THE MAINE Legionnaire NOVEMBER 2019 Vol. 34, Issue 4 OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF MAINE 28 Pages

Ribbon-Cutting James W. Oxford, Ceremony: Over 200 people attended National Commander the POW/MIA Memo- rial Dedication Cere- mony at Department of The American Legion Headquarters in Wins- low on Sept. 28. Many ames transferred to the U.S. Army Reserve, of those in attendance J W. where he ultimately retired as a colonel included Legionnaires, "Bill" Ox- after more than 34 years of military ser- members of the Auxil- ford was vice. iary, Sons of the Le- elected Oxford has served at every level of gion, Riders, and national The American Legion. A former mayor guests, as well as command- and city council of Cajah's Mountain, American Legion offi- er of The N.C., he has worked since he was a high cials and dignitaries American school student, with most of his career seen here performing Legion on choices being in the maintenance and the ribbon-cutting cer- Aug. 29, engineering field. He earned a bachelor's emony for the new memorial. Front, left to right, American Legion Auxiliary 2019, in degree in environmental studies and mul- State President Virginia Chaput, American Legion State Commander Matthew Indianapo- tiple safety and environmental certifi- Jabaut, American Legion National Commander James Oxford, and District 78 lis, during cates. (Winslow and part of Benton) Rep. Cathy Nadeau. Back, left to right, U.S. Rep. the organi- Oxford has volunteered as a coach, Jared Golden, American Legion Past National Commander of Maine Anthony zation's umpire, referee and administrator in sev- Jordan, Sons of the American Legion Ronald Marr, and American Legion Rid- 101st na- NATIONAL COMMANDER eral youth athletic programs, including ers State Commander Mike Lallemand. tional con- JAMES W. “BILL” OXFORD service as the public address announcer vention. for the Post 29 American Legion Baseball He has been a member of the nation's team. largest veteran’s organization since 1986. An active volunteer with several or- A native of Lenoir, N.C., Oxford is a ganizations, Oxford is a member of Ma- paid-up-for-life member and past com- sonic Lodge-York Scottish Rite and the mander of Post 29 in Lenoir. He served as North Carolina Army Retirees Council. department (state) commander of the His theme as national commander of The North Carolina American Legion from American Legion is "A Foundation for 2010 to 2011. A veteran of the U.S. Ma- the Future," as the organization enters its rine Corps, Oxford was an aviation elec- second century of service. tronic technician for the A-6 Intruder and Oxford and his wife, Frances, have served in Vietnam during his initial enlist- been married since 1967. They have a ment. After being discharged as a ser- son, Charles (married to Deah Reid), and geant in 1970, Oxford joined the North a daughter, Jackie (married to Mike Carr). Carolina National Guard. He subsequent- They also have four grandsons, Isiah, ly attended officer's candidate school and Micah, Jaggar and Dawson. Pin Incentive Program Offered merican Legion National for membership in The American A Commander James W. “Bill” Legion. Forward names of Sons Oxford will award his national of The American Legion mem- commander "A Foundation for bers or Auxiliary members to the Future" membership excel- your detachment or unit for use in lence pin to any Legionnaire who their respective incentive pro- obtains three new members into grams. The American Legion. Only one pin will be awarded A new member is any eligi- per individual. Upon receipt, na- POW/MIA Ceremony: A ble person joining for the 2020 tional membership staff will con- POW/MIA Ceremony was held at membership year who was not a firm the names and mail the pin Department Headquarters on member of The American Legion during directly to the person who earned it. For Sept. 28. Top, left to right, Dama- the 2019 membership year. details, visit https://www.legion.org/ riscotta Post 42 Commander Bruce Each member listed must be eligible commander/pin or www.mainelegion.org. Poland, Post 42 member Al Ben- ner, Post 42 Auxiliary President Bonnie Poland, Past National Oxford to Award Family Honor Ribbon Commander from Maine Anthony merican Legion National Command- an Auxiliary unit, Sons of The American “Tony” Jordan, 2019/2020 Nation- A er James W. “Bill” Oxford will Legion squadron or Legion Riders chap- al Commander James W. “Bill” award his 100 percent American Legion ter. Each branch must achieve 100 percent Oxford, and National Command- Family Ribbon to any American Legion membership to qualify for the award. er’s Aide Larry Cline. Right, Na- Family that achieves 100 percent mem- Download the form at tional Commander James W. bership by May 30, 2020. www.legion.org/commander/ribbon or by “Bill” Oxford, left, and Waterville Post 5 member Pearley LaChance. For this award, the Legion Family is visiting the state website at defined as a post and any combination of www.mainelegion.org. Photos by Department Historian Jeffrey Stevenson

2 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 Commander’s Comments A ‘First’ Look y Fellow to connect and talk to all our members, y Fellow printed as it appears or you can export it M Legion- current and un-renewed, and help remind M Legion- to Excel or another program to print it. naires! It is my everyone the value that our organization naires, I hope This is a great resource. Please utilize it. privilege to brings in celebrating and honoring our you are enjoy- Also, with the passage of the Legion serve as your Veterans of all ages and eras. ing the fall Act, there are changes to eligibility dates. Commander For this year, my Commander’s pro- weather. Hunt- The changes under The LEGION Act (Let for the Depart- ject is building our Department of Maine ing season is Everyone Get Involved In Opportunities ment of Maine. Foundation. I feel like this is appropriate here. The hunt- for National Service Act) opens the door What a great as our National Commander’s slogan this ers will be out for approximately 6 million veterans to start to our year is “building a foundation for the fu- in full force, so access American Legion programs and Legion year! ture”. This is exactly what we would be make sure you benefits for which they previously had not We dedicated doing. By fund raising in many different are wearing the been eligible. Please invite these veterans our POW/MIA ways, we can build this foundation so that right colored/ to join your post. monument at MATTHEW it can ensure the future of our programs safety clothing Membership is very important, but Department JABAUT that distinguish our organization. Our pro- if out hunting, DEBRA interacting with those new members is the Headquarters, grams have developed the youth of our walking or on COUTURE key to keeping them. Ask them what they hosted the National Commander, had a country for over 100 years now and we ATVs or snow- like to do and how they would like to be great Fall Conference on membership with have a responsibility to keep the going. mobiles. involved in your post and its activities. the National Vice Commander, hosted a Our foundation is the best way to do this I want to thank all who made it to the Maine has done well so far this year Past National Commander to observe our and to help our organization to continue to Fall Conference in Gray in September. We in meeting our 50 percent and 55 percent Department Legion College & Women’s strengthen our nation. We will be ap- had a good turnout and Kevin Mook from membership goals. We currently stand Advisory Committee and completed our proaching this in many different ways American Legion National Headquarters 18th in the nation. However, we are over latest class of Department Legion College. such as social media and internet cam- had some great presentations on member- 300 members short from our total mem- Whew! What a great bunch of accom- paigns, fundraising events, and sponsor- ship. If you were not able to attend and bership renewals from last year. We have plishments for our Department! ships. We are also asking for your help would like some copies of his presentations, some tough deadlines to meet in the com- I am looking forward to a great No- with this project. Anything you can do, I do have electronic versions of several of ing months. November 14 is 65 percent vember as well! We have a great event in individually, as a Post or district, would his presentations that I could send you. and December 11 is 75 percent. I know Fort Kent highlighting our relationship be much appreciated and will help to Please email me with any requests. Addi- you are all working hard to meet these with Student Veterans of America. This is make sure we are building our foundation tionally, there was discussion about DMS goals. Weekly membership information is a great partnership to support our veterans for the future. (Direct Mail Solicitation) and how your post posted on our Headquarters website. I in their transition as they retrain for their As we do the great work of this or- could gain members from those expired have also been sending information to next careers and show them who we are as ganization, please also remember to focus DMS lists. Each post adjutant has access to Area Commanders, District Commanders, an organization and why they should be- on family. The holidays are also our time this information via mylegion.org. (If you and Post Commanders and Adjutants as I long while and when they are done being for spending time with loved ones and are a post adjutant and are not familiar with receive membership information from “students”. appreciating all the support and love that mylegion.org, please contact Rachael at National Headquarters. If you are not re- Please enjoy and take the time to cel- they provide us. Maine’s American Legion Headquarters at ceiving this information, your address ebrate Veterans Day with all the history As always, you are the lifeblood of 207-873-3229 to receive adjutant training.) may be incorrect or not included in the and honor of your Post and community. our organization, our membership! We The following is a step by step process in Maine American Legion Headquarters Celebrate our members and their service continue to be here to support you! accessing the expired information once the Directory. Please double check on your and check in with them as part of the Breathing Life into the future of the post adjutant has logged in to mylegion.org. email address that is on file or send me “Buddy Check” program. Take the month American Legion! Select Reports/Labels your information if you are not currently Select Post Reports receiving these emails. Select Revitalization Please reach out to your members Select Find Members in My Area by for “buddy checks” during this important Americanism Report Distance Listing time of year. Make sure they are doing omrades, fore you are ready. Let's get out there Fill in the following info: Your Post’s OK and invite them to any gatherings that C as we start promoting the Legion and the scholar- zip code; the number of miles from that zip your post may be having. This can be a to enter the ships that are available. This includes the code that you want to search; the last year lonely time of year for many and we are season of b-r-r- local Post, District, Department and Na- that the member paid their dues (2015, veterans helping veterans. Take care of r, September tional programs. As you contact schools 2016, 2017, 2018); and Post 0178 (I would each other. May you all have a safe and thru December, about promoting scholarships, remember recommend adding your Post’s number to blessed Veteran’s Day, Christmas, and we must start these are open to all high school students. the search, too.). I have suggested years New Year’s holiday with family and looking for- Have a gathering at the Post and invite all 2015 to 2018 for your information search to friends. See you at the Mid-Winter Con- ward to the students public, private, Christian or ensure that the membership has expired. ference in January 2020. Thank you, and New Year and home schooled candidates to attend. Ad- The report you receive can either be May God Bless all of you. the season of vertise this in the local media; it gets our scholarships name out there doing community service Senator and Oratorical and may get you a new member. Programs, and Let's get 17 contestants for this year’s Cyrway yes, Dirigo ALFRED Department Oratorical Contest. We can Visits Boys State. If MCKAY also recruit for Boy's State candidates you have time , with information/applications available. State please visit It's only about 20 weeks before the names H.Q.: www.dirigoboysstate.com/ must be into Department. Comrades, have Senator Scott about.shtml#selection for details. We do a great Veterans Day, you earned it. Also, Cyrway, left, not need to have the names, until spring. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and State Ad- Well, guess what, spring will be here be- and a Happy and Safe New Year. jutant Paul L’Heureux stand in the POW/MIA RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Memorial lo- cated on site of ONLINE TODAY! The American Legion, De- partment of VISIT WWW.MAINELEGION.ORG Maine Oct. 22. Senator Cyr- OR VISIT WWW.LEGION.ORG/RENEW way visited State Headquarters for a tour and special meeting organized by the De- partment of Maine’s Special Projects Coordinator Amedeo Lauria.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 3 A ‘Second’ Look On the Agenda

reetings, Legion reports to the National Judge Advo- DECEMBER MEETINGS G hopefully cate. Talked about different types of insur- everyone has ance/liability coverages for the Children & District 2 – Cumberland: Dec. 8, Yarmouth Post 91, 2 p.m. Annual holiday party/ had a wonder- Youth Programs. One of the new ones is gift exchange ful summer and called Sexual, Abuse & Molestation (SAM). District 5 – Oxford: Dec. 17, Locke Mills Post 68, 7 p.m., appoint nominating was able to Of course, everyone is aware of the back- committee. District Christmas party. enjoy the fan- ground checks done on American Legion District 9 – Kennebec: Dec. 11, Augusta Post 205, 7 p.m. tastic weather Baseball coaches and their assistants. Na- District 12 – Hancock: Dec. 12, Northeast Harbor Post 103, dinner 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. mtg. that we had tional encourages Departments to conduct over the past background checks on Boys State Staff as JANUARY MEETINGS few months. well. District 5 – Oxford: Jan. 21, South Paris Post 72, 7 p.m. Oratorical contest, Due to other Frequency of Background Checks. refreshments after. Legion commit- Background checks will be conducted on all District 7 – Lincoln: Jan. 6, Boothbay Harbor Post 36, 5:30 p.m. ments, I was Designated Individuals on an annual basis District 9 – Kennebec: Jan. 8, South China Post 179, 7 p.m. KIRK unable to attend prior to the start of the national youth pro- District 11 – Waldo: Jan. 19, Belfast Post 43, 2 p.m. the Fall Confer- THURSTON gram they have been selected to staff. FEBRUARY MEETINGS ence. The Stacy Cope (IN), Youth Welfare Pro- months of September and October found me gram Manager, the American Legion. Tem- District 2 – Cumberland: Feb. 16, Westbrook Post 197, 2 p.m. attending meetings at Legion National porary Financial Assistance (TFA) is meant District 5 – Oxford: Feb. 18, Dixfield Post 100, 7 p.m. Nominations. Light Headquarters in Indianapolis. I thought that to be a last resort. In order to be considered supper 6 p.m. I would include my trip reports in this article for a TFA grant, all other forms of possible District 9 – Kennebec: Feb. 12, Maine Veterans Home, Augusta, 7 p.m. and hope that you find some of the infor- assistance must be applied for and exhaust- District 12 – Hancock: Feb. 11, Trenton Post 207, TBA mation interesting and helpful. ed. Failure to completely document this and District 14 – Piscataquis: Feb. 15, Dexter Post 53, lunch noon, 1 p.m. mtg. CHILD & YOUTH CONFERENCE attach official supporting documentation District 15 – Washington: Feb. 9, Machias Post 9, 2 p.m. SEPTEMBER 21-22, 2019 will result in delay or denial of the applica- District 16 – S. Aroostook: Feb. 9, Van Buren Post 49, 1 p.m. Meal is at discretion Welcome and opening remarks from tion. The form is extensive and needs to be of the Post. Four Chaplains with District 17. Herbert J. Petit Jr. (LA), Chairman Commit- filled out correctly. This is something that District 17 – N. Aroostook: Feb. 9, Van Buren Post 49, dinner 1 p.m., 2 p.m. mtg. tee on C&Y. cannot be rushed. A thorough job needs to Four Chaplains service. Distinguished guest in attendance was be done to protect the American Legion and Bill Oxford (NC), National Commander, the applicant. The American Legion, Lisa Williamson Doug Chace (IN), Member Engage- (AK), C&Y Chairman American Legion ment Coordinator, the American Legion – Money Matters Auxiliary, William Clancy (NY), C&Y Consolidated Post Report (CPR). In the Chairman Sons of The American Legion year 2019 only 68 percent of the American ow time brought the information back to their and Loren Sperry (WA), Chairman Junior Legion Post submitted a CPR which is 1/3 H flies. Six Posts. Shooting Sports Program Conference. of the Posts Nationwide. The Sons of the months of the At Headquarters, we continue to SAL Chairman, William Clancy (NY) American Legion in the same year only 27 Department of discuss developing an Adjutant/Finance discussed the challenge to all Squadrons to percent of the Detachments submitted a Maine fiscal Officer training session for Posts and sponsor a C&Y event at their Post home. report. This needs to improve! .In the De- year has Districts. Many Post’s and District’s Publicize the event in the local social media partment of Maine, 137 out of 177 Post passed, and it finance report consists of only the and if possible join with other squadrons submitted a CPR which is 77 percent. This, is time to start checkbook total on the day of the within their area and, of course, include it in too, can be improved. How can this be ac- thinking about monthly meeting. There is little infor- their Consolidated Squadron Report. The complished? Well, come to the Mid-Winter the new budg- mation given to the members as to what Son’s Children Action Team (CAT) raised Conference, and you will learn how to ac- et for 2020- revenue is brought in monthly as well over $766,000 and presented to 24 different complish this very easy task. It is not time 2021. While it as what payments are made. Far too organizations. They raised $51,000 for consuming by any means. is too early to many Posts operate without an ap- CWF and $75,000 for TFA. THE AMERICAN LEGION AMERICAN- ask for budget proved budget and even fewer do not Auxiliary Chairman, Lisa Williamson ISM COMMISSION Oct 14-15, 2019 requests from GREGORY routinely have an annual audit. COUTURE (AK), discussed a couple of awards that The meeting on Monday, Oct. 14, those responsi- The Veterans Emergency Financial Units could present to youth within their 2019 was called to order by Richard W. ble for pro- Assistance Program (VEFAP) is under- communities. One was ‘Good Deed Award’ Anderson (CT), Chairman, Americanism gram budgets, please start thinking way and working well. The Department #ALAGOODDEED. This is self- Commission at 08:30 a.m. about your program needs for next year of Maine has received the first year’s explanatory. She presented one that day to Attendees heard presentations and and jot them down. When we do start to grant money in the amount of an Eagle Scout that created a sensory room received reports from Chairman Michael finalize the budget for next year, a non- $125,000. (10 percent or $12,500 is to at a local elementary school for children Westergren (AR) Committee on Youth Edu- request from a program will be consid- pay for administration, and the balance with special needs. This was also his Eagle cation, Chairman David King (KY) Oratori- ered the same as saying “we have of $112,500 is used to assist veterans Scout project. It was pretty impressive. The cal Conference, Bill Megnin (IN) Program enough for our needs at the current lev- with qualified financial need.) The pro- second one was called ‘Youth Hero Award’ Manager Youth Activities, Chairman Loren el of funding.” gram is administered through Head- #ALAYOUTHHERO’. This one is harder Sperry (WA) 2019 Junior Shooting Sports In July, I had the opportunity to quarters or through Easter Seals Maine. to present as it requires a physical act of (JSSP), Jeff Hendrick (IN) Deputy Director give a 40-minute overview to the De- The applications are available through bravery. Contact local schools and explain Americanism Division with the report of partment of Maine Legion College the Department website these awards so they can be on the lookout 2019 Scouting Conference, American Le- class on sound financial practices and (mainelegion.org) or if you do not have for possible awardees. Their program called gion World Series update from Eddie information a Post Finance Officer computer access, check with your ser- KDH2 is in regard to military kids. They Holbrook Chairman World Series Commit- should be giving their membership on a vice officer at your Post. also have a Juniors Patch Program and you tee, Robert Crandall from Internal Affairs monthly basis. There were a lot of good Have a great winter. See you at the can include young SAL members with this Compliance & Risk Manager discussed questions, and I hope the students Mid-Winter Conference in January. as well. On April 3, 2020, will be Purple up Senate Bill 534 Youth Protection Act 2017 Day where you wear purple in support of that was signed into law February 2018 and **Attention District Commanders and Post Adjutants** Military Children. National Chaplain Edward Harris Jr. (IN) Michelle Emery (IN), Alumni Program discussed the four things that each De- Development Coordinator, The American partment/District and Post Chaplains yLegion.org training lessons are available at State Headquar- Legion talked about the alumni program should include in their respected programs M ters. If you are interesting in learning how to use the site, within The American Legion with the big and they are as follows: Four months that one being The American Legion National all chaplains must remember: please call The American Legion, Department of Maine Headquar- College. The Alumni Program raised over • February - The Four Chaplains ters at 207-873-3229 Ext. 2 or email [email protected] to $18 million in the year 2018-2019 for the Service is one of the most honored events set up an appointment. C&Y programs. that should never be forgotten. Bob Crandall (IN), Compliance & Risk Training lessons last between 1-2 hours. Manager (Legal Division), The American More on “SECOND LOOK”, Page 4

4 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

THE MAINE The Adjutant Speaks ince the last issues of this paper, we the service song of each branch of ser- S have attended the National Conven- vice. Many of the families in attendance Legionnaire tion and appar- were relatives of those names on the mon- ently, we’ve ument. Since that event, we have had a OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF MAINE caught the at- constant flow of visitors at HQ showing tention of other respect to the 480 names on the wall. We Official Newspaper of The American Legion, Dept. of Maine. states in this will also be included in the in the local Published at Sun Press, 104 Park Street, Lewiston, Maine, great country of Chamber of Commerce informational ours. We were packet which will be sent out to hundreds by The American Legion — Department of Maine. constantly ques- of businesses in Maine. In your travels, Business Office, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ME 04901-0727 tioned on the please take the time to visit The American attitudes and the Legion POW-MIA monument located at Website: www.mainelegion.org younger age of your Department Headquarters. our representa- The next thing that came to a close Tel.: 207-873-3229 Fax: 207-872-0501 tives, whether it was our ongoing State of Maine Ameri- was Legion, PAUL can Legion College. Our third and final Email: [email protected] Auxiliary or L’HEUREUX weekend class for 2019 was held on Oct. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/maineamericanlegion Sons. The pride 26 & 27 at Dept. HQ in our training build- and attitudes shown reflected the changes ing, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow. This is the Paul L’Heureux, Editorial Director in how we are doing business in the great third class that is broken down in three Rachael Currie, Managing/Layout Editor State of Maine. As I stood by to watch modules of three complete weekends. that pride and energy, I also was informed These classes are for those that want to David Carkhuff, Assistant Content Layout & Photo Editor that our current State Commander Matt make a difference and are dedicated to Jabaut is the youngest State Commander making that commitment. Thanks to our Third Class Postage paid at Waterville, Maine in The American Legion. Many compli- Instructors, Matt Jabaut, Dean of the Col- ments were received, and our own Past lege, Jason Hall, Lead Facilitator, and Subscription for Maine Legionnaires $2 as a part of their dues. National Commander Anthony “Tony” Ethan McKenney, Facilitator, who have Other subscription Rate $10 a year. Jordan had a smile on his face as other taken the Department Leadership to a National Officers commented on the De- different level. Because of them and the Average Circulation: 22,000. partment of Maine as well. The pride is Department of Maine support we are cur- alive in Maine. rently the #1 Dept. in the country, setting We returned and finalized our plan the standards on all levels of the course. for the dedication of the POW-MIA Mon- The results of these classes are starting to NEC Update ument which was held on Sept. 28 at your show at different levels within the Dept. Department HQ in Winslow. The event of Maine. At the Post level, we have seen ello again, amble Of The Constitution Of The Ameri- went beyond expectations. Everything those improvements, not only with leader- H Legion- can Legion went according to plans, except for the ship but with involvement at the post lev- naires, Changes the phrase “the Great turnout of our members. What started out el with Legion programs and growing Well, here Wars” to “all wars”… with about 200 exceeded 300 and, best of membership within those Posts. Some of we are again. Res. #2 National Oratorical Con- all, the weather was perfect for this event. those examples are Post-67 in Bridgton The Fall Meet- test Of The American Legion The attendance included dignitaries from and Post-37 in Thomaston. At the District ing of the Na- Amends the structure to nine first- Federal, State and Local Government as Level, we have seen growth in member- tional Execu- round quarter-finals, three second-round well as our own National Commander. ship and increased attendance at District tive Committee semi-final contests and a national finals We had over 20 motorcycles in formation meetings. District-6 and District-7 has set has been con- contest involving three finalists. Effective representing our own Legion Riders as new standards in success with District-6 cluded once with the 2020 contest the award structure well as a group from the Combat Vets. starting a new Post as well. These Posts more and we will be: The 15-piece band, Volunteers Jazz Band, got a lot accom- ●up to 53 department winners com- set the tone with patriotic music as well as More on “ADJUTANT”, Page 7 plished during LLOYD peting in the first-round will receive the meetings WOODS $2,000 each; held Oct. 16-17 ●up to 15 first-round winners ad- in Indianapolis. On a sad note, The Amer- vancing to the second-round semi-final ican Legion lost two more Legionnaires who are subsequently eliminated receive Women Veteran’s Advisory during the meeting dates. One was our $2,000 each; National Treasurer, George Buskirk, and ●First place national contest winner Committee Update another was the NECA from Kentucky receives $20,000 who passed sometime either Sunday or ●Second place national contest win- he committee would like to thank The Gillespie e-mail: [email protected], Monday. ner receives $17,000 T American Legion Post 202 and Post Tricia Thurston, Advisor e-mail: tri- We discussed 20 resolutions that ●Third place national contest winner 148 for holding a Women Veteran’s Lunch- [email protected], Joy Bordeau, e- were referred to the NEC from various receives $15,000 eon. Post 202 in Topsham held their lunch- mail: [email protected], committees which of the 20, 19 were ap- Beginning with the 2021 contest, first eon in April. Thank you to Nancy Gillespie Deb Couture, e-mail: navycaptpom- proved with one being returned to the place will increase to $25,000; second and her committee for a great event. Post [email protected], Brenda Dearborn, committee for further study and correc- place to $22,500 and third place to 148 in Windham was recently held in Octo- email: [email protected], Gloria tion. $20,000. ber. Thank you to Rebecca Cummings and Hall, e-mail: [email protected], Res. #1 Amendment To The Pre- David Tangway for all your hard work. I Maureen Malley, e-mail: maureenmal- More on “NEC”, Page 7 attended both events, and it was evident [email protected] Catherine Merrill, e- that a lot of hard work was put in to mak- mail: [email protected], SECOND LOOK • November - Veterans Day is a ing sure those in attendance had a great Renee Wells, e-mail: time to remember the sacrifices made by time. Guest speakers were in attendance [email protected], Caroline Yarma- (Continued from Page 3) those who served at home and abroad, as well as resources to support those la, Christie King, e-mail: christiek- each giving of their time. We must re- seeking information. [email protected], Robin Greene, email: • May - Ensure that Posts honor member all veterans who came before us As always, we are looking for anyone [email protected]. Please do not the grave of every veteran within their and that we, The American Legion stand from The American Legion Family who hesitate to reach out to any of the commit- community, across the country over Me- for something. Never forget. is willing to support one of these events. tee members. We are here to support all morial Day. Post Everlasting is a poign- • December - Pearl Harbor Day We are here to support you in planning. Veterans. ant reminder for all of those who have In closing, I looking forward to see- Please reach out to a committee member Thank you. passed on throughout the year and we ing you in my travels and wish each and if you would like to plan a luncheon. Submitted by The American Legion Depart- must find the time to honor them. every one a Joyous Holiday Season. Your committee members for 2019- ment of Maine Sergeant-At-Arms & Women Veter- an’s Advisory Committee Advisor Patricia Thurston 2020 are as follows: Chairwoman Nancy

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 5 President’s Message reetings, citizens that call it home. — Your Letters — G Legion In the past, I have struggled with the Family, phrase, “Service, not Self”. The struggle Thank You for Children, at the Warren Prison. The Holi- has been that, in serving our Veterans, I We have transitioned 16 women and days are right always feel I walk away with a fuller Youth Scholarship five children through this house in 18 around the heart, a greater appreciation and gratitude, months. We have never been empty. corner, for the life I have lived and a renewed Dear American Legion Children and Thank you again. thoughts are sense of motivation to continue to serve. Youth Committee, Respectfully, full of reflec- The friendships I have acquired Thank you for awarding me with the Martha Everatt StPierre, Children and Youth Scholarship. This Founder and Executive Director tion, grati- through this organization are irreplacea- Betsy Ann Ross House of Hope tude, various ble, nurturing and growing. The self-worth, scholarship will make a huge difference in emotions, and self-esteem and self-confidence that has helping me be able to finance my educa- of memories built and continues to build, with the help of tion and, for that, I am grateful. Most of Gift Card Has Come in all, thank you for believing in me and my of those no PRESIDENT so many others of like mind, often makes Handy for Purchase of Books goals. longer with VIRGINIA CHAPUT me feel that I get so much more then I could us. With the possible give. Through serving our Veter- I will be starting school at Maine Thank you all for the wonderful gift recent pass- ans, their Families and Communities, College of Health Professions on August card. I have used it for the purchase of ing of my oldest son, John, my emotions through working side by side with members 12 and I am very excited for my next several books which I have long waited to have become ups and downs, unpredicta- of The American Legion, The Sons of the chapter. purchase. ble from moment to moment. The one American Legion, The American Legion Thank you, Now I just need to find the time to Madison Greenlaw thing that has been constant has been the Riders and fellow American Legion Auxil- read them. physical and virtual hug and support that I iary members, I have learned to be comfort- Miss you all. and my family have received and continue able with my “Self”. Legion Riders of Maine Tom Adkins to receive, from my "Legion Family", For all the above mentioned, I wish Thanked for Donation Children & Youth Scholarship near and far. to express my most heartfelt Thank you, Being a member of this Family, an for the gifts that being a member of the Legion Riders of Maine Provides more Opportunities active member of the American Legion American Legion Family gives to me Thank you so much for your generos- Auxiliary, has always been a way for me, continually and unconditionally. ity in donating $3,753 to The Betsy Ann Paul, in some small way, to give back to those In Grateful Service, Ross House of Hope. I’m writing to you to thank you very who have sacrificed so much and some “Aiming to Inspire and Mentor, for As you know, we are a transitional much for the grand tour of Headquarters. who have gave all, to those who the Next 100 Years” To me, it was very amazing to see all the Ginny Chaput house for homeless and in need female have suffered emotionally and/or physi- Veterans and their children. These funds hard work that was put in to bring this cally as a result of making a decision to President, Dept. of Maine The American Legion Auxiliary are truly appreciated. post headquarters to where it is now. serve this great Country and to protect the Thank you so much for actually com- Thank you again for the tour and also ing to see the house and our program. As everything you’re doing for the American you could see, we are always working on Legion posts around Maine. There’s a lot this house, now painting the back of the of work on your hands and you’re doing a POW/MIA house (finally). We will be insulating the fine job. Program Gerald Boulette, Service Officer, attic this fall and putting in interior storm Athens Post 192 Discussion: Left to windows donated by “Window Dressers” right, NECA Randall Kluj and American Legion Auxiliary State President Virginia Chaput discuss a few important items on the program before the POW/ View from the MIA Ceremony at Legion State Headquarters on National Convention Sept. 28. By DAVID TANGUAY Maybe some other organization would have come along to support some Veter- Special to The Maine Legionnaire ans, but, the founders of The American Legion (including Teddy Roosevelt Jr, ust back from The American Legion stated that, “A Veteran is a Veteran!”) J 101st National Convention in Indian- There were no divisions by battles, class, apolis with lots to contemplate. rank, gender, race, etc. All Veterans With dozens of training sessions and should be treated equally. That has been too many speakers to recall everything the goal that is still being pursued even that was said. I find myself focusing on a today. couple of themes that I would like to dis- It was The American Legion who cuss. lead the charge for a Veteran’s Admin- Many times, people look at an Amer- istration and The American Legion who ican Legion Post as just a “Good Old presented the first draft of the GI Bill; An Boy’s “club or maybe the local “watering Act that has benefited more Veterans than hole”. I’m sure There are a few Posts that any other Law on the books today wheth- fit that category. Many Post members er it was to purchase a home; go to view their membership in the Legion as school; get retrained after their service; being part of an organization that is big- and so much more. If you do not know ger than themselves. All Posts are local, your Legion History, take the time to go but all Posts have the potential to be more online or get the History venues for your than that. The Four Pillars of the Legion Post from the National website. provide the framework for each Post to So, what has the Legion done for me reach into the community to support our lately? Good question. National Com- Veterans and our youth. mander Brett Reistad highlighted just a One question that resounded with me few of the items that transpired during the An Honor Flight ceremony took place at Portland Jetport on Honor Flight: was, “where would we be as a country if Legions 100th year. Sept. 22. Left to right, Auxiliary President Virginia Chaput pins Bob Fairfield with there had not been an American Legion Charlotte Hagan looking on. Photo by Department Historian Jeffrey Stevenson over the last 100 years?” Think about it. More on “CONVENTION”, Page 12

6 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 Service Office Update here are a few things that I want to that requests for financial needs should be NEW WAYS TO APPLY FOR VA conditions that may be claimable for the T talk about in this issue. The first is a directed to your town/city for general as- HEALTHCARE children of women veterans who served in local veterans sistance (GA), and either a local Legion Sign up for VA Healthcare. Sign-up certain areas and/or on certain ships that assistance book. Post for a possible fundraiser or The for VA Healthcare can now be done three are presumptive for Agent Orange. If you To me this is American Legion Department Headquar- ways! The Department of Veterans Af- are a woman veteran, it is a good idea to important for a ters. In addition, we can make referrals to fairs (VA) announced today it has elimi- give us a call or look for more information few reasons. The other service organizations, but we do not nated paper signature requirements for on www.va.gov. most important have the funds to pay rent, mortgage, veterans wishing to enroll in VA health PLEASE USE THE DSO TO reason is that I credit card bills or other ongoing bills. care. Effective immediately, VA has TRANSMIT YOUR CLAIMS/ have heard of If you have children, mention TFA to amended its enrollment regulations to EVIDENCE TO THE VA; THIS EN- cases where a the Department Adjutant when you call allow veterans to complete enrollment SURES A PAPER TRAIL AND EVI- veteran was to see if you are eligible to apply. applications for enrollment in VA health DENCE IT WAS SUBMITTED! You can turned away PSO Training Seminar. There will not care by telephone without the need for a either mail it or drop it off in the office! from a local be another PSO course this year. They paper signature. DSO CONTACT INFORMATION. American Le- will start up in April By adding this tele- We are located at Togus VA Medical gion Post. The of 2020. If you are phone application Center, Building 205, Room 318. You reason was be- interested in attending, option to VA’s regula- can contact us by telephone at 207-623- cause the indi- SERVICE OFFICER then let me know. tions with this amend- 5726, Fax at 207-621-4821, or by email vidual that the CARL CURTIS You do not have to be ment, VA will now at [email protected], veteran talked to a post service officer offer three ways to [email protected], or ju- did not have any idea how to help them. A to attend training. You enroll. This option [email protected]. We are here to assist local assistance book would have stopped just have to care and provides veterans a you Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.–3 that from happening. It is nothing more want to make a differ- convenient third en- p.m,; on Friday the hours are from 9 a.m. than a three-ring binder that lists local ence. rollment option. to noon. We are closed on federal holidays agencies that have agreed to help veterans. PSO Contact 1. Paper - VA Form and Patriot’s Day. Just a reminder, it is This binder should be in the post where Information. Post 10-10 EZ. always a good idea to make an appoint- everyone can get to it. No veteran should Service Officers, as a 2. Call 1-877-222- ment rather than drop in, as we may be ever be turned away. This is something minimum, please send VETS (8387), Mon- seeing other veterans and would hate to that the Post Service Officer should be us your full name, Fri between 8 am and miss you. That said, you are always wel- putting together. Call if you have ques- Post, telephone num- 8 pm, EST. come to stop in the DSO Office. tions on this. ber (your phone num- 3. On-Line at REQUESTING A DSO PRESEN- Latest and greatest from the VA ber will not be re- www.vets.gov! TATION AT YOUR AREA/DISTRICT on Blue Water Navy. The date that the leased) and email ad- TOGUS VA WOM- OR SPECIAL EVENT. If you are in- VA will start working the Blue Water dress. The purpose is EN’S CLINIC. terested in having us speak at your area or Navy claims is fast approaching. The VA so that members of If you haven’t already district meeting or event, just contact us to has requested that if a Blue Water Navy your Post can contact heard, there is a set up a time and date! Requests are han- veteran has ever been denied for exposure you for local assis- Women Veterans dled on a first-come first-serve status; to Agent Orange, they must submit a sup- tance and also so that I Clinic here at Togus. subject to the availability of travel funds. plemental claim review. The VA will be can contact you, by phone or email, if we It specializes in women’s health issues. Please set aside at least 30 minutes of your sending out letters to all veterans that fall hear from a member in your Post that Please keep in mind that there are medical agenda for the presentation. into this category. This includes surviving needs assistance. spouses whose husband pasted away from DSO Newsletter. To sign up for the a presumptive condition of Agent Orange newsletter, please email your contact in- exposure. Have them contact our office formation to [email protected] and state for assistance. in the body of your email if you would The weather is turning colder, like your name listed in the newsletter as and the holiday season is coming up fast. well as permission to link to your email Buddy checks are becoming more im- address through the newsletter. The news- portant. Does the veteran have heat? Is the letter is emailed out monthly. The news- veteran all alone? Does he have food? letter was developed as a way to stay in Many of our comrades do not come into touch with Post Service Officers and to the post very often. In short, we have no keep them up to date on changes and idea how they are doing. If we don’t act, sources of information that is of value to no one will. As veterans, we normally will our veterans. The newsletter contains ac- not ask for help. It is important that we tive links to a variety of resources for vet- ensure that our comrades are taken care erans as well as links to you, so you can of. We have an entire state of resources better serve the members of your post. that we can use to help. We are not doing mailings at this time. PLEASE READ AND RESPOND INTENT TO FILE. Some veterans TO YOUR MAIL FROM THE VA! are not ready to file a claim or are looking APPEALS OF CLAIMS. for additional information. In that case, APPEALS OF CLAIMS. The ap- you can execute an Intent to File with our peals process is no longer the strict struc- office. That is NOT a claim for benefits. ture it was. If your decision was after Feb. You have one year to file your claim; one- 19, you fall under the AMA. There are year period! Failure to file in one year now five lanes you can choose from. The starts the clock on your claim from the first two are at the regional level. They are day you file. DO NOT FORGET TO called supplemental review and higher- FOLLOW UP AND FILE YOUR level review. Then there are three ways to CLAIM! appeal directly to the Board of Veterans NEW AND MATERIAL EVI- Appeals. They are direct, evidence only, DENCE. VA claims that are denied and and hearing. The time limit is now one have not been appealed within the appro- year from each decision. priate time frame require “New and Mate- Contacting the DSO for Assistance rial Evidence” to be reopened. It is some- Parking Attendants: American Legion Department of Maine Officers by Telephone. Please just leave your times futile and frustrating to the veteran prepare to direct traffic at the POW/MIA Ceremony at State HQ in Winslow, name, phone number, and who you are to keep resubmitting the same claim as it Sept. 28 to provide a safe and orderly parking of vehicles. Left to right, working with. will most likely be denied. Department Service Officer Carl Curtis, Department 2nd Vice Commander Financial Assistance. Keep in mind Kirk Thurston and Department Americanism Officer Al McKay.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 7

from the Veterans Affairs & Rehabilita- “NEC” tion Commission Standing Up for Maine Veterans (Continued from Page 4) Res. #13 Tracking Of Veteran Un- employment In All U.S. Territories s a percentage of the population, monthly meetings to listen and learn Res. #3 Extension of Agreement DOL to track unemployment rate of A Maine has the 3rd largest Veterans how I can help address the challenges With Baseball Factory all U.S. Territories also the veteran com- population in the United States. We have they’re facing. Allows extended 5 year contract to munity. a proud tradition of service in this state, And earlier provide clinics and tournaments for Le- Res. #14 Reauthorize and Fund the and I’m proud to be one of the roughly this year, it gion baseball players. U.S. Small Business Administration’s 57,000 veterans in Maine’s Second was an honor Res. #4 American Legion Junior Patriot Express Loan District. One of my top priorities in to swear in my Shooting Sports Air Rifle National Cham- The American Legion encourages Congress is standing up for veterans good friend, pionship Award legislation to reauthorize and fund said and making sure they get the care and Matthew Jab- Renames the trophy to the above title. program which would allow faster access benefits they have earned. aut, as Maine Res. #5 National Convention Veter- to capital needed to start or expand a vet- I know that many vets have strug- Commander. ans Affairs & Rehabilitation Screening eran’s business. gled to get the mental health care they I’m taking Committee Res. #15 Support Greater GI Bill needed when they returned home. In what I learn in Establishes a five member commit- Outcomes by Closing 90-10 Loophole Maine, one area where the VA falls my conversa- tee to consider all resolutions assigned to Res. #16 Develop Training For Em- short is providing long-term mental tions with Le- the VA&R Commission. ployers who Utilize Veterans’ Preference health and substance abuse care. Togus CONGRESSMAN gionnaires and Res. #6 75th Anniversary of World in their Hiring Practices doesn’t have a facility to provide this JARED GOLDEN putting it to War II Res. #17 Oppose Deportation of care, so veterans who are struggling work in Wash- Departments and posts to work with Non-Citizen Immigrant Veterans can be sent hundreds of miles from ington. I co- state and local governments for any event. (returned to committee for further study) home to Massachusetts or Connecticut. sponsored the LEGION Act, which Res. #7 The American Legion Veter- Res. #18 Funding of the Depart- That’s why I’ve been focused on expands the number of veterans who ans & Children Foundation Authorization ment of Defense STARBASE Program pressing the VA to bring long-term are eligible for membership in the To solicit funds to raise an additional Students explore real world scenarios mental health care beds to Togus. This American Legion and gives more veter- $25,000,000. using computer aided design, robotics, year, I led the Maine delegation to call ans an opportunity to get involved with Res. #8 Authorize Issuance Of Tem- engineering design process, mathematics on the VA to address this serious short- others who have served. This is an im- porary Charter To A Foreign Post and chemistry, while stressing the “soft coming for Maine vets. I also success- portant, bipartisan issue for many vet- To Molesworth Post 0303 Moles- subjects” of teamwork, communication fully secured an amendment in the VA erans I have met. I’m proud to report worth, England affiliated with Department and goal setting originally conducted in funding bill that passed the House to that the president signed that bill into of France middle schools. increase funding for long-term mental law this summer. Res. #9 Updated Eligibility For Res. #19 Liaison Committees health and substance abuse programs. For any veterans reading today, I Samsung American Legion Scholarships The National Commander to appoint, These are just the first steps in what want to make clear that my office is Conforms to the dates of eligibility without duplication, members from the NEC will be on ongoing fight to improve here to support you. If you’re having for The American Legion per the Legion at the post-convention meeting of the NEC mental health care for veterans. trouble with the VA, have concerns Act to serve until adjournment of the National But, as any Legionnaire knows, you’d like me to hear about, or just Res. #10 100th Anniversary Remem- Convention next ensuing convention. veterans count on more than robust want to see what I’ve been up to, my brance Of Our Comrades In The 1919 Res. #20 Rescinding of Non- health care when they come home. We office is here to help you. If you’d like Centralia Tragedy Legislative Resolutions look for the sense of community and to visit in person, come see us in Ban- Remembrance of those Legionnaires The full resolution can be obtained at support that we had when we served. gor, Caribou or Lewiston. Or if you’d killed in the Centralia, Washington Parade the digital archives at legion.org if desired. Many veterans want to feel connected rather call, the phone numbers for each Res. #11 Abolish Premium Penalty Thank you for allowing me to repre- to fellow veterans and to their commu- of my offices is listed below. We look For Delayed Enrollment In Medicare Part sent you and our department on this com- nities. That’s why I’ve been a strong forward to hearing from you. B For Veterans Eligible For - Abolish the mittee. I will do my best to represent you supporter of The American Legion and 10% premium penalty for all veterans de- to the utmost. If I can be of any assistance their long legacy of community service. Bangor Office: 6 State Street, Bangor ME laying enrollment while eligible for VA please contact me via email or by my cell, I’m a proud member of Post 202 in 04401. Phone: (207) 249-7400 medical benefits. [email protected] / (207) 557-4971. Topsham. Caribou Office: 7 Hatch Drive, Suite 230, Caribou ME 04736. Phone: (207) 492-6009 Res. #12 Rescinding Resolutions One of the great honors of my PROUD TO SERVE Lewiston Office: 179 Lisbon Street, Lewis- work so far has been the time I’ve ton ME 04240. Phone: (207) 241-6767 spent at Legion halls around our state. Washington Office: 1223 Longworth HOB, Since January, I’ve met with Legion Washington DC 20515. Phone: (202) 225- members at coffee hours, anniversary 6306

Promote Your Business with celebrations, memorial dedications and Submitted by U.S. Representative Jared Golden

the Maine American Legion currently go to the UM at Ft. Kent. He has “ADJUTANT” also taken the Dept. Service Officer Class (Continued from Page 4) which will enable him to help Veterans in he American Legion, Department of Maine will be taking a the County as well as in the college. Now T new direction this year to improve our Annual State Conven- and Districts have Legionnaires that grad- what do Keith & Leroy have in common? tion Yearbook. uated in the first class so we know that the They have what so many of you keep Various changes other two classes are already setting new telling me what is missing, younger goals and we will track those success sto- members with new ideas and the energy will take place ries for future articles for sure. to make things happen. Yes, no matter including the During these events, we have also the location they are coming to join, but format of the sent a Revitalization Team to a number of if you do not give them a chance to do publication as Posts that required a little guidance to get things, they will leave. These are but a them back on track. There are a couple few that are currently making a differ- well as a digital that have stood out because of new Lead- ence and there are many others enrolling copy which will ership and ideas. Post-180 in St. Francis in the Service Officers Class and the Le- be made availa- (Allagash area) was ready to close the gion College Classes now offered. ble online at doors, but after a few trips and follow-ups As we enter the Holiday Season, I with the District -17 Commander Joseph want to thank all of those new Legion www.mainelegion.org. To submit your sponsorship ad and pay- Michaud, a new Commander named Keith Members that have come forward to help ment, please visit https://form.jotform.com/RachaelJ/ALDOM- Jandreau has taken that Post to over 100 with the programs and challenges that we Yearbook-Sponsorship-ReqForm or www.mainelegion.org and percent membership and still signing up have taken on. Because of you many of click on the image of the Maine American Legion Convention new members. And then a few miles from these success stories would not have hap- there another Legionnaire. Leroy McKen- pened. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Yearbook Sponsorship Request Form. zie just recently surfaced with new ideas Christmas and a very Happy New Year to and energy to work with the Veterans that all. FORWARD & FOCUSED

8 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 On Veterans Day, a Chance to Honor Honoring the Timeless Heroism of a American Heroes World War I Veteran

t was the what they have done to inspire future gen- n July 18, 1918, Private Arthur Lab- long overdue I eleventh hour erations. For years to come, young Sol- O bay was engaged in a fierce battle in medals for our of the eleventh diers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast France during World War I. During his service mem- day of the elev- Guardsmen will endeavor to emulate their dangerous assignment of running from bers, but it has enth month, hard work, integrity, and commitment to one foxhole to another reloading machine never been for 1918, when the our country and its citizens. guns, he was shot in the right arm by ene- a WWI service Allied Forces In Maine, we are proud that so many my fire. While Private Labbay was seek- member, and and Central of our neighbors and friends answered the ing a medic to treat his serious injury, he that made this Powers laid call to serve our nation – indeed, over ten received another nearly fatal wound from event incredi- down their arms percent of Maine citizens are veterans. a bullet that punctured his throat. bly special. to formalize the When they return home to civilian life, More than 101 years later, I was hon- Arthur Labbay end of the First these men and women form the backbone ored to present the Purple Heart this was born in World War. One of our communities: they are teachers, American hero earned but never received 1894 and en- year later, in SENATOR first responders, business owners, and to his daughters, Pauline Labbay Blais SENATOR listed in the 1919, the United ANGUS KING mentors. They are people bound together and Charlotte Landry, along with his SUSAN COLLINS Army when the States observed by an ethic of service, dedicated to fur- granddaughter Kathy Dostie. United States the first Armistice Day to remember the thering the American experiment and fos- In addition to other family members, entered World War I. He was assigned to Americans who fought and died in the tering a more free and just America. the ceremony in my Lewiston Constituent Company H, 3rd Battalion, 58th Infantry muddy trenches of Europe. In the 100 But Veterans Day should not just be a Service Center was attended by Major Gen- Regiment and sent to France. The combat years since, we have come to recognize day of gratitude and remembrance. It eral Douglas Farnham, the Adjutant General in which he was wounded was one the November 11th as Veterans Day – a day should also be a day to reaffirm our com- of the Maine National Guard, and Colonel first battles the American Expeditionary to pay tribute to American veterans of all mitment to care for those who have fought Andrew Gibson, Maine Army National Force fought against a powerful and expe- wars who have bravely stood up in de- on our behalf. All across America, too Guard Chaplain. It was so inspiring to join rienced German foe. fense of liberty and democracy – from many veterans are left struggling with the family and friends in paying tribute to His wounds were so grievous that he Bunker Hill to Baghdad. homelessness, mental health, unemploy- Arthur Labbay’s exemplary courage, sacri- required months of hospitalization in On this Veterans Day, it is my privi- ment, and a lack of access to healthcare. fice, and devotion to duty. France. He returned home on Christmas st lege to thank all the men and women who So today, let us both celebrate America’s On July 18 of this year, the 101 an- Eve 1918, married, and had four daugh- answered the call to serve in defense of veterans and rededicate ourselves to Presi- niversary of the day Private Labbay was ters and two sons. He lived in Lewiston our nation. These patriots and their devot- dent Lincoln’s promise, “[t]o care for him wounded, his daughter Pauline, who lives and worked making coils at a local found- ed families represent the best of America. who shall have borne the battle, and for in Greene, reached out to my office to ry. He was affected by the wounds for the

Today, we acknowledge not only what his widow, and his orphan.” inquire whether her late father was eligi- rest of his life and was a patient for many they have done to keep us safe, but also Submitted by Senator Angus King ble for the Purple Heart. I contacted the years at Togus VA Medical Center, yet he Department of Defense and provided confronted his injuries with the same them with a packet of information regard- courage and determination he demonstrat- ing Private Labbay’s service. The Army ed in combat. When he passed away in then determined that he had indeed earned 1980, his final resting place was at Saint the medal. Peter’s Cemetery in Lewiston. One of the most rewarding experi- The meaning of the Purple Heart ences I have as a United States Senator is Medal carries the sentiments of troops to help our veterans and their families going back to the 18th century. The Badge obtain the medals they earned but never of Military Merit, the Purple Heart’s received. It is humbling to reflect upon origin and inspiration, was established by the valor each medal represents. I have George Washington in 1782.

often been called upon to work on getting Submitted by Senator Susan M. Collins

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 9 Membership Renewals Eligibility Information embership in The American Legion member renews, they are removed from f you have served federal active duty in American Legion at this time, until the M is based on a calendar-year from future renewal notices for that year. There I the United States Armed Forces since date of the end of hostilities as deter- January 1st to December 31st. When a are times when a member pays their dues, December 7, 1941, and have been honora- mined by the government of the United member pays their dues, they are paid up but they still receive a renewal notice. If bly discharged or are still serving - you States. for that membership year. They will also dues are paid to the local post, it takes a are eligible for membership in The Amer- **U.S. Merchant Marine eligible receive twelve monthly subscriptions to little longer for national to be notified ican Legion! only from December 7, 1941 to Decem- The American Legion Magazine. about the renewal and the member may *Because eligibility dates remain ber 31, 1946 (WWII). The renewal process begins in July receive another renewal notice. If this open, all active duty members of the U.S. for the upcoming membership year. Re- occurs, please check with your local post Armed Forces are eligible to join The —www.legion.org newal notices are sent out in July, Octo- to ensure they have received your dues. ber, January, March and May. When a —www.legion.org

RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Eligibility Questions hat are the eligibility dates for No. Per National Constitution and ONLINE TODAY! W membership in The American By-laws, no form or class of member- VISIT WWW.MAINELEGION.ORG OR Legion? ship is authorized except regular active Thanks to the LEGION Act (Let or paid up for life. VISIT WWW.LEGION.ORG/RENEW Everyone Get Involved In Opportuni- I served my entire military career ties for National Service Act), Congress in the National Guard/Reserves, and expanded the current eligibility period only have a DD214 from my Active How to Become a Maine Legionnaire! to cover Dec. 7, 1941, to the present, Duty for Training that I was in dur- and includes the current war campaigns. ing one of the qualifying dates. Am I Previously, there were seven declared eligible? It’s Easy–Join Today! war periods. Now there are two, the Yes, you are a veteran. In the mid- current war period dating back to World 60s all basic training and occupational eterans who qualify can join The Post, please wait until you receive a 9- War II and another war era covering training schools were considered feder- V American Legion in Maine by using digit membership ID #, then contact the World War I. No other restrictions to al active duty service. one of following options: Post you wish to transfer to. American Legion membership I served active duty as a SPAR, Option 1: Join the traditional Option 3: Join online—visit changed. WAC, WASP, or WAVES during the way—fill out the form provided below www.mainelegion.org and click on the I'm currently on active duty. Am one of the qualifying periods. Am I and give to a recruiter or Legionnaire who Join Button. Fill out The American Le- I eligible? eligible? will then sign it and take it to a local Post. gion, Department of Maine application Yes, you are a veteran. All current Yes, you are a veteran. Even If a candidate is signed up at a Post, he or and proceed with the payment options though women served separately than she can receive their membership card on provided. By joining The American Le- active duty military are eligible for the spot or will be sent a new card shortly gion, Department of Maine, you automat- membership. men, their service is equal. thereafter. ically are placed in Headquarters Post I didn't retire from the military, I served with allied military forc- es during one of the qualifying peri- Option 2: Join via snail mail—fill 178. If you wish to transfer to a local but was on active duty during one of out the form provided below. Mail the Post, please wait until you receive a 9- the qualifying time periods. Am I eli- ods. Am I eligible? form along with a check in the amount of digit membership ID #, then contact the gible? Yes, you are a veteran, only if you $40 to The American Legion, Department Post you wish to transfer to. Yes, you are a veteran. As long as were a U.S. citizen at the time of entry. of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine Need Help! Call The American Le- you have served at least one day of fed- I served with the Civil Air Patrol/ 04901-0727. By joining The American gion, Department of Maine at 207-873- eral active duty during any qualifying Civilian Technical Corps/USPHS as a Legion, Department of Maine, you auto- 3229 and someone will be available to period, you are eligible for member- civilian during two qualifying peri- matically are placed in Headquarters Post assist you. ship. ods. Am I eligible? 178. If you wish to transfer to a local I served during one of the quali- No. Eligible members must have fying periods, but was never in a federal military service during a quali- combat zone. Am I eligible? fying period and received an honorable Yes, you are a veteran. Location of discharge or discharge under honorable active duty service is not a considera- conditions. tion for membership. I enlisted and went to basic train- I'm currently in the National ing, but received an uncharacterized Guard/Reserve. My unit was activat- discharge due to a medical condition. ed under Title 10 orders during a Am I eligible? qualifying time period. Am I eligible? Yes, you are a veteran. Uncharac- Yes, you are a veteran. Title 10 terized discharges for medical discharg- orders are issued by the Secretary of es are assumed to be under honorable Defense and therefore are federal or- conditions unless specifically stated ders. otherwise. There are other categories of My National Guard unit was acti- uncharacterized discharges and before vated for crowd control under Title they are determined eligible for mem- 32 orders during one of the qualify- bership the discharge should be sent to ing periods. Am I eligible? National for determination and a record No. Title 32 orders are issued under will be maintained at National on final a governor's authority, whereas Title 10 determination. orders are issued from the Secretary of I'm eligible for The American Defense. Legion, but do not have a copy of my I'm currently a cadet at one of DD214 to show as proof of eligibility. the U.S. Military Academies. Am I How can I get one? eligible? You can go to archives.gov/ Yes, you are a veteran. The Ameri- veterans to request another copy of your can Legion has considered service in discharge papers. A copy of orders put- the military academies as eligible for ting you on federal active duty can be membership since WWI. used as proof of eligibility as well.

Can I be an honorary or social —www.legion.org member of The American Legion?

10 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 — Bits ′N Pieces — Down Memory Lane

packages for Somerset Special Olympics American Legion Baseball Thomaston Post 37 Luck of the Draw Auction, $25 to

th Wounded Warriors Project in memory of A celebration of the 100 anniver- a Unit member, $50 to Diadema Golf sary of Post 37 was held on August 17. Classic Tournament to benefit patients By DAN WARREN Thomaston Post 37 Historian George undergoing treatment for cancer at the Robinson, Jr. gave a short talk on the Oncology Department at Redington Fair- Special to The Maine Legionnaire 1919 founding of the post. Presentation of view Hospital, $25 to Madison Trunk of American Legion Continuous Service Treat, $25 to Madison’s Informational his is a photo of my late father, Harvey Certificates were presented to members Booth, $25 to Maplecrest Rehab & Liv- Warren, Navy Pilot, World War II. by Commander William Demmons and T ing Center for their Halloween Walk I suppose, if you look at his photo, First Vice Commander Jeremey Miller. Through, $25 to Maine Parkinsons Socie- you will understand immediately why I This year the awards ranged from five to ty, $15 Bingo package for Unit #16 Luck took his sugges- 60 years and totaled more than 700 years of the Draw Auction and $50 for the tion 36 years of service. Standdown at Togus, ago to get in- A Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster The Legion family held a benefit and volved with the was presented to Mrs. Shirley Richards, the raised $1,400 for a Unit member, her Libby-Mitchell widow of Darby’s Rangers, Lloyd D. Rich- husband, who is a SAL member, and their Post 76 in Scar- ards by Service Officer Jeffrey Wright and family who lost their home due to a fire. borough to Historian George Robinson, Jr. Post 39, Unit 39 and SAL Squadron “help the boys

39 raised $4,692.50 for a Unit member’s at the Legion Madison Post 39 son who needs a liver transplant. out,” he said. Squadron 39 contributed to the Town And you Madison Post 39 for their donations of Madison’s Trunk or Treat and the In- may also under- of $50 to MAD@Cancer Ride for Ameri- formation Booth to help fund the candy stand why, in can Cancer Society, $180 worth of coffee that was handed out. l999, after I to Togus VAVS, $125 to the Sea Cadets ALR Chapter 39 donated $100 to the bellyached that DAN HARVEY WARREN for their voyage on a Windjammer, $15 wife of a fellow rider and charter member they wanted me WARREN Bingo package for the Cayford/Pollis to help with travel expenses to the hospi- to take over the in the face of all the help they gave the benefit, $100 to Diadema Golf Classic tal in Portland, $50 to Togus Creative struggling American Legion baseball pro- team—fundraising, year-end player-parent Tournament to benefit patients undergo- Arts and $40 to Unit 39 for turkeys for gram—and, in doing so, raise the money, BBQ, trophy case in the Post main room). ing treatment for cancer in the Oncology the annual Thanksgiving dinner. buy the equipment, order new uniforms, My father once said to me: “Many of Department at Redington Fairview Gen- hire and supervise the coaches, arrange for us after the war settled down here and eral Hospital, $15 Bingo package for Bridgton Post 67 fields to play on, umpires to do the wanted to help our towns.” No resting on Somerset Special Olympics Luck of the games , he just stared at me. their laurels, with this bunch. Draw Auction, and a $15 Bingo package Bridgton Post 67 hosted the ALR “The gentlemen at the Post were at And Ken had a phrase—“Better hu- and $25 for a Unit member’s son who Summer Rally which brought together Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima, D-Day, Korea, or man beings make better ballplayers.” He needs a liver transplant. Riders from all over the state. The Riders Vietnam. I would not say to them what was right. Unit 39 donated $44 worth of com- of Maine made a substantial donation to you just said to me about the sacrifice There is an old comical saying among fort care items for VAVS, $150 to the Sea the Betsy Ann Ross Home for women required of you. I am sure you will do volunteers---“No good deed goes unpun- Cadets, $100 to a Unit member who lost Veterans with children. what they have asked of you. I know they ished! her home due to fire, $50 sponsorship of will all appreciate your help with their ball There is some truth to that. a Unit member for American Cancer So- club.” In my 20th year as GM and occasional ciety, $25 to B Co. JMCA in memory of a Scarborough Post 76 I did and they did. coach, I became the target of an organized Unit member, $100 to a Legionnaire for My father was one of a bunch of Vet- campaign by two (well-intentioned, I am traveling to Boston for medical treat- Scarborough Post 76 has been spon- erans in Maine who, more than five dec- sure) dads who wanted me out so they ments, $25 to Maine General Home Care soring free coffee and donuts the third ades ago, invigorated the fledgling Dirigo could coach, and also allow their sons to and Hospice in memory of a Unit mem- Wednesday of each month. All Veterans, Boys State program. My father was not a play BOTH Legion ball for Libby- ber, $25 gas card to a Legionnaire for Scarborough Police, Scarborough Fire, “baseball guy,” but I remember meeting Mitchell Post and AAU private-team traveling expenses to Boston for treat- Scarborough Public Works and Scar- several Libby-Mitchell Post guys in the baseball on a “travel team” that played out ment in memory of a Unit member, $150 borough School bus drivers are welcome. l960’s, such as Ken Dolloff, Don McLew- of state etc. We had dealt with forfeits one to VAVS for comfort items, $15 Bingo In the last couple of months, they have in, and others, when I was a little kid, and year; players were stretched too thin; package for a Luck of the Draw for the been hosting a free lunch for all. They seeing them work with local home builder some would play out of state and miss our Cayford/Pollis benefit, two $15 Bingo serve roughly 90 folks each month. George Stanford to make wooden baseball games. Not good. We developed a poli- bats in his workshop for Scarborough cy—if you want to play for our team that boys. is the only baseball team you will play on Bench Ken Dolloff, a D-Day Veteran and this season. Donation: member of the Scarborough High School Most people understood it. Our The Sons of The Class of 1940, was one of the Post guys coaches loved it. Legion baseball officials who asked me in l999 to take over the in Togus mentioned us to other teams in American Legion Post baseball team. It was a “combined” the state dealing with similar forfeit prob- State Detachment team that included teenaged boys from lems. Officer Al Morton Scarborough, Gorham and Saco. There We ended up having a meeting at the and Squadron had been off-field discipline problems. Post with the disgruntled parents. I was Post 21 member Player interest was down. Things were reminded of this recently by current Libby Ed Morton donate about to fold. -Mitchell Post stalwarts—Commander a granite bench to After I agreed to take over as General Phil Ceaser, and Past Commander Dave The American Manager of Baseball Operations (Ken’s Dolloff. Legion, Depart- military phrase, not mine!), he said to me, I was defended by two current or Past ment of Maine, on “I just have two requests—One is that you Commanders at that meeting. I will be June 3 on behalf put the Post name and an American flag forever grateful to them---Duane Jutting, of the Sons of The patch somewhere on the shirts or ball and Ken Dolloff. American Legion caps; and two, that you require some type Duane Jutting said, in celebration of of community service by the players.” “Mr. Warren has organized skills 100 years of ser- I agreed (not that, with these guys, I clinics for the boys. Former pro and col- vice. Left to right, Department Adjutant Paul L’Heureux, Department Judge ever felt their very modest occasional re- lege players have taught fundamentals to quests was every “debatable—“especially Advocate Jason Hall, Ed Morton, and Al Morton. More on “BASEBALL”, Page 11

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 11 Legion to Congress: ‘Fix the Gold 2020 High School Oratorical Contest Star Kiddie Tax!’ State Finals set for Feb. 8 at Thomas College NDIANAPOLIS - (Aug. 19, 2019) The for such things as rent, food or the basic he American Legion, ond place takes home I head of The American Legion called on necessities of life when the tax rate on the T Department of Maine $17,000, and third gets Congress to address a tax that unfairly important benefits they received is held High School Oratorical $15,000. penalizes Gold Star families once law- up in limbo? In addition to the ‘kiddie Scholarship Contest will The members of the Orator- makers return to Washington. tax,’ there is a ‘widow’s tax’ that The once again be held at ical Committee will be “There is a real problem with this American Legion has long opposed.” Thomas College in Water- working with both Area provision of the tax reform but the Senate Reistad said. “The House version of the ville on Feb. 8, 2020 at 9 and District Commanders and the House already passed different National Defense Authorization Act in- a.m. Snow Date: Feb. 10, to prepare Posts and Dis- solutions to fix it,” National Commander cludes the elimination of the widow’s tax 2020 at 9 a.m. tricts for their local con- Brett P. Reistad said of the measure. “For and The American Legion has called on The main purpose of tests. We hope to have all many Gold Star family members the tax the Senate conferees to adopt the same penalty has become unbearable. In some language and pass it as part of the budget The American Legion Ora- Post contests completed by cases the taxes on the survivor’s benefits deal as soon as they return from recess.” torical Contest “A Consti- Mid-December 2020 and received after a military member’s death With a current membership of tutional Speech Contest” is all District contests com- have increased from $1,000 a year in nearly two million wartime veterans, to develop a deeper pleted by the end of Janu- 2018 to nearly $4,500 in 2019. It rede- The American Legion was founded in knowledge and apprecia- ary 2020. fines certain benefits for children as 1919 on the four pillars of a strong na- tion for the U.S. Constitu- The 2020 National Finals is ‘unearned income,’ subjecting them to tional security, veterans affairs, patriot- tion among high school April 17-19 in Indianapolis, higher rates. Increasing the tax burden on ic youth programs and Americanism. students. Other objectives at the Wyndham Indianapo- these families who lost a loved one is Legionnaires work for the betterment of the contest include the lis West. Quarterfinal and unconscionable. “ of their communities through nearly development of leadership semifinal contests are The law, which is often referred to 13,000 posts worldwide. From the qualities, the ability to scheduled for Saturday, as “the kiddie tax,” increases the marginal drafting of the original GI Bill to the think and speak clearly and April 18, with the finals tax rate for some to as much as 37 per- creation of the Department of Veterans intelligently, and the prep- scheduled for Sunday, cent. Affairs, The American Legion is the aration for acceptance of April 19. Certification of “It’s outrageous to hammer these most influential voice for America’s families with such an unjust tax hike. veterans. The American Legion, the duties, responsibilities, the rights and Department winners is due to National by Haven’t they already sacrificed enough? www.legion.org, will be celebrating its privileges of American citizenship. March 16, 2020. How can a family plan its financial future centennial through Veteran Day. Young orators will have the opportunity For more information about the Ora- to earn some of the most generous schol- torical Contest in Maine, please contact two scholarships to give each year at arships. At the Post and District level, the Oratorical Chairman Dale Midgley at 207 “Baseball” Scarborough High. They have a team scholarships offered range from $50 - -590-3532 | e-mail: [email protected]. $1000, and at the State level $50 - $1500. More information can be obtained by (Continued from Page 10) BBQ each year here at the Post so the boys get to meet Veterans. This is what At the national level, each department visiting www.mainelegion.org, your local he promised us. This is what he has (state) winner who is certified into and American Legion Post, or The American boys. He has hired top flight coaches— done. Case closed.” participates in the national contests 1st Legion, Department of Maine Headquar- current and former college and high As Legion baseball drifts off into the round receives $2000 and those who ad- ters at 207-873-3229. Please check out school coaches. He has had rules for play- sunset, having succumbed to the all- vance through the 1st round get an addi- the state and local Oratorical Contests by ers both on and off the field. He runs a powerful societal force of money in youth tional $2000. The overall national contest visiting National’s website at right ship. They have won a Zone cham- sports, these are fond memories for me. winner gets a $20,000 scholarship. Sec- www.legion.org/oratorical. pionship, and other times, finished very When people ask me how I look back on close to the top. They show up my time and service in Legion and play hard. They do not for- baseball, I say—“Well, let me feit Libby-Mitchell Post games. tell you what two great Post They play a strong schedule and members said, better you hear it do things the right way. We are from them, not me.” I am pretty pleased he has been our GM for sure my late father would not Maine American Legion Announces its 20 years.” want to hear his youngest son Ken Dolloff added, “bragging on himself,” even if it 73rd Annual Boys State Program “And something Dan has involved trying to help out done that you may not care some guys who, at a young age, June 21-25 at Thomas College about, but we do—he has the seem to have done a pretty fair boys decorate a patriotic red white and job of helping our their country. he American Legion, Department of blue float each year for the town Memori- (Dan Warren is a lawyer in Scar- T Maine is proud to announce the 73rd al Day parade. Players ride on back. They borough, a 1975 graduate of Scarborough Annual American Legion Dirigo Boys do a public service project each sum- High where he played baseball, soccer, State program. This year’s program will mer—a beach cleanup or a visit to the and basketball, and a member of Sons of again be held at Thomas College in Maine Veterans Home. Our Post name is Legion at the Libby-Mitchell Post 76 in Waterville during the week of June 21-25. on the shirts—on the chest where every- Scarborough. He can be reached by e Every American Legion Post and all sub- body can see it. The American flag is on mail at [email protected], or ordinate bodies should alert their mem- the hats. They have team trophies named by phone at (207) 219-9414). bership to one of the finest youth pro- after our Veterans here. They have set up grams in the nation. The American Legion sponsors the Boys State program and we encourage all Sweepstakes Winners other groups and organizations to join in promoting the program through sponsor- ***Announced *** ship of candidates to American Legion he Annual Fall Conference concluded on Saturday afternoon, Sept. 21, Dirigo Boys State. with our Sweepstakes drawing, which saw four of our Legionnaires win We ask that the officers of your Post Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine 04901- T the following amounts: contact school principals or guidance 0727, Tel: (207) 873-3229, or online at counselors for assistance in this program. www.mainelegion.org or Kerry Bowden, Winslow HQ Post 178— $1,500 (grand prize winner) Make sure that your school officials are www.dirigoboysstate.com for application Richard Keene, Bar Harbor Post 25—$500 knowledgeable of The American Legion materials. Theodore Bracy, York Post 56— $300 Dirigo Boys State program. Thank you for your assistance in John Macomber, Winslow HQ Post 178— $200 he tuition fee for the 2020 program making the 73rd Annual American Le- CONGRATULATIONS!!! will be $300 per student. Contact The gion Dirigo Boys State Program a suc- American Legion Dirigo Boys State, 5 cess.

12 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

James W. “Bill” “CONVENTION” Oxford of North (Continued from Page 5) Carolina was elected to lead The American He started with one issue that may Legion for 2019- have significant implications around the 2020 at the 101st country. A World War I Monument in the National Con- shape of a simple Latin cross, the Bladens- vention in Indi- burg Cross, was constructed with Legion anapolis Aug. Support in 1925 on private property to 29. Oxford said remember World War I veterans in membership is Bladensburg, Maryland. Over the years, the key to the road construction surrounded the cross and Legion’s mission it eventually became public property. In succeeding. He “The American Legion vs. American Hu- set a goal of add- manist Association, the U.S. Supreme ing 100,000 new Court held that a free-standing, 40-foot members in 2019 cross on government land in Bladensburg, -2020 and estab- Maryland, did not violate the First lishing a 90 per- Amendment’s “no establishment” clause, cent retention reversing the lower court’s ruling. Com- rate. mander Reistad pointed out that the Su- Photo by Legion.org preme Court could go three ways: One, agree with the lower courts and have the cross taken down; two, allow this cross to this injustice. The problem areas, nationally, contin- Nationally, the Target Goal is 190,000 stand as a symbol of the losses from Mission Act, a revision to the VA ue to be Vet Homelessness, Vet Drug us- members for 2020, about the same as for World War I; or three, allow this cross to medical support system that allows quali- age, and as noted, Vet Suicide. 2019. His Comment, “ It would be great if stand and further to make a judgement fying Veterans the option of seeing their There have been great accomplish- each current member brought in one new about all religious symbols in public areas, own doctor instead of traveling great dis- ments at the national level that will perme- member” with the estimated 420,000 Vets “The court also avoided sweeping argu- tances to a VA facility. The significance of ate down to the Post level and the veteran. now eligible for Legion membership. ments that the cross lacked religious con- this ruling cannot be overstated. Veterans Some of the problems, however, may re- Maybe it isn’t so far-fetched as a goal. tent and had become a universal symbol of will now have more choices in their own quire a different view, from the ground up. One last thought sequence. I had sacrifice. Thankfully, the court rejected health care. Along with this program, the Give some thought to what you as a veter- Monday off (nothing scheduled) and had this offensive argument by acknowledging Commander briefed the new requirement an who made a pledge, “to support and made plans to visit The Indianapolis Mo- the obvious — that the cross is a Christian that Veterans medical records will now be defend”, can do work on some of these tor Speedway. Unfortunately, it rained symbol, albeit one in its view that had digitized and made available through a issues. You might establish, with the help that day and I thought better of going, so, taken on additional meaning in this specif- master database that will allow both civil- of local professionals, a Vet forum like picked up a training session instead. The ic instance”. Further, “…perhaps most ian and VA medical staff to review what one in Virginia that meets weekly with topic I chose was “Media” thinking is was important to the outcome of this case, the each doctor has done for the veteran. The local Vets who have a variety of needs. about Facebook use etc. It was but so court worried about the divisive impact to record transfers will take time so don’t For some veterans, just the ability to talk much more. remove or alter the monument, especially expect instance access. with fellow Vets is significant. How about Did you know that the average age for to the local community for which it has And, as if the above was not enough working in the community to find a home joining the Legion is 56? Or, that most taken on particular meaning.” This ground for the 100th year of the Legion, The Le- for a veteran in need? A Post in South Vets join approximately 16 years after -breaking ruling will be established prece- gion finally, finally, was able to have ”The Carolina does just that for three homeless leaving the military? The trainer men- dent in every community in the country Legion Act” signed by President Trump Vets. One Post to the proceeds of their tioned that most “Younger Vets” are not that has challenges pending on their me- on July 31. The act in brief states: Poppy program and donated the entire joiners and that this has become a critical morials with religious symbolic shapes or “Congress and the White House agree to amount to the Legion National Vet support issue with many Posts. What is meant by with a religious symbol affixed to it. expand definition of war eras to include all program. younger? 60 may be younger for many Everyone by now has heard or should who served since Dec. 7, 1941. More than Sometimes it is hard to see how Na- Posts. He did, however, caution that many have heard about the “Blue Water Navy” 1,600 members of the U.S. Armed Forces tional programs and good works translate Posts when the get a “Younger” member Act. The Legion was in the forefront of were killed or wounded in periods of time into local Post activity. Well, one connec- often try to put them in a leadership posi- this legislation to provide VA support for not designated as war eras since the end of tion, believe it or not, is the Post tion such as Adjutant or 1st Vice. etc. He thousands of Navy and U.S. Marine Corp World War II. The newly signed Let Eve- “Consolidated Post Report” (CPR); the recommends strongly against such a move. Vets that compelled them to duties off the ryone Get Involved in Opportunities for report’s checks and questions are built on For many of these young Vets, it becomes Coast of Vietnam. These veterans worked National Service Act of 2019 – The LE- the Legion’s Four Pillars. Each check on a a turn-off when they are still having many boats and aircraft that were exposed to GION Act – honors those Veterans, their Post action is recorded and accumulated to other responsibilities in their lives. He agent orange and therefore the personnel spouses, and descendants extending mem- define the good works the Legion is doing recommends that they be brought along at and crewmembers exposed to the agents. bership eligibility in The American Legion throughout the country. As a side note, last their pace of interest and make every effort One of our own Post members worked Family to hundreds of thousands who had year, the rate of CPR submission, national- to “Buddy” them up and provide them aircraft on the deck of an LPH and was previously been excluded. The LEGION ly, was 67 percent. Roughly 2/3rds of all with training opportunities. At some later responsible for washing down aircraft af- Act offers American Legion membership Post submit their CPR. That is not good date, they will more than likely take on the ter a mission. As a result of this Bill eligibility to any U.S. military Veteran for the Legion. Either 1/3 of the Posts reins of leadership. signed by President Trump, thousands of who served at least one day of active mili- nationally are not doing anything or cer- The trainers next gem was “Ask your- Veterans and their families will now re- tary duty since Dec. 7, 1941 and was hon- tainly not reporting their programs. The self Why should someone join your Post?” ceive VA medical support. orably discharged or is serving now. The new National Commander, James W. You need to be able to answer this ques- Commander Reistad was particularly act also affects membership in The Ameri- (Bill) Oxford, has made 100 percent CPR tion before you can present yourself to the proud of The American Legion for their can Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The submission a priority and goal for the community in the various media (written support of the U.S. Coast Guard service American Legion, expanding eligibility coming year, a daunting task. How can we or digital). personnel who, during the National Gov- for those groups as well.” The implication at the Post level help? Submit Your CPR Lastly, the trainer noted that every ernment shutdown were left without pay of this act is that 420,000 Veterans who on time. How can the Districts Help? Keep Post needs to be either in the local media while the other service continued to re- have been previously denied membership a tab, work with their Post to help them or on Facebook at every opportunity Every ceive their paychecks. The glitch was in in The Legion are now eligible. The rami- reach the goal of 100 percent CPR submis- Post event should be prefaced with an arti- the fact that the Coast Guard falls under fications are that this also extends to the sion. and, the Dept.? They would love to cle or posting before the event as well as a the Homeland Security Department during entire Legion Family. see a 100 percent CPR return. It is not too write-up or posting after the event. Posi- periods of non-conflict. The Legion VA stats indicate that Vet Suicide is late to establish goals for 2019-20. Every tive visibility in the community is one sign stepped up and provided one million dol- on the decline, but, still too prevalent. Post should be getting their CPR com- of a great Post. So, we’ve come full circle, lars in grants to Coast Guard Personnel in With over 20 self-inflicted deaths each pleted, submitted. how is your Post viewed? need. In Maine, Department of Maine, day, one in six do seek help with the VA. New National Commander Oxford Enough for now, Veterans Serving provided more than 57 such grants. These The response by the VA has been signifi- also addressed membership. He is asking Veterans! were grants, not loans. The Legion is now cant once identified a Vet gets same day that each Post maintain at least 90 percent Submitted by District 2 Adjutant supporting legislation that would correct screening and follow-on support. retention and continue to grow each Post. David Tanguay

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 13 National Commander Visits Maine

Pembroke Post 59 Visit: National Commander Oxford visits the Pem-

broke Post 59 on Sept. 26. Photo by Department Historian Jeffrey Stevenson Maine Visit: National Command- er James W. “Bill” Oxford visits The National Commander’s Official Visit: Above, National Command- American er James W. “Bill” Oxford’s official visit to The American Legion, Department Legion of Maine Sept. 27 at State Headquar- Headquar- ters. Department Officers, front, ters in left to right, NECA Randy Kluj, Winslow.

Sergeant-At-Arms Tricia www.legion.org Thurston, 2nd Vice Commander Kirk Thurston, Commander Mat- thew Jabaut, National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford, 1st Vice Commander Debra Couture, Assis- Paid Up For Life Membership - PUFL tant Service Officer Maureen Mal- ley; back, left to right, Historian e've revised the Paid Up For Life matter what inflation does, you never Jeffrey Stevenson, Judge Advocate W program and streamlined the appli- have to pay another penny in dues. Jason Hall, Finance Officer Grego- cation process. •Lifetime subscription to The Ameri- ry Couture, NEC Lloyd Woods, Current members may now enroll in can Legion Magazine! Service Officer Carl Curtis, Amer- the Paid Up For Life program online or Each Paid Up For Life member re- ican Officer Al McKay, and Adju- can print a personalized application and ceives a permanent plastic card, as well as tant Paul L’Heureux. mail in their payment. Pay in full or an annual paper card to verify continuing choose 12 monthly installments. membership in The American Legion. Right, Oxford visits the West Quod- •No more renewal notices. No more The annual card is mailed in July of each dy Head Lighthouse in Lubec on paying annual dues. year. Sept. 26. West Quoddy Head is in •No more worrying, "Did I renew my To get your Paid Up For Life mem- Quoddy Head State Park, Lubec is membership or not?" bership, please visit www.legion.org/join/ the easternmost point of the contigu- •Join the other 184,000 PUFL Le- PUFL and enter your name and member ous United States. gionnaires in saying, "I believe in The ID. For more information about the Paid

Photos by Department Historian American Legion and what it's doing. I’m Up For Life program, contact customer Jeffrey Stevenson in this for the long haul." service at (800) 433-3318 or Maine State •Avoid future dues increases. No HQ at 207-873-3229.

American Legion adds criteria for 2019-2020 Post Excellence Award

he American Legion announced Report, attaining a 90 percent renewal qualification will have had numerous The standard to be achieved in each T new criteria for the Post Excellence rate and community activity. post members involved in planning and area is as follows: Award for the 2019-2020 membership The purposes of this award include achieving these goals. Many posts are Membership: An American Legion year. membership growth, exposure of Amer- most likely already active in these areas post must attain at least 103 percent of To qualify for the Post Excellence ican Legion values to the youth of the and will qualify without extra effort. their membership goal. And at least one Award, a post is required to achieve community and increased visibility of Others, however, will need to increase post officer attends district meetings. excellence in four areas: membership, the American Legion Family through their efforts in one or more areas to submission of the Consolidated Post service projects. A post achieving this qualify for the award. More on “AWARD”, Page 14

14 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 FALL CONFERENCE 2019

The American Legion Annual Fall Conference was held at Gray Post 86 on Sept. 21. Attending were Department State of Maine and National Headquarters officers.

Right: Department Commander Matthew Jabaut, left, and Oratorical Committee Chairman Dale Midgley, right, present Donald Chase the Oratorical Committee

Chairman Award.

Below: National Vice Commander Frank MacDonald.

Bottom Left: Past National Commander Anthony “Tony” Jordan gives opening remarks to those in attend- ance. Bottom Right: National Member Engagement Co-

ordinator Kevin Mook.

Photos by Department Historian Jeffrey Stevenson

Community activity: The post must achieved the four specified criteria. The media outlet. “Award” conduct an event that connects the local district commander will submit a list of The district commander is to submit (Continued from Page 13) community with The American Legion posts meeting the criteria to department a letter along with the required infor- post. The objective is to open your headquarters. That list should include mation (for more information, visit the Consolidated Post Report: CPRs doors, welcome the community in and the post name, phone number, address website www.mainelegion.org/pages/ must be submitted by July 1. The educate them on what The American and commander’s name. If possible, formsapplications.php) with any additional American Legion’s federal charter Legion is all about and how the post is accompany the last two criteria with pages and supporting documentation to: requires the submission of an annual an asset to the community. Posts do not copies of press releases submitted to the The American Legion; Department of report to Congress on activities for need to have a physical building to ac- local media about the community pro- Maine; 5 Verti Drive; Winslow, ME the year. MyLegion.org has made it complish this. This activity can be held jects to show that the projects were not 04901-0727. simple for a post to submit its CPR in in a park, a community center or any- only accomplished but that an attempt The department adjutant may trans- a timely manner. where the post can welcome and inter- was made to enhance the image of The mit information as posts qualify to: The Renewal rate: The post must renew act with the local community. American Legion through local media. American Legion national headquarters; at least 90 percent of their members that The district commander responsible Copies submitted should include a date Attn: Membership; P.O. Box 1055; In- were on the 2019 roster. for the post will certify a post as having and time stamp showing receipt by the dianapolis, IN 46206-1055.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 15 Help Support Maine American Legion!

Keep our Maine American Shop “Amazon Smile” & Legion Programs Alive! Give While You Shop! Support our Veterans and Donate Today! ear Friends of the American Le- another one. our donation will help support veter- You may also mail your check paya- D gion Department of Maine: You just log in at this link: http:// Y ans in the state of Maine as well as ble to The American Legion, Department American Legion Depart- smile.amazon.com; When you are Children & Youth Programs and other of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ment of Maine Foundation now asked to designate to your charity, various programs of The American Le- ME 04901-0727. Please indicate on the type in American Legion Depart- gion. A few of our programs are listed check The American Legion program you accepts contributions from Amazon below. For a complete listing, please visit are contributing to. through the “Amazon Smile” pro- ment of Maine Foundation and www.mainelegion.org. Thank you in advance for your dona- gram as an IRS 501 (c)(3) Charitable start shopping. Maine American Legion Programs: tion. It is generous donors like you that Organization. Please note: (You must log in General Fund, Vet Aid, Homeless Vets, help provide the assistance needed to keep “Amazon Smile” is a website op- through the Amazon Smile portal Legion Baseball, Dirigo Boys State, Ora- our programs alive so we can continue to erated by Amazon with the same each time you shop for our Founda- torical, Jr. Shooting Program, Beals provide support to our fellow veterans, products, prices, and shopping fea- tion to receive the donation. Do not House, and Maine Special Olympics. service members and their families. tures as Amazon.com. The only dif- go in through the regular Amazon To pay by credit card, please visit To make a donation to The American ference is that when you shop on portal when you shop.) www.mainelegion.org and select the Legion, Department of Maine Foundation, “Amazon Smile”, Amazon will do- The funds come directly to a non-profit 501 (c)(3) Charitable Organi- “American Legion Department of button. zation , please see below. nate 0.5% of the purchase price of eligible products to the charitable or- Maine Foundation to help Maine vet- ganization of your choice and it does erans in need and support Legion pro- not cost anything to sign up or do- grams in Maine!” nate! Please help us get the word Here is how to sign up! out and email to your friends If you already have an Amazon and family! Account, there is no need to create

he American Legion, Department of Please show your support to our T Maine Foundation is a non-profit veterans in the State of Maine and do- 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization ex- nate today to make a difference! clusively for charitable purposes includ- Online donations can be made by ing the making of distributions to or- visiting us on the web at ganizations that qualify as exempt or- www.mainelegion.org. Click on the ganizations described under section 501 FOUNDATION tab located on the navi- (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue code, or gation bar and scroll down to the DO- corresponding section of any future fed- NATE TODAY button or the AL Dept. eral tax code. All donations to the of Maine Foundation brochure. foundation are tax-deductible under the Checks should be made payable to United States Tax Code and Internal American Legion Department of Maine Revenue Service. Foundation and mailed to: American The Foundation's mission is to pro- Legion Department of Maine Founda- vide financial assistance, promote tion, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ME Americanism, Youth Programs, Nation- 04901-0727. al Security, and Veterans Affairs & Re- Please make sure to provide your habilitation that will enhance the lives name and address so that we may send of our Veterans, their families, children you a tax receipt. and communities in the State of Maine Thank you in advance for your gen- today and for future generations. erous contribution! Support Maine Veterans and Buy your Centennial Coin Today Car Donation Fundraising Program While Supplies Last! for converting that extra car, truck, or RV into a tax deductible donation.. he Department of Maine previously TO PAY BY CHECK OR MON- T released a Centennial Coin in cele- EY ORDER, please send payment in Our affiliate program makes sure bration of 100 years of service to Veter- the amount of $10/coin, plus $5 ship- your vehicle is properly handled so ans, families and local communities. All ping and handling up to 5 coins to: The you get your tax deduction and Veter- proceeds will go towards helping Veter- American Legion, Department of Maine, ans in Maine get the benefit of your ans in the State of Maine, their families 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ME 04901- donation. and various programs in The American 0727. Please make sure to include a You can currently donate online Legion that require much needed assis- return address for shipping purposes. by visiting www.v-dac.com, or call tance. Please include an additional $5 for every wners of unused vehicles can 877-999-8322 to make your donation. Coins can be purchased online by visit- 5 coins purchased. O donate them for possible tax For more information, contact ing www.mainelegion.org, calling De- Coins are also available for free credit and benefit veterans in the state The American Legion, Department of partment directly at 207-873-3229 or by pick up at $10 each. You may pick up of Maine. Maine at 207-873-3229 or via email check or money order. The coins are $10 your order at The American Legion, This is a free, convenient service at [email protected]. each plus $5 shipping/handing. Department of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, ME 04901-0727.

16 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Post 74 Exhibit at the Brick District 1 Store Museum, Kennebunk Sanford Post 19; Biddeford Post 26; Limerick Post 55; York Post 56; Old Orchard Post 57; Kennebunk Post 74; Berwick Post 79; North Berwick Post 87; Saco Post 96; Kezar Falls Post 123; Bar Mills Post 130; Alfred Post 134; Wells Post 143; Kennebunkport Post 159; ENNEBUNK—The Brick Store tion devoted to mutual helpfulness. The Dayton Post 177; Eliot Post 188; Lebanon Post 214 K Museum and American Legion, Webber-Lefebvre Post 74 supports lo- Webber-Lefebvre Post 74, both of Kenne- cal community and veterans’ programs bunk, have collaborated on a museum such as funding a scholarship program exhibition to honor the American Le- for Kennebunk High School seniors, gion’s 100th anniversary. The exhibit placing flags on veterans’ graves, do- displays various artifacts, historical docu- nating to local charities and organizing ments, photos and military uniforms on Memorial Day activities. loan from the Post and its members; and A recent law changed the eligibility asks for visitors to share their own memo- criteria for joining the American Legion ries of the Legion. The exhibit will run to anyone who has served at least one day through Dec. 31. of active military service from Dec. 7, A special gathering is planned for 1941 to the present. Sun., Nov. 10 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at The Brick Store Museum is open the Museum to celebrate the Anniversary Tuesday through Sunday, year-round. In of the Legion and local veterans. This addition to the Legion Centennial exhibit, event will be free and open to the public, the Museum is also currently showing as well as regional veterans, to celebrate Patterns and All Hands on Deck: A Mari- their service and talk with Legion mem- time Show. To learn more about upcom- bers. Food and beverages generously sup- ing events and exhibitions, visit plied by local businesses and neighbors. www.brickstoremuseum.org or call the The American Legion was char- Museum at (207) 985-4802 for more in- tered and incorporated by Congress in formation.

1919 as a patriotic veterans organiza- Submitted by Post 74 member Bob De Clercq

Dynamic Duo: Left to right, Andrew Buckman and Ronald Vigue with one WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... of their memorial flag cases. Photo by Post 79 Historian Robert K. Place District 2

Portland Post 17; So. Portland Post 35; Gorham Post 60; Westbrook Post 62; Bridgton Post 67; Berwick Post 79’s Dynamic Scarborough Post 76; Freeport Post 83; Gray Post 86; Yarmouth Post 91; Standish Post 128; Harrison Post 139; Peaks Island Post 142; Windham Post 148; Cape Elizabeth Post 152; Naples Post Duo Honors the Memory of 155; Portland Post 161; Falmouth Post 164; Portland Post 168; Westbrook Post 197 Departed Veterans here have been many dynamic duos play case in as little as two hours, depending T over the course of history, but none on how much coffee they consume! more famous locally than the dynamic After military honors are per- duo of Buckman and Vigue. Better known formed, Ron takes the flag from the to their friends, wives, and fellow Legion- family member to whom the flag was naires as Andy and Ron, these two mili- presented, and with Andy’s help, places tary veterans donate their time and talent the flag in the box and presents the flag constructing hand-crafted memorial flag box to the family member. Each and display cases in Ron’s Berwick workshop. every one of these one of a kind wood- Andy initiated the idea in 2013, and en flag cases serve to honor the since that time, he and Ron have made memory, service and sacrifice of a de- and presented more than 40 flag boxes. In parted member of The American Le- creating these beautiful presentation cas- gion Post 79 or local veteran. Thanks to es, they’ve utilized more than a dozen this dynamic duo these memorial flag different types of wood donated either by cases serve as a tangible reminder to Kenneth R. Place, (son of award-winning the families left behind that their loved Post 79 Historian Robert K. Place), Post ones, while absent, are not, nor will 79 Chaplain Paul Lapierre, Mr. Jeff Sauci- they ever be, forgotten. er of Hussey Seating Company in North While this is but one of many pro- Local Air National Commanders Present At Westbrook Post 62: Berwick, Maine or by Andy and Ron jects that Andy Buckman and Ron The Oct. 2 meeting was an unusual night for the monthly Post 62 gathering. Two themselves. Vigue have initiated while members of current active Air Force Lt. Col. Commanders and two Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Initially, the glass they used was pur- Post 79, it is most certainly one of the Commanders from the South Portland 265th Combat Communications Squadron chased from the Portland Glass Company of most personal and meaningful to these and the 243rd Engineering & Installation Squadron attended. The active command- Somersworth, N.H., and paid for by Post 79, two selfless veteran craftsmen. Uphold- ers made presentations about their Squadrons and their worldwide unit missions. but now that the owners are aware of this ing The American Legion’s time- Also present were two active Post 62 Legion Members who served with the 265th heartfelt initiative, they are donating the honored values of service, patriotism CCSQ. Both Commanders expressed their Thanks to the members and Veterans of glass. The military decals and plaques/ and camaraderie, Andy and Ron set an the Stephen W. Manchester American Legion Post 62, "Who set the Bar before us nameplates have been donated since 2013 example for us all, while lifting the (Them)". Both spoke of "Their pride in serving the State of Maine and the Nation". by Elisha Kinch and Jeff Parmley of Sea- spirits of the family members who Left to right, Post 62 2nd Vice Commander & retired member of the 265th CCSQ coast Printing and Awards of South Ber- homes are graced by the fruits of their Dennis Marrotte, Lt. Col. Member & retired Commander of the 265th CCSQ Harry wick, Maine. Andy and Ron cover the cost labor. Gorham, Guest Speaker Lt. Col. & current Commander of the 243rd E &ISQ Clin- of the backings and fasteners (the flags are Submitted by Berwick Post 79 Public Relations ton Reed, Guest Speaker & current Commander of the 243rd E&ISQ Brian Camire, st obtained from the government by the re- Officer Rosanne Martin Guest Lt. Col. & retired Commander of the 243rd E&ISQ David Rolfe, Post 62 1 spective funeral homes) and have been Vice Commander & retired member of the 265th CCSQ Roger Barr. known to complete each memorial flag dis- Photo by Post 62 Americanism Officer and Retired U.S. Navy Commander Phil Spiller, Jr.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 17

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 2 continued

Fryeburg Fair Recognized By Bridgton Post 67: At right: On Oct. 6, American Legion Bridgton Post 67 Commander Donald Mulcahy present- ed Fryeburg Fair representatives, left to right, President Roy Andrews and Mid- way Superintendent Dean Baker, a small token of appreciation for the fair’s gen- erosity and support in allowing a Veterans’ Outreach Program to be active at the fair for the last five years. Allowing this Veterans’ Outreach Program on the fair- grounds has benefited over 200 veterans in the last five years. These veterans who so richly earned these benefits now have been entered into the VA system. They have prescription eyeglasses, hearing aids, many now are getting much-needed help with P.T.S.D., and several are receiving help regarding pensions. All because of the generosity of the Fryeburg Fair and the work of The American Legion Bridgton Post 67 and The Legion Riders. We, at the Legion, salute the Board for

taking a chance and allowing us to serve those who served. We salute you!

Written by Post 67 Commander Donald Mulcahy

“Save The Post” Fund Breakfast: Bridgton Post 67 Vice- Commander DJ and Sergeant-At-Arms Mike Brady put their grandchildren to work. The three vol- Making A unteers came all the way from California Difference: to help Post 67 serve Live from the the Community Fryeburg Fair, Breakfast and raise The American money for “Save the Legion Post 67 Post” Fund. of Bridgton making a dif- ference every- where they go.

Going Above & Beyond: Bridgton Post 67 Chef Barry Bisco went above and beyond the call of duty, cook- ing breakfast at the crack of dawn for 50 plus folks from the community; and then picked up and cooked for the Council of Lake Region High School Interact Churches in Bridgton at the lower ball- field. Please join Post 67 for all-you-can- he students from the “Interact As- The enthusiasm these students have eat Pancakes and Sausage breakfast eve- T tra” of Lake Region High School shown is infectious, and it is an example ry first Saturday of the month at the came to The American Legion Bridgton of why we, at The American Legion, sup- Bridgton Community Center; $5 pp, Post 67 on Depot Street to help with the port our school system and the students of 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. building cleanup. They meant business! our community. Thank you for a job well Sleeves were rolled up, work gloves on done. Post 67 salutes the students of and they dove into work. They raked, “Interact-Astra”. For God and Country.

swept, stacked lumber, and loaded a trail- By Bridgton Post 67 Commander Donald Mulcahy er to almost overflowing. They accomplished in five hours what we would have spent a week doing. We, at Post 67 Building Repairs: On Post 67, can’t thank them enough for their hard work. the roof is Scott Burnham with help from Robert Murphy. Bridgton Post 67, The group has offered to while hosting our brothers from Cali- come back and help land- fornia, and brothers and sisters from scape and build a flower gar- the State of Maine, managed to get their den to bring attention to historic Post a new roof. Thank you to “Veteran Suicide Preven- Everlast Roofing and Murphy Con- tion”, a personal passion of the members of Post 67. struction! The front façade of the build- Lake Region High School Interact: ing has been completely rebuilt internal- They also volunteered to work and help at the Grand Astra Advisors, left, Christina Gaumont and right, ly and strengthened. The water is on for Ian Carlson. Students Abby Elsaesser, Brooke the first time since 2007. The plumbing Ball on Nov. 9. We often hear people Toole, Shelby Sheldrick, Emma Cole, Ainsley Pen- has been repaired and replaced; a new dexter, Kathryn Rose, Hannah Fitzpatrick, Rene entry deck constructed; and soffits re- say, “Kids today!!” We were honored to be visited by Carver, Sabrina Lopez, Alli Vogel, Leah Plum- built. It’s been a busy month for Post mer, Liz Smith, Cierra Grover, Becca Roy, Sophie 67. some of the finest our future has to offer, and I must say Leighton, Mya Grant, Chiara Schmidt, and Julii Daniella. the future looks Very Bright!

18 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

Treking Along: WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Brian McCarthy com- ing into Bug Light continued with South Portland District 2 Police escort. Travel- ing with Brian, left to right, Bath Water Local Legion Family Members, District Engineer Mark Courtenay, who Delegates to the National Convention rode the entire trek with Brian, and Joe Fay ust back from a week forces. Not so, the U.S. from North Conway, J in Indianapolis, Indi- Coast Guard who falls N.H., who rode the last ana at the American Le- under the Department of day of the event. gion National Conven- Homeland Security dur- tion, Dave and Lin Tan- ing peacetime. The guay of Windham Post American Legion Man On A Mission 148 are glad to be home. stepped up and provided After a week of Commis- over a million dollars in outh Portland Police sions, Committees, Cau- grants to the enlisted S Officer and Field-Allen cus, and convention floor personnel of the Coast Post 148 member is driven activities from Aug. 23 to Guard during this crisis. to support his Waterville Aug. 29, Lin and Dave as In Maine, well over 60 MP Unit Family Readiness delegates to the Legion’s families were supported Group with an annual trek 101st and the Legion Aux- out of the Legion De- th across Maine. This year, iliary’s 99 conventions partment of Maine. An- Brian McCarthy was will now spend some time other milestone this year dropped off in Van Buren presenting the work of the National Convention was the implementation by Post member Richard Convention to their respec- Attendees: Department of of the Mission Act that Graves, Brian’s Windham tive Department, District, Maine District 2 Adjutant and allows veterans to use Neighbor. Brian started his Post and Unit organiza- delegate David Tanguay with local medical support trek on Sunday, Sept. 8, and tions. Dave was a Maine wife, Lin, Auxiliary Unit 148 when VA support is too over the next week traveled delegate and assigned to the member and delegate, at the far away or not reasona- approximately. 50 miles a Convention National Secu- American Legion National bly available. The other day to finish on Sat., Sept. rity Commission and Lin Convention in Indianapolis. important factor is that 15 at noon at Bug Light in was an Auxiliary delegate veterans’ medical rec- South Portland. Over the from Maine and sat on the ords are being digitized th last couple miles, from History and upcoming Auxiliary’s 100 An- for use by both VA and civilian doctors. Route 1 along Broadway, niversary Committees. Lin also sat in on the This program, when fully implemented for Brian received a Police escort Constitution and By-laws Committee. All all Vets, will allow any doctor to see what with blue lights flashing and these meetings make for a very busy week- other doctors have prescribed or recom- the occasional siren from his end prior to convention. mended. South Portland fellow Offic- This 100th year of the Legion and its Each and every one of these laws and st ers. From Brian, "Once 101 convention celebrated several major programs was instituted and/or endorsed again, this Fall I'm embark- National events in support of veterans. by The American Legion. Like the GI Bill ing on a seven-day, 350+- On The Road Again: Brian McCarthy on Noteworthy that have both national and or the Veterans Administration Acts be- mile, self-sustained bike ride the road. local implications to our veterans follows: fore them, these bills were the product of across the State of Maine, The Blue Water Navy Act signed into law The American Legion, and any member with the hopes of raising this year allows those Naval and Marine can be justifiably proud of their involve- funds for my former National Guard unit's events throughout the year and can use Corps personnel attached to ships working ment in the Legion. Family Readiness Group (FRG).” funds for unit families in need” Last year, off the coast of Vietnam during the con- There were also many briefings and “The purpose of the FRG is to share he was able to donate $2,000 to his cause. flict to be compensated for and treated by discussions on two major veterans Issues, information with family members of sol- His goal this year was $2,500 which has the VA for their exposure to Agent Or- Homeless veterans, and the veterans drug diers in the unit, to connect families with already been exceeded by online donations ange. Windham Post 148 has one individu- and suicide crisis. In these areas, much has community resources, and to help with any and will be over $3,000 with cash dona- al who as a Marine Corp was assigned to a been done, but much still needs to be done. problems that arise whether their spouse is tions. Another great example of Veterans helicopter carrier and was exposed to the On the local level, developing Vet camara- deployed or not. Funds donated to the FRG Serving Veterans and their Families. agent while washing down the Hello’s derie with the Field-Allen Post Vet Coffee go toward events and resources for soldiers' Submitted by Windham Post 148 Adjutant upon their return to the ship. He and thou- Program (every Wednesday from 9 to 11 families. The FRG hosts family-oriented David Tanguay sands of Vets will now be added to the a.m. at the WVC) and the very-much ap- support structure for agent orange. preciated collection of non-perishable food The Legion Act, signed by President items on Wednesdays at the WVC by the Trump on July 31, this year, now makes Legion Post 148 and delivered to the 420,000 veterans eligible for membership Homeless Vet Food Pantry at the Portland in the Legion as well as their qualifying Vet Center has made an impact in the local Cake family members in the Legion Family. The area. There is an open invitation to all Vets Act, strongly supported for years by the to drop in for coffee each Wednesday from At Legion, recognizes the service of those 9 to 11 a.m. at the Windham Vet Center End of veterans placed in harm’s way not during behind North Windham Hannaford. We Trek: times of official armed conflict. Over will also gladly accept any non-perishable Brian’s 1,200 Vets lost their lives during these food items for our fellow Vets with food mother, periods of “Non-Conflict”. The Act reads: insecurity issues. The American Legion: Berna- Any veteran serving after Dec. 7, 1941 Veterans Serving Veterans for 100 years dette with at least one day of active military and looking to the next 100 years. Manley service and honorably discharged is eligi- Not everything was work. Lin and of South ble for membership in this country’s larg- Dave managed to sneak in some fine din- Portland, est veterans’ organization, The American ing and went to the National Commanders helping Legion. There are over 19,000 local veter- Banquet where they were treated to music with the ans in Cumberland County eligible to join from the ’60s & ’70s by “The Fab Four,” cake. The American Legion. a Beatles-style band just back from Liver- When the national government shut pool. down last year, many critical groups con- Submitted by Windham Post 148 Adjutant tinued to be paid including our armed David Tanguay

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 19

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 4 District 5 Farmington Post 28; Kingfield Post 61; Phillips Post 64; Strong Post 78; Rumford Post 24; Buckfield Post 58; Lockemills Post 68; So. Paris Post 72; Bethel Post 81; Norway Post 82; Wilton Post 117; Rangeley Post 120 Dixfield Post 100; Oxford Post 112; Fryeburg Post 137; West Paris Post 151; Peru Post 199

Dinner Served To Firefighters March to Freedom Resolution: At Buckfield & First Responders: Farmington Post 58 on Oct. 15, The Ameri- Police Officer Jacob Richards, left, picks a can Legion Department of dessert at a turkey dinner served to fire- Maine, Oxford County District 5 fighters and first responders Sept. 29 at the Posts approved and signed a Farmington Fire Station. Members of Ro- resolution calling for March 5, derick Crosby American Legion Post 28 2020, on which day in 1770 the and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 28 Boston Massacre occurred, to be served the meal and plan to continue serv- recognized as the true beginning ing meals Sunday nights for all firefighters, of the commemoration of 250th their families, retired firefighters, and oth- Anniversary of the march to er first responders. Tom Saviello, right, freedom. Left to right, front row, helps serve the meal. 1st Vice Commander Harold Wilbur, Commander Randal Canwell, Chaplain Randall American Legion Serves Sunday Dinners Jack; back row, Finance Officer Richard Grover, Service Officer to Firefighters, First Responders Charles Green, Sergeant-At- Arms Joy Bordeau, 2nd Vice ARMINGTON - Firefighters, their more food than we could refrigerate last Commander James Lowell, and Adjutant Harry G. Orcutt. F families, police and other first re- week. The meals have since been orga- sponders gathered Sunday evening nized so that each meal is covered, he around long tables set up in the truck bays said. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... at Farmington Fire Department to share a Sunday nights were allotted to the turkey dinner together. American Legion, said Smith. The menu Members of Roderick Crosby Ameri- would include meatloaf for the coming District 6 can Legion Post 28 and American Legion Sunday, Sept. 29, with the menu chang- Rockland Post 1; Vinalhaven Post 18; Camden Post 30; North Haven Post 33; St. George Post 34; Auxiliary Unit 28 hosted and provided ing each week. Thomaston Post 37; Union Post 110; Warren Post 218 the meal. They plan to continue providing While the American Legion and a meal each Sunday evening for some Auxiliary provided the previous Sunday's period of time, Legion Commander Mat- turkey dinner, they are seeking help to Rockland Lobster Festival Celebrates Veterans: The Lobster thew Smith said. continue with the meals. People are wel- Festival decided to have Veterans as the Grand Marshal for the 2019 Parade All firefighters, their families, retired come to help with either food or financial held on Main Street firefighters and first responders are wel- donations. To offer a food donation, con- in Rockland this come to come to the meal, which is tact Tom Saviello by email at drto- year. The Winslow- served at 5:30 p.m. [email protected] or Matt Smith at 491- Merritt-Holbrook It is about gathering as a family to 2743, or for monetary donations, either Post 1 encouraged talk and share especially with those on Smith or Jim Wilson, Legion financial veterans from all duty from other towns. A Sunday meal officer, at 703-795-3004. over to participate. used to be a special event for many fami- While the department always appre- The veterans filled lies, and we want Sunday evening to be a ciates the mutual aid given by local fire Main Street with time for this family to sit down together, departments, the larger state brotherhood about a mile of veter- Smith said. of firefighters and the outpouring of sup- ans! By some ac- The American Legion is one of sev- port from local citizens has shown the counts, there were eral local organizations, businesses, and strength of the firefighters’ bonds and the 300-500 veterans. It private citizens who have stepped up to generosity of the public, Bunker said. was fantastic! The provide a meal for the covering firefighters. Town management has quickly en- crowds were very They are working 12-hour shifts and sleep- dorsed the department’s readiness to supportive of the ing on air mattresses set up in the confer- come and help, he said. They know the Vets and we appreci- ated their smiles and ence room on the third floor of the Munici- Farmington department would be one of st pal Building, said Stephan Bunker, fire- the first to go and help them. waves! Rockland Post 1, 1 Vice Commander Russ Wolfertz Jr., left, receives Grand Marshall Plaque from Maine Lobster Festival President Celia Knight. fighter, town selectman and Legion member The covering crews even stepped up as he greeted people at Sunday's meal. to help with the Farmington department's Photo by Rockland Post 1 Historian Bob Rugar Fire departments from across the two booths at Farmington Fair last week. state have provided crews and equipment Proceeds from the booth help support WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... to help the Farmington department since scholarships for Mt. Blue High School the explosion of the LEAP building on students and other charitable causes sup- Sept. 16 when a LEAP maintenance man- ported by the department, he said. District 8 ager and five firefighters were injured and Published by Daily Bulldog one firefighter killed, he said. Franklin County’s First News Brunswick Post 20; Bat5h Post 21; Harpswell Post 171; Topsham Post 202; Phippsburg Post 216 People were so generous and brought Sept. 26, 2019 New Dishwasher Farmington Post 28 & Change Of Members Help Serve Command At Turkey Dinner: Paul Dalrym- Togus: Harpswell Post ple and Ron Smith, Roderick Crosby 171 gave a new dishwasher American Legion Post 28 members, to the Hospice Unit at To- left, help serve a turkey dinner to gus. Post 171 Commander Brunswick firefighters Sunday, Sept. Mike Dole, right, at 29 at the Farmington Fire Station. change of command.

20 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Augusta Auxiliary Unit 2 District 9 School Supply Drive Augusta Post 2; Gardiner Post 4; Waterville Post 5; Hallowell Post 6; Winthrop Post 40; Oakland Post 51; Togus Post 90; No. Vassalboro Post 126; Richmond Post 132; So. China Post 179; ith the generosi- ty and continued Litchfield Post 181; Clinton Post 186; China Post 195; Monmouth Post 204; Augusta Post 205 W support of our Augusta American Legion Post 33rd National Veterans Golden Age 2 family and friends, Games: This year’s National Veterans Golden Age the Augusta American games were held in Anchorage, Alaska, in June 2019. Legion Auxiliary Our own Barbara Kasiola, center, of Team Maine-iacs (ALA) Unit 2 has suc- came home with two Gold Medals, one for Air Pistol cessfully conducted Competition, the other for Shuffle Board, and, if that our third annual wasn’t enough, she won three Silver Medals in Boccia School Supply Collec- Doubles, Bowling, and Horseshoes. Congratulations tion. Wish Lists were Barbara, keep up the good work, you make us proud. requested and generat- Others in the photo are District 9 Commander Don ed for two Autism Auxiliary Aids School Supply Drive: Left Chase, right, and Department Assistant Service Of- classrooms and a to right, Special Ed Functional Life Skills Grades 4-6 ficer Maureen Malley, left. Functional Skills Doreen Franklin, ALA Unit 2 President Theresa classroom at the Lin- Clifford, ALA 1st Vice President Alice Drummond, Spe- coln Elementary cial Ed. Autism Grades 4-6 Debra Crump, and Special Ed. Autism K-4 Megan Biter. School in Augusta. District 9 All Out for Veterans ALA Unit 2 President Theresa Clifford’s daughter, Amy Eisenbach, was this tional, helpful resources were collected. Family Day at 2019 Windsor Fair year’s Chairperson for the Bath Back to Classroom teachers spend much of their istrict 9 Posts and volunteers turned Horse band kicked off their fourth year at School Program sponsored by the Bath own monies on classroom supplies for D out in force to put together another the show with a blend of country music. Masons. Through President Clifford, their students. As a former 45-year ele- great show for veterans and families at the Special guests at the gathering were Amy Eisenbach offered 26 free back- mentary teacher, I can truly appreciate recent Windsor Fair organized by former Iraq/Afghanistan Veteran Mark Snyder packs filled with supplies for the children “the gifts” given to these classrooms. The District 9 Commander Pat Eisenhart. Peter and his two grade-school sons, Luke and in the three sponsored classrooms. A sin- ALA Unit 2 affords me the opportunity Knight, former member of the nationally Levy, whose mother is currently deployed cere thank you to another community for to continue to support our schools with famous Impalas, kicked things off by in Afghanistan. reaching out to the ALA Unit 2 project the Annual Back to School Supply Pro- singing acapella the National Anthem. Guest speakers included Hallowell Post and an Augusta Elementary School. gram, Children’s Christmas Party, and Pete was followed by the POW/MIA cere- 6 Adjutant Jerry Stuart, who, along with Mid-July through August School Meat Raffle for Dirigo Girl’s State. mony followed by “Taps” played by Au- Post 6 Historian Mike Madden and District Supply donations more than satisfied the ALA Unit 2 President Clifford and I gusta Post 2 Commander Al Donnell. 9 Historian Dana Parker, hosted a table for three teachers’ “Wish Lists”. With the were ever so proud to bring two large totes a Bagpiper volunteer Jim Thibodeau, and spoke about the Wreaths Across Ameri- increased cost of living, assistance with large box, two shopping bags and 26 back- former high school music director, led in ca. Nancy Billingsly spoke on behalf of the school supplies for our students is truly packs filled with school supplies and two the full Kennebec County Veterans Honor Maine Veterans Center represented by its welcomed. New markers, colored pen- additional backpacks purchased by an Auxil- Guard, composed of Legionnaires from large mobile van on site. The last speaker cils, pencils, individual notebooks and iary member to Lincoln Elementary School folders, stress relievers such as putty and on Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 3:15 p.m. Posts 2, 4, 40, 181, and 205. The guard was D. Brandon from the DAV Service squish balls, highlighters, big erasers, presented a parade of service colors and Officer Supervisor at Togus. Submitted by Unit 2 1st Vice President Alice the American flag. The show ended with a prayer by the wipes, velcro, stickers, and many addi- D. Drummond After the close, of the POW/MIA and Kennebec Country Veterans Honor Guard Flag Presentation Ceremony, Rich Hys- Chaplain from Litchfield Post 181 Carlton song, of the national touring Hyysong Tripp and the playing of “Amazing singers, sang L.C. Greenwood’s hit “God Grace” by bagpiper Jim Thibodeau. Flag Removal

Bless the USA”. Submitted by former District 9 Commander Pat With Help Next, Bobby Reed and the Wild Eisenhart From Troop 647: Goodrich- Caldwell Post 6 of 100% Award To Squadron 2: Hallowell at a flag At left, Sons of The American Legion removal ceremony Augusta Squadron 2 member Andy assisted by members Mann, left, accepts the Squadron’s of Troop 647 Boy 100% Award from Department Adju- Scouts 819 on Satur- tant Paul L'Heureux. day, Aug. 24.

Flag Retirement Ceremony With Scout Troop 647: Goodrich -Caldwell Post 6 held their Flag Retirement Ceremony along with members of Scout Troup 647 and District 9 members on Sept. 9 along the boardwalk in Hallowell. POW/MIA Observance: Above, Above left, from left to right, Scoutmaster Glen Glidden, Tim McGuire, District 9 District 9, Smith-Wiley Post 4 of Gardiner Finance Officer Dana Parker, Post 6 Adjutant Gerald Stuart, District 9 1st Vice Com- holds its POW/MIA observance Saturday, mander Howard Betts, members of Troup 647 with Flags, and Post 6 Commander/ Sept 21. Post Sergeant-At-Arms Tom Department Assistant Service Officer Maureen Malley. Above right, from left, Glid- Smith helps with the ceremony. den; Troop Leader Jason Goldrup; Malley; and members of Scout Troop 647.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 21

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 9 continued

New Flag Pole At Windsor Fair Monmouth Post 204: Veterans The American Legion Post 204 Program: placed a new Flag Pole in Members of North Monmouth to replace Goodrich- the old one. A Ceremony and Caldwell Post 6 Dedication in North Mon- promote the mouth was held Veteran’s Day, Wreaths Across Nov. 11. Donations are wel- America program come to help with upkeep of at the Windsor flags and poles and can be Fair Aug. 29. Left made to American Legion Post to right, District 9 204, P.O. Box 420, Monmouth, Historian Mike ME 04259 - Attn: Tracy Gray.

Madden, Donna Photo by Marcia Gray Chase, Dana Par- ker, and Post Ad- jutant Gerald Stu- art.

Legion Act Completes Family WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Membership District 10 ith the new Legion Act, our Family Paul with The American Legion lapel Fairfield Post 14; Skowhegan Post 16; Pittsburg Post 32; Madison Post 39; Bingham Post 99; W is now complete. My family has a pin. To make this event even more spe- Jackman Post 122; Hartland Post 141; New Portland Post 173; Athens Post 192 long line of members servicing in the cial, James pinned Paul with our fa- United States Military. Mom met dad at ther’s Past Commander’s Pin. a Legion Post event back in the ’50s. Yes, each one of us still living has American Dad was in the Army serving during the raised to the position of Commander of th Korea Conflict. Dad joined The Ameri- our respective Posts. Thank you, The Legion 100 can Legion; mom was already a mem- American Legion, for fighting for the Anniversary ber of Auxiliary. They married and rights of all who have served, for the Marked In raised six children in George P. right to belong under the new Legion Vanderveer, Post 129 N.J., as Sons of Act. Thank you, Post 6, for making this Madison/ The American Legion and a daughter as dream of Paul’s to belong with his Anson a Junior of the Auxiliary. As we be- brothers and sister as a Legion member Parade: came of age, all six of us joined one and in belonging to the largest veteran’s Madison Post 39 branch or another, some serving in mul- organization serving veterans. Past Commander tiple branches, of course not at the By Hallowell Post 6 Commander Maureen Malley Ralph Withee & his same time. Not straying far from The wife Claudette de- American Legion, we all joined a Le- signed and con- gion Post where we were planted. structed the float The week before Hallowell Post 6 for The American was having their annual Legion Family Legion 100th Anni- Picnic, two of my brothers came to vis- versary that rode in the Madison/Anson Parade on Aug. 24. On the float, it. Because we spent so much time with waving, are Ray Soucy, back, and Nunszio Biodello. the Legion, I never thought one of us was not a member until my younger Published by Turner Publishing; The Somerset Express; Volume 11, Issue 4, September 2019 brother James said can we make Paul a Legion member? Of course, at first, I Auxiliary Members was confused, thinking he was a mem- ber. Under the new Legion Act, he was Partake In Madison/ qualified. I had a copy of his DD Form Anson Parade: Top left, 214 and ran the question by a few Post Auxiliary Members are seen here members; They were most gracious of in the car and marching in the the idea. So, during our picnic as Com- Madison/Anson Parade Aug. 24. mander of Post 6, I addressed the mem- Front passenger side, Marie bers with an application for member- Wing, back passenger side Betty ship, explaining how one of the six of Dow, and back driver’s side my family is not a member and now is Shirley Emery. Standing outside eligible if they would accept him to our of the car are Tiara Nile, left and Post family. At this point, Paul had re- Harriet Bryant, right. alized we were talking about him. The room was overjoyed in welcoming him Hallowell Post 6 Initiates Cruising On The to The American Legion as our newest Its Newest Family Member family member. Paul stood proud be- Parade Float: fore Post members as Jerry Stuart, Ad- Under The Legion Act: Left Below left, Nunzio Bipodello, jutant conducted the Initiation ceremo- to right, Paul Watson of Georgia, sis- left, Ray Soucy, back right, and ny with the assistance of Comrades ter Department Assistant Service Of- Clara Gilbert, front right, Larry Auger, Mike Madden and Paul’s ficer & Hallowell Post 6 Commander cruise on the float that rode in youngest brother, James, who pinned Maureen Malley, and brother James the Madison/Anson Parade. Watson of Georgia.

22 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 10 continued

Athens Post 192 Receives Certificate Of Appreciation: A Certificate of Appre- ciation from the Nation- al Commander was re- cently presented to Ath- ens Post 192. Presenting the Award is District 10 Commander Joseph Lefebvre, right, to Post 192 Service Officer Ger- ald Boulette, left, on Sept. 10 at Department Veteran Engagement Session Attendees: Left to right, Staff Assis- Headquarters. tant Jim Doherty, Woman Veteran Program Manager LaRhonda Harris, RN, Medical Center Director Tracye B. Davis, Chief VA Community Care Corey Vail, Lincoln Post 77 Commander Darrell Savage, and Acting Public Affairs Officer Jonathan Barczyk. WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Veteran Engagement Session District 13 everal members of the U.S. Depart- to attend shortly. S ment of Veterans Affairs held a Vet- LaRhonda Harris, RN, Women Vet- Bangor Post 12; East Millinockiet Post 13; Corinna Post 73; Old Town Post 85; Lincoln Post 77; eran Engagement Session at the Carl E. eran Program Manager, discussed the “I Millinocket Post 80; Orono Post 84; Howland Pos 97; Brewer Post 98; Newport Post 105; Burrill Post 77 in Lincoln. Am Not Invisible” Project. More infor- Etna-Carmel Post 17; East Corinth Post 115; Lee Post 160; Hermon Post 200; Many areas of the VA Maine mation on the Women Veteran Program Dixmont Post 201; Glenburn Post 211; Hampden Post 213 Healthcare System were discussed, in- can be obtained from the Program Man- cluding Women Veterans Health Care, ager at 207-623-8411 ext. 4017. VA Video Connect, Veteran Emergency Dorrin Patillo RN-B, MA, VHA- Care - Urgent Care - VA Mission Act of MA, Operational Manager at the Lincoln District Meeting Held at Post 107 2018, Veteran Emergency Care Eligibil- Outreach Clinic, spoke about the many istrict 13 meeting was held at Etna- large number of veterans now qualified to ity, Veteran Prescription Benefits and services available to veterans in Lincoln. D Carmel Post 107 on Sept. 8. The join The American Legion. information on the Lincoln Clinic. Information for the many programs meeting was led by Commander Tom The meeting was attended by Legion Medical Staff Director Tracye B. and updates of events at Togus can be Healy, who spoke to all the Post members members representing 6 Posts in District Davis and her associates answered many found on Facebook at “VA Maine present to share upcoming events for their 13. There are 16 Posts in District 13. The questions and held one-on-one interviews Healthcare System”. Post. Commander Tom Healy read the officers from the Post not taking ad- with attending veterans. Also in attendance were staff mem- article from the Dispatch about the chang- vantage of these meetings are doing a Director Davis stated that the Fisher ber of Senator Susan Collins, Michael es in membership. This will open up a disservice to their members. House, which is a facility to house veter- Noyes, staff member of Congressman ans’ dependents while they get treatment Jared Golden, Barbara Hayslett, and staff at Togus, would be opening in November. member of Senator Angus King, Edie Howland Post 97 An open house will be scheduled for all Smith. Awards: Left, Howland Post 197 receives 100% mem- bership and most meritorious WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... service award for exceeding the Post 100% membership goal. The Award was present- District 14 ed at the District 13 meeting Dover-Foxcroft Post 29;l Milo Post 41; Dexter Post 53; Brownville-Jct. Post 92; Greenville Post 94; held at Etna-Carmel Post 107 Monson Post 116; Guilford Post 119; Sangerville Post 165 on Sept. 8. District 13 Com- mander Tom Healy, right, pre- sented the Award to Post 97 Dover- Commander Jack Neal, left. Foxcroft Post Photo by District 13 Historian Tom Carle 29 Honors Boys & Girls Hermon Post 200 State: Chad- bourne-Merrill Awards: Right, Hermon Post Post 29 in Dover- 200 receives 100% membership and Foxcroft had the most meritorious service award for privilege of honor- exceeding the Post’s membership ing and thanking goal. The Award was presented at our Boys and Girls the District 13 meeting held at Etna State representa- -Carmel Post 107 on Sept. 8. Dis- tives with an award trict 13 Commander Tom Healy, and a fine meal on left, presented the Award to Post st Oct. 14 at Post 200 1 Vice Commander Dalton Headquarters. The students represented us well! Thank you, Ethan Curtis, Jacob Hodgins, right. Raynes, and Hunter Clarke for taking time out of your busy summer schedule to

Photo by District 13 Historian Tom Carle attend Boys State!

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 23

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... Honoring Five Veterans District 14 continued with Quilts of Valor

very moving ceremony was held on dents at the C.A. Dean Nursing Home. Humbled and Honored to be Part A Friday, Aug, 17 to honor five veter- The brainchild of Marilyn Goodwin of ans of Greenville Post 94 who are resi- Crazy Moose Fabrics, she arranged for of The American Legion some of her cus- tomers to quilt five can still remember the first time I went beautiful quilts to I with my dad to the American Legion. I be given to the five was four years old, and we were living in veteran residents. Olive Hill, Kentucky. The post there was Marilyn also ar- mostly composed of old guys, and the ranged for the usual thing they did there was drink— Maine State Coor- whether it be coffee or beer. I remember dinator of Quilts of thinking, “Is this what it’s like to be old? Valor to do the You sit around in the middle of the day, presentations. Pri- drink beer and complain about young hoo- or to that, Cecil R. ligans who are now loitering around Cole Post 94 Com- town?” mander Pete John- Let’s fast forward 20 years. I moved son presented the to Greenville, Maine in December 2018. veterans with paid As I was putting roots down, I decided to up Post member- get more involved in the community. With ship cards for my entire family having some sort of mili- 2020. The veterans tary background, I felt a draw to get in- were wrapped in volved with the Legion in town Cecile R. their quilts and Post 94. I began by volunteering to make thanked for their desserts for fundraisers and cook in the Five Veterans Honored With Quilts Of service to our kitchen during bingo nights. I began to Valor: Left to right, Ralph Gauthier, USA European Theater country. After that, notice a kind of way they operated, there Author Of American Legion WWII and Battle of the Bulge; Walter Crossman, USN WWII, retired Army nurse is much respect for elders in this place. I College Essay: Recently, this es- Pacific Theater; Lawrence Budden, USA Korean Era, Europe- Major Donna Ma- started to understand the chain of com- say was submitted to Moosehead Mat- an Theater; Raymond Shaffer, USA WWII Pacific Theater; bee gave a heartfelt mand, taking note on their particular dia- ters by a member of the local American Clarence Laskey, USN WWII and Korean War, Atlantic and hug to each of lect, and really empathized with their de- Legion Auxiliary (Unit 94). Its author, Pacific Theaters. them. sire to serve others. I wanted to dive deep- Lauren Parsons, seen here, wrote it for er and learn about the empowering organi- a college class assignment. zation I was learning to love. As I con- Photo by Jonathan Pratt, Moosehead ducted my research, I found that there are Matters Newspaper many branches of the American Legion. George T. Files Post 20 of The Legion itself only accepts mem- Brunswick conducted a Flag Disposal Cere- bership applicants who are currently in sentatives of the Legion. At this meeting mony at the Joshua Chamberlain Statue on active duty or who have served in any of they determine membership dues, are able the eligible war eras. Family of the mili- to make an adjustment(s) to the Legion’s mander David Watson, Post Chaplain Read tary are also invited to join the Legion, constitution and by-laws, pass programs too. The Women’s Auxiliary Unit is made that determine the course of the Legion, up of solely women—wives, daughters and elect the new National Commander and mothers of soldiers. Finally, the Sons and Vice Commanders that will serve until of the Legion is the last branch of the Le- the end of the next convention. gion composed of, well, sons of military The American Legion is a group that members. The branches of the Legion deserves the utmost respect for the benev- work together as a non-profit organization. olence they exude every day of the year. The chain of command is taken very This organization is made up of men and seriously within the American Legion. women who have given everything to de- The National Department consists of the fend our freedom, and now have come National Commander (President) and five together to support each other and others Vice Commanders (Vice Presidents). The back on the home-front. It is the nation’s National Commander has the full power to largest wartime veterans service organiza- enforce the Legion’s constitution within tion, committed to mentoring youth and Speakers In Attendance: Above left, Colonel Doug Damon (retired) all 12,000 posts in the United States, while sponsorship of wholesome programs in and current Commander of Bangor Post 12 speaks at the 911 Remembrance the VP’s act as representatives of the Na- our communities, advocating patriotism Ceremony at the Greenville Consolidated School on Sept. 11. Above right, tional Commander. Next are the Constitu- and honor, promoting strong national se- Colonel Al Wickel (retired) and current Commander of Greenville Post 94 tional Officers. Six are elected annually by curity, and continued devotion to our fel- speaks at the ceremony. the NEC. Their roles are as follows: adju- low service members and veterans (from tant, treasurer, judge advocate, historian, Legion.org). Being part of this family has chaplain and sergeant-at-arms. The Na- taught me selflessness, honor, respect, and ‘Attack on America’ Presentation tional Executive Committee is made up of the importance of helping your fellow the National Commander, the Vice Com- brothers. I am humbled and honored to be he 911 Remembrance was organized that he has previously given to the Na- manders, one National Committeeman a part of the American Legion. by The American Legion Post 94 for tional Command Authority and Joint T (and their alternate) from each department. Published by Jonathan Pratt grades 7 to 12 and the public at the Chiefs of Staff that outlined the events of There are 55 departments in the Moosehead Matters, Koppenhaver Publishing Greenville Consolidated School on Sep- leading up to and the response by Air American Legion—one in each state plus Please note: The “Legion Act” on tember 11th. The briefing was conducted National Guard fighter and air refueling the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, membership was passed shortly after by two warriors from the Air National operations following the attack on 911. France, the Philippines, and Mexico. The this article was written. The Legion Act Guard. Colonel Doug Damon (Retired) Colonel Wickel, the Vice Commander of NEC holds administrative power, respon- changed membership eligibility both in and current Commander of American an Air National Guard F-15 Fighter Wing, sible for voting on the Legion’s budget, the Legion and the Auxiliary. For more Legion Post 12 in Bangor and Colonel Al at the time, outlined fighter response op-

approving contracts, and signing off on information regarding “Eligibility,” see Wickel (Retired) & current member of erations during and following the attack.

the Legion’s spending. Each year, a na- page 9 in this edition of The Maine Le- Post 94 in Greenville. Submitted by Greenville Post 94 Commander tional convention is held to unite all repre- gionnaire. Colonel Damon presented a briefing Peter Johnson

24 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... 9/11 Remembrance Program: Narraguagus Post 8 of Cherryfield conducted a 9/11 Remembrance Program in partnership with the Deblois Fire Department. Flags were lowered to half-staff to the Bugle of Post Adjutant Peter District 15 Duston; poems were read by local resident Lori Calais Post 3; Cherryfield Post 8; Machias Post 9; Eastport Post 11; Baileyville Post 23; Barbee and Cindy Gay; Danforth Post 45; Pembroke Post5 59; Lubec Post 65; Jonesport Post 108; the Fire Chief was re- Vanceboro Post 172; Topsfield Post 191 flecting on the tragedy followed by reflections of the audience as to where they were on that fateful day in 2001. Tribute was Down East Credit paid to our military who have suffered in the War Union Donates To on Terror since. Prayers Calais Post 3: The and Taps were offered at Down East Credit Union each time of the plane made their second annual attacks: 0846 - North donation of $1,000 to Cal- Tower, 0903 - South ais Post 3 to help the Post Tower, 0937 - Pentagon continue to support their and 1003 - Field in PA. administration and com- Cherryfield Post 8 Adju- munity! Left to right, Loan tant Peter Dustin is seen Officer Jason Theriault, here playing “Taps.” Branch Manager Becky Perkins, Calais Post 3 Commander Mike McLean, MSR Kayla Pot- tle, and MSR Michelle Takach.

Canadian Legion 46th International Festival: Calais Post 3 Commander Mike McLean marches with the Canadian Legion in Memories of Friends in Combat: Commander Jon Gay, a Marine July celebrating their Veteran of Iraq, shared memories of losing buddies in combat, all later casual- 46th Consecutive Annual ties of the wars spawned by 9/11. Festival of bringing world-class memories with 17 Festival Village Halls for all to enjoy.

Cherryfield Post 8 and Deblois Fire Department: Cherryfield Cherryfield’s Post 8 and the Deblois Fire Post 8 Department partner Hosts together to conduct a Two 9/11 Remembrance Program: Left to Blood right, on the flag dais Drives are Fire Chief Cindy Gay, Post Adjutant Annually: Peter Duston, and Steuben Assistant Fire Chief resident Bill Kinter. Doug Smith Jr. donates blood at Cherryfield Post 8’s fall blood drive, helping the Red Cross meet the critical shortage of the national blood supply.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 25

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 17

Van Buren Post 49; Fort Kent Post 133; Stockholm Post 136; Frenchville Post 145; Madawaska Post 147; Eagle Lake Post 176; St. Francis Post 180

3 Generations: Three generations of Auxiliary members march in celebra- tion of Frenchville’s 150th Anniversary & 100th Anniversary of The American Legion on July 26. Left to right, Bern, grandmother of Junior Auxiliary, Isabella, and Cindy, mother of Isabella. Behind them are Theresa, Denise, and Doreen.

Photo by Donald Raymond

Anniversary Celebration: Frenchville Post 145 celebrates the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion in conjunction with the 150th Anniversary of the Town, with a flag burning conducted by the local Boy Scouts under the supervision of two of the Scout leaders. Left is Post Sergeant-At-Arms Roger Bosse, and back left, Post Commander Roger Gervais. Celebrating Frenchville’s 150th Anniversary & 100th Anniversary of The American Legion uly was a very special month in Proceeds were for our scholarships. J Frenchville with the Town celebrating On July 28, we had a beautiful pa- its 150th Anniversary and The American rade with The American Legion Honor Legion celebrating its 100th Anniversary. Guard leading the parade. There were On July 26, The American Legion many Legionnaires and Auxiliaries par- Post 145 of Frenchville had a wonderful ticipating in the parade. We had three Awaiting Their Turn: Auxiliary members waiting for the parade to line day of celebration. We had a display of generations participating: mother Cindy, up. Left to right, back row, Claudette, Beatrice, Cleo, Bern, Muriel, Victoria, pictures of our World War I, World War granddaughter Isabella, and grandmother Doreen, Monique, Jackie, Marie Jeanne, Muriel; front row, Cindy, Junior mem-

II, Korean, and Vietnam Veterans, Com- Bern. Isabella is very proud of being a Jun- ber Isabella, and Denise. manders, and Auxiliary Presidents from 1 ior Auxiliary and enjoys being active with Photo by Donald Raymond to 4 p.m. The American Legion Auxilia- her grandmother and mother. We had a van ries put on a spaghetti dinner from 4 to 6 carrying several of Auxiliary Charter mem- p.m. at the Post followed by a flag burn- bers, who reside in two assisted-living facil- ing ceremony in the Frenchville Park ities, and several World War II Veterans across the street from the Post. We fin- were riding in convertible cars. ished the day with a dance at the Post Submitted by Unit 145 Secretary Denise from 8 to 11 p.m. Fun was had by all. Sinclair

Celebrating in Style: In the parade is a van carrying several of Auxiliary Charter members who reside in two assisted-living facilities. Seated in front, Odette and Aline; seated in back, Therese and A Spaghetti Dinner To Celebrate: Unit 145 Auxiliary members put on a spaghetti dinner at the Post home on July 26 in celebration of Frenchville’s Dora. th th Photo by Donald Raymond 150 Anniversary and 100 Anniversary of The American Legion. Kitchen help, left to right, Claudette, Kelly, Peighton, Beatrice, Muriel, Doreen, Muriel R., Vic-

toria, Jackie, Stella, Denise, Ginette, and Bern.

Photo by Donald Raymond

26 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR DISTRICT... District 17 continued

In advance of Veterans Day, President Trump signed into law the National POW/MIA Flag Act. American Legion Welcomes President’s Signing of POW/MIA Flag Act he head of the nation’s largest veter- can flag is displayed on prominent federal T ans organization thanked President buildings and national war memorials to Trump for signing a bipartisan act which honor the more than 82,000 Americans will require certain prominent federal who are listed as Prisoners of War properties to display the POW/MIA Flag (POW), Missing in Action (MIA), or oth- every day with the U.S. Flag. erwise unaccounted for from our nation’s “Yesterday I was humbled to stand past wars and conflicts, according to a with my fellow veterans inside the Oval press release from Reed’s office. Office and watch the president of the On the House side, the National St. Francis Post 180 Receives 100% Membership Award: United States sign this symbolic but im- POW/MIA Flag Act was led by Repre- Jandreau-Connors St. Francis Post 180 Commander Keith Jandreau Jr., center, portant legislation,” said American Le- sentatives Chris Pappas (D-N.H.) and proudly displays the 100% Membership Award presented by Department Ameri- gion National Commander James W. Jack Bergman (R-Mich.). The legislation canism Officer Alfred McKay, left, as District 17 Commander Joseph Michaud, “Bill” Oxford. “It is important that had the support of Rolling Thunder, Inc.; right, looks on. Americans never forget that there are still the National League of POW/MIA Fami- more than 82,000 men and women who lies; Veterans of Foreign Wars; The were taken prisoner or never had a full American Legion; American Ex-Prisoners WHAT’S HAPPENING IN ... accounting. The American Legion reveres of War; and the National Alliance of their memory and will continue to honor Families for the Return of America's them at all of our meetings. I plan to visit Missing Servicemen. St. John’s Newfoundland Post CN09 the headquarters of the Defense POW/ With a current membership of nearly MIA Accounting Agency later this month two million wartime veterans, The Ameri- to observe their work firsthand. DPAA can Legion was founded in 1919 on the four does a remarkable job of identifying and pillars of a strong national security, veterans repatriating so many heroes who paid the affairs, patriotic youth programs and Ameri- ultimate price for freedom. The American canism. Legionnaires work for the better- Legion is eager to explore additional ways ment of their communities through nearly to lend our support.” 13,000 posts worldwide. From the drafting Cosponsored by U.S. Senators Eliza- of the original GI Bill to the creation of the beth Warren (D-Mass.), Tom Cotton (D- Department of Veterans Affairs, The Amer- Ark.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and several ican Legion is the most influential voice for others, the law will require the POW/MIA America’s veterans.

flag to be displayed whenever the Ameri- —www.legion.org

THE AMERICAN LEGION 102nd ANNUAL STATE CONVENTION June 12-14, 2020

Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, Canada Post CN09 Meeting: Canada Post CN09 held their meeting 15 Littlefield Way, Brewer, Maine 04412 on June 24. Front row, left to right, Finance Officer Ray Reiser, Terry Clower, Don Cook & Millard Star. Back row, left to right, John Gulich, 1st Vice Com- mander/Service Officer/Chaplain George Walter, Adjutant Harlow Snippen, PLAN NOW TO ATTEND! Anne McFarlane, Bob Cobb & Commander John Walther.

THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019 27

POST NAME CONFLICT

Post 4 – Gardiner Robert B. Lewis Sr. Vietnam Post 5 – Waterville Robert L. Carrier Korea Post 5 – Waterville Robert LaGrange Korea Post 5 – Waterville Joseph L. Theriault Sr. Korea Post 5 – Waterville Donald P. Breton Korea Post 5 – Waterville Reginald G. Joler Korea Post 12 – Bangor Henry G. Wyman WWII Post 24 – Rumford Henry Zinck Korea Post 24 – Rumford Antonio Diconzo Vietnam Post 24 – Rumford Arthur E. Bordeau Korea Post 24 – Rumford Felix Ricci WWII Post 40 – Winthrop Charles R. Mann Korea Post 40 – Winthrop Robert L. Fisher Vietnam Post 42 – Damariscotta Wayne R. Elliott Vietnam Post 42 – Damariscotta Robert N. Reed Korea Post 50 – Unity Derrill W. Brooks Vietnam Post 50 – Unity Bacil L. Ames Vietnam Post 52 – Oakfield George B. Clarke WWII California Post 52 – Oakfield Martha J. Dickinson Vietnam Legion Post 52 – Oakfield Barry C. Higgins Vietnam Post 52 – Oakfield Wayne Sanford Vietnam Riders with Post 58 – Buckfield Scott L. Kendall WWII Bridgton Post 65 – Lubec William B. Ramsdell Vietnam Chapter 67: Post 65 – Lubec Edwin Knight Korea Post 88 – Presque Isle Frank J. Allen Jr. Vietnam Top: Chapter 31 Post 116 – Monson Clowes L. Brown Vietnam American Legion Post 135 – Sabattus Rodney Woodrum Jr. Korea Riders are, left Post 138 – Winterport Raymond Porter Vietnam to right, Rick DeArana, Rick Phinney, Hy Libby, and Alfredo Gomez. Bridgton Post 158 – Lisbon George M. Couture Vietnam Post 67 proudly hosted ALR Chapter 31 of Monterey, Calif., with a luncheon Post 158 – Lisbon Brett L. Griffin Vietnam and a VIP tour of the Maine Military Museum in South Portland and a Maine Post 158 – Lisbon Lewis G. Crafts Vietnam traditional meal the following day. ALR Chapter 67 presented Chapter 31 Mon- Post 171 – Harpswell Thomas H. Conway Korea terey a Maine Flag showing their support for the Veteran’s cemetery. The ALR Post 197 – Westbrook Thomas Harrington Vietnam supports this Veteran’s cemetery ride from coast to coast. ALR of Monterey on their Epic Ride cross-country to raise awareness and money to open the Veterans Cemetery in the former Fort Ord, Calif. This has been a 28-year, yes, 28-year Legion project. Above: Despite the threat of torrential downpours, the weather held off. The Riders Bridgton Post 67 rally was a huge success in bringing together riders from all Help House over the state. The Riders of Maine made a substantial donation to the Betsy Ann Of Hope: Ross Home for Women Veterans with Children. Maine Legion Riders Director Mike Lallemand, right, donates a check in the amount of $3,753.80 to the Betsy Ann Ross House of Hope located in Augus- ta on Aug. 20. Receiving the do- nation is Founder & Executive Di- rector Martha Everett StPierre. The Maine Legionnaire Submissions

lease be reminded that only those where the event took place. If the above P articles and/or pictures which are mentioned is not provided, the photo sent in proper form will be considered will be returned to the submitter for for publication in The Maine Legion- clarification and submission of the re- naire. As we continue to receive an quired information. overabundance of photos for publishing, Anyone interested in submitting an we must have guidelines to follow. In article and/or photo, please send via order to publish any photo(s) received, email to [email protected] or effective immediately, the submitter [email protected] or mail to must include the following: who are the The American Legion, Department of individuals in the photo (left to right), Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine what the photo is about, and when and 04901-0727.

28 THE MAINE LEGIONNAIRE, NOVEMBER 2019

Department of Maine NON PROFIT American Legion ORANIZATION Attention: Next Deadline is Jan. 24 5 Verti Drive U.S. POSTAGE Winslow, ME 04901-0727 PAID he deadline for material, stories and/or squadrons, individuals, etc. To make this PORTLAND T pictures to be submitted for considera- paper informative to you, it is imperative MAINE tion for use in the February 2020 issue of that we receive submissions from the PERMIT NO. 493 The Maine Legionnaire will be Jan. 24, membership. 2020. Photo(s) should include the following: Please be reminded that only those who is in the photo (left to right), what the articles and/or pictures which are sent in photo is about, where the event took place, proper form will be considered for publica- and who took the picture (optional). All tion. photos will be returned for clarification Illegible stories or pictures that cannot and submission of the required information be reproduced will be returned to you. A if the above mentioned is not provided. reminder that stories must be in story for- Anyone interested in submitting a mat; we are unable to compose your infor- guest editorial should contact The Maine mation for you. Legionnaire business office at: As always, the editorial staff may edit (207) 873-3229 or via email at: all submissions at its discretion. [email protected] or We are once again asking for input [email protected] from all posts, auxiliary units, S.A.L.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS CARD Membership Card No.______Date____/____/____ Post No.____ Legion Family to gather in Refer to membership register Brewer for Winter Conference Member’s Name______Show as entered in membership register he annual Mid-Winter Conference 250 Odlin Rd., Bangor, Maine 04401. Old Address______T will be held Jan. 18-19, 2020 at Jeff’s Phone: 207-942-8272, Room Rate: Street, Route or P.O. Box Catering & Event Center, 15 Littlefield $89.00. Fairfield Inn: 300 Odlin Rd. Ban- Way, Brewer ME 04412. The conference gor, Maine 04401. Phone: 207-990-0001, Post Office______State______Zip______will be hosted by Commander Matthew Room Rate: $89.00. Please state Jabaut and 2nd Vice Commander Kirk “Legion” when calling for reservations. New Address______Thurston. Hotel Reservations can be Please watch future editions of the Lead- Street, Route or P.O. Box made at the following: Holiday Inn: 404 ership Ledger and on

Post Office______State______Zip______Odlin Rd. Bangor, Maine 04401. Phone: www.mainelegion.org for further infor- 207-947-0101 Website: mation regarding, meals, lodging and Remarks______www.holidayinn.com, Room Rate: speakers. $93.00 (includes breakfast). Quality Inn: To update your address: Complete all sections of the above form and mail to The American Legion, Department of Maine, 5 Verti Drive, Winslow, Maine 04901 or call Department HQ at 207-873-3229 | Email: [email protected]

Maine Chapters Donate To Legacy Fund: State Commander Matthew Jabaut, left, and State Adjutant Paul L’Heu- reux, right, present a check in the amount of $3,200 to the National Liaison Coordinator of the Legion Riders Kenneth George during Fall Confer- ence at National Headquar- ters. The funds were raised by the following Chapters in Maine for the Legacy Fund program: Sanford Chapter 19 ($1,500), Madison Chapter 39 ($500), Winthrop Chapter 40 ($500), Dixfield Chapter 100 ($500), and Westbrook Chapter 62 ($200).

Claws for Celebration: Lobster (aka Dept. Judge Advocate Jason Hall) leads the Maine Delegation in the parade at National Convention on Aug. 25.

Merry Christmas & DISCLAIMER either The Maine Legionnaire editorial director, nor managing editor is responsible N for misinformation, discrepancies, or embellishments, intentional or unintentional Happy New Year! that may be contained in communications in any form that appear in The Maine Legion-

naire. From All of Us at Due to time constraints and staff limitations to fact check all material sent in, we depend on the honesty and integrity of those who submit material for publication and on The American Legion State HQ the expertise of our members and readers to correct misstatements or misinformation whether intentional or not. Artwork by Rachael Currie