review board, a Washington, D.C.; and WHEREAS, If the board determines N.C., Aug. 26, 2002, that The American main reason “remanded” appeals the appeal is not ready for a final decision Legion take all steps necessary to ensure cases are frequently left unfinished either granting or denying the benefit that the Department of Veterans Affairs sought, because the regional office did not meets its statutory obligations and re- is that no internal incentives exist sponsibilities to individuals seeking ap- to move them along. fully develop the case, it will be remanded back to the regional office with specific pellate review of their claims for VA ben- Approximately 26,000 appeals instructions for additional required devel- efits; and, be it further – some dating back to 1996 – are opment and re-adjudication; and RESOLVED, That, if efforts to achieve a WHEREAS, If, after the remand action timely and satisfactory resolution to the in a state of “remand,” meaning appeals issue with VA officials are unsuc- the Board of Veterans Appeals in is completed, the regional office contin- ues to deny the claim, the records are to cessful, The American Legion be author- Washington sent them back to the be promptly returned to the board for a ized to take further action, up to and in- regional VA offices for further de- final decision; and cluding, but not limited to, bringing a law- WHEREAS, During Fiscal Year 2002, suit against the U.S. government and/or velopment and re-adjudication. the Department of Veterans Affairs and/or There, however, they have the number of pending appeals rose from 92,000 to more than 96,000 and, of appropriate officials to compel the languished because remanded ap- these pending appeals, more than 26,000 prompt completion of the action set forth peals do not count toward month- were cases that had been remanded by in the remand decisions of the Board of ly VA performance quotas, as do the Board of Veterans Appeals for further Veterans Appeals; and, be it further specific required development and re- RESOLVED, That the National Com- other claims for veterans’ bene- mander, in his sole and unfettered discre- fits. Therefore, the oldest cases in adjudication by the regional offices; and WHEREAS, A substantial number of tion, shall have the full power to deter- the system – remanded appeals – these remands have been pending in the mine when and if such a lawsuit is neces- receive scant attention. regional offices since 1996 and 1997; and sary and appropriate; and, be it further WHEREAS, Since January 2001, the RESOLVED, That, as determined by The American Legion will not the National Commander, upon the ad- tolerate that. Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Central Office has established monthly vice and counsel of the National Judge “There is an old saying: justice production quotas for the regional of- Advocate, The American Legion may col- delayed is justice denied,” Nation- fices, in order to reduce the number of laborate with other parties of like inter- pending claims; and est, so long as The American Legion re- al Commander Ronald F. Conley mains free to make its own decisions said during testimony before Con- WHEREAS, In response to The Ameri- can Legion’s concern about the large about any case; and, be it further gress in September. “When applied number of pending appeals and RESOLVED, That should such legal ac- to veterans’ claims for benefits, remands, regional office officials have tion be necessary, and The American Le- stated that little or no action would be gion agrees to collaborate with other par- justice delayed creates discourage- ties, The American Legion shall pay no ment, which leads to despair, and, taken on appeals and remands, because, under current VBA policy, the regional more than one-half of said costs or, if more I believe, many lose faith in VA’s offices do not receive work credit toward than one party joins The American Legion, ability to care for them.” their monthly production quotas; and such lesser fraction of such costs, as deter- Therefore, Resolution No. 1 – WHEREAS, Such lack of action by mined by multiplying the total of said costs VBA officials clearly violates the rights of by a fraction, the numerator of which shall submitted by the Veterans Affairs & be the number one and the denominator Rehabilitation Division and adopt- veterans to full due process and prompt and fair decisions on their appeals, which of which shall be the number of plaintiff ed by the National Executive Com- are by nature among the oldest claims in organizations, so long as The American mittee prior to the Legion National the VA system; and Legion has the opportunity to approve the WHEREAS, During the course of legal steps and discovery action that gen- Convention in Charlotte, N.C., in erate such costs; and, be it finally August – gives the commander au- these long-pending appeals, many veter- ans die, which causes their appeals to RESOLVED, That the National Judge thority to take any action neces- also “die” and in a claim for accrued ben- Advocate shall oversee said lawsuit, if sary to compel VA to meet its legal efits, any eventual payment to the sur- any, on behalf of The American Legion, or vivors is limited to two years of retroac- The American Legion’s participation, if obligations and promptly process any collaboration is authorized, and re- remanded appeals. If it takes a tive benefits, causing great and everlast- ing harm to the veteran’s family; and port to the National Executive Commit- lawsuit, then so be it. tee as part of his annual report.

November 2002 47 The American Legion Magazine Roster for a New Legion Year

Robert G. Bournival Donavon R. Mason Jeff Luginbuel National Vice Commander National Vice Commander National Vice Commander Northeast Region Midwest Region Western Region Home: Manchester, N.H. Home: Platte, S.D. Home: Denver Legion membership: Legion membership: Legion membership: 22 years, Post 43 50 years, Post 115 22 years, Post 1 Military service: U.S. Military service: U.S. Military service: U.S. Army, 1961-1962 Marine Corps, 1951-1954 Air Force, 1965-1969 Occupation: Retired Occupation: Cattle feed- Occupation: VA distribu- executive chef er and farmer (retired) tion center executive Legion highlights: Legion highlights: Post Legion highlights: Post Post Cmdr.; Dept. Vice Cmdr., 1965-1966; Dept. Cmdr., 1997-1998; Dept. Cmdr., 1992-1993; Dept. Cmdr., 1981-1982 Vice Cmdr., 1998-1999 Cmdr., 1995-1996 National positions: National Security and 1999-2000; Dept. Cmdr., 2000-2001 National positions: Distinguished Guests Cmsn., Natl. Exec. Cmte. National Security National positions: Public Relations Cmte., National Security Cmsn., American- Liaison, Public Relations Cmsn. Cmsn., Alt. Natl. Exec. Cmte., Distinguished ism Cncl. Region includes: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Guests Cmte. Region includes: Connecticut, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Region includes: Alaska, Arizona, Califor- Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jer- Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin nia, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Mexico, Mon- sey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, tana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Phillip- Vermont pines, Utah, Washington, Wyoming Robert M. Johnson Roy Kirkham National Vice Commander Michael D. Murphy III Southeast Region National Vice Commander Home: LaPlata, Md. National Sergeant-at-Arms Central Region Legion membership: Home: Pittsburgh Home: Minden, La. 37 years, Post 170 Legion membership: Legion membership: Military service: U.S. 27 years, Post 5 36 years, Post 74 Army, 1954-1957 Military service: U.S. Military service: U.S. Occupation: General Army, 1967-1970 Air Force, 1950-1954 Services Administration Occupation: Fireman Occupation: Insurance (retired), licensed master (retired), Allegheny Coun- agent barber ty Veterans Services Legion highlights: Post Legion highlights: Post Legion highlights: Post Cmdr., 1973-1974, 1996- Cmdr., 1970-1971; Dept. Historian, 1985- Cmdr., 1988-1989; Dept. 1997, 1997-1998, 1998- 1988; Dept. Vice Cmdr., 1992-1995; Dept. Vice Cmdr., 1999-2000; Dept. Sgt.-at-Arms, 1999, 2000-2001; Dept. Vice Cmdr., 1978- Cmdr., 1995-1996 1993-1999 1979; Dept. Cmdr., 1984-1985 National offices: Americanism Cncl., National positions: Natl. Cmdr’s. Rep. to National offices: Alt. Natl. Exec. Cmte., Cmte. on Committees, Finance Cmte. Internal Affairs Cmsn. Natl. Exec. Cmte., Americanism Cncl. Region includes: Alabama, Delaware, Region includes: Arkansas, France, Kansas, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Ken- Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Texas tucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Richard E. Oakes West Virginia Aide to the National Commander Norris A. Keirn Home: Pittsburgh Legion membership: National Chaplain Donald F. Simons 16 years, Post 145 Home: Sullivan, Ind. Military service: U.S. Legion membership: National Historian Naval Reserve, 1966-1972 15 years, Post 139 Home: Bryan, Texas Occupation: Technician Military service: U.S. Legion membership: specialist, Bechtel-Bettis Marine Corps, 1967-1971 20 years, Post 159 Inc. Occupation: Chaplain Military service: U.S. Legion highlights: and pastor Air Force, 1951-1953 Post Cmdr., 1992-1993; Legion highlights: Occupation: Radio and Dist. Cmdr., 1994-1996; Dept. Vice Cmdr., Dept. Chaplain, 1989- television station manag- 2000-2001 2002; Religious Emphasis er (retired), college pro- National positions: Defense Civil Pre- Chairman, 1989-2002 fessor (retired) paredness Cmte. Legion highlights: Post Cmdr., 1995-1996; Dept. Historian, 1990- 1995; Dept. Cmdr., 1999-2000 National positions: Legis. Cmsn., Legis. Cncl., Distinguished Guests Cmte.

48 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine In special tribute from our Military and all Americans whose many Americans in uniform he hearts swelled, laughed so hard it referred to as “his kids” around the “America’s only hurt, and tears fell, we honor this world. World War II, Korea, Honorary Veteran.” man for keeping home alive over Vietnam, Cold War to Desert five generations. A military tribute Storm, America’s veterans know far away and how much Bob Hope is planned. This man who brought how much it means to hear the gave to them and being there with joy, laughter and comfort to so voices of home— when they are so them. “Now it’s time for us to tell Bob ‘Thanks for the Memories’” Dedication — Dan Ludwig, Past National Commander May 29,2003 Bob’s 100th Birthday An American Hero...

The Military Tribute to Bob Hope will cover three-quarters of an acre on the western shore of San Diego Bay with the backdrop of North Island Naval Air Station. This $4.9 million parcel of land has been donated by the Port District of San Diego. It is one of the most beauti- ful sites on the Pacific.

Endorsed by The American Legion by Resolution of the In appreciation for your contribution, the name of every donor will be logged and placed in a time capsule which will be permanently set within the stage of the Tribute. National Executive Committee

Online contributions are accepted at www.hopetribute.org ■ MC ■ Visa ■ Amex ■ Discover using your credit card or complete this form. Credit Card Donations

Name:______Card No: ■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■■

Address: ______Exp Date: ______City:______State______Zip:______Signature: ______Phone: ______Thanks for the Memories Email: ______To send your contribution please include Taffy III is a 501(c)(3) non-profit tax deductible organization. check made payable to: Military Tribute Bob Hope and mail to: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Contribution: $25 $50 $100 $250 $500 Military Tribute to Bob Hope P.O. Box 919012 ■ Other______San Diego, CA 92121 under the radar

Independence day? declared Gen. Liang Guanglie, Taiwan and China are again who directed civil-defense exer- rattling sabers. In the months cises in Shanghai – the first of since China’s springtime decision their kind since 1950. to deploy dozens of new missiles Of course, that’s not the only across from Taiwan, the island message China has been sending nation of 23 million has begun to across the Taiwan Straits. Rather explore the possibility of full- than accepting the status quo, blown independence. Although Beijing has poured billions into Beijing has grudgingly tolerated Taiwan’s de-facto new weapons systems. China’s 2002 defense budg- independence since 1949, it has repeatedly warned et was 17.7 percent larger than last year’s, capping that a formal declaration of independence would a decade that saw a 315-percent increase in military incite war. spending. Today, some 400 Chinese missiles are Trying to head off that possibility, Taiwanese trained on Taiwan. By 2005, China’s southeastern President Chen Shui-bian recently promised Tai- coastline is expected to be lined with 600 missiles. wan would not move ahead with independence “as Some observers worry that Beijing’s missile long as China is willing to abandon its threats to buildup could enable the mainland to blackmail Taiwan.” When Beijing responded with its usual the tiny island into capitulation. Even worse, some bluster and indignation, Chen announced his sup- have warned that a surprise missile strike could port for the referendum, calling on lawmakers and cripple the Taiwanese military and decapitate its citizens to “seriously consider the importance and government, leaving Washington with a difficult urgency of passing legislation on a referendum.” choice between accepting Beijing’s fait accompli or Within days, the Chinese military sent another retaking the island by force. message. “Taiwanese independence means war,” – A.W.D.

ing in the congressional pipeline NorthCom, the president has ap- will nearly double that number by proved the merger of Space Com- mid-2003. Most observers agree mand and Strategic Command. the Pentagon needs a large stock- The merged command will be pile of JDAMs and other precision based at Offut Air Force Base, weapons to attack Iraq’s military Neb., home to StratCom. Coinci- machine. At the current pace, the dentally, it was SpaceCom’s depar- Pentagon will have 20,000 new ture from Peterson Air Force Base JDAM kits available by mid-2003 that made room for NorthCom. and 30,000 by the end of 2003. The merger is by no means an indication of the newly unified Mergers and acquisitions command’s diminished importance. October marked a radical trans- According to Defense Secretary formation of the Pentagon’s com- Donald Rumsfeld, the new com- mand structure. An entire mand “will be responsible for both command was assigned to military early warning of, and defense Replenishing the arsenal operations in direct defense of the against, missile attack as well as With war clouds gathering over continental United States. Head- long-range conventional attacks.” Iraq, the Pentagon has ordered quartered at Peterson Air Force Missile defense is a top priority for thousands of kits that convert tra- Base, Colo., and headed by Gen. the Bush administration. ditional bombs into high-tech Ralph Eberhart, U.S. Northern With its focus on space defense, smart bombs. Manufactured by Command is arguably the most missile launches and satellite im- Boeing, the joint direct-attack mu- concrete example of the Pentagon’s agery, the mission of SpaceCom nition (JDAM) kits can transform determination to keep the home- should fit nicely with that of Strat- inexpensive gravity bombs into land from suffering another Sept. Com. After the collapse of the So- highly accurate, satellite-guided 11. NorthCom will take over home- viet Union, StratCom became the weapons. JDAM was the star of land-security functions of existing first military command in history the air war in Afghanistan. Some combat commands and assist fed- to oversee the planning, targeting 7,000 were used against Taliban eral agencies in preventing and re- and deployment of all U.S. strate- and al-Qaida targets. sponding to attacks. The new com- gic forces. Together, the combined According to the St. Louis Post- mand also will work closely with command will expand the Penta- Dispatch, Boeing’s plant in St. the U.S. Coast Guard in coordinat- gon’s field of vision across the Charles, Mo., produces 1,500 ing coastal defense and security. earth and deep into the heavens. JDAM kits per month. New spend- Along with the creation of – Alan W. Dowd

50 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine If you have contracted MESOTHELIOMA or LUNG CANCER due to exposure to AsbestosAsbestos

You may be eligible to be compensated for your group verdicts of $166 million. injuries by bringing a lawsuit against the We maintain a staff of over 50 attorneys and 250 asbestos industry. support personnel all primed to work closely At Weitz & Luxenberg we maintain an extensive with you to achieve maximum results. This practice in representing the interests of asbestos may explain why over 60% of all asbestos cases victims. In fact, we represent thousands of on the New York City trial docket for the year victims, from all across the United States, and 2001 were handled by Weitz & Luxenberg. were instrumental in upholding the constitution- ality of asbestos litigation through the landmark For further information, and a free informa- Brooklyn Navy Yard and Consolidated tional booklet, call the law firm of Weitz & Powerhouse trials, resulting in combined Luxenberg today.

Weitz & Luxenberg, P.C. LAW OFFICES Setting the standard in product liability litigation 180 Maiden Lane • New York, NY 10038 1(800)476-6070 www.weitzlux.com The statute of limitations of your Future verdicts or settlements cannot respective state will help determine be predicted from prior results. e-mail: [email protected] your ability to file a claim. potpourri

VERBATIM “It’s hard to stand up and cheer for the Satans.” – KELLIE KARLSTAD Devils Lake, N.D., parent who wholeheartedly approved of the change of Visser Masterfile/John de mascot names at her children’s high school

“Initially, the decree has been remarkably well-followed.” – MAYOR GIL BERNARDI of Le Lavandou, France, after issuing a ban on dying until the problem of local cemetery overcrowding is solved

“They did it in California, but everybody out there is a Talking Turkey health nut ... Those people are crazy. This is New York.” THE NOBLE GOBBLER “By the goodness – PHIL KRAKER If Benjamin Franklin had his way, of God, we are so far New York accountant on Mayor Michael we might not have witnessed a bald from want that we Bloomberg’s plans to ban smoking eagle soaring over the grandstands at wish you partakers in city restaurants and bars Yankee Stadium last fall but rather a of our plenty.” plump turkey waddling across the in- – Edward Winslow, “I couldn’t think of anything field in all its American glory. Franklin Dec. 11, 1621, in “A Journal of the opposed the decision to make the bald Pilgrims at Plymouth” more satisfying than to have eagle the official bird of the United somebody wake up and dis- States and was outraged the turkey PLEASE PASS THE EEL cover a cockroach has eaten was not chosen instead. In a letter to On the menu for that primordial away their eyelashes … And his daughter, Franklin referred to the Thanksgiving feast, according to eagle as a bird of “bad moral charac- Winslow, were: women hate cockroaches. I’ll ter … I wish the bald eagle had not cod peas ruin their mental state by been chosen as the representative of eel beans unleashing hundreds of our country! The turkey is a much clams onions lobster lettuce thousands of cockroaches more respectable bird, and withal a wild turkey radishes true original native of America.” onto the streets. And I’m goose carrots breeding big American cock- – National Turkey Federation duck plums crane grapes roaches, which put Japanese A TASTE FOR TURKEY swan walnuts partridge chestnuts versions to shame … I’m go- The top turkey-eating nations, in terms of ing to destroy this world. I’m pounds eaten per year, per capita, according to eagles acorns the National Turkey Federation: venison olive oil going to terrorize everybody seal liverwort in the world by unleashing 1.Israel, 28.8 5.United Kingdom, 9.9 wheat flour leeks my cockroaches.” 2.United States, 17.9 6.Canada, 9.5 Indian corn dried currants 3.France, 12.8 7.Netherlands, 8.1 pumpkin parsnips – A WOULD-BE TERRORIST 4.Italy, 10.8 – The History Channel quoted in an article in Russia’s Pravda newspaper

CAN YOU BLAME A GUY FOR ASKING? OF COURSE YOU CAN. $100 Hourly rate a computer software consultant $40 Daily rate payable to the computer software con- billed a San Antonio court for his “court-ordered pro- sultant who received the following response from the fessional services” – better known as jury duty. judge: “The court is happy to accommodate (his) sug- $16,800 Total amount invoiced to the court by the gestion for an appointment … He is hereby ordered to would-be juror, in advance, with the following offer: appear to show cause why he should not be held in “If you would like to meet and discuss this, please contempt of the court and jailed accordingly.” have his honor call and schedule an appointment.” 0 Comment from the consultant as he waited with the rest of the jurors at the selection hearing. – Associated Press

52 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine New United States Flags Released To Honor The Victims of September 11th.

In 1982 the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC William Cribari, was dedicated to honor the memory of the proud 84 year old World War II veteran of Americans who gave their lives in Vietnam. General Patton’s Second Armored (Washington DC) Now, on the first the Twin Towers fund. For Each Flag Division and active anniversary of the tragic events of of Honor sold a contribution will be member of the September 11th, two new flags are made to the Victim’s Fund. Westport police, displays the New being released to honor the memory U.S. Flag of of all who died on that day. Donated to Firehouses and Heroes in front of Police Stations in New York the Saugatuck Fire The “Flag of Heroes” contains House in Westport the names of ALL Firemen, Police, The very first “Heroes” Flags are Connecticut. Port Authority officers, and being sent to ALL the Fire Houses Emergency Personal who gave their and Police Stations in New York “As I read the Flag I realized that these were the names of City as a tribute to their brothers & the people lost in the Twin Towers. It reminded me of when we lives to save others in the terrorist lost our sons in Vietnam and then years later stood at the attacks of 9-11-01. sisters who lost their lives on Vietnam Veterans Memorial and looked for their names. Same September 11th. The “Flag of Honor” contains feeling, sadness and pride.” – Jeff L., Pennsylvania the names of all others who gave their lives that day. The airline crews A Dramatic Tribute Satisfaction Guaranteed! and passengers, those who lost their Available Today You must be 100% satisfied or your purchase price (less postage lives in the fields of western Available for just $19.95 each, and handling) will be refunded at any time and for any reason. Pennsylvania, those who died at the ($34.50 for the pair) you may order Pentagon, and all others who died at yours today to insure that your Official U.S. Flag Reservation Certificate the World Trade Center. family will be able to display these SEND TO: Flag of Heroes/Honor,Dept. AM001 The two Commemorative Flags are historic New U.S. Flags. 21 Bridge Square, Westport CT 06880 each a Dramatic 5 feet in width and YES! Please rush me the September 11th Memorial Flag(s). over 3 1/2 feet from top to bottom. Call Toll Free–24 Hours a Day! My order is as follows: Each of these historic Flags is made ____(QTY.) Flag of Heroes for only $19.95 + $5.95 s&h ea. of a special Dura-Blend fiber 1-800-760-8843 (Ask for Extension: AM001) ____(QTY.) Flag of Honor for only $19.95 + $5.95 s&h ea. designed to withstand the elements… ____(QTY.) The Pair. Both the Flag of Heroes and the Flag and to be saved as a fitting of Honor for only $34.50 + $6.95 s&h per set. SAVE!!! remembrance of all who died that day. ❏ Check or money order enclosed ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Contribution Charge my: Visa Amex MC Discover To Victims Fund “Flag of Heroes” “Flag of Honor” Card #:______Exp:______/______Contains the names of Contains the names of The new flags have been created so ALL Firemen, Police, Port those killed in the Name:______Authority officers, and terrorist attacks of that the memory of the victims will Emergency Personal September 11, 2001 Address:______Live Forever. For each Flag of Heroes sold, a contribution will be made to www.flagofheroes.org City:______State:______Zip:______living well Seeking the common cure lower rate of prostate cancer. Even of patients will take selenium, vi- New prostate more surprising is that the men tamin E or a combination of both, who did develop prostate cancer while only 25 percent will receive cancer study while taking vitamin E had a 40- a placebo. The dose being studied percent lower risk of dying from is 200 micrograms of selenium and focuses on the disease. 400 milligrams of vitamin E. Even so, men aren’t advised to By comparison, most multivita- everyday start taking large quantities of se- mins contain about 50 micrograms lenium and vitamin E before the of selenium and between 50 and study results are in; even safe sup- 200 milligrams of vitamin E. nutritional plements can cause harm in the The side effects from selenium wrong group of people. appear minor, such as bad breath. supplements. For instance, the same Finnish The risks from vitamin E may be study that showed the promise of more serious. In the Finnish study, BY TARA PARKER-POPE vitamin E for prostate cancer also vitamin E takers had a higher inci- found that smokers who took beta dence of stroke. As a result, Doctors are recruiting patients with uncontrolled 30,000 men around the high blood pressure aren’t country to find out if two encouraged to participate. common nutritional supple- The study is open to ments – selenium and vita- healthy men 55 and older, min E – can stop prostate 50 and older for black men. cancer before it starts. Sele- For more information, go to nium is a trace mineral www.crab.org/select/ or call commonly found in nuts the National Cancer Insti- and fish. Vitamin E is an tute’s Cancer Information antioxidant in almonds, Service at (800) 422-6237. sunflower seeds, peanuts Other medicines being and many green vegetables. studied to prevent prostate Each year, 200,000 men cancer include finasteride, are diagnosed with prostate the ingredient used in both cancer in the United States. Propecia, the baldness drug, The simple act of aging in- and Proscar, the drug for en- creases risk. Men between larged prostate. Results won’t the ages of 40 and 59 have be available until 2004. Al- a 2-percent risk, but by the ready, evidence suggests that age of 60, risk is 12.5 per- lycopene, the red pigment in cent. The good news is that stewed tomatoes, may curb most men diagnosed with prostate cancer risk. Soy prostate cancer survive. products also may make a Even so, the treatment often difference. The arthritis drug can be traumatic, leaving Celebrex also is being stud- many at least temporarily, ied for its potential to lower incontinent and impotent. prostate cancer risk. Initially, researchers thought selenium could Masterfile/Scott Tysick Tara Parker-Pope is an prevent skin cancer. In a author and health writer for study of 1,300 men, skin cancer carotene, another common supple- The Wall Street Journal. rates were not significantly differ- ment, actually were more likely to ent, but doctors later noticed that develop lung cancer. Doctors want Living Well is designed to provide prostate cancer among men taking to rule out any risk of taking high- general information. It is not in- selenium was a surprising 60 per- er doses of vitamin E or selenium tended to be, nor is it, medical ad- cent lower than the placebo group. before they advise widespread use vice. Readers should consult their Another study of 25,000 smok- of the supplements. personal physicians when they ers in Finland hoped to show that The study is designed in a way have health problems. This article vitamin E could stave off lung can- that dramatically increases the also is not intended to be, nor is it, cer. That study also failed. But the odds of receiving a supplement an endorsement or advertisement vitamin E users had a 30-percent instead of a placebo – 75 percent for any product.

54 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine NowNow SaveSave 40%40% plusplus FREEFREE HomeHome DeliveryDelivery Best Value for Hearing Aid Batteries! only 69 FREE Shipping!¢ ea

Yes, we can match your battery size for Beltone®, Duracell®, Siemens®, Starkey®, Rayovac® and Miracle Ear®. © Simply Batteries, Inc., DeKalb, IL 60115 Inc., DeKalb, © Simply Batteries, You can count on Energizer Amplifier hearing ® aid batteries. Order today and save 40% com- Applies to hearing aid battery pared to discount store price.* Your cost on 40 sizes 10, 13, 312, and 675. batteries from Simply Batteries is only $27.55. Order easily by phone, by mail or on-line at: Call toll-free www.SimplyBatteries.com/34431 1-800-782-3540 ext 34-431 Simply Batteries, Inc. Premium batteries made in USA 1650 Pleasant St, Dept 34-431 DeKalb, IL 60115-0948 FREE Shipping Free Shipping! ✓ Yes! Please rush 40 Energizer Expiration date on each package Amplifier Zinc-Air Batteries for only $27.55 (enclosed). Money-back guarantee. Stays fresh for over two years! Battery Size & Tab Color: * Your savings based on average retail price in DeKalb, Illinois Mr.Mrs.Ms. August 22, 2002 at five discount stores for Duracell, RayOVac Address and Energizer hearing aid batteries. Average retail price was $1.12 per battery ($44.80 for 40 batteries) plus sales tax. City/State/Zip living well

Some say knee surgery VA vows to trim application jargon not always necessary To improve communication with veterans, VA has advised Arthroscopic sur- into three groups. One its facilities to write decisions gery for osteoarthritis group received surgery on applications for financial of the knee has been in which worn, torn benefits with minimal jargon called into question by or loose cartilage was and legal citations. VA researchers who cut away and removed “It is vital that veterans get found that patients un- with the aid of a pen- good, quality decisions on their dergoing placebo sur- cil-thin viewing tube claims that they can under- gery were just as likely called an arthroscope. stand,” VA Undersecretary for to report pain relief as The second group un- Benefits Daniel L. Cooper said. those who received the derwent arthroscopic “Clarity and readability of real procedure. lavage, in which the claims decisions are as impor- Osteoarthritis, a bad cartilage was tant as the accuracy of those degenerative joint dis- flushed out. The third decisions. If the veterans can- ease, is the most group underwent sim- not easily understand, then common form of ulated arthroscopic they will not be satisfied and arthritis. Symptoms surgery, in which they will believe that we are include pain, stiffness Masterfile small incisions were not serving them properly.” and inflammation. Treatment typi- made but no instruments were in- Over 90 percent of veterans cally involves pain-relief medica- serted and no cartilage removed. or survivors accept VA’s initial tion and anti-inflammatory drugs, During two years of follow-up decisions for disability compen- along with heat therapy and exer- exams, patients in all three groups sation, pension and other bene- cise. When these fail, surgery is reported moderate improvements fits. When a veteran writes VA often recommended. in pain and ability to function. that he or she disagrees with a VA and the Baylor College of However, patients receiving place- decision, VA then supplies a Medicine in Houston conducted bo surgery reported the same de- more lengthy explanation, the research. The results were crease in pain and improvement in called a “statement of the published in the July 11 New Eng- function as the other two groups. case.” This statement may in- land Journal of Medicine. In fact, the placebo patients report- clude legal references and cita- In the study, 180 patients with ed better results at certain points tions to regulations. knee pain were randomly divided during follow-up. Under a policy enacted last year, when VA receives a letter appealing a decision, officials VA works to provide specialized automatically reconsider the case. An official not previously services for women veterans involved in the case provides a VA’s Center for Women Veterans erans Comprehensive Health Cen- top-to-bottom review of the assures that women veterans receive ters have been established to devel- claim. benefits and services on par with op new programs for meeting the Under the new policy on male veterans. The center acts as health needs of women veterans, clarity, field offices will summa- primary adviser to VA Secretary An- and each VA medical center and rize the facts pertinent to a deci- thony J. Principi on all matters relat- regional office has a women veter- sion and explain clearly how ed to programs, issues and initiatives ans’ coordinator to provide infor- they evaluated the information for and affecting women veterans. mation on benefits and services. provided by the veteran. “VA is committed to ensuring For information on entitlements In addition to providing rea- that the unique health-care needs for women veterans, call toll-free sons for the decision and a of women veterans – now number- at (800) 827-1000. Women veter- summary of the relevant evi- ing 1.2 million – are being met and ans will be put in contact with a dence, VA field officials provide has targeted special programs to coordinator at a VA regional office veterans with information meet those needs,” Principi said. who can give information on VA about their rights to hearing VA provides readjustment coun- programs and assist in referring and representation. They also seling to women veterans through women veterans to a VA medical explain the procedure for ob- its network of 205 Vet Centers. Gy- center, Vet Center or community taining decision review so that necological services are available at program. Women veterans also veterans may make well- all VA health-care facilities, the ma- may contact one of the many vet- informed choices about jority of which also have special erans’ service organizations stand- whether or not to appeal. women’s clinics. Eight Women Vet- ing by to assist.

56 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Macular Degeneration iscover why D thousands of people ” with low vision have The VideoEye® is a fantastic ® purchased the VideoEye piece of equipment . . . my mother just loves it. Thank you power magnification for such a life saver for people system to continue who have low vision!” reading and doing Marion Asher, Spanaway, WA everyday tasks . . . .

New!

Try it at home for 30 days!

For1-800-416-0758 information or to order call Dept TL 10211 West Emerald Boise, ID 83704 ph (208) 323-9577 fax (208) 377-1528 30 day money-back guarantee ® VideoEye is a registered trademark of VideoEye Corporation Patents pending www.videoeye.com legion news Flag Friends & Foes

In 1989, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned more tors. Judiciary Committee Chairman Sen. Patrick than 100 years of jurisprudence when it ruled that Leahy, D-Vt., refuses to hold hearings on it. Passage physically desecrating the U.S. Flag was considered of the measure by the Senate will allow the states to free speech protected under the First Amendment. consider it for ratification. Since then, The American Legion has called for a The amendment states: “The Congress shall have constitutional amendment restoring to Congress the power to prohibit the physical desecration of the power to enact legislation protecting the flag from flag of the United States.” acts of desecration. In January 2002, Vermont The Citizens Flag Alliance, a coalition of 142 na- became the 50th state to pass a resolution urging tional organizations created in 1994 by The Ameri- Congress to pass a flag-protection amendment. can Legion, believes only three additional votes in The House of Representatives passed the flag-pro- the U.S. Senate are needed to pass the flag-protec- tection amendment, H.J. Res. 36, by a 298-125 vote tion amendment. The CFA recently sent question- July 17, 2001. The Senate bill, S.J. Res. 7, remains naires to this year’s candidates. Below are their posi- bottled up in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader tions based on their voting records and responses to Tom Daschle refuses to bring the issue up for a vote, the question: “If elected to the 108th Congress, will even though it has the support of at least 64 sena- you vote for the flag-protection amendment?”

SEAT CANDIDAATTE (PARTY) POSITION SEAT CANDIDAATTE (PARTY) POSITION Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions (R) Supporter Missouri Sen. Jean Carnahan (D) Supporter Susan Parker (D) Supporter Jim Talent (R) Supporter Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens (R) Supporter Montana Sen. Max Baucus (D) Supporter Frank Vondersaar (D) Opponent Mike Taylor (R) Supporter Arkansas Sen. Tim Hutchinson (R) Supporter Nebraska Sen. Chuck Hagel (R) Supporter Mark Pryor (D) Unknown Charlie Matulka (D) Supporter Colorado Sen. Wayne Allard (R) Supporter New Hampshire John E. Sununu (R) Supporter Tom Strickland (D) Opponent Jeanne Shaheen (D) Supporter Delaware Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr. (D) Opponent New Jersey Sen. Bob Torricelli (D) Opponent Ray Clatworthy (R) Supporter Douglas Forrester (R) Unknown Georgia Sen. Max Cleland (D) Supporter New Mexico Sen. Pete V. Domenici (R) Supporter Saxby Chambliss (R) Supporter Gloria Tristani (D) Unknown Idaho Sen. Larry E. Craig (R) Supporter N. Carolina Elizabeth Dole (R) Supporter Alan Blinken (D) Supporter Erskine Bowles (D) Supporter Illinois Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D) Opponent Oklahoma Sen. James M. Inhofe (R) Supporter Jim Durkin (R) Supporter David Walters (D) Supporter Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin (D) Opponent Oregon Sen. Gordon H. Smith (R) Supporter Greg Ganske (R) Supporter Bill Bradbury (D) Opponent Kansas Sen. Pat Roberts (R) Supporter Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed (D) Opponent Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell (R) Opponent Bob Tingle (R) Unknown Lois Weinberg (D) Supporter S. Carolina Lindsey Graham (R) Supporter Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu (D) Supporter Alex Sanders (D) Opponent John Cooksey (R) Supporter S. Dakota Sen. Tim Johnson (D) Supporter Tony Perkins (R) Supporter John Thune (R) Supporter Suzie Terrell (R) Supporter Tennessee Lamar Alexander (R) Supporter Maine Sen. Susan M. Collins (R) Supporter Bob Clement (D) Supporter Chellie Pingree (D) Unknown Texas John Cornyn (R) Supporter Massachusetts Sen. John. F. Kerry (D) Opponent Ron Kirk (D) Unknown Michigan Sen. Carl Levin (D) Opponent Virginia Sen. John Warner (R) Supporter Andrew Raczkowski (R) Supporter W. Virginia Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D) Supporter Minnesota Sen. Paul Wellstone (D) Opponent Jay Wolfe (R) Supporter Norm Coleman (R) Supporter Wyoming Sen. Michael B. Enzi (R) Supporter Mississippi Sen. Thad Cochran (R) Supporter Joyce Corcoran (D) Unknown

58 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine legion news

FRONT ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Dustin Snider, Jeff Schafer, Drew Jaudon, Corey Carter, Russell Bourland, Tyler Hunter, Taylor Robertson, Josh Johnson, Justin Best. BACK ROW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Coach Tyler Bratton, Brent Patton, John Raymond Pitre, Joby Garner, Dave Nanney, Chris Stamps. Brandon McGarity, Scottie Jacobs, Rod Williams, Coach Frank Portera. Courtesy Philpott Photography - Greg Philpott Mississippi makes history

West Point Valuable Player award. enough hits to produce any runs. West Point (47-13) broke a West Point wrapped up the scoreless tie in the fifth inning. shutout as the rain poured down becomes state’s Russell Bourland singled up the and forced Legion officials to middle and catcher Justin Best’s move the post-game awards show first Legion World sacrifice bunt advanced the runner to the local Legion post home. to second. Brandon McGarity then For shortstop Dave Nanney, Series champion. laced a double down the left-field who a year ago underwent brain line to drive in Bourland. surgery in Memphis, the victory BY DAVID BOYD In both the fifth and sixth, Ex- was extra special. In August 2001, celsior (49-15) had scoring oppor- while vacationing in Orlando, West Point, Miss., Post 212 beat tunities erased by West Point dou- Fla., Nanney had a seizure and Post 259 of Excelsior, Minn., 4-0 in ble plays. was later diagnosed with a brain August to capture the 76th Ameri- West Point added two insur- tumor. His first question to the can Legion World Series title in ance runs for Johnson in the sev- doctors after surgery was, “Can I Danville, Va. It was the first-ever enth. The big blow was a dropped play baseball?” ALWS champion crowned from fly in centerfield that allowed Nanney summed up what the Magnolia State. both runs to score, giving West everyone in Danville witnessed: West Point pitcher Josh John- Point a 3-0 lead. “We are a team. We play as a son tossed a complete game, strik- West Point added its final run team. We don’t have individuals; ing out 11 and scattering seven in the eighth on a sacrifice fly by we all play as one. We let our hits. His performance was even Johnson. pitchers pitch and we play behind more impressive in that he was West Point manager Frank them.” pitching in the rain, from a muddy Portera explained his title-winning He added that this August mound on only three days of rest. strategy: “Make them pull the was “a whole lot better” than “I hoped to go all nine in- ball. Don’t walk and hit people. a year ago. nings,” Johnson said. “I pitched in It’s raining. Make them hit the the regional championship, and I fast ball. This is a huge park. David Boyd is the support service wanted the ball again.” They’re not going to hit the ball director for The Commercial Ap- Johnson was 3-1 during the re- out of the ballpark.” peal newspaper in Memphis, Tenn. gionals and World Series with an It worked. Excelsior had run- He has served as the media coordi- ERA of 1.15. He also batted .469 ners on base in the eighth and nator for The American Legion and earned the tournament Most ninth but could not string together World Series since 1990.

60 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine 100% NATURAL SOOTHING HERBAL EXTRACTS & DEEP PENETRATING ESSENTIAL PAIN RELIEF IN MINUTES OILS FOR PAIN RELIEF IN JUST MINUTES This unique formulation of deeply penetrating EMU OIL, ALOE, MSM and HERBAL EXTRACTS temporarily relieves minor aches and pains from backaches, ...GUARANTEED! arthritis, strains, bruises, more! Here’s how simple it works. Massage a dab Discover the new natural solution to pain relief, help to reduce of the non-greasy MagnaBlue gel onto the affected area and PAIN IS GONE soreness and restore the ease of movement - in just minutes! IN MINUTES! Get back to the things you enjoy– gardening, exercising, Blessed relief from pain in dancing, you name it! Satisfaction just minutes as you apply Guaranteed or send back for a full soothing MagnaBlue OURS product refund! At these incredible low prices, supplies NOT $39 AS LOW AS won’t last long. ORDER TODAY FOR PAIN RELIEF NOW! CALL TOLL FREE: $ 50 1-800-403-2924 EA 24 hours a day, 7 days a week / we accept checks by phone 7 Or mail coupon below. Mail to: MAGNABLUE, Dept. 956 6960 Eastgate Blvd., Lebanon,TN,37090 Please rush me: ❑ One MagnaBlue Only $9.95 + $3.95 S&H (Total $13.90). ❑ SAVE! 2 MagnaBlues Only $17.95 + $5.95 S&H (Total $23.90). ❑ SAVE MORE! 3 MagnaBlues Only $24.95+ $7.95 S&H (Total $32.90). ❑ BESTOFFER! 4 MagnaBlues Only $29.95 + Amazingly eases $7.95 S+H (Total $37.90). soreness and restores your freedom of Name movement! Address With MagnaBlue, you can do the things you City State______Zip love most again, even Enclosed is check or M.O. for ______(NY, NJ, & TN res. add sales tax.) Arthritis sufferers. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ MagnaBlue relieves pain from THIS OFFER Charge my: VISA MasterCard Disc Am Ex aching hands within minutes! NOT AVAILABLE IN STORES Account #______

Sorry, orders must be placed on a first-come first-serve basis, please order early to avoid disappointment. Signature______Exp.Date Increase Breast Size ... MaleVirilityEnhanced Guaranteed! #1 Seller In America! Guaranteed! Call & Ask Now she can increase her breast size with the ... How To Get A Call & Ask 30 DAY How To Get A #1 selling breast formula in America! Modern technology and ancient herbal science has come up with a 30 DAY SUPPLY SUPPLY Bloussant Breast Enhancing Tablets increases product thatbattles and wins the fight for male virility. Now, millions FREE! FREE! her breast size, firmness and fullness-naturally! of active American men have a natural, more affordable alternative to An independent double blind clinical study prescription drugs when they want to enhance strength, stamina, performance and states that “Breast volume, bustline, breast an extra burst of energy. EnerX, an all-natural herbal supplement, contains ingredi- width, breast circumference and breast ents to enhance sexual energy and performance when taken on a regular basis – length were all significantly increased.” The Dr. recommended & approved.30 day money back guarantee on product! clinical study also showed an average increase Call now and ask how you can get a 30 day’s supply of 2 cup sizes- and, in several participants, an of EnerX absolutely free! increase of 3 cup sizes. No more artificial padding or expensive surgical implants. Get To order call toll-free: back the increased cleavage and gain back the 1-888-636-1734 firmness she had as a teenager. Doctor approved and recommended. Pure and all- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week natural herbal formula. Results in just a few /we accept checks by phone! weeks. Over She can actually watch 250,000 her bustline increase! Also ask about Ener- X spcial formula for women who Bloussant’s pure & natu- have used ral botanical ingredi- women! Bloussant. ents enhance her bustline, breast Guaranteed volume, width, results or circumference and length- send back naturally! for a full Computer generated Simulation product refund. 60 day money back guarantee! Over 400,000 bottles sold! Call now and ask how to get a 30 day supply of Bloussant absolutely free! To order, call toll-free: 1-888-653-0039 24 hours a day, 7 days a week / we accept checks by phone! legion news Legion honors Flight 93 heroes

On Sept. 10, The American Legion posthu- mously honored the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93 who gave their lives combating terrorists aboard the hijacked air- craft Sept. 11, 2001. During a private din- ner near Shanksville, Pa., key leaders of the organization presented The American Legion Gold Medal of Heroism to family members of the fallen heroes. A resolution passed by the Legion’s Sporter National Champion Michael Tanoue lines up his target during the National Executive competition’s final shoot-off. Steve Brooks Committee in May au- thorized the award, stating in part: “It is Record books widely believed that certain passengers on rewritten at Junior Air board Flight 93 took physical action to pre- vent the terrorist high- Rifle Championships jackers from carrying Three records fell, includ- points to win the Sporter cat- out their planned dev- ing grand aggregate scoring, egory championship. astation, which could during The American A member of Team USA’s have resulted in the deaths of thousands to Legion’s 12th annual Junior shooting squad, Beyerle is a include some American Legion leaders on Air Rifle National Champi- freshman at the University of Capitol Hill. The actions of said passengers onships at the Olympic Train- Alaska-Fairbanks. The 18- in preventing the terrorists from completing ing Center’s U.S. Shooting year-old is also a member of their mission of death, knowing all the Range in Colorado Springs, the 2002 Junior World Cham- while that they would be sacrificing their Colo., in August. pionship team in three-posi- own lives, was a demonstration of unselfish First-place winner Jamie tion, prone and air rifle. She heroism in its highest and most noble form. Beyerle of Lebanon, Pa., won a silver medal in three- Such action undoubtedly saved many other shot a record aggregate position rifle and a bronze in innocent lives.” score of 2,475 of a possible the prone during that compe- Representing National Commander 2,509 points in the Precision tition, adding to her long list Ronald F. Conley, who was in Washington competition. Beyerle, who of medals and awards. testifying before a joint meeting of the shoots for the Palmyra Ju- Now she has her eye on House and Senate Veterans Affairs Commit- nior Rifle Team sponsored another: “A gold medal in tees, was Past National Commander Richard by Palmyra Post 72, also set the Olympics,” she says. J. Santos. Both Legion leaders were in records in Precision Kneel- “That’s my goal.” Washington last year when the attacks oc- ing with 796 of a possible More than 1,300 shooters curred and evacuated Capitol Hill just prior 800 points. She and two oth- began the trek toward to Santos’ scheduled testimony. er Precision competitors, nationals by competing at It is widely believed that the terrorists brothers James and Joseph the local level. intended to divert Flight 93 to Washington Hall of Georgia, tied the Top leaders from all three with the Capitol building as their primary Prone record with perfect branches of the Legion family target. scores of 800. were represented at the 2002 Pennsylvania Department Commander Michael Tanoue of Hon- tournament: National Com- Gerald Zorn accompanied Santos. olulu, who shoots for the St. mander Richard J. Santos, The 2.8 million-member American Louis Crusader Rifle & Pistol Auxiliary National President Legion presents the Gold Medal of Heroism Club sponsored by Waikiki Sherry McLaughlin and SAL “for bravery far above and beyond the Post 35, totaled 2,248.6 Commander Clifford Smith. norm.”

62 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine BELOW ISSUE PRICE America’s First Commemorative Proof Coin…$9.95

In 1982, the U.S. Mint issued the George Washington 250th Birthday silver half dollar proof for $12 and it’s listed for up to $17. Through this special offer, you can acquire yours for just $9.95 each, 3 for $28.50 or 5 for $47 (Order #13503). Add total of $2 postage. 30-Day No- Risk Home Examination: Money-Back Guarantee. To order by credit card call toll-free. Or send a check or money order to: International Coins & Currency 62 Ridge Street, Dept. 4291 Montpelier, Vermont 05602 Order at 1-800-451-4463 www.iccoin.net (many more great deals) 4291

Veteran's Travel Specials HONOR YOUR SERVICE TO AMERICA Lowest Cruise Prices SERVICE PRIDE Veteran's Receive Up To ® OFF FLAGPOLE STREAMERS ON $ FLAGPOLE STREAMERS M D A I 100 D Per Cabin Book By 11/31/02 S D E A L 9 Day/8 Night Western Caribbean BLUE STAR - From New Orleans to Montego Bay, Grand Cayman & Active, Veteran, Retired Cozumel plus 1 Night Hotel in New Orleans $ GOLD STAR - Inspiration ...... from 649 Show your pride in your service to your country! Gave Life While Serving 10 Day/9 Night Mediterranean Holiday From Barcelona to Villefranche, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples & More plus 2 Nights in Barcelona $ Splendour of the Seas ...... from 1269 Personalize your Service Pride Streamer with names, service dates, units 12 Day/11 Night Denali Discovery Cruise between Vancover & Seward 1 Nt. Alyeska, 2 Nts. Denali National Park, 1 Nt. Anchorage $ Sun Princess ...... from 1419 Attach to your flagpole or any other hanging point Best Price and Satisfaction Guaranteed

Open Includes 7 Days A All Port Week! Charges part of group TOLL Cost including shipping is $17 plus personalization charge if requested. FREE 800•475•6712 To order call 1-866-472-9737 (toll free) or visit www.servicepride.com www.shipandshorecruises.com Allow 2-4 weeks for delivery of personalized streamers. Prices are per person, double occupancy; port charges are included; gov’t taxes are additional; limited availability. Prices shown are min. fares for select departure dates. Other dates higher. Not responsible for last minute changes of price or itinerary by cruise line, or any errors or omissions in the content of this ad. Some restrictions and cancellation SAYRE ENTERPRISES penalties may apply. Promotional offers are valid on specific sailing dates, capacity controlled by the cruise lines, and may not be combinable with other offers. Foreign Departure Taxes of 324 East 32nd Street, Buena Vista, Virginia 24416 up to $45 may also be additional and payable to the foreign Airport Authority. Best Price and Satisfaction Guarantee: for complete details, call us or visit our website. Ships’ Registry: Greece, Norway, Bahamas, Liberia, Panama & Italy. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-31120, IA tvl no. 654, OH no. 8789121, CST # 2028107-50. Licensed & Bonded © 2002. ~Made in the USA~ Your purchase helps support the National D-Day Memorial legion news

Legionnaires eligible for dental, health coverage DENTAL PLAN American Legion members may take advantage of a unique dental plan underwritten PLAN FEATURES by The United States Life In- Guaranteed Accep- tance. Members are surance Com- eligible to enroll regard- pany of New less of dental history. York City. It is Goes Anywhere. designed for Ideal for frequent trav- self-employed elers or “snowbirds.” Legionnaires Benefit Builder Option. Use of and individu- network dentists Ten-year-old Clayton Ryder of Whitehall, N.Y., was inspired by Legionnaire Richard Cur- als who work can save money. rier to help restore veterans’ graves in their hometown cemeteries. Courtesy Richard Currier for companies that don’t of- fer dental benefits. The American Boy helps repair Legion Dental Plan also is avail- able to those older than 65. Den- tal care is not included in veterans’ graves Medicare or supplements. Sprucing up a cemetery may headstone leaned to one side and not sound like much summertime was badly weathered. After Ryder fun to the typical 10-year-old, but and Currier repositioned it, they Clayton Ryder of Whitehall, N.Y., scrubbed it clean with bleach, is not the typical kid. Inspired by brushes and plenty of elbow Both insurance plans are administered neighbor and veteran Richard Cur- grease. Route 4 motorists urged by Marsh Affinity Group Services, a divi- rier, a member of Whitehall’s Post the two on by waving and sound- sion of Seabury & Smith. To inquire about either plan, call (877) 886-0110. 83, the boy volunteered to help ing their car horns as they passed. clean and repair veterans’ graves “Clayton got a big kick out of in the community. In addition to that,” Currier says. MARKET BASKET HEALTH PLAN restoring veterans’ graves in two Currier’s father served in World Legionnaires may take advan- Whitehall cemeteries, the pair also War II. Their family lived on a dirt tage of The American Legion’s helped restore a Revolutionary road near Whitehall and “didn’t Market Basket Health Plan, a War soldier’s grave along Route 4 have much,” Currier says. “No elec- program that allows members to near Fort Ann, N.Y. tricity, no water and no telephone.” obtain reasonably priced health Most adults would have been Recently, a fellow Legionnaire insurance for themselves and surprised by Clayton’s enthusiasm, told Currier something that sur- their families. Three options give especially since the work didn’t prised him. “This man who had members the freedom to choose earn a paycheck. But Currier knew won two Purple Hearts during the the plan that’s best for them. the boy and witnessed his extraor- war told me that he and some oth- dinary spirit of volunteerism. er Legionnaires brought Christmas PLAN FEATURES “Clayton is exceptional when it presents to my family in those comes to helping people,” Currier days. I didn’t even know that until Major Medical. Traditional indemnity plan with higher deductibles. Good choice says. “In the wintertime, he shov- he told me.” Now Currier is driven for the self-employed. els the neighbors’ walks for free. to return the generosity shown to Preferred Provider Option (PPO). Mem- He never says anything about it; he his family. Ryder is helping him bers choose physicians from a list of just does it and goes home. When fulfill that mission. providers and pay lower premiums. he volunteered to help me, I don’t Currier used the opportunity to Medical Savings Accounts (MSA). A think it ever entered his mind to teach Clayton about the sacrifices tax-free savings account is established to pay for medical expenses. Can be used get paid. I wish there were more veterans have made for this coun- with a high-deductible insurance plan. people in the world like him.” try. “The veterans gave their lives Most plans are available to those younger The gravesite of Revolutionary for us so that we can be free,” he than 65. However, these plans are not War soldier Dan Weller was in dis- says. “I want Clayton to know how available in all states. repair earlier this summer. The lucky we are to live in this country.”

64 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine “Why MenAll Over America Love Testosterall!” Powerful Male Performance Boosting System Lets You Be All the Man You Can Be Do you feel like half the man you used to be? Are you “Af ter a few weeks of taking Testosterall, my wife and I enjoying intimacy a lot less than you'd like? Do you lack felt like we were back on our honeymoon again. And confidence in the bedroom? after 35 years, that’s quite an accomplishment. I just feel If so, you could have low testosterone. like I’m back in my 20’s or 30’s.” Jack – Manhasset, NY In many men, testosterone levels can fall rapidly as you age, leaving you feeling like half the man you used to be. “When I tried Testosterall, I thought, ‘Wow! I’ve got a lot That’s why I created the Testosterall System. It’s the more energy and my sex drive is increased.’ It’s really complete performance boosting system I developed for made a difference.” Gregg – Mesa, AZ men who are starting to feel their age. “Af ter three or four days, I did notice I had increased Are You Man Enough? Now You Can Be energy. I also noticed I was starting to experience an I designed Testosterall to support healthy testosterone increased libido.” Larry – Wilton, ND levels, so you can be all the man you want to be…when you need to be. Testosterall was once only available RISK-FREE TRIAL to patients through my private practice.Now it’s available Call 1-800-270-7942 now and we’ll send you the complete to the general public…confidentially and without a Testosterall System in confidential plain brown packaging. prescription. If you feel like half the man you used to be, don’t give up. I can help you regain your youthful stamina and BONUS drive. Boost your performance and be all the man you SPECIAL REPORT: “Aging and Its Effects can be with the Testosterall System. on Energy, Youthful Sex Drive and Stamina” Best regards, R.Cohen, M.D. Call now for your risk-free trial Dr. Richard Cohen Individual results will vary. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not 1-800-270-7942 intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. AMP, 90 Bridge Street, Westbrook, ME comrades

How to Submit a Reunion well as a contact name, address, telephone number and e-mail address. The American Legion Magazine publishes reunion notices for vet- Send notices to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: Comrades Edi- erans. Send notices to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: Com- tor, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, fax (317) 630-1280 or e-mail rades Editor, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, fax (317) 630- [email protected]. The magazine will not publish the names of indi- 1280 or e-mail [email protected]. viduals, only the name of the unit from which you seek people. Listings Include the branch of service and complete name of the group, no are published free of charge. abbreviations, with your request. The listing also should include the Life Membership notices are published for Legionnaires who have reunion dates and city, along with a contact name, telephone number been awarded life memberships by their posts. This does not include a and e-mail address. Listings are published free of charge. member’s own Paid-Up-For-Life membership. Notices must be submitted Due to the large number of reunions, The American Legion Maga- on official forms, which may be obtained by sending a self-addressed zine will publish a group’s listing only once a year. Notices should be stamped envelope to The American Legion Magazine, Attn: Life Mem- sent at least six months prior to the reunion to ensure timely publication. berships, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206. “Comrades in Distress” listings must be approved by the Legion’s Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation division. If you are seeking to verify an Other Notices injury received during service, contact your Legion department service “In Search Of” is primarily a means of getting in touch with people officer for information on how to publish a notice. from your unit to plan a reunion. Listings must include the name of the “Taps” notices are published only for Legionnaires who served as unit from which you seek people, the time period and the location, as department commanders or national officers.

AIR FORCE LST 610, Mobile, AL, 4/7-9, Emeric Bosak, (717) 1967, contact Ollie Olsson, 34 Oak St., 236-6102, [email protected]; USS Oxford, AGTR Waterville, ME 04901 or call (207) 873-0586. 41st Mil Airlift Sqdn Alumni Assn Charleston AFB, 1, Caribbean Cruise, 3/15-22, George A. Cassidy, 2nd Plt Delta Co 1st Bn 7th Mar. Anyone who North Charleston, SC, 3/27-29, Larry Hall, (864) 697- (860) 535-1171, [email protected]. served in Vietnam between 1969 and 1970, 5875, [email protected]; 59th Ftr Sqdn, Las com; USS Paul F. Foster, DD 964, Everett, WA, contact Hurbain J. Cote, HC 63 Box 40B, Van Vegas, 4/22-27, (800) 672-0456, nationalplanners@ March, Michael Dean, (252) 482-3370, Buren, ME 04785 or call (207) 868-5162. hotmail.com; 98th Air Refueling Sqdn, Phoenix, [email protected]; USS Terrebonne Parish, 2nd Tank Bn 2nd Mar Div. Anyone who served at 4/29-5/4, Francis “Frank” Kelso, (623) 546-2891, LST 1156, New Orleans, 4/30-5/4, David Bader, Camp Lejeune, N.C., between 1980 and 1983, [email protected]; 464th TAW Wing, Fayetteville, NC, (614) 841-1223, [email protected]; USS contact Joe Federico, 8356 Quartz Ave., 4/23-26, Boyd McLean, (864) 489-2416, Ulvert M. Moore, DE 442, San Diego, 3/3-6, Winnetka, CA 91306. [email protected]; 551st Strat Missile Sqdn, Charles Evans, (636) 390-4046, anniemc9@ 3rd Mar Div FLC FLSG FLSU Bravo Ration Plt. Lincoln, NE, 4/23-26, Ken Fisher, (718) 792-2360, earthlink.net; Vietnam Era Seabees, Hampton, VA, Anyone who served in Dong Ha, Vietnam, [email protected] 1/31-2/2, John Carney, (203) 932-6173, between April 1968 and May 1969, contact Ollie [email protected]; VP-3, Pensacola, FL, 12/23- Olsson, 34 Oak St., Waterville, ME 04901 or call ARMY 25, Keith W. Harmon, (402) 792-2559, de8e95@ (207) 873-0586. 7th Cav Rgt Med Co, Dothan, AL, 3/27-20, Harold aol.com 8th Army Band. Anyone who served in Seoul, Selley, (941) 629-1142, [email protected]; Taegu or Pusan, Korea, between 1948 and 1951, 29th Inf Div WWII, Punta Gorda, FL, 1/23-26, LIFE MEMBERSHIPS contact Lyle McDole, 1307 13th St., Apt. B, Joseph A. Joseph, (941) 624-4988; 47th Inf Rgt, Hawarden, IA 51023 or call (712) 551-2011. Fort Benning, GA, 4/10-13, Frank J. Gubala, (716) Post 102, CA: Andrew P. Ballantyne 23rd Recon Co. Anyone who served at Fort 873-4821, [email protected]; F Trp 8th Cav “Blue Post 800, CA: Richard N. Allert, Robert A. Curnow, Clayton, Panama Canal Zone, between 1954 and Ghosts,” Kansas City, MO, 4/3-6, Richard DuBois, Vernon A. Dinkeh, James M. Kent, Richard E. 1956, contact (330) 825-9329 or e-mail (931) 484-7748 Lanford [email protected]. Post 316, FL: Heyward E. Hinson 25th Inf Div 25th Med B Bn. Anyone who served JOINT Post GR03, FR: Nola L. Maloney during the occupation of Osaka, Japan, in 1946 Post 422, IL: Robert Gabinski, Andrew Lekovsis and 1947, contact Al Rogers at ar70@world- Salute to Troop Carrier Veterans, European, Post 22, MA: Clement J. Martineau, Gregory C. net.att.net. Pacific and China/Burma/India Theaters WWII, O’Roak, Robert J. Pratt 27th APO. Anyone who served in Bamberg, Dover, DE, 4/27-29, Michael N. Ingrisano Jr., (703) Post 74, MI: James J. Dzelak, Charles L. Green, Germany, between 1965 and 1967, contact Dale 356-5538, [email protected] Robert A. Hummelgard Tom Sauer, 5833 Toy Mills Road, Walker, IA Post 368, MI: Robert DeMeritt 52352, call (319) 224-3623 or e-mail MARINES Post 1039, NY: Anna B. Gilpin, Alex T. Pilkington, [email protected]. Raymond Rosario 27th TFW. Anyone who worked in the jet engine 1st Mar Div A Co 1st Bn 7th Rgt WWII and China, Post 4, PR: Rafael Aguiló, José E. Alicea, Juan E. shop at Cannon AFB, N.M., between 1957 and Savannah, GA, 4/2-4, Lou Clabeaux, (727) 399- Alvarez, Miguel A. Aponte, Matias E. Arroyo, Isidro 1962, contact Ken Terry Sr. at (978) 388-6695 9276, [email protected]; Mar Corps Musicians R. Bentegeat, Dimas Carrasquillo, Dionisio Conde or e-mail [email protected]. Assn, New Orleans, 4/9-12, Richard Oldenburg, Ruiz, Pedro Correa Diaz, Luis A. de Jesus Berrios, 40th AAA Bde. Anyone who served at Luzon, (661) 821-1683, [email protected]; USS José Delgado Torres, Pedro Diaz Marcano, Felix Philippines, between 1943 and 1945, contact Yorktown Mar Det, CV 10, Branson, MO, 11/9-11, Dones Velázquez, Alfredo Droz, Carmelo Figueroa Carl Rea, 4600 Harvest Lane, Bloomington, IN Larry Gebur, (320) 769-2561, flgebur@ Colón, Luves Flores Ortíz, Sandalio García, Catalino 47404 or call (812) 876-1495. frontiernet.net García Cruz, Carlos Fco. García Enchautegui, Rafael 43rd Div 172nd Inf H Co. Anyone who served at García Márquez, José J. González, Domingo Warner Kaserne in Munich, Germany, between NAVY González Cotto, Jorge O. Guevara, Miguel Jeremías, 1951 and 1953, contact Bob “Redeye” Reigle, CBMU-302, Hampton, VA, 1/31-2/2, Dave Schill, Elmo Lugo Ortíz, R. Martínez Merle, Jesús Martínez 405 S. High St., Selinsgrove, PA 17870 or call (856) 234-2273, [email protected]; NMCB 4, 12, Colón, Fermín Meléndez Lind, Julio Meléndez (570) 374-2357. 58, 62, 133, Hampton, VA, 1/31-2/2, Dave Schill, Santiago, Gadiel Meléndez Zayas, Amalio Méndez 59th Eng Const Co. Anyone who served at Ladd (856) 234-2273, [email protected]; NSA Da Pagán, Carlos Millín Santiago, Julio Morell, Victor F. AFB, Alaska, between 1953 and 1956, contact Nang, All Dets, Hampton, VA, 1/31-2/2, Dave Moret Santana, José A. Nieves, Margaro Ortíz Charles Bettis (Long), 6717 N.W. 128th Terrace, Schill, (856) 234-2273, [email protected]; Site Baerga, Antonio Ortíz Vicente, Reynaldo Pagán, Oklahoma City, OK 73142 or call (405) 722- One Holy Loch Scotland Assn, Charleston, SC, Francisco Pérez Pillot, Eduardo Pomales, Benjamín 2780. 3/27-29, Doug Ebert, (207) 845-3188, Ramos, Nicasio Ramos Félix, Nemesio Ramos 62nd AAA Bn. Anyone who served at Sullivan [email protected]; USS Burns, DD 588, San Lebrón, Engracio Rivera Félix, Eligio Rodriguez Barracks in Manheim, Germany, between Diego, 3/27-30, Dean W. Bryant, (916) 773-4061, Ortíz, Augusto C. Rosario, Arturo Santiago Soto, January 1955 and September 1956, contact [email protected]; USS Castor, AKS 1, Ramón Santiago Vega, Germán Soto Vázquez, Dwain Soester, 244 Cedar, Chadron, NE 69337 Jacksonville, FL, 4/3-6, Walt Whittemore, (702) Tomás Suárez Moráles, Héctor L. Torregrosa, Luis or e-mail [email protected]. 431-1290, [email protected]; USS Exploit, M. Torres, Marcos Vázquez Navarro, José Vechini 63rd Chem Co 101st Abn Div. Anyone who served MSO 440, 1954-1964, Charleston, SC, March, Negrón, Bienvenido Velázquez in Operation Desert Shield or Operation Desert Richard Thornton, (386) 935-6795, rickt@ Post 453, TX: Charlie Hale Storm between 1989 and 1991, contact David svicnet.com; USS Georgetown, AGTR 2, Caribbean Lowrie, Rt. 1, Box 181, Palmer, TN 37365, call Cruise, 3/15-22, George A. Cassidy, (860) 535- IN SEARCH OF (931) 235-6216 or e-mail dlowrie@ 1171, [email protected]; USS blomand.net. Inchon, LPH 12/MCS 12, Corpus Christi, TX, 4/4- 1st Mar Recruit Bn Plt 113. Anyone who served at 68th AAA Bde. Anyone who served at Luzon, 6, David Fix, (717) 203-4152, [email protected]; USS Parris Island between October 1966 and January Philippines, between 1943 and 1945, contact

66 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine “SkinZinc is the most effective Active Ingredient FDA Approved, product I’ve seen for the treatment of bothersome skin disorders such Clinically Proven Ingredients and Easy Application as psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis and Psoriasis? dandruff.” Dr. S. Ravitz Dandruff? Bothersome Skin Disorders?

BEFORE AFTER Restore your skin to its healthy clear state in just days! Finally! Relief for people who suffer from Psoriasis, Eczema, Easy application, No more mess! Dermatitis or other irritating skin disorders! Introducing Skin Zinc, Say good-bye to that dry, red itchy skin and say good-bye to those messy, the revolutionary skin treatment system that contains clinically smelly ointments. SkinZinc goes on like water. Its easy application spray proven ingredients that provide immediate relief from irritating bottle makes treatment of your skin a snap. Stop suffering and call now skin disorders. for your risk-free trial 1-888-887-8281, discount code 281. Feel like you have brand new skin. SkinZinc is guaranteed to work for you. So stop apologizing for the way You owe it to yourself to look good and feel great. The SkinZinc system you look and start feeling great, call now while supplies last. will provide relief and begin to restore your skin to its healthy clear state immediately. The active ingredients in SkinZinc are FDA approved and After have been used safely to treat skin disorders for many years. Currently there is no known cure for psoriasis and SkinZinc does not Before claim to cure any diseases. Be sure to consult your physician if you have any questions. Tr y SkinZinc Absolutely Risk-Free Ask how to get a FREE supply with your order! 1-888-887-8281, discount code 281 comrades

Carl Rea, 4600 Harvest Lane, Bloomington, IN 596th Trans Co (Lt Trk). Anyone who served at [email protected]. 47404 or call (812) 876-1495. Henry Kaserne in Munich, Germany, contact APC Sailors. Anyone who served during WWII, 71st Sig Bn. Anyone who served in Tokyo Charlie Weaver, 2754 Lullington Drive, Winston- contact Tom De Mott, Unit 64900, Box 4, APO between 1951 and 1952 and played with the Salem, NC 27103, call (336) 765-9635 or e- AE 09839 or e-mail [email protected]. “Corn Tones” band, contact John A. Diamond, mail [email protected]. B Co 5th Rgt 1st Cav Div. Anyone who fought on 18 S. Rockwell Ave., Savannah, GA 31419 or 629th AC&W Sqdn. Anyone who served at Hill 346, “Old Baldy,” in October 1951, contact call (912) 925-2415. Campoformido Udine, Italy, APO 251, between Glenn Dohrmann, 980 Elm Road, Cedarsburg, 90th Div 358th Inf 2nd Bn G Co. Anyone who 1954 and 1956, contact Bob Amedeo, 15 WI 53012 or call (262) 377-4898. served in the medical detachment between 1943 Stagecoach Road, Boxford, MA 01921, call Bravo Co 2nd Tank Bn 32nd MAU. Anyone who and 1945, contact Cherchel Barker, 551 (978) 887-6530 or e-mail bamedeo@ served in Beirut in 1982, contact Joe Federico, Shawnee Run Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330. netzero.net. 8356 Quartz Ave., Winnetka, CA 91306. 93rd Eng Co (Float Bridge). Anyone who served 741st Railway Operating Bn. Anyone who served C Co 741st Railroad Operating Bn. Anyone who at Leiphem, Germany, between 1955 and 1957, in the United States or Europe between 1943 served in Europe between January 1944 and contact R.P. Williams, 201 W. Bailey Road, and 1946, contact Melvin B. Mowrer, 2508 November 1945, contact Richard Ably, 1332 N. Naperville, IL 60565, call (630) 416-3382 or e- Hacker Drive, Joliet, IL 60435 or call (815) 741- 4th St., Sheboygan, WI 53081 or call (920) 451- mail [email protected]. 2946. 4669. 112th AAF Base Unit 55th Trucking 9th AF. 799th ACW Radar Sqdn. Anyone who served at Class 206. Anyone who went through boot camp Anyone who served in France between February Joelton AF Station, Tenn., between 1955 and at Great Lakes, Ill., in August 1978, contact 1944 and July 1945, contact Walter D. Boosel, 1961, contact W.C. Chilton, 210 Parish Lane, Anthony Inzauto, P.O. Box 45617, Tinker AFB, 244 Boosel Road, Chicora, PA 16025. McMinnville, TN 37110, call (931) 668-8473 or OK, 73145 or call (405) 733-3862. 124th Army Ground Forces Band. Anyone who e-mail [email protected]. Class of 42D, Army Air Corps. Anyone who went served in Yokohama, Japan, between 1946 and 864th AAA AW Bn. Anyone who served on through the first cadet class at Bruce Field, 1947, contact Lyle McDole, 1307 13th St., Apt. Saipan, Mariana Islands, during WWII, contact Ballinger, Texas, in 1941, contact Wayne G. B, Hawarden, IA 51023 or call (712) 551-2011. Robert G. Christie, 9191 N. 204th St., Elkhorn, Scales, 2803 LeConte Road, Anderson, SC 151st Eng HQ Co. Anyone who served in NE 68022. 29621 or call (864) 224-4782. Amchitka, Aleutian Islands, Alaska, in 1943, 868th FA Bn 42nd Grp 7th Army. Anyone who Co 258. Anyone who served at the Naval Training contact Fred G. Sanford, 78767 Tallahassee served in Baumholder, Germany, between 1955 Center in San Diego in 1952, contact Jack W. Highway, Wetumpka, AL 36092. and 1958, contact Frank D. Goodale, 543 Dekalb Streeter, 4022 Detlor Road, Grantville, KS 189th Sig Repair Co. Anyone who served at St., Camden, SC 29020, call (803) 432-3445 or 66429, call (785) 246-4418 or e-mail Camp Crowder, Mo., or Adelsheim, Germany, e-mail [email protected]. [email protected]. during WWII, contact Jim Ferriero, 246 High St., 881st Ord. Anyone who served at Camp Conley in Co 918. Anyone who went through boot camp at N. Arlington, NJ 07031 or call (201) 991-6599. Atlanta, Ga., in 1946 or at Camp Campbell, Ky., Camp Perry, Va., between June 1944 and 306th Bomb Grp, Thurleigh, England. Anyone between January 1947 and July 1947, contact August 1944, contact Bill Jones, 7619 who was aboard the B-17G that went down in Allen R. Corbett at (252) 447-3191. Clarendon Hills Road, Willowbrook, IL 60527 or Feternes, France, in July 1944, contact Nadia 919th Eng Co. Anyone who served during the e-mail (630) 887-7917. Mourier, La Perraillaz, 74420 Villard, France, call Korean or Vietnam wars, contact Paul Repsher, Co 1058. Anyone who served at Portsmith, R.I., in +33-450.39.06.12 or e-mail [email protected]. 26685 Wilson Road, Henryetta, OK 74437, call 1943, contact Robert J. Walley Jr., 28 Thornbike 342nd Sig Co 55th Bomb Wing 15th Army Air (918) 650-0967 or e-mail [email protected]. St., Reading, MA 01867 or call (781) 944-1557. Forces. Anyone who served in Spinazzola, Italy, 1922nd AACS. Any Air Force personnel who Corps Replacement Bn 1st Mar Amph Corps during WWII, contact Roy Calvert, 1 Huron St., served in Skull Cliff, Alaska, between 1948 and FMF. Anyone who served in New Caledonia in Glen Head, NY 11545. 1949, contact Eddie Carara at (623) 972-7935 April 1944, contact Charles B. Fisher, 6 Town- 355th Tact Ftr Wing F-105. Anyone who served in or e-mail [email protected]. Country Park, Carrolltown, KY 41008, call (502) Takahli, Thailand, between 1965 and 1966, 1391st AAF Base Unit, Central Atlantic Wing, 732-5487 or e-mail [email protected]. contact Whit Martin, P.O. Box 1184, Sylacauga, APO 406. Anyone who served at Santa Maria, D Co 1st Bn 22nd Inf. Anyone who served ay Tuy AL 35150 or call (256) 245-6576. Azores, between 1944 and 1946, contact Hoa, Vietnam, between 1971 and 1972, contact 370th Eng Serv Co (Freestanding). Anyone who William H. Johnson, 406 Highland Drive, Jesse Strittman, 122 Woodgate Drive, Brandon, served in Baumholder, Germany, between 1951 Washington CH, OH 43160 or call (740) 335- MS 39042, call (601) 824-7763 or e-mail and 1952, contact Delmer H. Wallen Sr., 817 4427. [email protected]. Morison Ave., Kingsport, TN 37660, call (423) 2125th Trucking Co. Anyone who served in China D Co 30th Inf 3rd Div. Anyone who served in 247-3933 or e-mail [email protected]. in 1945, contact Walter H. Koranda, 14918 Germany between April 1945 and May 1945, 377th MPEG Co. Anyone who served in Africa and 104th St., Live Oak, FL 32060 or call (386) 362- contact Eldo H. Meyer at (956) 968-6111 or e- Europe between 1943 and 1945, contact Jack 5674. mail [email protected]. Albritton, 2301 Fairview Ave. East #215, 3251st Sig Serv Co. Anyone who served in Delta Co 1st Bn 7th Mar. Any platoon command- Seattle, WA 98102, call (206) 325-5686 or e- Europe in 1944 or 1945, contact Gus ers who served in Vietnam between 1969 and mail [email protected]. Fleischman, 611 Apollo Beach Blvd., Apollo 1970, contact Hurbain J. Cote, HC 63 Box 40B, 422nd Rocket FA Bn C Btry. Anyone who served Beach, FL 33572, call (813) 645-4995 or e-mail Van Buren, ME 04785 or call (207) 868-5162. at Luzon, Philippines, between July 1945 and [email protected]. Det 1 56th SOWg. Anyone who served at Udorn August 1946, contact Owen Park, 30 Wildwood 4683rd USAF Hosp. Anyone who served in Thule, RTAFB between 1972 and January 1974, Drive, Carmel, IN 46032, call (317) 846-3703 or Greenland, between February 1963 and contact Herb Martin, 3001 C St., Anchorage, AK e-mail [email protected]. February 1964, contact Charles Meador, 898 99503, call (907) 770-9013 or e-mail 432nd Field Maint Sqdn. Anyone who served in Highway 133, Columbia, LA 71418, call (318) [email protected]. Udorn, Thailand, between 1967 and 1968, 649-5335 or e-mail [email protected]. E Co 7th Mar. Anyone who served in Yudam Ni, contact Oliver “Buck” Tuell, 3108 Evergreen 6152nd AB Air Police K-18. Anyone who served Korea, between October 1950 and December Drive, Green Bay, WI 54313, call (920) 434- in Korea between 1952 and 1953, contact 1950, contact Charles Hosken, 18 Shawnee 7914 or e-mail [email protected] or William Green, 227 Vine Court, Loretto, TN Lane, Dover, NH 03820 or e-mail chosken@ [email protected]. 38469 or call (931) 853-4915. ttlc.net. 507th Eng Heavy Shop Co. Anyone who served in 6910th USAFSS Comm Center. Anyone who FASRON-113. Anyone who served at Cubi Point, Hanau, Germany, between 1948 and 1952, served in Landsburg, Germany, between 1954 Philippines, between 1955 and 1956, contact contact J.C. Chastain, 502 McAlister Road, and 1955, contact Walter Travis, 33 N. Jack L. Statser, 1515 29th St., Bettendorf, IA Easley, SC 29642 or call (864) 859-7019. Anderson, Pontiac, MI 48342, call (248) 334- 52722, call (563) 359-0856 or e-mail 521st Ord Co HM. Anyone who served in Europe 2626 or e-mail [email protected]. [email protected]. during WWII, contact Fred Morlock, 129 S. 9468th TSU, U.S. Army Sig Corps. Anyone who Flight 109, 3285th Basic Mil Tng Sqdn. Anyone Jefferson St., Lockport, IL 60441, call (815) served at Fort Monmouth, N.J., between 1950 who served at Parts AFB, Calif., between May 838-3949 or e-mail [email protected]. and 1952, contact Robert Herstine at (843) 1952 and July 1952, contact Ernie Pazzi, 647 528th Depot Police 24th Army Corps “Dirty 851-7820 or e-mail [email protected]. Mulholland Drive, Ripon, CA 95366 or e-mail Hearts.” Anyone who served in Inchon, Korea, A Btry 33rd FA Bn 1st Inf Div. Anyone who served [email protected]. between 1946 and 1948, contact Bill Simmons, in Europe between April 1946 and April 1947, HQ and HQ Det 8th Log Cmd (Post Sig). Anyone 305 Half St., Apt. 9, Martinsburg, WV 25401 or contact Johnnie Grills, 412 North St., who served in Livorno, Italy, between 1975 and call (304) 263-1374. Chesterfield, IN 46017, call (765) 378-5011 or 1976, contact Anthony Bassano, 1496 Almaden 554th Air Material Sqdn. Anyone who served at e-mail [email protected]. Expressway #358, San Jose, CA 95125 or call Lakeland Field, Fla., between June 1946 to A Co 4th Tank Bn 4th Mar Div. Anyone who (408) 295-1634. August 1946 or Irumagawa, Japan, between served aboard the USS LSM 70 during the Blue LST 455. Anyone who served aboard the ship later January 1947 and March 1949, contact Aldon Beach landing at Iwo Jima, contact Paul Baker, renamed the USS Achilles, ARL 41, in the Leyte R. Georgeson, 101 Woodland Ave. E #400, 70 W. Schofield Road, Rochester, NY 14617, Gulf in 1944, contact Francis Roy, 6104 Underwood, MN 56586 or call (218) 826-7275. call (585) 544-9178 or e-mail Deborah Way, Fort Pierce, FL 34951.

68 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Malaria Control and Malaria Survey Units. Road Apt. H201, Stuart, FL 34997. Hon. Daniel F. Foley, Dept. of Minnesota. Nat’l Anyone who served at Camp Ellis, Ill., or Camp USS Safeguard, ARS 25. Anyone who served Cmdr. 1963-1964, Dept. Cmdr. 1955-1956, Alt. Plauche, La., between December 1943 and June aboard between 1969 and 1971, contact Danny Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1956-1957, Nat’l 1944, contact Ted Skare, 400 Mt. Curve Blvd., Mackey, 209 N. 21st St., Duncan, OK 73533, Mbrshp. & Post Activ. Cmte. Vice Chmn. 1956- St. Paul, MN 55105, call (651) 698-7556 or e- call (580) 252-5651 or e-mail mypickup@ 1957, Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1957-1963, Nat’l mail [email protected]. texhoma.net. Child Welfare Cmsn. Liaison Cmte. Memb. 1957- Med Det 72nd Tank Bn 2nd Inf Div. Anyone who USS Whidbey Island, LSD 41. Anyone who served 1958, Nat’l Sec. Cmsn. Liaison Cmte. Memb. served at Fort Lewis, Wash., or Korea between aboard between August 1988 and June 1992, 1958-1961 and 1962-1963, Nat’l Resolutions 1949 and 1950, contact Edward L. James, 321 contact Jerry D. Williams, 280 Briley Court, Subcmte. Memb. 1960-1961, Nat’l Distinguished Hancock Drive, Weatherford, TX 76087, call Tallahassee, FL 32305 or call (850) 219-0040. Guests Cmte. Memb. 1960-1961, Nat’l Liaison (817) 596-4234 or e-mail cw4james321@ USS YMS 177. Anyone who served aboard the Subcmte. to Military Affairs Cmte. Chmn. 1961- charter.net. minesweeper between 1943 and 1945, contact 1962, Nat’l Finance Cmsn. Ex-Officio Memb. Plt 191 5th Bn. Anyone who served at Parris Bud Pivonka, R.R. 2, Box 82240, Timken, KS 1963-1964, Nat’l Overseas Graves Decoration Island between March 1943 and April 1943, 67575 or e-mail [email protected]. Trust Cmte. Chmn. 1963-1964, Nat’l Overseas contact Earl Paul, 2673 Shirley Lane, Bellmore, USS YMS 276. Anyone who served aboard Graves Decoration Trust Cmte. Vice Chmn. 1964- NY 11710 or call (516) 221-0051. between 1943 and 1946, contact Norman K. 1965, Nat’l Advisory Cmte. to the Nat’l Cmdr. St. George Recruiting Station. Anyone who Joern, 8510 5th Ave. N.W., Upham, ND 58789 Chmn. 1964-1965, Nat’l Overseas Graves served on Staten Island, N.Y., in July 1978, or call (701) 272-6213. Decoration Trust Cmte. Memb. 1965-1966, Nat’l contact Anthony Inzauto, P.O. Box 45617, Tinker VAW-123. Anyone who served in Norfolk, Va., 50th Anniversary Cmte. Exec. Section Memb. AFB, OK, 73145 or call (405) 733-3862. between 1978 and 1980, contact Anthony 1966-1969, Nat’l Advisory Cmte. to the Nat’l Cmdr. Seabee Tech Assistance Team 0504. Anyone Inzauto, P.O. Box 45617, Tinker AFB, OK, 73145 Ex-Officio Memb. 1968-1969, Nat’l Advisory Cmte. who went through training in 1963 and was or call (405) 733-3862. to the Nat’l Cmdr. Memb. 1969-1999, and Nat’l deployed in 1964, contact Ken Slyder, P.O. Box VF-92. Anyone who served between 1952 and Legis. Cncl. Memb. 1977-1978 and 1993. 426, Golconda, IL 62938, call (618) 683-3705 1975, contact Ed Ellstrom, 3702 Robin Court, William F. Johnson, Dept. of West Virginia. Nat’l or e-mail [email protected]. Loveland, CO 80537, call (970) 593-1756 or e- Sec. Cncl. Vice Chmn. 1987-1991, Nat’l U.S. Mar Sec. Guards. Anyone who served at the mail [email protected]. Americanism Cmsn. 1991-1993, and Nat’l Legis. American embassy in Saigon, Vietnam, contact VS-62 Scouting Sqdn. Anyone who served at Key Cncl. Memb. 1999-2000 and 2001-2002. Mike Bertini, P.O. Box 295, Jacksonville, NC West, Fla., between 1941 and 1945, contact Robert Nab, Dept. of Wyoming. Dept. Cmdr. 1990- 28541 or call (910) 353-7377. Cleve Marshall, 7103 Robin Rest, San Antonio, 1991, Nat’l Foreign Relations Cmsn. Memb. U.S. Naval Armed Guard. Anyone who served TX 78209 or call (877) 826-3952. 1991-1996, Alt. Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1992- aboard the USS Samuel Chase, APA 26, at 1996, Nat’l Legis. Cncl. Memb. 1993-1994, Nat’l Normandy in 1944, contact Dick Rushford, 41 TAPS Public Relations Cmsn. Liaison Memb. 1996- Dutton St., Worchester, MA 01610 or call (508) 1997, Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1996-1997, Nat’l 799-6020. Buell A. Baclesse, Dept. of Missouri. Nat’l Mbrshp. Americanism Cmsn. Liaison Memb. 1997-1998 U.S. Navy Basic Tng. Anyone who served in & Post Activ. Cmte. Memb. 1958-1960 and and Nat’l Legis. Cncl. Vice Chmn. 1999-2002. Bainbridge, Md., between 1945 and 1946, 1964-1965, Alt. Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1960- Leonard G. Overmyer, Dept. of Michigan. Dept. contact Herman Baker, 115 Steven St., Wadley, 1962, Nat’l Exec. Cmte. Memb. 1962, Dept. Cmdr. 1995-1996 and Nat’l Distinguished Guests GA 30477. Cmdr. 1965-1966, Nat’l Distinguished Guests Cmte. Memb. 1996-1999. U.S. Navy Boot Cos C-159, D-220, D-243, E-317 Cmte. Memb. 1970-1971, Nat’l Civil Defense Lee H. Perkins, Dept. of Oregon. Nat’l American- and F-440. Anyone who served between April Cmte. Memb. 1972-1975 and Nat’l Legis. Cncl. ism Cncl. Memb. 1981-1982 and Dept. Cmdr. 1944 and June 1944, contact Edward F. Memb. 1977-1978. 1989-1990. Caramanica, 24 Surrey Lane, Peabody, MA 01960 or call (978) 535-2079. USS Comstock, LSD 19. Anyone who served aboard between February 1944 and February OFFICIAL U.S. MINT ISSUE 1945, contact Puzant C. Torigian, 2 Horizon Road, Suite 1423, Fort Lee, NJ 07024, call (201) 585-8832 or e-mail [email protected]. NOW USS Donald W. Wolfe, APD 129. Anyone who “With the stock IS THE TIME served aboard, contact Ed Slater at (505) 293- 0143 or e-mail [email protected]. market so To Own Gold USS Granville, APA 171. Anyone who served unpredictable, between 1944 and 1946, contact Glenn Hall, gold has been a 670 Linton Hill Road, Newtown, PA 18940. great way to USS Koiner, DER 331. Anyone who served aboard 10 day between April 1962 and September 1964, contact diversify” Larry “Jake” Jacobsmeyer, 300 Larkin Lane, -M.B., Texas Money Back Kaysville, UT 84037 or call (801) 725-1627. Guarantee USS LSM 70. Anyone who served aboard during * Genuine U.S. WWII, contact Paul Baker, 70 W. Schofield Road, Legal Tender Rochester, NY 14617, call (585) 544-9178 or e- * Purest Gold Coins mail [email protected]. Ever Issued by Coins shown larger than USS LST 512. Anyone who served aboard U.S. Mint actual size to show detail between 1945 and 1946, contact Robert J. Walley Jr., 28 Thornbike St., Reading, MA 01867 or call (781) 944-1557. This Could Be Your Last Chance To Own The 2002 Gold American Eagles! USS LCI(L) 581. Anyone who served aboard in Now you can own the most popular gold INTERNATIONAL CURRENCY VV# 2AL1102 Europe in 1945, contact Vincent Allen, 2210 coins in the world. Revered for their breath- A Limited Liability Company 9405 COLLEGE STREET • BEAUMONT, TEXAS 77707 Dailsville Road, Cambridge, MD 21613, call taking beauty and exquisite detail these coins (410) 901-2407 or e-mail [email protected]. Qty. ______$5 Gold Eagle @ $59.00 each. Add $9.95 for shipping USS Mindanao, ARG 3. Anyone who served are truly among the U.S. Mint’s most treasured and handling. aboard during or after WWII, contact Charles D. issues. Qty. ______$10 Gold Eagle @ $129.00 each. Savage, 13 Dewey Ave., Totowa, NJ 07512 or Right now you can order the $5 coin for Total ______Texas residents – for orders under $1000 add 8.25% sales tax call (973) 595-6621. $59 each and the $10 coin for $129 each... an ˜ ˜ USS Minos, ARL 14. Anyone who served aboard Check Money Order incredible offer considering these are genuine ˜ VISA ˜ Mastercard ˜ American Express ˜ Discover between March 1952 and June 1954, contact U.S. legal tender and are the purest gold coins Bill Nehila, 6 Brook Farm Court Unit A, Perry CARD #______EXP DATE _____/_____ Hall, MD 21128 or call (410) 529-5365. ever issued by the U.S. Mint. Any increase in USS Osberg, DE 538. Anyone who served aboard the price of gold could force us to withdraw this NAME______offer...Order Now! in Boston or Green Cove Spring, Fla., contact ADDRESS______Herman Baker, 115 Steven St., Wadley, GA (800) 804-0637 30477. CITY______STATE______ZIP______USS Princeton, CVL 23. Anyone who served aboard in the Leyte Gulf in October 1944, SIGNATURE______contact Richard C. Brisky, 5335 S.E. Miles Grant 9405 College St. • Beaumont, TX 77707 PHONE______VV# 2AL1102 CLASSIFIED LEGION SHOPPER Legion Magazine, accepted atthediscretionofpublisher. Alladvertisementsare cover dateofissuedesired. Advertising copymustbereceived60daysbefore DEADLINE: 2,550,000permonth. CIRCULATION: stateandzipcodesasthreewords. allcity, words; Count streetaddressesandboxnumbersastwo $24perword. RATES: American LegionMagazine.” Please make remittancepayableto “The order. tising ispayableinadvancebycheckormoney All classified adver- (212) FAX (212)779-1928. 725-2106, 10016. NY NewYork, 1110, Suite 5th Ave., ihn ru.Wie 12BrOkCrl,Dept. 5122BurOakCircle, Write: lishing Group. IvyHousePub- BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. (866)288- $15. Free Delivery, 8933, War Romance. Novel, I’LL BELOVING YOU ALWAYS. BOOKS &MAGAZINES Catalog, (800) 700-4515 clip.” Patented “no-slip SUSPENDERS. APPAREL onRzo Classified Advertising, Joan Rizzo, REMITTANCECOPY AND TO: SEND ADVERTISING T he American LegionMagazine / o soits n. 347 Inc., c/o Fox Associates, 70 msGf,Great Xmas Gift, The American November 2002 rlHsia 9014,(773)702-8392. eral Hospital 1940-1945, Gen- Mason STAFF, SEEKS VETSAND HISTORIAN (360)344-4442. www.fortworden.org, history project, FORT WORDEN reunion, INTEREST TO ALL OF T Cartonsstart at$13.95. DISCOUNT CIGARETTES. www.rednationtobacco.com. (877)945-0704, fast, CIGARETTES/TOBACCO-START $9.75!Shipped MISCELLANEOUS (800)M-E-D-I-C-A-R-E. MEDICARE QUESTIONS, HEALTH/HEALTH CAREPRODUCTS (800)887- licensed, D-E-B-T. bonded, Non-profit, sands. savethou- reduceinterest, payments 50%, VETERANS’ FREEDEBTCONSOLIDATION! Cut FINANCIAL 233-0828. (800) Catalog, DRINK TOKENS. CASINO SUPPLIES/PLAYING CARDS L aeg,N 71,(800)948-2786. NC27612, Raleigh, AL, l-re 87 3-47 www.senecasmokes.com. (877)234-2447, oll-free, 1-800-255-2511 Call toll-free: models 2- and4-passenger amphibious ATVs MAX 6-wheeldrive 1-800-255-2511 Call toll-free: models 2- and4-passenger amphibious ATVs MAX 6-wheeldrive Afghanistan Afghanistan Choice ofSpecialForces in Choice ofSpecialForces in Recreatives Industries Inc. www.maxatvs.com Recreatives Industries Inc. www.maxatvs.com 80L,Idpnec,M 45,www. eckraus.com/offers/lm.asp. MO64054, Box Independence, Kraus, 7850-LM, (800)841-7404. FREE CATALOG, WINE &BEERMAKING (940)455-2519. BOY SCOUTPATCHES, (800)798-6167. SWORDS, (800)451-9728. OLD GUITARS, 5009. (317)769- BROKEN SLOT MACHINESandparts, (724)413-3292. JAPANESE SWORDS, W (808) 325-7707. SunshinePenpals, ASIAN WOMEN! Overseas. 4625. (931)879- TN38504, Allardt, Box310-ALM, Freealog, cat- Christianvalues. MEET NICESINGLES. PERSONALS www.1SingleFeather.com. (800)542-6041, us, T servingveterans.WWW.MILITARYPLUS.COM, XFE IAETSsatn t$09.Call AX FREECIGARETTESstartingat$10.99. ANTED

Walking Liberty Half Dollars A Set of 20 Coins 1941-1947-PDS • In Album BORDERLINE UNCIRCULATED Only $ 00 279 30’ x 50’ x 10’ DEAL DIRECTLY WITH OWNER! ALL MAJOR CREDIT DEAL DIRECTLY WITH OWNER! CARDS ACCEPTED Call Toll Free 1-888-260-8111 $5,095 or send payment to: We Ship Anywhere In The USA!!! 10,000 Sizes, Bolt-Together Steel LLongong Island Island Galleries Galleries Inc. Inc. Buildings & Homes. Call Today For A Price Quote And Brochure. 9 SUSAN DRIVE • WADING RIVER, NY 11792 HERITAGE BUILDING SYSTEMS® Add $9 P & H/Price Subject to change 800.643.5555 NY State Residents Add Sales Tax VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.LIGCOINS.COM heritagebuildings.com

November 2002 71 The American Legion Magazine parting shots November is when Americans close their eyes, bow their heads and give thanks for the turkeys they are about to receive. Then they vote. A PUN IS ITS OWN REWORD ■ A pessimist’s blood type is al- ways B negative. ■ A Freudian slip is when you say one thing but mean your mother. ■ Shotgun wedding: a case of wife or death. ■ Marriage is the mourning after the knot before. ■ A hangover is the wrath of grapes. ■ Corduroy pillows are making “Everything was going fine. Then you had to headlines. call him Officer Fife!” ■ Does the name Pavlov ring a bell? ■ Without geometry, life is pointless. looked into his eyes and said, “OK, ■ When two egotists meet, it’s an concentrate hard and answer this I for an I. question: what is two plus two?” The player thought for a mo- “THE DEPARTMENT OF Trans- ment and answered, “Four.” portation reports that many Ameri- “Did you say four?” the coach cans are going to travel 100 miles or exclaimed, excited that the player more to spend Thanksgiving with answered correctly. Suddenly all family. Then they’re going to spend the other players began screaming, the rest of the day giving thanks “Come on, coach. Give him anoth- that they live 100 miles away.” er chance!” – Conan O’Brien WHAT JOB ADS REALLY MEAN A FOOTBALL COACH walked into ■ “Competitive salary”: We the locker room before a game, remain competitive by paying you looked at his star player and said, less than our competition. “I’m not supposed to let you play ■ “Join our fast-paced company”: since you failed math, but we We have no time to train you. “This latest hairstyle is quite need you in there. So I have to ask ■ “Casual work atmosphere”: We popular with the men folk.” you a math question. If you get it don’t pay enough to expect that right, you can play.” you will dress up. COMING OUT OF church, Mrs. The player agreed. The coach ■ “Some overtime required”: Peterson asks her husband, “Do Some every night and some every you think that Johnson girl is tint- weekend. ing her hair?” ■ “Duties will vary”: Anyone in “I didn’t even see her,” Mr. Pe- the office can boss you around. terson admits. ■ “Seeking candidates with a wide “And that dress Mrs. Hansen variety of experience”: You’ll need was wearing,” Mrs. Peterson con- to replace the three people who tinues. “Really, don’t tell me you just quit. think that’s the proper costume for ■ “Problem-solving skills a must”: a mother of two.” You’re walking into chaos. “I’m afraid I didn’t notice that ■ “Requires team leadership either,” Mr. Peterson says. skills”: You’ll have the responsibil- “Oh, for heaven’s sake,” Mrs. ities of a manager, without the pay Peterson snaps. “A lot of good it “We need to talk … so shut up!” or respect. does you to go to church.”

72 November 2002 The American Legion Magazine Asbestos Cancer Hits Former Sailors

• Many who served aboard ship in the 1940’s, 1950’s, 1960’s and early 1970’s were exposed to asbestos. • Due to the long latency period of these diseases, some are now coming down with asbestos-related cancers.

IF YOU NOW HAVE MESOTHELIOMA or LUNG CANCER, OR A LOVED ONE HAS RECENTLY DIED FROM ONE OF THESE CANCERS For Medical Resources:

Visit the Mesothelioma Web: www.mesotheliomaweb.org/n4658 or call toll-free 1-877-367-6376 to receive a free packet or to ask questions. (Packet includes information on mesothelioma treatment, clinical trials, cancer links, how to access legal and financial resources, and frequently asked questions with answers by the law firm below.)

For Information on Compensation from the Asbestos Industry: Law Offices of Jonathan David, P.C.* 10655 Six Pines Drive, #260 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (Greater Houston Area) Handling cases nationwide with local counsel in state of filing. www.asbestos-attorney.com/n4658 Call Toll-free 1-800-998-9729 *Licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas Not Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization with Haband’s NEW Look! Flannel Lined Flannel Lined Pants Top to Toe! pairs 9999 for and 22 only 2929WARM!

If you work in an Ice House, a Skating Rink, or if you just want to cut back on heating bills, you need these easy E-l-a-s-t-i-c Waist Plaid Flannel-Lined, Heavy-Duty WORK-PANTS! • Rugged outside is tight-woven wash & wear twill. Takes all the abuse you can dish out! • Brushed flannel inside is soft and warm — Ice and double pre-shrunk so they’re House 100% machine wash & dry easy care! Blue • FIVE POCKETS! Two flannel-lined hand warmer front pockets, two back pockets, even an inside coin pocket! • Easy-on full s-t-r-e-t-c-h waist with sturdy snap front closure and zipper fly! • Hefty belt loops Black Hunter (including center back) to wear with or without a belt! Note the extra Absolutely the Warmest, hidden Comfiest, Toughest coin Pants a Guy Could pocket! Buy! Under $15 a pair. Order Now! (Big Guys Too, Grey only slightly more!) All slacks are finest polyester/ Tan cotton twill, lined with Keeps You softest Flannel Lined pairs 99* Toasty Warm cotton/ for polyester Pants 22only 93 for 42.65 All Winter! flannel 4 for 55.25 brushed. Haband 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Peckville, PA 18452 Send ____ pants. I enclose $______purchase price plus $4.95 toward postage. GA residents add sales tax k! Waists: 32 34 WHAT WHAT HOW 36 38 40 42 44 7TM-0D7 SIZE? INSEAM? MANY? *Big Men’s BD Hunter (add just $3 more per pair): 07 Grey 46 48 50 52 54 8V Ice House Blue Inseams: U3 Tan S(27-28) M(29-30) 1F Black L(31-32) XL(33-34) Discover/ Check Visa MC Novus® ® Card # ______Exp.: ______/_____ Mr./Mrs./Ms. ______Address ______Apt. # ______Duke Habernickel, Pres. City & State ______Zip ______1600 Pennsylvania Avenue 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed or Full Refund of Purchase Price at Any Time! Imported Peckville, PA 18452