0135 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION -THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202)393-4811

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 7-3-74

Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has been awarded The American Legion's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Medal, in recognition of his "outstanding service to the Nation," it was announced by National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton. * * *

Rear Admiral Jeremiah A. Denton, the first man off the plane bringing the first contingent of released prisoners of war home from Vietnam, will be the featured speaker before The American Legion's National Americanism Commission during the 1974 National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla.

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Mrs. E. Dollie Wolverton, program planning specialist of the Children's Bureau, Office of Child Development, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, will speak to The American Legion's Children & Youth Commission at 10 a.m., Aug. 16 at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, Fla.

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Eleven major league players, who are graduates of The American Legion baseball program, were saluted at American Legion Day at June 30, when the Tigers played the in a 1:30 p.m. doubleheader. * * *

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The President has approved S. 411, a bill to extend the time for nonprofit publications to adjust to the impact of soaring increases in postal rates, While S. 411 does not provide all the relief deemed essential by The American Legion, it will give Legion publications an extra six years to adjust to the full rate.

The American Legion has strongly supported the extension and is grateful to the Congress for this action. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Gordon Sinclair, a prominent Canadian newscaster, who has paid tribute to the greatness of America in his stirring broadcast editorial narration, "The Americans," has thanked The American Legion for its "resolution of commendation."

In a letter to National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton, Sinclair noted: "I've had several citations from different branches of the Legion...six I think...but to have this in such a form that it can be permanently preserved, is indeed a joy."

-alns- HJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c, WatkinSi Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 G3 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-3-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has been awarded The American Legion's highest honor, the Distinguished Service Medal, in recognition of his "outstanding service to the Nation," it was announced by National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton.

The award will be presented at the Legion's 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., the evening of August 20th, at the National Commander's Banquet in the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Fontainebleau.

Voted by resolution of The American Legion's governing body, the National Executive Committee, the award recognizes Kissinger for his distinguished background as a veteran of the United States Armed Forces; as a scholar, eminent historian and an authority on international relations. He is specifically cited for "his untiring efforts toward the disengagement of hostile forces in the trouble spots of the world," and for his success in bringing to reality the conditions which have "successfully set the stage for negotiations which would bring all mankind to that lofty and long sought goal of peace with honor."

Secretary Kissinger will receive the high Legion honor from National Commander Eaton as the highlight of the National Commander's Banquet, an annual event for Legion delegates and distinguished guests.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Further information has been received regarding the recently approved Connecticut World War I veterans' bonus.

Beginning Oct. 1, a bonus of up to $300 will be paid to Connecticut veterans or a surviving spouse, after certain qualifications are met. To be eligible, a person must have been in the U.S. Armed Forces or Public Health Service for at least 90 days between April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918. The date is extended to April 1, 1920, if the veteran served with the U.S. Forces in Russia. Those serving from May 8, 1916 to April 5, 1917 during the Mexican Border incident are also eligible.

The veteran must hold an honorable discharge certificate or have been separated from the service under other than dishonorably conditions. He must have been domiciled in Connecticut for at least one year at time of entry into the service, or have lived in that state for at least five years after discharge, and living in Connecticut at the time of filing his application.

The bonus payment may be made to a surviving spouse, provided she was unmarried at the time of payment, and had been living with the veteran in Connecticut at the time of his death.

Applications must be filed within two years after October 1, 1974, the effective date of the act. The Connecticut State Treasurer will be in charge of administering the entire program, including the issuance of appropriate regulations, application forms, which will be available about mid-August, and the making of payments.

-alns- 0137 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 6-28-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—"We are honored to have had the opportunity to serve our country under difficult circumstances...God Bless America."

The man who spoke those words as the first man off the plane bringing the first contingent of released prisoners of war home from Vietnam, Rear Admiral Jeremiah A. Denton Jr., (then Captain Denton), will be the featured speaker before The American Legion's National Americanism Commission during the 1974 National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla.

Admiral Denton is scheduled to address the commission at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, in the Marseilles Room, Fontainebleau South. A native of Mobile, Ala., and a 1946 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, he was a prisoner of the North Vietnamese for eight years. He was released in February of 1973 and was subsequently promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral. He is now serving as Commandant of the Armed Forces Staff College at Norfolk, Va.

The Legion's Americanism Commission, which is responsible for the organization's program of youth activities, Baseball, Boys State-Boys Nation, Boy Scout Sponsorship, Oratorical Contest, and others, in addition to counter-subversive and education and scholarship work, also will hear and discuss reports on all components of the Americanism program.

The commission also will select the winner of the Hearst Americanism Trophy, given annually by the Hearst newspapers to the state which conducted the best all-round Americanism program for the past year.

On Saturday, Aug. 17, the commission will meet jointly with the Children & Youth Commission to hear a panel discussion by the Legion's Youth Champions on the American Political System today. -alns-

CHICAGO—(ALNS)—Paul L. Weber, permanent temporary chairman of The American Legion College Class of 1954, has announced his organization's plans for the Annual National Convention's Reunion Breakfast meeting in Miami Beach.

Attendance at the breakfast is limited to graduates of the 1954 American Legion College Class, other years prior to 1954 and faculty. The Reunion is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 19, with the famous Whitfield-Todd Wake-up appetizer" at 7:00 a.m., and breakfast at 7:30 a.m., Eden Roc Hotel, Mona Lisa Room.

Those eligible are asked to send $6.50 to Paul L. Weber, The American Legion Life Insurance Plan, 111 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60604.

The organization also has a "Last Four Man's Club." Contributions of $1.00 or more may be sent to the permanent temporary vice-chairman and treasurer, James S. Whitfield, Executive Director, The American Legion, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

-alns- 0138 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman james C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS HI P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-3-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Mrs. E. Dollie Wolverton, program planning specialist of the Children's Bureau, Office of Child Development, Department of Health, Education and Welfare, will speak to The American Legion's Children & Youth Commission at 10 a.m., Aug. 16 at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, Fla.

Mrs. Wolverton will speak on the subject of Education for Parenthood in her message to the Legion's Commission meeting in conjunction with the 56th Annual National Convention of The American Legion, Aug. 16-22, in the Florida resort city.

Since The American Legion's Children & Youth (formerly Child Welfare) program became a formal part of the organization's programming in 1925, the Legion and its affiliated organizations have contributed nearly $300,000,000 to programs and projects, local through national, ranging from recreational programs through juvenile delinquency and drug related problems to research in children's diseases.

The Friday afternoon program of the Commission will be devoted to a tour of the Variety Children's Hospital in Miami, where they will receive an explanation of the services provided by the hospital.

Staff members will review the progress of current programs and present for Commission consideration plans for the 1974-75 program.

On Saturday the Commission will meet with the National Americanism Commission for a panel program of youth's views of the American Political System today to be presented by the current champions from The American Legion's Americanism programs and the President of the American Legion Auxiliary's Girls Nation program.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The following article is the first in a series, designed to clarify the recently enacted Veteran's Insurance Act of 1974:

Members of the Active Reserve, who are assigned to a unit or a position in which they are required to be on active duty or perform active duty training, and are scheduled to perform 12 periods of inactive duty each year for credit toward retirement, are automatically covered with $20,000 of Servicemen's Group Life Insurance.

Those who have completed 20 years or more of Reserve duty, but are not drawing retired pay, and have not reached their 60th birthday, may apply for the maximum coverage of $20,000. To do this, they must apply on a non-medical form or write to the office of Servicemen's Group Life Insurance, 212 Washington Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102. The monthly premium rate through age 39 is $6, 40 through 49 is $8, and ages 50 through 60 is $10.

-alns- 0139 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-3-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The Washington Post and The New York Times have apparently joined The American Legion in the fight for better educational benefits for the Vietnam veteran.

In editorials on June 28, both newspapers cited the inequities in the present G.I. Bill and said that the Senate-amended bill was "...generous and fair legislation that would do much to tell the veterans that their sacrifices were appreciated."

The bill is now being worked out in a Senate-House conference, and The Washington Post noted the opposition to the bill by the former chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, Representative Olin Teague (Tex.). Teague once headed a subcommittee that investigated abuses of the old G.I. Bill.

The Post, said, however, that, "...the time has come for the Congress to listen to the pleas of groups such as The American Legion, which strongly supports tuition payments." The paper quotes the Legion's National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton, who has been, for some time, urging the Congress to adopt the Senate version of the G.I. Bill. -alns-

DETROIT, MICH.—(ALNS)—Eleven Detroit Tigers who are graduates of The American Legion baseball program were saluted at American Legion Day at Tiger Stadium June 30, when the Tigers played the Milwaukee Brewers in a 1:30 p.m. doubleheader.

The between-games ceremonies honored Ed Brinkman, Gates Brown, Bill Freehan, Joe Coleman, Al Kaline, Lerrin LaGrow, Mickey Lolich, Jerry Moses, Jim Northrup, Dick Sharon and Mickey Stanley along with the 1973 American Legion state champions from Rochester Post 172.

Kaline, who in 1973 was named The American Legion's Graduate of the Year, represented the Tiger players and the Detroit Baseball Club in the ceremonies.

More than 2,000 American Legion members and friends attended the event.

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WICKLIFFE, KY. —(ALNS)—William P. Shadoan, 78, Past National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1944-45), died here June 20. A World War I veteran, he served as National Executive Committeeman in 1946-47, and Department Commander in 1943-44.

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ISHPEMING, MICH. —(ALNS)—Joseph "Joe" Paul, 70, Past National Vice Commander of The American Legion (1964-65), died here June 11. A World War II veteran, he served as Department Commander of the Michigan American Legion in 1962-63.

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE I NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

mC. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE FOR WEEK ENDING 7-12-74

Gen. David C. Jones, Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force, will be the military speaker for The American Legion's 56th Annual National Convention, Aug. 16-22, in Miami Beach, Fla. A A *

In a message to Secretary of Labor Peter J. Brennan, American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton said that the Legion "...strongly opposes proposed regionalization of the Veterans Employment Service."

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"The decision as to whether the nation shall have national health insurance, in any form, is of direct concern to this country's 29-million war veterans and their dependents," Robert E. Lyngh, Deputy Director, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission of The American Legion, told the House Ways and Means Committee. * * *

The American Legion's 56th Annual National Convention Parade is scheduled to step off promptly at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, rain or shine, and to take an estimated four and one-half hours to pass the reviewing stand which will be on Washington Avenue at about 18th Street. American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton, Legion and military dignitaries and distinguished guests will take the salute of the marching units from the reviewing stand. * * *

Under the theme "Be Counted Again Now—For America," The American Legion will hold it Eleventh Annual Membership Workshop on Aug. 1-2, 1974, at the Legion's National Headquarters, 700 N. Pennsylvania St. here. The Membership Workshop is a key planning group which annually develops programs aimed at maintaining Legion membership stability. A * *

More than 100 members of The American Legion's National Security Commission will journey to Fort Benning, Ga., for two days of tours, briefings, and demonstrations, as a prelude to the 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-22. * * *

James V. Day, former National Vice Commander of The American Legion, has been appointed to another five year term as a Vice Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission. -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION- ■THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-12-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Gen. David C. Jones, Chief of Staff, U.S. Air Force, will be the military speaker for The American Legion's 56th Annual National Convention, Aug. 16-22, in Miami Beach, Fla.

Gen. Jones is scheduled to address the delegates at approximately 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21, in the Grand Ballroom of the Fontainebleau Hotel.

A 32-year veteran of Air Force and Army Air Corps service, Gen. Jones was born in Aberdeen, S.D., and attended the University of North Dakota and Minot State College prior to enlisting in the Army Air Corps as an Aviation Cadet in 1942. After several assignments as an instructor and in operations and training capacities, he became squadron commander of the 19th Bombardment Squadron, one of the first bombardment units committed to the Korean War and accumulated some 300 combat hours on 29 bombing missions over North Korea.

He held a number of assignments of increasing responsibility in the Strategic Air Command (SAC) then attended the National War College for a year prior to a four- year tour of duty at Headquarters, United States Air Force. He returned to tactical unit assignments and in 1965 was assigned to United States Air Forces in Europe as Inspector General. He served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and as Vice Commander, Seventh Air Force, in Vietnam, then returned to SAC and later to United States Air Forces in Europe.

He was serving in the latter command as Commander, Fourth Allied Tactical Air Force and as Commander-in-Chief, United States Air Forces in Europe, prior to returning to the United States for assignments leading to his present position of Chief of Staff, United States Air Force.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—In a message to Secretary of Labor Peter J. Brennan, American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton said that the Legion "...strongly opposes proposed regionalization of the Veterans Employment Service."

Eaton said that according to Legionnaires throughout the Country regionalization of the VES is under active consideration, and if the plan is implemented, "...would abolish VES as a separate entity."

The National Commander told Brennan that "At a time when there are more than 300,000 jobless young Vietnam Era veterans...such a regionalization would emasculate VES and cause the entire employment program for veterans to lose its effectiveness."

A proposed reorganization of the Manpower Administration, which would have abolished the Veterans Employment Service, was defeated in the fall of 1968 through the efforts of The American Legion, other veterans organizations, and members of Congress.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeUoach, Chairman James c. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-12-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—"The decision as to whether the nation shall have national health insurance, in any form, is of direct concern to this country's 29-million war veterans and their dependents," Robert E. Lyngh, Deputy Director, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission of The American Legion said.

Speaking before the House Ways and Means Committee, Lyngh noted that the "... introduction of national health insurance as a factor in the national health care delivery system cannot fail to have a direct effect on the medical care program that is now conducted for veterans by the Veterans Administration."

Lyngh said that The American Legion position on national health insurance was formulated by a Special Committee on Veterans Medical Care and ratified by the 54th National Convention in 1972. He noted that "...the United States today enjoys what is perhaps the most highly developed, medically advanced and effective health care delivery system to be found anywhere in the world." He added that it was the Legion's fundamental belief that the free enterprise system was the best for this nation.

Finally, Lyngh said, "It is the basic position of The American Legion that the provision of unexcelled medical care to the disabled war veteran is a priority of the Federal Government that cannot be surpassed. And collateral to that fundamental," he said, "is the accompanying fact that the provision of first class care to the service-disabled can only be achieved through the continued operation of a wholly integrated medical care program such as that now being operated by the Veterans Adminis tration." -alns-

JOBS FOR VETERANS

A continuing feature covering Job Fairs and Opportunity Days, in cooperation with the Legion's National Economic Commission, to focus a greater emphasis on employment of war veterans.

SCHEDULED VETERANS' JOB FAIRS AND OPPORTUNITY DAYS

DATE LOCATION REMARKS CONTACT

Augus t Sheraton Huntsville Veterans Oppty NCO Assn., PO Box 2268, 23-24, Motor Inn Seminar San Antonio, TX, Leon 1974 4404 University Dr. NW (Anticipate 3,000) Tonini, (512) 653-6161 Huntsville, Ala. (3 People Banks) September Site not firm Veterans Oppty. Same as above 12-13, 1974 Columbia, SC Seminar (Anticipate 4,000) December 4, Sheraton Motor Inn Veterans Oppty. Same as above 1974 (Tentative Location) Seminar San Antonio, TX (Anticipate 4,000)

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-12-74

MIAMI BEACH—(ALNS)—The American Legion's 56th Annual National Convention Parade is scheduled to step off promptly at 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, rain or shine, and to take an estimated four and one-half hours to pass the reviewing stand which will be on Washington Avenue at about 18th Street. American Legion National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton, Legion and military dignitaries and distinguished guests will take the salute of the marching units from the reviewing stand.

The parade will form on Washington Avenue, South of Eleventh Street, and, starting at Eleventh Street, move north on Washington to 20th Street, a distance of about 1.2 miles. Approximately 10,000 marchers are expected to participate in the spectacular parade which will be led by a military escort division comprised of marching units from area military installations. There will be marching units respresenting each of the 58 Departments of the Legion which includes the 50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Italy, Mexico, Panama Canal Zone, Canada and the Philippines.

Bands, drum and bugle corps, color guards, firing squads and other Legion uniformed groups will participate in the parade for which Lt. Gen. James D. Hughes, Commander, 9th Air Force, Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., will serve as Grand Marshal. The Legion's immediate Past National Commander, Joe L. Matthews, of Fort Worth, Texas, will serve as honorary Grand Marshal.

Deputy Grand Marshals will be: Brig. Gen. Van C. Doubleday, director communications, J-6, U.S. Readiness Command, MacDill AFB, Fla.; Brig. Gen. Daniel Wardrop, commander, 31st Air Defense ArtiLlery Brigade, Homestead AFB, Fla.; Rear Adm. Austin C. Wagner, commander, 7th Coast Guard District, Miami, Fla.; Rear Adm. Staser M. Holcomb, director, Systems Analysis Division, Office of Chief of Naval Operations; Maj . Gen. Henry W. McMillan, Adjutant General State of Florida, St. Augustine, Fla.; and a Marine officer yet to be named. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Under the theme "Be Counted Again Now—For America," the American Legion will hold its Eleventh Annual Membership Workshop on Aug. 1-2, 1974, at the Legion's National Headquarters, 700 N. Pennsylvania St. here. The Membership Workshop is a key planning group which annually develops programs aimed at maintaining Legion membership stability.

Approximately 250 Legionnaires are expected in the Capital City for the two-day session and will hear speakers including, National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton, Legion Magazine Publisher James F. O'Neil, Dr. Edward J. Kuntz, Dr. Harvey C. Bunke and Professor Thomas R. Bossort of the Indiana University Graduate School of Business.

The Membership Workshop will be presided over by National Membership Chairman William F. Gormley of Philadelphia, Pa.

-alns- 0144 QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoaoh, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-12-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—More than 100 members of The American Legion's National Security Commission will journey to Fort Benning, Ga., for two days of tours, briefings, and demonstrations, as a prelude to the 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-22.

On Aug. 15, the Commission members will receive the "I Am The Infantry" presentation, followed by briefings on the U.S. Army Infantry Center and School activities. They will then watch the Combined Arms Tactical Training Simulator (CATTS) in action, and later will observe the Rangers in action and witness a demonstration by the Airborne troops.

In the evening, the National Security Commission will host an official reception and dinner, honoring the Commanding General of Fort Benning and members of his staff.

On Aug. 16, the Commission members will receive more briefings by senior representatives of the 197th Infantry Brigade and the 36th Engineer Group, followed by tours of their working areas.

The Commission members will depart that evening for Miami Beach, where they will conduct committee meetings, in connection with reports to be submitted to the National Convention. They will also hear prominent military speakers during the Convention. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—James V. Day, former National Vice Commander of The American Legion, has been appointed to another five year term as a Vice Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission.

A former Maine Legion Commander and National Executive Committeeman, Day is serving his third term as a Commissioner on the Maritime Commission. He served as Vice Chairmen of The American Legion Merchant Marine Committee and is a recipient of a citation "For Meritorious Service" from the Maine Maritime Academy.

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.—(ALNS)—Judge Levi M. Hall, 84, a founder of The American Legion having attended the St. Louis Caucus on May 8-10, 1919, died here June 30.

A World War I veteran and active at the National level of the Legion, he served as Minnesota National Executive Committeeman of The American Legion (1922-23), National Legislative Commission Vice Chairman (1959-62), National American Legion Life and Trust Group Insurance Committee Chairman (1962-65) and was a past President of The Society of American Legion Founders, Ltd.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 0 (202) 393-4811

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 7-19-74

The American Legion's Fourth Estate Award, presented annually for outstanding public service in the communications field, will be given to syndicated columnist and TV commentator James J. Kilpatrick Jr., during the Legion's 56th Annual National Convention to be held in Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-22.

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Thirty-four former American Legion Baseball players are on the rosters of the American and National League squads selected for the 1974 Major League All-Star game at Three Rivers Stadium on July 23, in Pittsburgh, Pa.

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In cooperation with The American Legion's Baseball program, , popular network television sportscaster; Bowie Kuhn, Baseball Commissioner; and Rollie Fingers, star and former Legion Baseball Player of the Year; will record Legion Baseball promotional spots for the upcoming Legion Baseball Regional tournaments and World Series. * * *

Congressman F. Edward Hubert (La.) has been selected to receive The American Legion's Distinguished Service Medal during the Legion's National Convention at Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-22. * * *

With The American Legion's interest in the Panama Canal problem heightened due to current negotiations, the Legion's Foreign Relations Commission has scheduled addresses from two specialists on the Canal at meetings during the Legion's National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-17.

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The Avis Rent A Car System, Inc., has offered a 20 percent discount on its regular rate for rental car service to American Legion members. Just show your 1974 or 1975 membership card to Avis counter personnel and request the discount. * * *

The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of twelve $1,500 Tuberculosis Nursing Scholarship awards, for one year's study, to assist nurses in furthering their education.

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With funds made available through the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation ($10,000), The Children's Foundation, headquartered in Washington, D.C. will conduct a nationwide survey of food needs within children's residential institutions. -alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE I NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The American Legion's Fourth Estate Award, presented annually for outstanding public service in the communications field, will be given to syndicated columnist and TV commentator James J. Kilpatrick, Jr., during the Legion's 56th Annual National Convention to be held in Miami Beach, Fla., Aug. 16-22.

Formal presentation of the award will be made by the Legion's National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton on the morning of Aug. 22, during a gathering of about 6,000 Legionnaires and guests.

In endorsing Kilpatrick after selection by the Public Relations Commission, National Commander Eaton noted that his "...special contribution to America stems from his emergence as one of the outstanding leaders of objective thought in the nation today."

Kilpatrick began his distinguished career in communications with a degree in journalism from the University of Missouri in 1941. He was a reporter with the Richmond, (Va.) News Leader from 1941 to 1949, and then became chief editorial writer for the same newspaper. After three years, he was promoted to editor of the News Leader, where he remained until 1967. He is presently a syndicated newspaper columnist and television commentator. Kilpatrick has been the recipient of many awards for outstanding journalism and is the author of many books.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Nine Washington area government officials and business association executives will speak to members of the National Economic Commission during the 56th Annual American Legion National Convention to be held in Miami Beach Fla from Aug. 16-22.

The speakers are: L. J. Andolsek, Commissioner, U.S. Civil Service Commission; Lewis D. Barton, Director, Veterans Employment Service, U.S. Department of Labor; Ralph E. Hall, Director, Office of Veterans Reemployment Rights, U.S. Department of Labor; Fred P. Meeh, Veterans Committee, Interstate Conference of Employment Security Agencies; Larry Triplett, Director, National Jobs for Veterans Program, National Alliance of Businessmen; William Eudey, Assistant Postmaster General, Employee Relations Department, U.S. Postal Service; Herbert A. Doyle Jr., Director, Office of Workmen's Compensation Programs; Edward A. Echols, Director, Loan Guaranty Service, Veterans Administration; and, Anthony Stasio, Deputy Associate Administrator, Small Business Administration. They will all speak on the first day of the Commission meeting on August 16.

The American Legion's economic program, under the jurisdiction of the Economic Commission, is designed to assure that veterans of any war, including those of the Vietnam era, have the opportunity to provide with dignity the economic necessities of life for themselves and their families.

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE I NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

mC. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c Watkins Djrector

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

PITTSBURGH, PA. — (ALNS)—Thirty-four former American Legion Baseball players are on the rosters of the American and National League squads selected for the 1974 Major League All-Star game at Three Rivers Stadium here July 23. The total includes six American Legion Baseball Graduate of the Year Award Winners— of Baltimore, Carl Yastrzemski of Boston, Al Kaline of Detroit, Frank Robinson of California, Steve Carlton of Philadelphia and of Cincinnati, according to Daniel J. O'Connor of Jackson Heights, NY, chairman of the Legion's National Americanism Commission.

Of the 16 starters picked by the nation's fans, not counting , eleven are alumni of the Legion's youth baseball program. Boston's injured Carlton Fisk also played American Legion Baseball as a teenager.

Former American Legion players joining Brooks Robinson and Bench in the starting lineups are: Dick Allen (), Jeff Burroughs (), (Oakland Athletics), Thurman Munson and Bobby Murcer (), and (Cincinnati Reds), Larry Bowa () and ().

Additional All-Stars who came to fame via the American Legion Baseball route include: Bobby Grich (Baltimore Orioles), Darrell Porter (Milwaukee Brewers), Rollie Fingers, Jim Hunter and Joe Rudi (Oakland Athletics), Dave Chalk (California Angels), Steve Busby (), and Ed Herrmann and Wilbur Wood (Chicago White Sox).

Representing American Legion Baseball on the National League squad, besides the starters and Carlton are: Steve Rogers (), (New York Mets), Lynn McGlothen, Reggie Smith and Ted Simmons (St. Louis Cardinals), Don Kessinger (), John Grubb (San Diego Padres), Andy Messersmith and Mike Marshall (Los Angeles Dodgers), and Dave Cash (Philadelphia Phillies) .

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—In cooperation with The American Legion's Baseball program, three prominent baseball figures will record Legion Baseball promotional spots for the upcoming Legion Baseball Regional tournaments and World Series.

Curt Gowdy, popular network television sportscaster;Bowie Kuhn, Baseball Commissioner; and Rollie Fingers, Oakland Athletics star pitcher and former Legion Baseball Player of the Year (1964); have been scheduled to narrate the spots.

The spots will be produced by The American Legion and mailed to a select group of radio stations prior to the Legion Regional Baseball tournaments.

-alns- EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS HI P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—"I do not know of any greater honor than to be chosen to receive The American Legion's Distinguished Service Medal...." With these words, Congressman F. Edward He'bert (La.) accepted his nomination as the recipient of the Legion's highest award, to be given during the 56th Annual Convention at Miami Beach, Florida, from August 16 to 22.

The National Organization of The American Legion has, since 1921, honored the achievements of men who have contributed significantly to the welfare of the nation. Nominations for the award are made by several Legion State Departments and the National Commander. The selection is then made by the Legion's National Executive Committee during its meeting at the National Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana, in the spring of each year.

Congressman and Mrs. He'bert will be the guests of The American Legion during two days of the Convention. He will join National Commander Robert E.L. Eaton at the head table for the National Commander's Dinner, honoring the distinguished guests of the convention. This will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Fontainebleau Hotel on August 20.

Congressman Hebert will, on August 21, address Legionnaires and their guests at a business session of the Convention, at which time he will be presented with the Legion's Distinguished Service Medal.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—With The American Legion's interest in the Panama Canal problem heightened due to current negotiations, the Legion's Foreign Relations Commission has scheduled addresses from two specialists on the Canal at meetings during the National Convention in Miami Beach, Aug. 16-17.

Presenting the view of the Administration concerning the Canal and Canal Zone negotiations with Panama will be, Patrick Morris, Deputy Director of the Office of Panamanian Affairs of the Department of State.

Arthur L. Denchfield, Jr., of Coral Gables, a long-time resident of Latin America and a student of the Panama Canal question, will present the argument for U.S. retention of existing rights to the waterway.

4 Both experts will be available to the members of the Legion Foreign Relations Commission during the deliberations of that body on a new American Legion Panama Canal resolution to be presented to the full convention.

Previous mandates of the Legion National Convention concerning the Panama Canal have urged retention of all U.S. rights indispensable to maintenance, operation, defense and protection of the Canal area.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Avis Rent A Car System, Inc., has offered a 20 percent discount on its regular rate for rental car service to American Legion Members. Just show your 1974 or 1975 membership card to Avis counter personnel and request the discount.

You must make your own individual credit arrangements with Avis. The American Legion Membership Card is not a credit card. The discount is applicable to all domestic rentals (except for those special rates that were pre-discounted). The discount is not available in Canada or other foreign countries.

Acceptance of the Avis offer is a result of action taken by the National Executive Committee at its May meeting. The NEC resolution authorized the National Organization to accept offers from nation-wide businesses who wished to offer discounts and special services to members of The American Legion in accordance with strict guidelines established by the NEC.

Other benefits which would further enhance the value of an American Legion Membership Card are under consideration, but no further final arrangements have been reached other than the one with Avis. Information on any future discounts or special services offered the Legion will be announced through the usual channels .

The Avis announcement comes at a timely point in the Legion year. Since most Legionnaires attending the 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach will be arriving by air, the 20 percent discount on regular rates for rental cars will be available. -alns-

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The 20th District of the Department of Illinois may have established a first in regard to Legion district meetings, according to Edward B. Akin, 20th District Commander.

In a letter to American Legion National Headquarters, Akin pointed out that the 20th District met in convention with four feet of water surrounding the Legion Home in Kampsville, 111. Kampsville, 111. is located in an area where the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers join together.

Due to heavy rains, the Illinois River had risen to flood stage and on the convention date, Legionnaires were loaded into Army trucks and hauled to the Legion Home built on a terrace. The transport went through four feet of water to get to the Home, which at the time of convention, was surrounded by water up to the second step of the building.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 1B0 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St.. N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 0 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Eight and Forty, an organization of American Legion Auxiliary members, has announced approval of twelve $1,500 Tuberculosis Nursing Scholarship awards, for one year's study, to assist nurses in furthering their education.

Recipients of the scholarships, upon completion of their studies in nursing, will be employed in either supervision, administration or teaching with a direct relationship to tuberculosis control.

In announcing this year's awards, Mrs. Mary Russell of Hobbs , New Mexico, National Tuberculosis Nursing Scholarship Chairman, said that during the past 18 years, the Eight and Forty has awarded 184 scholarships, totaling $228,000 to help eliminate personnel shortages in this important area of nursing.

Recipients approved for scholarships for the 1974-75 school year are:

Name Home State School to attend

Mrs. Madge H. Carrico Nokesville, Virginia John Hopkins University Miss Linda Carmine Delia Brooklyn, New York Long Island University Mrs. Beverly A. Duncan Chicago, Illinois Loyola University Mrs. Janet Johnson Camas, Washington U.S. Communicable Disease Control Center-Atlanta, Ga. Miss Josephine M. Jones Atlanta, Georgia Georgia State University Miss Jane Kummerer Philadelphia, Pennsylvania University of Pennsylvania Miss Diane McAllister Bethesda, Maryland John Hopkins University Miss Maureen C. Moore Los Angeles, California California State University Miss Pamela A. Rawlings Chicago, Illinois University of Illinois Mrs. Linda Margaret Scharf Eggertsville, New York State University of New York at Buffalo Miss Barbara JoAnn Weller Springfield, Ohio Indiana University Miss Frances M. West Cleveland, Ohio Case Western Reserve University

Mrs. Michael Suvak, Le Chapeau National, of Rochester, New York has advised that the Eight and Forty Nursing scholarships will again be offered for the 1975-76 school year. Mrs. Suvak has also advised the restrictive requirement of Tuberculosis Nursing will be modified to include all Lung and Respiratory Nursing for the 1975-76 program. Announcements regarding eligibility are available from Eight and Forty Scholarship Chairmen or from The American Legion Education and Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206, Attn: Eight and Forty Scholarships.

-alns- BJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoaoh, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-19-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—With funds made available through the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation ($10,000), The Children's Foundation, headquartered in Washington, D.C., will conduct a nationwide survey of food needs within children's residential institutions.

Questionnaires have been mailed to the more than 3800 residential facilities throughout America which shelter dependent and neglected children, mentally and physically handicapped children, juvenile offenders, unmarried mothers, and children who are sheltered temporarily. Group homes as well as larger institutions are being surveyed.

Earlier this year, The Children's Foundation was contacted by institution directors concerned about rising food costs, cutbacks in local contributions, and the impending phase-out of USDA donated commodities to institutions. The Foundation developed a questionnaire in an effort to determine if the concern of their contacts was one shared by the majority of institution directors.

Through the survey, the Foundation will:

1) evaluate the need for the continuation of the commodity distribution program to institutions;

2) determine the need for an alternative food assistance plan modelled on those available to non-residential institutions; and

3) pinpoint national contacts within these child-caring facilities with similar areas of concern.

Subsequent to the return of the questionnaires, The Children's Foundation will issue a report containing — for the first time — accurate nationwide statistics and analyses of the food needs of the more than 200,000 institutionalized young Americans.

The Children's Foundation is a Washington-based, public non-profit national organization supported by foundations in its concern for the food needs of children.

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RENO, NEV.—(ALNS)—The National Council of Juvenile Court Judges has recognized The American Legion's Children & Youth program work in the field of juvenile delinquency prevention with an award during the Council's annual meeting held on July 11, here.

Nevada Legion Commander Mills Baldwin, representing the National Organization of The American Legion, accepted the award and was given a standing ovation by 250 juvenile court judges from throughout the nation who were in attendance at the meeting,

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION —THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 G3 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

AMERICAN LEGION NEWS BRIEFS FOR WEEK ENDING 7-26-74

American Legion expenditures for Children & Youth activities reached an all-time high during the 1973-74 reporting year, Earl D. Franklin, Jr., of Sterling, Colo., chairman of the Legion's National Commission on Children & Youth, has announced. Franklin said that through Posts of The American Legion and Units of the American Legion Auxiliary a total expenditure of $13,619,411 was reported.

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Benjamin A. Brown, 17, of Bloomington, Minn., has been elected President of The American Legion's 29th Annual Boys Nation, a week-long exercise in Federal Government operation, held at The American University in Washington, D.C.

Veterans who served between 1955 and 1966 now will have 10 years to use their education benefits. The two year extension was granted in a bill signed by President Nixon recently. * * *

Jeane Marie Hanley, running as Nationalist party nominee, has won the 1974 Girls Nation presidency on a platform which favored support of the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment to the Constitution.

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"As never before there is need for those principles of patriotism and love of country which are the lifeblood of The American Legion," Clarence M. Kelley, director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation told Missouri Legionnaires during their Department Convention. * * *

The American Legion Department with the best record of advancing The American Legion's Legion's Americanism programs will be awarded the Hearst trophy from the 1974 National Convention platform at about 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21 in the Grand Ballroom of the Fontainebleau Hotel. >v * *

Five military speakers are scheduled to appear before the National Security Commission during the 56th Annual American Legion National Convention taking place in Miami Beach, Florida, from Aug. 16-22.

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The Sons of The American Legion will hold its third annual National Convention on Aug. 17-18 at the Fontainebleau Hotel, Miami Beach, Fla.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 0153 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-26-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—American Legion expenditures for Children & Youth activities reached an all-time high during the 1973-74 reporting year, Earl D. Franklin, Jr., of Sterling, Colo., chairman of the Legion's National Commission on Children & Youth has announced. Franklin said that through Posts of The American Legion and Units of the American Legion Auxiliary a total expenditure of $13,619,411 was reported.

The 1973-74 figure represents an increase of more than $1,600,000 over that reported for the 1972-73 program year, according to Franklin. He also said that with the exception of last year, The American Legion and its affiliated organizations have had 12 consecutive annual all-time highs in the amount expended to support their Children & Youth Activities.

Since the program was formalized in 1925, total expenditures for the Legion's Children & Youth program have now reached $299,123,711.

Franklin reported that The American Legion itself accounted for more than $10 million of the 1974 expenditures, while the American Legion Auxiliary reported nearly $3 million and the Eight & Forty accounted for $153,073.

Included in the final tabulation were expenditures made by the Departments (state organizations) of The American Legion and its Auxiliary and the National Americanism and Children & Youth Division as well as The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.

Local Posts of The American Legion were responsible for the major portion of the funds expended. -alns- WASHINGTON--(ALNS)—Dr. Theodore Marr, Special Assistant to the President, briefed delegates to the 28th Annual Boys Nation in the Executive Office Building, in place of President Nixon and Vice President Ford, both of whom were out of Washington during the visit of the delegates.

Dr. Marr told the delegates they were coming of age at a special time, the 200th anniversary of America. He added that, while it is all well and good to respect and revere the institutions that have made us great, youth should look forward with a view toward correcting imperfections in these institutions.

Prior to the briefing Boys Nation delegates were given a White House tour, concluding with a visit to the famous Rose Garden, the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—A citation commending The American Legion for its "outstanding accomplishments and leadership in the area of veterans' outreach" will be presented to the Legion during its 56th Annual National Convention in Miami Beach, Fla., by the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges. Dr. Peter Masiko, Jr., chairman of the board and president of Miami-Dade Community College will make the presentation.

-alns- QMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS 13 P. O. Box 1055 1608 K St., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-26-74

WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Benjamin A. Brown, 17, of Bloomington, Minn., has been elected President of The American Legion's 29th Annual Boys Nation, a week-long exercise in Federal Government operation, held here at The American University.

Brown, who is the son of Ben A. Brown of 11034 Stanley Curve, Bloomington, is a senior at Thomas Jefferson Senior High School.

Sponsored by Bloomington American Legion Post 550, Brown has compiled an impressive record in his three years in high school. He was School President during the 1971-72 school year and is Student Government Chairman through the 1974- 1975 school year. In sports, he played football, basketball, and baseball.

Other honors include, The American Legion School Award in 1969; Norseman and Most Outstanding Speech Awards in 1972; first place in the Optimist Oratorical Contest for Dakotas-Manitoba-Minnesota in 1973; and this year was presented with the City of Bloomington Outstanding Achievement Award. He plans to attend Stanford University.

In the Boys State program, he was elected as Mayor, County Delegate, State Delegate, and Governor.

Brown, who was a standard bearer for the Federalist Party, defeated Nationalist Party candidate Christopher T. Gates of Boulder, Colorado, by a vote of 58 to 37.

Vice President of Boys Nation is Roy Pearson Blaylock, Jr., 19, son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy P. Blaylock, Sr., of 4859 Hummingbird Lane, Memphis, Tennessee. He was elected on the Federalist Party ticket and won over Nationalist Party candidate Mark T. Kelly of Anchorage, Alaska, by a vote of 59 to 35.

The new Boys Nation Vice President is a senior at Harrison-Chilhowee Baptist Academy and was sponsored by The American Legion of Tennessee. He plans to attend Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Veterans who served between 1955 and 1966 now will have 10 years to use their education benefits. The two year extension was granted in a bill signed by President Nixon recently. Veterans who served after 1966 will have 10 years after they leave the service to use their benefits, instead of eight years. These extensions also cover eligible wives and widows.

Veterans who served on or after January 31, 1955, and who, subsequent to their last discharge or release from active duty, were captured and held as a prisoner of war can exclude, in computing their 10-year period of eligibility for educational assistance, any period during which they were detained or any period immediately following their release from such detention during which they were hospitalized.

-alns- 0MERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE 165 NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James C. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-26-74

INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—Jeane Marie Hanley, 17, of Louisville, Ky., running as a Nationalist party nominee, has won the presidency of the American Legion Auxiliary's 1974 Girls Nation, an annual model government program conducted at American University in Washington, D.C. Nationalist nominee, Ellen Margaret McHugh, also 17, of Woodside, N.Y, was elected Girls Nation vice president,

Miss Hanley, who will be a senior at Sallie P. Durrett High School this fall, won on a platform which favored support of the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment to the United States Constitution (regarding women's rights and sex discrimination); support of income tax reform to more equally distribute the burden among all economic groups; support of welfare reform calling for stricter control of administrative distribution of funds; and, support of institutional reform to investigate and reform all existing institutions for the mentally retarded and to create alternate forms of care. -alns-

COLUMBIA, MO.--(ALNS)—"As never before there is need for those principles of patriotism and love of country which are the lifeblood of The American Legion," Clarence M. Kelly, director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation told Missouri Legionnaires here.

Speaking before the Missouri Legion Convention, the noted law enforcement officer said, "We need to speak up...loudly, clearly, proudly...for America."

Kelly was in Columbia, Mo., to receive the Missouri Legion's Distinguished Service Award, presented to him by Past National Commander Charles L. Bacon.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—The U.S. Civil Service Commission has announced openings for Border Patrol Agents to work along the southern border and coastal areas of the United States.

Border Patrol Agents are employees of the Immigration and Naturalization Service in the Department of Justice. Candidates must pass a written test, be in good physical condition, be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment, possess a valid driver's license, and have at least a year of driving experience.

If accepted, prospective agents will attend a four-month Border Patrol Academy, where they will receive instruction in law enforcement techniques and immigration law. In addition, since all Border Patrol Agents are required to speak Spanish, extensive training will be given in that language at the Academy. About 250 of the top-scoring candidates will be appointed at grade GS-7, and after three years of satisfactory training and service can expect promotion to grade Gb-y .

Interested men and women should obtain Announcement DS-4-1, with all necessary forms, from the nearest Federal Job Information Center or from the U.S. Civil Service Commission, Washington, D.C. 20415.

-alns- 0156 EJMERICAN LEGION NEWS SERVICE NATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION—THE AMERICAN LEGION

C. D. DeLoach, Chairman James c. Watkins, Director

HEADQUARTERS P. O. Box 1055 1608 KSt., N. W. Indianapolis, Indiana 46206 Washington, D. C. 20006 (317) 635-8411 (202) 393-4811

For release 7-26-74

MIAMI BEACH, FLA.-(ALNS)-The American Legion Department (State organization) with the best record of advancing The American Legion's Americanism programs will be awarded the Hearst trophy from the 1974 National Convention platform at about 10-45 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21 in the Grand Ballroom of the Fontainebleau Hotel.

Established by the late William Randolph Hearst in 1938, with the approval of the Legion s National Americanism Commission and National Convention approval the trophy has been awarded each year since that time to the Legion organization within any state deemed to have done the most outstanding job of promoting the Legion's overall Americanism program.

All of The American Legion's youth programs, Boys State and Boys Nation, Boy Scout Sponsorship, Oratorical Contest and American Legion Baseball are under the Americanism program.

In the 35 years the trophy has been in existence, it has been won by 10 different states, with Pennsylvania having carried off the major share of honors by winning the Hearst Trophy 18 times.

The winning department will be selected by the National Americanism Commission as a part of that group's business sessions at the Miami Beach Convention. The trophy will be presented by Larry Young, representing the Hearst organization.

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WASHINGTON—(ALNS)—Five military speakers are scheduled to appear before the National Security Commission during the 56th Annual American Legion National Convention taking place in Miami Beach, Florida, from Aug. 16-22.

All five men, two from the Navy and one each from the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, will speak during the morning session of the National Security Commission on Aug. 17. They are: Lieutenant General Leo E. Benade, U.S. Army, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Military Personnel Policy); Lieutenant General Robert E. Huyser U.S. Air Force, Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Operations; Major General Norman W. Gourley, U.S. Marine Corps, Director, Plans Division; Rear Admiral John D. Chase, U.S. Navy, Commander, Military Sealift Command; and, Rear Admiral Staser M. Holcomb, U.S. Navy, Director of Systems Analysis Division, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations

The American Legion has, for many years, backed a strong military posture. Therefore, the job of the National Security Commission is to meet year round with key administration, military and Congressional leaders to discuss the nation's defense needs.

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INDIANAPOLIS—(ALNS)—The Sons of The American Legion will hold its third annual National Convention on Aug. 17-18 at the Fontainebleau Hotel, Miami Beach, Fla.

SAL membership as of July 18 was 19,769, an increase of 2,469 members over the same date last year and the highest since 1946.

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