DIGESTS OF MINUTES

National Executive Committee Meetings Milwaukee, Wisconsin September 14 and 18, 1941

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Report of Resolutions Subcommittee Wm. G. McKinley, Chairman September 14, 1941 Referred Resolutions 13 Call to Order 3 Naval Academy Award 14 Invocation 3 Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 Trophy 14 Rejected Resolution 15 Roll Call 3 Major General Robert Alexander 15 Appointment of Subcommittee 3 Thomas J. Bannigan 15 National Legislative Committee Charles Becht 15 I. A. Jennings, Chairman 3 Rev. Thomas R. Edgerton 15 John Thomas Taylor, Director 3 Cecil C. Harberson 15 National Finance Committee Theodore W. Kolbe 15 Sam W. Reynolds, Chairman 5 Anthony Mackey 15 National Americanism Commission Thomas Mason, Jr 16 Edw. H. Prell 16 James F. O’Neil, Chairman 5 Earl H. Smith 16 National Rehabilitation Committee M. G. Sullivan 16 Lynn U. Stambaugh, Chairman 6 Committee Appointment 16 T. O. Kraabel, Acting Director 6 Report on Repatriation of World War Veterans and Families. ... 16 Appointment to Directorship 7 Confirmation of Mail Votes 19 National Emblem Committee Cancellation of Post Charters ' 20 Roy L. Cook, Chairman 7 Cancellation of Squadron Charters 20 Legion Publications Commission Adjournment 20 Vilas H. Whaley, Vice-Chairman 8 National Aeronautics Commission THURSDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Borman M. Lyon, Chairman 8 National Convention Liaison Committee September 18, 1941 Leo J. Duster, Chairman 9 Call to Order 21 Veterans’ Employment Committee 9 Invocation 21 Law and Order Committee Roll Call 21 Richard Hartshorne, Chairman 9 Memorial Resolution, Fred W. Chambers 21 Special Subcommittee to Study Matter of Expenses of Repre- Affiliation of Aruba Esso Post No. 1 with Department of Panama 21 sentatives of Foreign and Insular Departments Appointment of National Officers 21 Jeremiah F. Cross, Chairman 10 Election of National Adjutant 21 National Defense Committee Selection of Dates 21 Warren H. Atherton, Chairman 11 Convention Dates 21 Report of National Chaplain on Resolution No. 14 12 Adjournment 22

DIGEST OF MINUTES National Executive Committee Meeting Milwaukee, Wisconsin September 14, 1941

SUNDAY AFTERNOON SESSION time, with reference to our legislative program, except we must keep in mind this one thing, that during the past year, and especially September 14, 1941 the last six months, the Legislative Director of The American Le- gion has been called upon constantly by the War Department for The pre-convention meeting of the National Executive aid and assistance of The American Legion in various measures the Committee, The American Legion, held in connection with War Department considered essential in the national defense pro- the Twenty-third Annual National Convention, in the Mil- gram. So that Jack Taylor has had plenty to do in that one phase waukee Auditorium, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, convened at of the activity alone. There is one feature that I would like to discuss for just a mo- 2:10 p. m., Sunday, September 14, 1941, National Commander ment. At the May meeting of the Committee there was introduced Milo J. Warner, presiding as Chairman; National Adjutant from the Department of Washington a resolution advocating the Frank E. Samuel acting as Secretary. amendment of the National Insurance Act to provide total and Invocation by the National Chaplain, Lt. Col. William G-. permanent disability benefits for our new Army. As you remember, Gilks, Texas. under the old War Risk Insurance Act there were two features. There was the $10,000 policy which paid a death benefit and also a Roll call by the National Adjutant showed the following total and permanent disability benefit. present: Fourteen Past National Commanders; five National The National Insurance Act, which was passed some ten months Vice-Commanders; National Chaplain, and fifty-four Depart- ago, does not carry the total and permanent disability provisions ments represented. of the old War Risk Insurance policy, based primarily upon the fact that the standard insurance companies no longer write dis- Reading of the minutes of the preceding meeting was sus- ability insurance. pended, by motion duly adopted. That resolution came before the May meeting, and it was re- Chairman Warner briefly expressed his appreciation of the ferred to your Legislative Committee for a report and recom- co-operation of the National Executive Committee during the mendation to this meeting. That resolution has been considered by year. your Legislative Committee and, in first considering that, this ques- tion arose: How far should The American Legion go in attempt- ing to set up the benefits or security laws for the new Army? Is Appointment of Subcommittee it the function and business of The American Legion to advocate legislation controlling compensation insurance and other legislation, National Commander Warner announced the appointment to take care of the boys after the war is over? of the following to serve as members of the Resolutions Sub- Your Committee discussed that and are of the unanimous opinion committee : that it is the obligation of the Legion to sponsor and take an William G. McKinley, Chairman, New Jersey. interest in such legislation. Sam Brolund, Kansas. We have advocated a strong national defense for the past twenty Eli A. Jensen, Ohio. years. That is a part, as we consider it, of the national defense, what treatment they can receive at the hands of Congress after Edwin G. Hobbs, New Mexico. the war. If there had been a strong organization such as The Spence S. Eccles, Utah. American Legion, to aid and assist us in legislation in 1919 and ’20 and ’21, we wouldn’t have had a tough time in getting proper The next item on the agenda was “Disposal of Letters or legislation enacted and action obtained. Communications.” However, there were none. We also felt that, because of the fact that a great many of us have sons in the new Army, younger brothers, we also had a per- National Legislative Committee sonal interest in seeing that proper, adequate legislation was en- acted. The following report, presented by I. A. Jennings, Arizona, So our Committee recommends that this organization do take an Chairman of the National Legislative Committee, was duly active interest in the after-war legislation for the new Army. We accepted, with an expression of thanks to the National Legis- also believe, and recommend to the Executive Committee, who passes it on to the national convention, that we do sponsor legis- lative Committee by Chairman Warner: lation to amend the National Insurance Act, to provide disability Mr. Commander, Members of the Committee: Of course, as you benefits for the new Army. all know and realize, for the past twenty years our chief purpose The details, as I say, of legislative activity are included in the has been national defense, and we have been rather critical of the report. If you have any questions to ask, I am sure that Jack Tay- efforts made by the Army staff to keep the Army in condition. I lor will be more than glad to answer them. don’t think we ought to be too critical of that, for this reason, and I just cite one instance which, to my mind, proves that we, perhaps, In appearing before the Committee, John Thomas Taylor, have been a little bit too critical. Our National Commander, as National Legislative Director, briefly reviewed the program. you know, was an officer in the artillery during the World War. He had to do with new jackasses and how to handle them. This The following memorandum was submitted by Mr. Taylor, spring, when he made his official visit to Arizona, we put him on a for the records: wild jackass, and there was pretty nearly a catastrophe. Aid to Legionnaires in Foreign Countries: Your National Direc- Members of the Committee, the detail of the legislative report, tor was in frequent contact with the State Department with re- of course, is contained in the filed report at National Headquarters. gard to bringing back Americans to this country, and this has been There has been nothing occurred of primary importance since that largely accomplished. 4 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

American Legion: Public Law No. 134, approved June 26, 1941, From July 1, 1940, to July 19, 1941, appropriations, contract authorizes one ship of Canadian Registry to travel from Cleveland, authorizations, and recommendations for national defense had Ohio, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for the National Convention. This reached a grand total of 852,926,603,590, including the lease-lend was enacted at the request of the National Legislative Committee funds and the two-ocean Navy. on behalf of Ohio Legionnaires. Full details on this immense program will be found in the re- Armistice Day—Thanksgiving Day: Our resolution requested that ports to this convention. However, since that report was written, Thanksgiving Day be observed on the traditional date rather than there was enacted the law extending the Selective Service training the third Thursday of November because the latter brought it too for eighteen months; this measure, in addition, providing for a 810 close to Armistice Day. Bills were introduced but the President an- monthly increase in pay for all men, except commissioned officers, nounced that commencing November, 1942, Thanksgiving Day will after the men had finished one year’s training. It also carried a be observed on the last Thursday of the month. provision allowing an additional 120 days within which men could Disabled: In addition to the Widows’ and Orphans’ bill, H. R. 4, apply for National Life Insurance. the House has passed H. R. 4845 to increase disability allowance There was approved by both branches, after conference, S. 1579, from ?30 to 840 monthly. This measure also includes a section which would authorize the President to take property and pay a which provides that a World War veteran sixty-five years of age or “fair and just compensation” when there is an immediate need older shall be eligible for disability allowance. The House Com- which would not admit of resort to another source of supply and mittee on World War Veterans Legislation has also favorably re- after means of obtaining the property upon “fair and reasonable” ported to the House the following: H. R. 4787, by Mrs. Edith N. terms were exhausted. Rogers, Massachusetts, providing that the unexplained absence of There is pending in the Congress a Price Control bill. Hearings any ex-service man for seven years shall be deemed sufficient evi- have already commenced on H. R. 5479, the House bill, by the dence of death for the purpose of laws administered by the Vet- House Committee on Banking and Currency. The companion Sen- erans Administration; H. R. 4853, by Representative John Rankin, ate bill is S. 1810. Mississippi, is a restatement of the provision for parity treatment It is of interest to the Legion that portions of Public Law No. in hospitalization of retired officers and enlisted men, who are 139, 77th Congress, approved June 30, 1941, the War Department World War veterans; H. R. 4905, by Representative H. Jerry Voor- Appropriation Act, 1942, provide that National Guard or Reserve his, California, is similar to the Voorhis bill which passed the House Officers, who draw disability compensation, may not draw pay, last Congress but failed of action in the Senate. It provides for allowances, or other expenses under the Act. This, in effect, means more liberal consideration in the proof of injuries incurred or ag- that disabled National Guard or Reserve Officers, drawing compen- gravated by active service in war and specifies that due considera- sation, may not serve on active duty. tion “shall be given to the places, types, and circumstances of his In the meantime, the War Department has commenced a “re- service record, the official history of each organization in which he vitalization” of the commissioned personnel and is retiring some of served, his medical records, and all pertinent medical and lay the' older officers, particularly the National Guard and Reserve Of- evidence.” ficers. Obviously, this should provide more promotions for the Education of War Orphans: One resolution requests amendment Regular Army commissioned personnel. to the Act of June 8, 1926, so as to include within the Act’s pro- Rapid strides have been made in our national defense in the past visions the sons of World War veterans who have died of service- year but, as The American Legion consistently pointed out, many connected disabilities since the World War. There was introduced of these things should have been provided in the years of peace and for us S. 658 by Senator Richard Russell, Georgia, and H. R. 2794 not delayed until an emergency was upon us. As a result, we must by Representative Shanley, Connecticut, and the former has passed expect to pay more for our preparedness and we must expect con- the Senate. fusion in the transformation of a peaceful country into a warlike Universal Service: This is accomplished. nation. War Referendum: A number of bills on this subject were intro- There is much discussion that there ought to be more unified duced, the more outstanding ones being H. J. Res. 1 by Representa- control of our production and within the past few weeks the Presi- tive Ludlow, Indiana, and S. Con. Res. 7 by Senators Nye, Wheeler, dent appointed a commission with more authority than any of these Capper, LaFollette, Clark, Idaho and Shipstead. commissions have had heretofore. Some of the critics, however (in- cluding Bernard Baruch), believe this control should be in the MAJOR PROGRAM hands of one man as was the case during World War I. Widows and Orphans: H. R. 4, identical to H. R. 9000 of the last Veterans Preference and Employment: We obtained a very real Congress, was passed by the House on June 16, 1941, and it is now veterans preference under the WPA Appropriation Act. before the Senate Committee on Finance. Hearings have been re- Americanism: There were a number of activities under this quested but the Committee did not want to hold such hearings until heading. As is generally known, the Dies Committee was extended the tax bill had been disposed of by it. This tax bill is rapidly near- for another fifteen months and given 8150,000, in addition to any ing enactment and immediately thereafter our hearings will be held. unexpended funds, to carry on its work. This measure would pay 820 monthly to a childless widow of a A bill providing for the deportation of Harry Bridges was favor- World War veteran when the marriage took place prior to July ably reported from the House Committee on Immigration, and 3, 1921; 820 monthly to a widow with children, married prior to Bridges was brought to trial in San Francisco under deportation May 13, 1934, with 88 for the first child, 86 for the second, with 84 proceedings, these proceedings being held under Judge Sears, retired for other children, but there is a maximum of 856 monthly. This New York judge. His findings and recommendations are expected bill also contains a provision that there would be payable to the to be made to the Attorney General any day. dependent parents of a deceased veteran 820 monthly, or, if both The Legion was compelled to change its stand on the Hobbs bill, parents survived and were dependent, each would receive 815. H. R. 3, which it originally supported. However, after hearings and National Defense: Enormous strides have been made in this field. upon recommendation of Attorney General Jackson, all of the lan- Fifteen months ago we had a very small standing Army, a Navy, guage of the original Hobbs bill was deleted and language conform- while efficient but with a number of overage vessels, and practically ing with recommendations of the Attorney General included. While no war industry. As of September 4, the Army’s strength was esti- some of the provisions pertain to Communists, Fascists, and Nazis, mated at 1,580,775, and of these 105,675 were officers. Our pres- yet there is one provision which would set up a board of three, ent-day Navy is expanding rapidly toward its goal of a two-ocean within the Department of Justice, to receive appeals of deportables Navy. Planes, tanks, guns, ammunition and other essentials of and decide whether the deportation proceedings may be canceled. war have finally begun to leave the factories. The Maritime Com- Among the appeals which might be canceled are those of the mission is constantly driving for increased Merchant ship con- notorious, so-called ‘“hardship cases.” struction. Admiral Land, Chairman of the U. S. Maritime Com- Your National Director was compelled to appear before the mission, has announced that in the first quarter of 1943, if the House Committee on Immigration to oppose two proposals; (1) to Commission is able to carry out its schedule, it will deliver more colonize Alaska with refugees, these to be allowed to use immigra- shipping than was produced in the United States in the whole of tion quotas from countries other than their own and take up such 1918, when America produced one million, eight hundred thirty unused quotas of the last five years (it is obvious this would violate thousand dead-weight tons of ships. the quota system); and (2) the prospect of interned aliens (in the DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING first instance, from Canada) to be admitted to this country from mission of The American Legion, consisting of the following named internment. The last bill, introduced for the Legion, provided that persons, was duly designated and authorized to perform this such interned aliens must be at liberty for one year, after intern- function: ment, in the country where formerly interned before being allowed James F. O’Neil, Manchester, New Hampshire, Chairman. to enter. C. Richard Allen, Haddonfield, New Jersey. Darrell T. Lane, Salt Lake City, Utah. National Finance Committee This committee met in New York City on September 5, 1941, and The following brief report of Sam W. Reynolds, Nebraska, respectfully submits the following report and recommendations: Chairman of the National Finance Committee, was duly ac- The requirements for eligibility were followed with one excep- cepted, with an expression of thanks by Chairman Warner, tion: namely, the committee was informed that, in lieu of the ap- plicant having a principal appointment to West Point, we also could in behalf of the National Organization, for the services of the consider applicants who were reasonably assured of appointment committee personnel during the year: to West Point. Mr. Commander and Members of the Committee: Your Finance It should be borne in mind that the undertaking is a new one to Committee met here in Milwaukee and reviewed the operations of The American Legion, and, although some slight misunderstanding the various divisions under the budget as you set up, and begs to of the exact nature of the undertaking may have occurred in some report that, with the exception of one or two divisions, the oper- Legion Departments, we believe that a fine precedent has been set ations are within the budget, and those two divisions are somewhat by this year’s activity and that in future years The American Legion overrun due to the exigencies of the defense situation. should be of real service in performing this function. It is also Other than that, we have nothing to report except that we are believed that steps have now been taken to insure the setting up faced with increased expenditures in a number of divisions, due to of adequate machinery for use in future years. increased rent, increased cost of paper, and payroll problem, which A total of twenty-two names was submitted for the consideration will be presented for your consideration at the November meeting. of this subcommittee. Some of these names, however, had to be eliminated from consideration for various reasons that will be obvi- ous to the Guenther Fund Committee upon reading the original National Americanism Commission data submitted in their behalf. The names of our young men have been submitted to the Trustees of the Guenther Scholarship Fund. The following report of James F. O’Neil, New Hampshire, I might say that they have concurred in the recommendations of Chairman of the National Americanism Commission, was the subcommittee. No publicity is to be given to these names until duly accepted, and the recommendations contained therein they have passed the physical examination necessary for entry to adopted, with an expression of appreciation by Chairman West Point. Warner, in behalf of the National Organization, for the serv- More than 100,000 high school students, in forty-six Departments, participated in the National High School Oratorical Contest this ices of the Commission during the year: year. Frank Church of Boise, Idaho, was first place winner; Harris Mr. Commander and Lady and Gentlemen of the Committee: It Proctor, Durham, North Carolina, second; James McBath, Water- has been a distinct pleasure and a privilege for me to serve as your town, South Dakota, third; and Phyllis Anderson, Moorestown, New Chairman of the National Americanism Commission during this Jersey, fourth. last year. There can be little question but that this year has been A million and a half Flag Codes were purchased by Legion posts filled with more responsibility for every post Americanism officer, and distributed through the schools and other channels; augmented as well as the state and national, than any previous year in the by 3,500 copies of the course of study on the Flag. history of our Legion. This has also meant that it has been the The film, “The Flag Speaks,” which was produced for the Na- most interesting year, and we trust a constructive one. tional Americanism Commission by the Motion Picture Producers’ An extensive report of the work of the National Americanism Association of Hollywood, was shown nation-wide this year. The Commission can be found in the National Adjutant’s report to the picture was exceptionally well received. national convention, and I am, therefore, going to merely brief More than 13,000 School Award medals were presented by some of the accomplishments of the 1940-41 Legion year in the field American Legion posts and Auxiliary units to students graduating of Americanism. from the grade schools during the 1940-41 school year. The national subcommittee, under the chairmanship of Frank May 18, 1941, was announced by our government as citizenship McCormick, Director of Physical Education and Athletics at the recognition day. On that day The American Legion posts through- University of Minnesota, worked in close relationship with govern- out the country organized programs to give special recognition to ment authorities and local agencies in the interest of improving young Americans who were arriving at the age of twenty-one, and physical education, health education and recreation for each com- thereby the age of full citizenship. A recognition certificate was munity. prepared by the Emblem Division and more than 6,000 of them The office of the National Americanism Commission prepared the were presented during the ceremonies sponsored by local Legion first plan for an air raid precautionary and aircraft warning serv- posts. ice for distribution to the field. This work has since been trans- Hundreds of organizations, including educational groups and lead- ferred to a special defense director. ers, are now in support of the National Americanism Commission’s We are at the moment working in close relationship with Dr. Wil- fight to eliminate the Rugg and other questionable textbooks from liam Russell of Columbia University on a program which will ex- the school systems. The new assistant director in the office of the pand the citizenship schools for foreign-born and will provide citi- Commission has done a splendid job in analyzing the above-men- zenship training for all those aliens in this country who want to tioned textbooks. become American citizens. To date the government will not pro- Thirty-four states participated in the Boys’ State program this vide us with the names and addresses of the aliens in each com- year. Approximately 15,000 picked boy leaders practiced the opera- munity as recorded in the official alien registration of 1940. Hence tion of government. Boys’ State is rapidly being recognized as the this program is a hit-and-miss one at the present time. We hope outstanding youth citizenship training program of the nation. that Dean Russell may be able to assist us in our efforts to carry The Junior Baseball program was well up to its usual standard citizenship training to every alien in the United States in co-opera- again this year. Competition in national tournament play was un- tion with the new government classes. usually keen. The Western Sectional championship was won by American Education Week proved to be a highlight of our pro- San Diego, California; the Central Sectional by Berwyn, Illinois; gram of co-operation with the schools during 1940. The title, “Edu- and the Eastern Sectional by Flint, Michigan. San Diego, California, cation for the Common Defense,” was a timely one and was well won the national Junior Baseball championship in a three-game received by all the school people. series, played September 5 to September 7, over Berwyn, Illinois. Pursuant to the acceptance by the National Americanism Com- The program continues to pay its way financially. The national mission of the responsibility for handling the Guenther Scholarships junior champions will again be the guests of The American Legion to West Point, a subcommittee of the National Americanism Com- at the World Series in early October. 6 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

There is little change in the status of our co-operation with the and will, we hope, come on the floor of the convention for action Boy Scouts of America. Approximately 3,000 troops are still under on the part of the Convention. Legion sponsorship. Character and leadership development are the Let me say at the outset that we are not concerned, as a result Legion’s aims through our Boy Scout work. of this survey, over a lack of supply of medical personnel for the The Annual Americanism and Community Service Reports from Veterans Administration. It has been demonstrated that in this more than 3,000 posts have been received and indicate the extent period, even more than at previous times, losses in medical person- to which unselfish community service has been rendered by almost nel have been supplied expeditiously. In other words, everybody who every Legion post. has gone into the service from the medical personnel has been Our highway and traffic safety program this year has been aug- replaced rather rapidly. We do not find that at the present time, mented by an individual driver’s contest in the form of fleet con- at least, we are confronted with any problem in that respect. tests. More than 6,000 individual Legionnaires are participating in However, the other matters with which this survey was con- the contest, which is carried out in co-operation with the Auto- cerned, that is, with regard to the efficiency and the adequacy of motive Safety Foundation. medical personnel and related personnel, was something that was We have continued to fight for legislation which would restrict brought out in the survey and brought to the attention of the com- all immigration from all countries until the war is over and until mittee and caused us to take action in that regard. we have provided jobs for all of the unemployed Americans. This committee, as a result of that survey and, I might say, as a There has likewise been no slackening in our fight for the de- result of the experience that the members of that committee have portation of undesirable and enemy aliens who are now in this had throughout many years of service in the Legion’s rehabilitation country. While we are told that it is impossible to effect deporta- service, has formulated a resolution recommending certain changes, tions because of lack of transportation facilities due to war con- certain reorganizational problems in the Veterans Administration ditions, it is particularly noticeable that-every boat which arrives in which we believe will bring about better service to the veteran of the United States brings in more refugees. We feel certain that the World War who is in need of the services of the Veterans Ad- our efforts in this field have on many occasions blocked the entry ministration. into the United States of alien enemies who would have contributed Another matter that the Executive Committee acted upon day to espionage and sabotage against the building of our defense. before yesterday had to do with the hospital construction program. The temporary war alignments have in nowise altered the fight You will recall that in our report to the May meeting of the Execu- of The American Legion against Fascism, Nazism and Communism, tive Committee we disclosed the fact that the Veterans Adminis- as well as their affiliated subversive helpers. Millions of American tration was entirely in accord with our idea that the hospital con- citizens now recognize that The American Legion’s fight against struction program should be stepped up in anticipation of an over- subversive influences has been, and still is, a vital factor in load resulting from this emergency, in other words, to avoid any strengthening our internal defense. encroachment upon the hospitalization requirements of the veteran Let -me take this opportunity to pay tribute to the typical Legion of the World War. fighting spirit of our National Commander, Milo J. Warner. He has Now that has come to this point: The Hospital Board has made pulled no punches, and, as a result, commands the highest respect the recommendation to the President that the next two-year pro- of the National Americanism Commission. Let me also express my gram of the 100,000-bed program shall be completed within one appreciation for the fine way in which you members of the Na- year. In other words, there is a one-year step-up of the program, tional Executive Committee have contributed to our Americanism which we believe will be adequate. We have also recommended work of the year. that the entire program be completed as expeditiously as possible; Chairman O’Neil made the statement that the two resolu- in other words, that we have those 100,000 beds just as soon as tions (Nos. 4 and 37) mentioned on the agenda as having we can get them. Another matter which was given consideration by the Executive been referred to the National Americanism Commission from Committee was the question that your committee referred to the the May, 1941, meeting of th'e National Executive Commit- Rehabilitation Committee at the November meeting for study, and tee, would be acted upon at the November meeting of the that was the matter of ten various resolutions which had come in Commission. from different Departments. I said November; I believe it was at the Boston Convention. Those resolutions were on the subject of general pensions. National Rehabilitation Committee Now, you instructed the Rehabilitation Committee to make a The reports of the National Rehabilitation Committee, as study of the question of general pensions. The Rehabilitation Com- mittee has done that and has completed that study. We went into presented by the Chairman and the Acting Director, were the history of pension legislation, into the effectiveness of the man- duly accepted, with an expression of appreciation, by Chair- ner in which The American Legion has carried out Its program for man Warner, for the services of the committee during the benefits to World War veterans. We have submitted (this was our year. conclusion) a resolution to the Rehabilitation Committee of this convention which advocates that The American Legion, in order Following is the report of Lynn U. Stambaugh, North Da- not to destroy that effectiveness, in order not to interfere or in any kota, Chairman of the National Rehabilitation Committee: way change the results that we have been getting, adhere to the Mr. Commander, Members of the Executive Committee: It will Legion’s traditional position of asking for those benefits on the be possible for me to make this brief because all that is necessary basis of disability. is to bring the Executive Committee up to date, since the rehabil- Now that brings you up to date, I believe, with regard to the itation report at the May meeting. We feel that we are at a point labors of the Rehabilitation Committee during this year. Thank now where we are carrying out, or bringing to fulfillment a job you very much for your attention. that we started out to do at the beginning of this year. You will recall that at the May meeting the field service and Following is the report of T. O. Kraabcl, Acting Director the Washington office were authorized to make a survey of Vet- of Rehabilitation: erans Administration facilities with regard to the adequacy of med- Mr. Commander, Lady and Gentlemen of the Executive Com- ical personnel and related personnel. The reason for that was be- mittee: I have recorded a few comments covering the temporary cause we anticipated that the present emergency might create some stewardship of the National Rehabilitation Service, and I am glad inadequacies in that respect. to hand them in for the record of your committee. Now, that survey has been completed and was reported to the I only want to add that in the five months we have carried on, Executive Committee of the National Rehabilitation Committee at since National Director Miller left us, we have attempted to follow a pre-convention meeting the day before yesterday. After going the course that he charted, and we are taking our load, disposing over the survey, we were of the opinion that certain action should of it in a spirit of loyalty, a spirit of co-operation, both as to the be taken by this convention. For the purpose of initiating that field service and the staff in the Washington office, the department action, we formulated several resolutions which have been turned and state service officers throughout, and your Department of- over to the Convention Rehabilitation Committee for their action ficials, the National Executive Committee included. DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 7

I want to thank you very much for the opportunity of appearing able degree of efficiency and eagerness to learn the work thor- this brief moment. Thanks very much. oughly. As stated in our regular report, we feel at a loss to try to express The following is the report submitted by Mr. Kraabel for the feelings which each one of us had when the National Rehabil- inclusion in the record: itation Director of so many years finally severed his connection The opportunity of commenting briefly to the National Executive with the office. I am glad to state, however, that the organization Committee on our temporary stewardship of the National Rehabili- which he built up is so geared that we hope to advance in the broad tation Service is greatly appreciated. The detailed accounting of fields of medical and hospital care, claims and rating work, and the activities of the office will be found in the printed annual re- the policy program with some assurance of definite progress. port. There is nothing I can add except one or two remarks on T. O. KRAABEL, how the work has been carried on these past five months. Acting National Director. We wish to acknowledge with gratitude the support and good will toward the Rehabilitation Office which have been exhibited by Appointment to Directorship Department, state, county and post service officers throughout the Upon recommendation of National Commander Milo J. country. We are proud to refer to them as our associates and Warner, the designation of T. 0. Kraabel as National Direc- colleagues. tof of Rehabilitation was approved. Mr. Kraabel had been Likewise, the National Field Service, the National and Depart- ment officers of the organization and the Auxiliary have continued serving as Acting Director of Rehabilitation since the resig- their interest and collaboration in the problems which reach us nation of Watson B. Miller as Director in late April, 1941. every day. During the past year we have found the counsel and advice of National Emblem Committee the Rehabilitation Executive Committee of great value, and I am sure that the National Field Director and others with whom the The following report, as presented by Roy L. Cook, New committee has had opportunity to function will second that senti- Mexico, Chairman of the National Emblem Committee, was ment. Your Liaison Committee with the National Rehabilitation adopted and the recommendations approved, thus giving the Service has continued on its course of keeping you and us apprised Emblem Division authority to adjust the contracts with the of matters of mutual interest. consent and approval of the National Commander and Na- In accordance with instructions received from you at your May tional Adjutant: meeting, the National Field and Rehabilitation Services have en- deavored to conduct a survey of medical and related personnel in Mr. Commander, Gentlemen and Mrs. Wheelock: Pursuant to the Veterans Administration. The findings of that survey are being authority contained in resolution adopted by the National Execu- compiled, and we are hopeful that recommendations based on such tive Committee at its May, 1941, meeting, the Emblem Committee, findings will be constructive and helpful in the betterment of the through the Director of the Emblem Division, has proceeded with examination, rating, treatment and care of disabled veterans. the negotiations for extension of all current contracts, which ex- During the tenure of our acting directorship, five Rehabilitation pire December 31, 1941, The Acting Director of the Division has Area Conferences have been held, the details of which are set forth just completed an eastern trip, during which time he visited all in the printed report. The Medical Consultant of the Staff is pursu- the eastern contractors and sources of supply. ing a course charted for some time in the direction of improved The National Emblem Committee reports that the following medical and technical research, as well as of adequate examination companies have agreed to the extension of existing contracts for and evaluation of mental and physical handicaps for compensation the period of one year: purposes. S. ABRAHAMS & COMPANY, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, three Claims, appeals and insurance continue to comprise the bulk of contracts covering Legion caps, Legion and Sons of The American the activity at the Washington Office, and your experts in those Legion ties. fields continue to be the same as for the past several years. It may ANNIN & COMPANY, New York, New York, three existing con- be rather difficult to understand that nearly twenty-three years tracts, one each on Legion, Auxiliary, and Sons of The American after the cessation of hostilities in the last World War there con- Legion flags and banners. tinue to arise challenging considerations in connection with com- L. G. BALFOUR COMPANY, Attleboro, Massachusetts, three con- pensation and insurance claims. But it may be said, as a matter tracts covering Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion of fact, that many developments in the handling of claims have un- jewelry, badges, etc. folded, step by step, with the advance of medical procedure, and GEMSCO, New York, contract covering Legion, Auxiliary and with the program of adequately evaluating physical and mental Sons of The American Legion embroidered emblems. handicaps. LEGIONNAIRE COMPANY, Boston, Massachusetts, contract on Policy subjects and program continue to have our best attention, American Legion shirts. to the end that all expressions, suggestions, recommendations and PHOENIX GLASS COMPANY, Monaca, Pennsylvania, two con- proposals passed on to us by the organization in the field may be tracts on Legion initiation and outdoor lamps and Auxiliary initia- transcribed into appropriate enactments, and accomplished either tion lamps. through legislation or administratively. WATERBURY BUTTON COMPANY, Waterbury, Connecticut, The employment activity of the Legion is intimately bound up Legion uniform and shirt buttons. with rehabilitation, and the Washington Office is daily engaged in None of the grave marker contractors are extending their pres- personal contacts and correspondence designed to help men in ent contracts, principally due to the shortage of brass rods, and the reaching and qualifying for job opportunities. contractor’s inability to obtain raw materials. New bids will be The one big research assignment given us by the last national called for covering this item. convention involved the study of a pension system for World War The same situation prevails in the case of contractors supplying veterans. We have launched into this and have rendered a tenta- gavel bells. New bids will be called for. tive report to the Rehabilitation Executive Committee. The subject Extension of contract cannot be negotiated with the contractor is not disposed of but is considered as of a pending nature and will supplying seal presses, therefore new bids will be called for. be further pursued in consonance with the terms of the resolutions Summarizing the contract situation: Out of eleven contractors themselves and instructions of your committee. supplying the various articles to the Emblem Division of The Amer- There have been no material changes in the personnel of your ican Legion, seven contractors supplying practically all the major service at Washington except in the stenographic and clerical items have agreed to a one-year extension of their existing con- groups. Increased opportunities for entering the classified service tracts; the other four contractors supplying articles involving of the Federal Government have taken away approximately eight metals, have not agreed to one-year extensions. New bids will be competent and loyal girls who had been with us for several months, requested. and in one or two cases, several years. In their place we were Difficulty is being experienced in obtaining the necessary raw fortunate in getting younger people who have displayed an accept- materials used in the manufacture of the various articles merchan- 8 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING dised by the Emblem Division. The placing of silk on priority by the year the Commission has operated at a net gain of $135,000. The government makes it necessary for the committee to authorize a budget has been underrun $17,000. substitute for silk thread now used in sewing Legion caps, the The problems that are facing the Commission in the increased silk embroidered emblem and the silk piping used on the caps. price of paper and the increased cost of labor and other problems, There is also the possibility that difficulty will be experienced in will be submitted in a formal report at the time of the November securing quality leather for sweat bands used in the cap, and sub- meeting. stitution will have to be authorized. Your Liaison Committee, George Levy, Chairman, met yesterday The same difficulty applies to Legion and Sons of The American with the Commission, as that group has met with us on all oc- Legion ties, to flags and banners, and all other articles involving casions. At this time we wish to compliment you on the fine choice the use of silk. that you have made in that Liaison Committee, and we wish at Our jewelry manufacturer indicates that they have sufficient raw this time to commend the National Commander for his fine co- materials on hand to take care of the anticipated Legion contract operation in advancing, with the Commission, the best interests of requirements for the remainder of 1941 and 1942. the Legion in the official publication. A situation has arisen in connection with contract action during Thank you. the emergency, which should be called to the attention of the National Executive Committee. The current procedure provides for the National Executive Committee to not only approve of the National Aeronautics Commission awarding of various contracts, but also that any changes necessary The following report of Norman M. Lyon, California, during the contract period must be submitted to the Executive Committee for action either at one of their regular meetings, or, if Chairman of the National Aeronautics Commission, was duly between meetings, by a mail vote. accepted, with an expression of thanks by Chairman Warner, While the majority of our contractors have agreed to extend their for the work of the commission: current contracts for a period of one year, to expire December 31, Mr. Commander, Lady and Gentlemen of the Executive Commit- 1942, at the current prices and under the same terms and condi- tee: Full account of the year’s work of the Commission has been tions, the present emergency will doubtless change the situation given in the report to the convention, which has been printed in so drastically that it may be necessary for some of the contractors the book of reports. Reference will be made herein to a number of to ask for adjustments at some time during the life of the contract. the points brought out in that report. The Chairman has just visited According to established policy, price adjustments have been Washington and obtained the latest available figures on planes, granted upon submission of due proof. Because of the emergency, pilots and progress from military and civil authorities. These are there may be numerous situations arising next year, not only on called to your attention in this report. prices, but on materials, specifications, etc., which will require To recapitulate and refresh the minds of the committee, the prin- equitable adjustment. If all such cases, principally involving costs, cipal, specific goals of the Commission this year were the assistance materials and substitutions, have to be presented to the National to the Army and Navy in their flight cadet procurement program, Executive Committee for final action, it will work a decided handi- the aim of rounding out the proposed lighter-than-air organization cap on both the contractors and the Emblem Division, because of of the United States Navy, the holding of a National Air Roundup the time element involved. which would be productive in membership and interest, the inte- I might add here that the only price adjustment that has been gration of the civilian pilot training program to later military re- granted this year, I think,, took approximately three months from quirements, and the working out of a method whereby this Com- the time it was initiated until it was finally voted upon and ap- mission could meet more often, with better results from that proved. Therefore, the Emblem Committee has a recommendation policy. Your Chairman is happy to report that these aims have been to make with reference to the adjustment of these contracts. in a large way achieved. “Be it therefore Resolved, That, during the period of the existing The flight cadet procurement assistance rendered by the Legion emergency only, such Committee be authorized to make the neces- in cumulative effort by, first, a broadside letter of the National sary changes in prices, specifications or materials covered by the Commander, next the approval of the Executive Committee for existing contracts, such adjustments, if any, to be effective upon actual quotas for each Department to obtain, and the last shot in the joint concurrence of the National Commander and the National the form of a second letter from the National Commander, mailed Adjutant.” in August to all Departments, setting up those quotas and request- If the foregoing recommendations, which are placed in the form ing even stronger efforts—all of these actions have added up to of a resolution, are adopted by the National Executive Committee, results which have been apparent for the services. General Daven- it will greatly simplify procedure and eliminate the necessity of port Johnson, of the Army, and Commander A. K. Doyle, of the possible mail votes, and will greatly facilitate the efficient opera- Navy, in charge of the flight training programs of the services, tion of the Emblem Division, during the emergency. specifically congratulated the Legion on its work, and last week BEN F. DORRIS, Oregon, Admiral John Towers, Chief of the Bureau of Aeronautics, thanked HAROLD P. REDDEN, Massachusetts, the Legion, through your Chairman, for this fine work. The Bureau ROY L. COOK, Chairman, New Mexico. of Navigation of the Navy is recognizing this help and has advised In behalf of the members of the Emblem Committee, all of their training bases and flight selection boards to contact Chairman Cook expressed appreciation for the manner in and co-operate with the Departments and posts of the Legion. The Army has also worked closely with our organization. We can well which Carlos A. Morris has conducted the affairs of the Di- be proud of the fact that we early recognized the need for pilots vision, as Acting Director, in the temporary absence of Di- as well as planes in our increased defense effort, and actually did rector E. 0. Marquette, who is in active army service. something about it. National Commander Warner thanked Chairman Cook As to the lighter-than-air program of the Navy, three recom- and members of the Emblem Committee for their year’s mendations were adopted by your committee at the May meeting relating to this activity. Results have been very favorable. Appro- services. priations have been made for twenty-seven of the patrol blimps, with delivery starting on the first one in about a week, and with Legion Publications Commission the balance coming along at an increased rate. Your request for shore facilities bore fruit, $6,000,000 having been appropriated for a After presentation of the following report, by Vilas H. base at Elizabeth City, North Carolina, $6,000,000 for one at South Whaley, Wisconsin, Vice-Chairman of the Legion Publica- Weymouth, Massachusetts, and $6,500,000 for the repurchase of the tions Commission, Chairman Warner expressed appreciation Sunnyvale Base near San Francisco, California. These will all be to the Publications Commission personnel for their serv- ready and operating by May, 1942. Three million dollars more has also been set aside for auxiliary bases. Your Chairman wishes to ices : call to your attention that we should back the second half of this Mr. Commander and Members of the Committee: This report lighter-than-air program during the coming Legion year by re- will be informal and very brief. The first seven months of this questing the appropriation of funds to build twenty-one more DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 9 blimps and three more primary bases, at Puget Sound, Washing- Many Departments have had very active Aeronautics Commis- ton, in Southern California, and in Florida. This is the Navy’s pro- sions. The National Commission has advised with and assisted these posed program. Nothing has been done concerning the appropria- commissions in every way possible. All Departments have given tion for a large rigid airship or more. This should be followed up their sincere efforts to the projects of this Commission. and recommendation for at least four of these ships should be made. The Commission wishes to express its thanks to the National The National Air Roundup, thanks to the fine assistance of all Commander and staff for the fullest co-operation which it has at members of this Commission, and the detail and promotional work all times received. Particular expressions are likewise rendered to by the Adjutant and Assistant Adjutant, turned in 76,889 cards and National Adjutant Frank E. Samuel and the Assistant National brought the total of members to 1,009,524, the first time it has gone Adjutant, Donald G. Glascoff, for their advice, counsel and particu- over the million mark at the Air Roundup. The trophies awarded larly for assistance in handling of the details for the Aerial Round- added to the interest and this method of increasing effort should be up. continued. A subcommittee of the Aeronautics Commission is now completing plans for airplane relays from various points in the National Convention Liaison Committee country. This will result in tying in posts and Departments more The following report of the National Convention Liaison directly with the Roundup. Assistant Secretary of Commerce Robert Hinckley has advised Committee, as presented by Leo J. Duster, Iowa, Chairman, the commission that every effort has been made to standardize the was duly accepted, with an expression of thanks by Na- requirements for civilian pilot training in order to make the grad- tional Commander Warner: uates available for Army and Navy pilot training. The best in- Mr. Commander, Lady and Gentlemen of the Committee: For the formation is that this result is coming about. sixth time in as many years a representative from the National Con- Attention is again called to the need of an appropriation of at vention Liaison Committee has appeared before this body to ask least $1,000 more for this Commission so that it may meet at least them to take back to their Departments the message that all ob- twice during the Legion year. With the rapid changes in situation, jectionable features will be removed from the parade on Tuesday. with the important value of civil and military aviation to the coun- We want this parade to reflect the true character of The American try at this time, and with the increasing weight which the recom- Legion. mendations of this Commission is achieving in the various establish- Now, the responsibility of removing these objectionable features ments, it should meet often enough to set up an intelligent course rests with the individual Department, but where a Department fails, and policies as the situation requires. the Service Committee and the National Convention Liaison Com- A recommendation regarding a separate striking air arm had mittee will definitely remove them from the ranks. We want this been agitated and engendered considerable debate in the Commis- parade to reflect the true character of The American Legion. We sion. This idea which had been suddenly injected was rejected by want it to be an inspiration to the men and the women and the the Executive Committee. Your Chairman has since investigated children who will view it from the sidelines. To this end, I know further and now wishes to advise this Executive Committee that that you will lend every possible support. the highest authority in both the air service of the Army and the For your information, that you can likewise take back to your Navy are definitely against either a separate striking air arm or Department, this parade will probably be the shortest and the easi- a unified air service. est to travel, of any in many years. It is just one-half a block short In order to bring the committee up to date on the latest figures, of two miles, a mile and one-half of which is on a slight downgrade herewith the information from the official authorities: and just one block and one-half on the upgrade. Floor Space of Manufacturers Thank you kindly. Last figure, March 1, 1941 31,383,967 square feet August 1 (Approx.) 42,000,000 square feet Veterans’ Employment Committee Under construction 13,814,593 square feet In the absence of Jack Crowley, Vermont, Chairman of Employes the Veterans’ Employment Committee, who is in active Last figure, March 1, 1941 226,172 •Army service, the report of that committee was postponed August 1 (Approx.) 300,000 until the time of the November meeting of the National Ex- 1942 peak estimate \..505,000 ecutive Committee. Backlogs Last figure, March 1, 1941 $3,875,000,000 Law and Order Committee July 1 5,137,000,000 The following report was presented by Richard Hart- Production shorne, New Jersey, Chairman of the National Law and March, 1941 1,216 planes August (Approx.) 1,800 planes Order Committee, following which National Commander Total Program and Procurement Warner expressed his thanks to the chairman and personnel March 1 total units 45,600, ordered 42,836 of the Law and Order Committee for their work during the Present objective, as of July 1, between 75,000 and 80,000 year, and commended them upon assisting in bringing about Pilots Active In Training the passage of uniform legislation in which The American Army as of 1/1/41 6,180 7,000 Legion is interested: Army as of 8/1/41 8,427 7,837 Mr. Commander, Men and Women: Two parts to my report; first, Navy as of 2/1/41 3,703 3,000 a short statement of the success, to date, of the legislative defense Navy as of 8/1/41 4,787 _ 4,071 program approved previously by your Committee; second, the re- Civilian as of 1/1/41 63,113 20,000 sults of a meeting of your committee this morning on the subject of Civilian as of 7/1/41 82,277 20,000 defense strikes. Airports and Landing Fields As to the first, the acts approved were the Sabotage Prevention As of January 1, 1941—2,331, 766 of these being partially or Act which to date has been enacted fourteen times, the Explosives fully lighted. Act enacted twelve times, Interstate Public Property Act twice, the As of July 1, 1941—2,277, 690 lighted. State Guard Act twenty-six times, fresh pursuit by military forces twice. Then, in addition to that, there was the State Defense Council Seaplane Bases and Anchorages Act which was later drafted by the same group, which was enacted. As of January 1, 1941—325, 15 of these being lighted. I don’t find the total of that act, but the grand total to date of As of July 1, 1941—361, 20 being lighted. enactments of this legislation was fifty-six times, fifty-six enact- Training Schools (approved by CAA) Jan. 1, ’41 July 1, ’41 ments in the states throughout the country. Civil Flying Schools 166 579 A year ago your committee also pointed the finger directly at cer- Airplane and Engine Mechanics Schools 35 42 tain Nazi officials, naming them, who were the center of subversive 10 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

action in this country, such as Wiedemann, Hitler’s former com- to the President and the Congress of the United States for their manding officer, the consul general in San Francisco, Baron von consideration and action. Spiegel, the consul general in New Orleans; Reustrich, the com- "Therefore, be it Resolved, That the above statement be referred mercial consul to Nazi embassy in Washington; Princess Hohenlohe to the appropriate committee of the 1941 National Convention for Waldenburg, who was going around the country, and also the Ger- action.” man Library of Information in New York City. That we were not on the wrong track is evidenced by the fact Special Subcommittee to Study Matter of Expenses ot that within the last few months the President of the United States Representatives of Foreign and Insular has ordered these aliens removed from the country and has had the Princess arrested and the German Library of Information closed. Departments We also urged action on the part of the people on the street. The National Executive Committee, at its May, 1941, meet- That has merged into the Office of Civilian Defense in which the Legion is taking a particularly active part. With Legionnaire La- ing, by adoption of Resolution No. 28, authorized the ap- Guardia at the head, and two Past National Commanders of The pointment of a special subcommittee to study the matter of American Legion, both of whom are here today, sitting right here, expenses of representatives of Insular and Foreign Depart- Past National Commander D’Olier and Past National Commander ments in attendance at national meetings, such subcommittee Kelly as regional heads throughout the country, the Legion is ob- viously doing very important work in that regard. to report to the pre-convention meeting in Milwaukee. The The Interstate Crime Control program while, naturally, subordi- following were appointed to serve on such subcommittee: nated to the national defense program, is also proceeding apace, Jeremiah F. Cross, New York, Chairman, with a series of additional enactments throughout the country, in Ray O. Garber, Iowa addition to our internal defense legislation. Spence S. Eccles, Utah In regard to all this, your committee recommends the adoption of two resolutions which I will take the liberty of reading, although, Following lengthy discussion, the report of the subcom- of course, your committee has no right to present them. mittee, as presented by Chairman Cross, as follows, was The following resolution, as presented by Chairman Hart- tabled: shorne, was adopted, with amendment, as shown: Mr. Commander and Members of the Committee: The special “Be it Resolved, That The American Legion continue its efforts in committee appointed by the National Commander, pursuant to Reso- friendly conference with labor to obtain the adoption of the model lution 28, at the May meeting of the National Executive Committee state defense legislation heretofore approved. at Indianapolis, met in the Milwaukee Auditorium, September 14, “Be it further Resolved, That The American Legion, composed as 1941. it is of civilians with previous experience in the Armed Forces, There were present: R. O. Garber, Spence Eccles and Jeremiah tender its services to the authorities, in leading the civilians of the Cross. country to participate actively in making fully effective throughout 1. Article 3, Section 1, of the Constitution provides that The the nation the plans for civilian defense; and American Legion shall be organized in Departments and that there "Be it further Resolved, That the above be approved by the Na- shall be one Department in each state, in the District of Columbia, tional Executive Committee and referred by it to the appropriate and there may be one Department in each territory or insular pos- committee of the 1941 National Convention.” session of the United States. There have been established five terri- torial or insular Departments, namely: Philippine Islands, Alaska, The following resolution, as presented by Chairman Hart- Puerto Rico, Panama and Hawaii. shorne, was, after discussion, referred for the consideration 2. The National Executive Committee, at its February, 1921, of the proper 1941 Convention Committee, without recom- meeting, defined the term “continental limits of the United States,” mendation : as used in the authorization for payment of travel and other ex- penses for the members of the National Executive Committee, be “Defense strikes must be terminated. They definitely endanger construed to mean the area comprised in the states of the Union this country’s safety. To end them best, their causes must be as- and the District of Columbia, and that, in the case of members out- certained. side such limits, the expenses paid shall be for travel and other ex- “In the main, these causes are two: penses within such limits. “1. The activities of subversive agents of foreign powers who are 3. At the November, 1934, meeting, the National Executive Com- duping the honest American workingmen, and are continuing their mittee, “in order to clarify the policy and regulations having to do acts of economic and other sabotage within the ranks of labor. with the attendance of representatives of the Departments outside “2. The workingman’s natural desire to increase his wages and the continental limits of the United States at Commander-Adjutant strengthen his union. These he permits to overcome his considera- Conferences, National Executive Committee meetings,” adopted the tion for his country’s needs, because he does not appreciate how following rule: “National Executive Committeemen attending meet- urgent his country’s needs are. ings of the National Executive Committee at Indianapolis, and Com- "As to the first cause, the activities of subversives, this must be manders and Adjutants attending the Commanders’ and Adjutants’ stamped out both by law and by the voluntary action of the labor Conferences at Indianapolis, coming from within the continental unions themselves in purging and protecting their own ranks. limits of the United States (48 states and the District of Columbia), “As to the second cause, the self-interest of the workingman con- shall be allowed the usual traveling expenses only from the natural flicting with the interest of his country, the patriotic workingman, port of entry as determined by the National Adjutant. Subsequent- when fairly treated, will promptly put his country first, the minute ly, expenses were authorized for attendance at the National Con- he understands the urgency of her needs. This fair treatment, to ventions for National Executive Committeemen only. meet the rise in the cost of living, can be obtained by application 4. This policy prevailed until the Boston Convention in 1940 to the National Mediation Board and the other similar agencies, adopted Resolution 662, “That Alaska be considered within the conti- with a waiting period pending such application, as in the case of the nental limits of the United States and enjoy rights and privileges of Federal Railroad Act, all without endangering the country through the continental Departments.” work stoppages. This clearer understanding of his country’s needs 5. The action of the Boston Convention put the territory of Alas- should be undertaken much more vigorously than at present. Per- ka on a different basis than the four other territorial Departments. sonal addresses to defense labor, both by members of the Army and 6. The Department of Hawaii passed a resolution and forwarded Navy and by labor leaders themselves, who can clearly point out the same to the National Executive Committee, asking that they be this country’s needs, would seem particularly appropriate. placed on the same basis with respect to payment of expenses as “With the stamping out of the subversive elements in defense Alaska. The Department of Alaska enjoys a membership of ap- labor, and the better appreciation by patriotic labor of its country’s proximately 1,100 and Hawaii in excess of 2,500. Puerto Rico is needs, defense strikes should cease and the safety of our country be favored with a membership in excess of 2,500, while the Philippine preserved. Islands has 360 members, and Panama 425. “The American Legion earnestly recommends the above principles 7. An examination of expenses for the period from January 1, DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 11

1936, to December 31, 1940, shows these five Departments to have There is still an extreme shortage of equipment. A few so-called contributed $7,298.25 in dues, and the total expenses for travel in task divisions being trained for special use are practically 100 per that period were $9,220.71. cent equipped, but the bulk of troops in training do not have an ex- 8. If all territorial or insular Departments were to be included cess of 20 per cent in equipment. in the Boston resolution and considered to be within the continental The strength of the United States Navy on August 31, 1941, was limits of the United States, then the expenses would be very sub- as follows: stantially increased. 9. Your committee has made a study of the entire question of COMBAT SHIPS expenses of representatives of insular and foreign Departments and, Naval Vessel Strength: after careful study, your committee is of the opinion that the five Built Building territorial Departments fall in a single classification, that a uniform Aircraft Carriers 6 12 policy should be adopted for said five Departments and all should Battleships 15 and 2 15 be placed exactly on the same basis. New 35,000-ton dreadnaughts which have been 10. Your committee recognizes the tremendous service that the commissioned but which are not yet assigned insular Departments have rendered to the Legion as a whole but to fleet duty. are of the opinion that, because of the distance from Indianapolis Cruisers 37 54 and the places of holding National Conventions, the national organi- Destroyers 168 196 zation is not warranted in changing the established policy as adopted Submarines 112 74 in 1934, and therefore recommends that convention action be taken to place all of the insular or territorial Departments on exactly the 338 353 same footing. Grand Total (Two-ocean Navy) Respectfully submitted, (Subject to change) 691 R. O. GARBER, Iowa, which will not be completed until 1946. SPENCE ECCLES, Utah, On August 1, 1941, the enlisted strength of the Navy and Marine JEREMIAH CROSS, Chairman, New York. Corps was 340,931. Under existing law, the President has authority to increase this to a total of 360,000. All enlistments thus far have National Defense Committee been regular-term enlistments. In May of 1940 the then National Commander, Ray Kelly, sent a The following report of the National Defense Committee, committee consisting of the Chairmen of your Americanism Com- as presented by Warren H. Atherton, California, Chairman, mittee, your Foreign Relations Committee, and your National De- was received, and referred to the proper Convention Com- fense Committee to Washington to offer the President of the United mittee. without recommendation: States the'Services of The American Legion in providing home de- Mr. Commander and Members of the Executive Committee: I pre- fense. On behalf of The American Legion, that committee offered sent the report of your Standing Committee on National Defense: to accept the responsibility for all or any part of providing a home The National Defense Comittee of The American Legion has met defense and presented specific plans for carrying out that responsi- four times during this year. It has received information pertaining bility. Since that date the National Commander, the convention of to the national defense from executive officials of the government, 1940, and the National Executive Committee have repeated that from members of Congress, and from representatives of the Army offer of service. and Navy. In February and March of 1941 the National Commander headed Twice, pursuant to request of the National Commander, your a mission of four and visited England to make a special study of Chairman has gone to Washington and stayed such time as was the home defense measures being employed there. Upon the return necessary to check on defense progress. of the mission, its members reported to a special meeting of the Na- Members of your committee have visited in excess of one hundred tional Executive Committee, which approved their report and au- defense production plants, navy yards, camps, air fields, and other thorized the publication of the information gained in seven pam- government facilities to learn at firsthand what is being done to phlets comprising The American Legion Vest Pocket Series for make America strong. Civilian Defense. Four of these have already been published and We find that the cost of the program authorized during the period distributed. There has been a great demand for them by both Le- June 30, 1940, to August 31, 1941, will be: gion and civil organizations. The information contained therein will greatly facilitate the work of the Office of Civilian Defense and For the Army $24,607,000,000 the co-operation of The American Legion therewith. For the Navy 16,978,000,000 On May 20, 1941, by executive order, the President of the United For other defense ageficies 14,772,000,000 States authorized the creation of the Office of Civilian Defense. Le- gionnaire Mayor La Guardia, was appointed director of OCD, and A total of $56,357,000,000 many prominent Legionnaires have been appointed to executive The strength of the United States Army on September 4, 1941, was offices therein. The National Commander has tendered the service as follows: of The American Legion to the director of OCD. The director has OFFICERS recognized that, because of its discipline, organization, and experi- Regular Army 15,040 ence, The American Legion can render invaluable service in carry- National Guard 22,300 ing out the various safety and precautionary measures which will Reserve Officers 68,335 be administered by OCD. At this very moment The American Legion of the Departments Total 105,675 where maneuvers are to be conducted are preparing to supply a ENLISTED MEN major proportion of the leadership and personnel necessary for air- Regular Army, three-year enlistments 501,000 craft warning service. Joint action of the OCD and The American Regular Army Reserve and one-year enlistments. . 17,500 Legion should be taken to familiarize themselves in the field as to National Guard in Federal Service 256,600 how they can most efficiently serve the cause of civilian defense Selective Service Trainees 700,000 through the governmental agency created for that purpose. Director La Guardia requested The American Legion to loan him Total 1,475,100 the services of Henry H. Dudley, Director of the National Defense TOTAL COMBINED STRENGTH Division at our National Headquarters, to act as the officer in Regular Army 533,540 charge of the Veteran Affairs of OCD. The National Commander National Guard 278,900 and Mr. Dudley willingly agreed to co-operate, as requested, and Reserve Officers 68,335 Mr. Dudley is now serving as Director of Veteran Affairs of OCD Selective Service Trainees 700,000 at Washington. His long service in the National Guard and in The American Legion will be invaluable in making practical use of the 1,580,775 man-power and qualifications of the Legion. 12 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

On March 15, 1941, the National Executive Committee referred (5) In favor of the speediest possible construction and the perma- the question of whether or not a division of national defense should nent maintenance of a two-ocean navy with its own specially-trained be established, to this National Defense Committee for study and air arm and necessary auxiliary vessels. report. At the May 1, 1941, meeting of the Executive Committee (6) In favor of the maintenance of a regular army and National your National Defense Committee reported in favor of the advisa- Guard large enough to make our nation secure, to adequately gar- bility of forming such a division. We pointed out that, after advo- rison our possessions, to instruct civilian components, and to make cating preparedness for more than twenty years, The American Le- possible the immediate mobilization of ail American man-power, to gion should, in time of national crisis, employ every means at its the end that no aggressor nation will dare to invade this country. command to contribute to the upbuilding of an adequate defense. (7) Deploring the fact that industrial production is lagging be- Action on that recommendation was deferred until in the judgment hind schedule, thus depriving our armed forces of adequate equip- of the National Committee and the Finance Committee such action ment, and advocating the centralization of governmental respon- was necessary and desirable. By policy of the Executive Committee, sibility in connection with defense production. the Division of National Defense was created, effective July 1, 1941. (8) Reiterating the declarations of the National Executive Com- Legionnaire Dudley was appointed the first director of National De- mittee against work stoppage in defense industries. fense and served in that capacity until his recent loan to OCD. Milt (9) Favoring the revision of pay schedules of the armed forces, Campbell is now carrying on as Assistant Director and is also car- so as to grant an increase commensurate with the increased cost rying his duties in connection with Child Welfare. We believe that of living and the increased scale of pay in private industry. the Division of National Defense should be continued in being and (10) Intensifying the service rendered by The American Legion implemented so that the director of National Defense can keep in in aiding enlistments in the armed forces, particularly enlistments close touch with the Posts and Departments and obtain the utmost in the aviation branches. possible co-operation in carrying out our defense program. (11) Favoring the creation of suitable and proper decorations The May 1-2 meeting of the Executive Committee referred to the for those serving in the present emergency for performance of serv- National Defense Committee for study and report Resolution No. ice beyond the call of duty, in addition to decorations now provided 50, resolving approval of the principle of making the United States by law. self-sufficient in war resources. In the opinion of your committee, (12) Opposing the creation in our armed forces of a separate such self-sufficiency is highly desirable and in harmony with many air arm. previous resolutions of the Legion, urging the creation of stock piles (13) Favoring the removal of the limitation in law which denies and the development of sources of supply. We recommend that the to General Harbord and other generals of World War service the resolution referred to be adopted. right to retire at the highest rank which they attained or for which By similar action of the same meeting, Resolution No. 30, on the they were recommended. subject of excepting veterans from the terms of War Department We commend the National Commander for his splendid service Letter, the Adjutant General’s Office, dated June 16,, 1939, with throughout the year in forwarding our national defense program. reference to the use of civilian employes in CCC, was referred to us. We express our appreciation to the War and Navy Departments It is our opinion that the letter should be referred to the Unemploy- for sending to this convention General Surles and General Lowe ment Committee for consideration and recommendation. and the Navy Department for sending Captain Ramsey and Com- By similar action of the same meeting, Resolution No. 41, refer- mander Sherman, all of whom have given us valued information. ring to the rank of particular officers in the Marine Corps and the Respectfully submitted, United States Navy, was also referred to the National Defense Com- WARREN H. ATHERTON, Chairman. mittee. In our opinion, such resolution should not be adopted be- cause it does not deal with a matter of general Navy policy, but, National Commander Warner expressed his thanks to on the contrary, has to do with specific administrative detail within Chairman Atherton for the work of his committee. the Navy Department. By similar action of the same meeting, Resolution No. 29, demand- ing action to terminate lockouts and strikes, was also referred to Report of National Chaplain on Resolution 14 this committee for consideration. We advise that this subject has The National Executive Committee, at its May, 1941, meet- already been adequately covered by resolutions of the Executive Committee. ing, referred to the National Chaplain, for study and report, By similar action of the same meeting, Resolution No. 7, dealing Resolution No. 14, subject, “Conducting funerals for Selec- with the establishment of adequate church facilities at every post, tive Service Draftees and Trainees, who may die in service,” camp, and place where soldiers and sailors are housed, was re- etc. ferred to this committee for study and for recommendations as to ways and means of carrying the purport of the resolution into effect. The following report, as presented by National Chaplain, We are advised by the Army and Navy that adequate church facili- Lt. Col. William G. Gilks, was duly received, and the recom- ties for men of all denominations have been provided in every place mendation approved: where any number of soldiers and sailors are serving. The limita- In accordance with the request of the Resolutions Subcommittee tion on number and age of Chaplains has been removed and the of the National Executive Committee, the National Chaplain here- Corps has been greatly expanded. with submits a report of his findings in connection with the matters This standing committee recognizes that it is without authority referred to his attention. These findings and recommendations to initiate resolutions for convention action. However, it has had were compiled from returns on questionnaires sent to all Depart- the benefit of much confidential information from the Army and ment Chaplains and Past National Chaplains of The American Le- Navy, and has devoted much time throughout the year to a study gion and represent the consensus of opinion of those responding to of our defense problems. We believe that our conclusions as to de- the questionnaire. fense needs may be of some value to the convention committee as a 1. Program of participation in funerals for selectees who may source of information during their deliberations. We, therefore, die in the service. recommend that The American Legion go on record as follows: It was thought that selectees and other troops of all kinds called (1) In favor of the permanent organization of national defense in the present emergency were entitled to the honor of a full mil- so as to enable us to be always ready to meet an enemy away from itary funeral, or such recognition as the family might desire. The our shores, rather than wait for him to bring war to us. Legion form of service as now outlined by the Manual of Cere- (2) In favor of the fortification of all American Islands in the At- monies was thought to be entirely adequate, and that, with a few lantic and Pacific which are valuable for defense purposes, and the minor changes of wording, no further revision would be necessary. peaceful acquisition as soon as practicable of such others as may It was further suggested that a minute or an appendage to the be useful to strengthen our defenses. forms of ceremonies in force could be mailed to the Chaplains and (3) In favor of the removal of geographic limits in the use of post officers indicating what changes in wording would be neces- troops. sary in the event of a funeral of such selectees. Provision could be (4) In favor of the immediate provision of a permanent system made in connection with the reprint of the Manual of Ceremonies of universal military training for American youth. for the inclusion of optional words in the regular ritual. DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 13

2. Assistance in securing adequate compensation for families Be it further Resolved, That said law should provide that said of selectees who may have died before opportunity had been Commission shall bring in an opinion at each biannual period to given them to apply for insurance. the State Board of Education, and the decisions as to the accept- There is a thinking that the government should provide this ability of any textbook of said Commission shall be final. assistance, but there was some opinion that the Legion should use Be it further Resolved, however, That we reiterate the stand their facilities for it. All agreed that the experience of the Legion taken by this Department at its convention in Oakland in 1939, and could be used to good advantage, 'and that at least assistance could incorporated in Resolution No. 393 of the National Convention of be rendered in handling forms and making application. However, The American Legion in Chicago, to the effect that the best remedy it was thought that the rehabilitation officers of the Legion would for combating subversive activities in public schools and elsewhere be in better position to make recommendations on this matter than is the dissemination of pro-American doctrine, and that we again would be the Chaplain group. urge the National Executive Committee of The American Legion 3. The position of The American Legion toward the trainees to instruct and empower the National Americanism Commission under the Selective Service Act in connection with the courtesy to carry into effect Resolution No. 393 of the Chicago Convention. of the use of the Legion’s homes and clubs. Recommended that this resolution be referred to the National The consensus of opinion and feeling was for the full use of Americanism Commission for their information. these facilities by these men, with due care to the protection of It is the opinion of your Resolutions Subcommittee that the na- the program of the Legion so that it might not lose its essential tional administration of The American Legion and the National character and purpose. Americanism Commission have endeavored to fulfill the purpose It was further recommended that the Legion should be ready of this resolution as enacted at the Chicago convention. at all times to offer itself for service wherever needed, with full cooperation with the U. S. O. and other agencies interested in the welfare of the service men of the present day, and that the Legion The following resolution was ordered referred to the extend to this group the same co-operation and use of our facilities Resolutions Subcommittee, at the time of the November. as has been offered to other service men in the past. 1941, meeting: Respectfully submitted, Resolution No. 2. Subject: Execution of Contracts. WM. GEO. GILKS. Submitted by National Judge Advocate. Whereas, In the conduct of the business operations of the Na- Report of Resolutions Subcommittee tional Headquarters of The American Legion throughout the year it becomes necessary from time to time for the national organi- The following report of the Resolutions Subcommittee, as zation to execute contracts; and submitted by William G. McKinley, New Jersey, Chairman, Whereas, No specific authorization has ever been given author- was adopted ad seriatim: izing any officer of the national organization to execute such agree- Mr. Commander and Members of the Executive Committee: Your ments; now, therefore, be it Resolutions Subcommittee, composed of William G. McKinley, New Resolved, That hereafter all contracts made by the national or- Jersey, Chairman; Sam Brolund, Kansas; Eli A. Jensen, Ohio; ganization in the course of its operation shall be executed either Edwin G. Hobbs, New Mexico; and Spence S. Eccles, Utah, met at by the National Commander and/or the National Adjutant for National Headquarters this morning, and begs to submit the fol- and on behalf of said national organization, provided this shall in lowing report. no way affect any previous resolution heretofore adopted by the The report is divided into three parts: Resolutions recommended National Executive Committee outlining the method of procedure for approval; Resolutions recommended for reference and further in the execution of contracts by the Publications Division and the study; and a Resolution for rejection. Emblem Division. Recommended that this matter be laid upon the table as an order of business for the November meeting, and that it be referred The following resolution was referred to the National to the Resolutions Subcommittee of that meeting. Americanism Commission for their information: Resolution No. 1. Subject: Textbooks. The following resolution was referred to the National Ex- Submitted by Department of California. ecutive Committee, for further consideration in November: Whereas, The foundation of the education and future welfare of our citizens is laid by the textbooks used by the youth in our Resolution No. 3. Subject: Outlying Posts. public schools; and Submitted by Mr. Jacques Freiberg, Commander, Brussels Post Whereas, The opinion, loyalty and devotion of said youths to No. 1. our nation is, in a large measure, influenced by such textbooks; and In your letter 1156-11 of February 26, 1941, you informed me Whereas, It has been found that certain textbooks used in our that the National Executive Committee extended the date of af- schools in some instances contain matter of a nature unfitted for filiation of these posts to a Department until the convention in immature minds, and are subversive in character and tend to September, 1942. destroy our traditions, ideals and faith in our national heroes; and Please submit to the Executive Committee our request to extend Whereas, The selection of the textbooks used in our schools has this period—in case the war should not be over at that time—until been delegated to a person or persons who have neglected or re- the end of the war. fused to properly investigate and analyze the contents of said text- I think the outlying posts and all posts in foreign countries have books, and in some instances appear to have plotted to inject such done very useful work, and they were also the only organizations textbooks containing ideologies contrary to our American form of displaying the American Flag; they also represented on all impor- government for the express purpose of enlisting the support of our tant occasions the U. S. A. I hope in view of these facts you will youth in the overthrow of our government. give us this extension. Now, therefore, The American Legion, Department of California, Recommended that this question be laid over as a matter of regularly convened, does hereby business for the November meeting of the National Executive Com- Resolve, That the Legislature of the State of California be re- mittee. The period for the affiliation of these posts with a Depart- quested to enact the necessary law that will create a Commission ment has been extended to the convention of September, 1942. of not fewer than twenty-one (21) members, to serve without re- The purpose of laying this over to this time is to await any legis- muneration, whose duties it will be to examine and analyze, or have ative action of this convention on this question. examined and analyzed the subject matter contained in each and every textbook now used or to be approved for future use in our public schools. Said Commission shall consist of members selected, The following resolution was referred to the November not more than one each, from civic, veterans, patriotic, religious, meeting for more adequate study : service and fraternal organizations, the purpose being to diversify Resolution No. 7. Subject: Type and Color of Legion Caps. the opinion of said Commission. Submitted by the Department of New Jersey. 14 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

Whereas, Considerable confusion and mistaken identity has The following resolution was referred to the Standing arisen from improper wearing of Legion caps; Committee on National Defense, for report to the Novem- Be it Resolved, That County Officers shall wear a blue Legion cap, with white top and Department Officers an all-white cap dur- ber meeting: ing their term of office, and all members of The American Legion Resolution No. 11. Subject: Completion of the Canada-Alaska- wear the regulation blue Legion cap in accordance with regula- Richardson Highway. tions of our national organization. Sponsored by R. H. Stock, National Executive Committeeman, Be it further Resolved, That all Department and County Officers Alaska. on retiring from office revert to the regulation blue Legion cap. Whereas, The Congress of the United States has provided for a It is recommended that this resolution be referred to the Novem- Commission to study the feasibility of the construction of a high- ber meeting for more adequate study. way through Canada to Alaska, which would connect up with the Richardson Highway in the territory; and I have three that originate with the Department of Alaska. Whereas, Said Commission has been appointed and has reported Due to some uncontrollable circumstances, they could not be passed that such a highway was feasible; and through the regular order of business of the present convention. Whereas, Since the report of said committee was made, the need On the agreement of Mr. Stock of Alaska, the following procedure for such a highway has increased many times, due to war pos- is recommended: sibilities and the stationing of United States troops in Alaska; and Whereas, Such a highway would be both of military and com- mercial value to the United States, Canada and the Western Hemi- The following resolution was referred to the November sphere generally; therefore meeting of the National Executive Committee, for further Be it Resolved, By The American Legion in national convention study: assembled at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, that it goes on record as endorsing the building of such a highway and urges the Congress Resolution No. 9. Subject: Opposing Use of Territory of Alaska of the United States to provide funds for the construction of such as a Dumping Ground for European Refugees. a highway as soon as possible. Sponsored by R. H. Stock, National Executive Committeeman, Recommended that this resolution be referred to the Standing Alaska. Committee on National Defense for report to the November meet- Whereas, Bills have been presented before Congress, looking to ing. relaxation of our immigration laws so as to permit European This resolution is an action of the Department convention of the refugees to settle in Alaska; and Department of Alaska, which, due to unavoidable circumstance, Whereas, It is felt that Alaska is unsuited for the type of immi- failed to meet the conditions for submitting resolutions to this grants who would take advantage of such a relaxation of our laws; convention. and Whereas, There are thousands of our own citizens who are in Approved Resolutions need and willing to take advantage of any aid that our govern- NAVAL ACADEMY AWARD ment can furnish to help them establish homes in Alaska; Be it therefore Resolved, That The American Legion in national The following resolution was approved: convention assembled at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, does go on record The approved resolutions, Mr. Chairman. as opposing our government in permitting the Territory of Alaska Resolution No. 4. Subject: Naval Academy Award. to become a dumping ground for European refugees. Submitted by National Adjutant. Recommended that this resolution be referred to the November Whereas, The National Trophies and Awards Committee of The meeting of the National Executive Committee for further study. American Legion recommended, and the National Executive Com- This resolution is an action of the Department convention of the mittee approved, on May 3, 1935, an annual American Legion Department of Alaska which, due to unavoidable circumstance, award to the United States Naval Academy, same to be made to failed to meet the conditions for submitting resolutions to this that Midshipman of the Third Class who stands first for the class convention. in government; and Whereas, Enlargement of enrollment and defense emergencies have required a change in the curriculum of the United States The following resolution was duly referred to the Stand- Naval Academy; and ing Committee on National Defense for study, and report Whereas, The Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy has recommended that the award hereafter be made to to the November meeting: that member of the Third Class who stands first for the year in Resolution No. 10. Subject: Acquisition of Kommandorski Islands Naval history; and for Use as Military Bases. Whereas, The National Trophies and Awards Committee of The Sponsored by R. H. Stock, National Executive Committeeman, American Legion by correspondence in August, 1941, voted to act Alaska. favorably upon this recommendation; now, therefore, Whereas, Kommandorski Islands, owned by the U. S. S. R., and Be it Resolved, That the National Executive Committee in meet- the Aleutian Islands of Alaska are so situated geographically as to ing duly assembled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, September 14, 1941, be susceptible of being developed into a final link in the chain of hereby approves the recommendation to make The American Le- existing defenses of the Pacific area, thus greatly strengthening gion Naval Academy Award hereafter to that member of the Third the defense system extending from the Philippine Islands through Class who stands first for the year in Naval history. the Hawaiian Islands to the Panama Canal Zone and the Pacific Coast, north to the State of Washington, and give to the North ALONZO CUDWORTH POST NO. 23 TROPHY Pacific region a protection it does not now have; therefore The following resolution was approved: Be it Resolved, By The American Legion in national convention Resolution No. 5. Subject: Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 Trophy. assembled at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, That it does urge upon the Submitted by the National Adjutant. President and the Congress of the United States to take immedi- ate steps to acquire by lease or otherwise, suitable bases on the Whereas, The National Contests Supervisory Committee and the Kommandorski Islands for the use of the United States defense National Trophies and Awards Committee of The American Legion forces. have been interested in the availability of a proper annual trophy Recommended that this resolution be referred to the Standing to be awarded as first prize for that American Legion Chorus win- Committee on National Defense for study and report to the No- ning first place in competition with all other American Legion vember meeting. This resolution is an action of the Department Choruses during the annual national convention of The American convention of the Department of Alaska, which, due to unavoidable Legion; and circumstance, failed to meet the conditions for submitting resolu- Whereas, The Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23, The American tions to this convention. Legion, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offered to provide such trophy in DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 15

May, 1941, upon representation before the National Contests Super- Becht, of Columbus, Ohio; who served as Finance Officer of the De- visory Committee in meeting duly assembled; and partment of Ohio during the years 1926 to 1928; and Whereas, The National Trophies and Awards Committee by cor- Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, respondence has voted favorably upon recommending the accept- while ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished ance of such trophy for this specific purpose; now, therefore, be it service to our country and his outstanding contributions to Amer- Resolved, By the National Executive Committee of The American ican Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it Legion duly assembled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, September 14, Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- 1941, that we hereby approve the acceptance of the Alonzo Cud- ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day worth Post Trophy to be awarded annually to that American Legion of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- Chorus winning first prize in competition with all American Legion one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Choruses during the annual national convention of The American Charles Becht; that we commend to all men his works, and to God Legion. his spirit; and be it further Recommended that this resolution be approved by the National Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this Executive Committee, and that it be referred to the Standing Com- resolution be presented to his family. mittee on Trophies and Awards to establish the conditions of the competition. REV. THOMAS R. EDGERTON Rejected Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Rev. One resolution—it isn’t a resolution, it is a subject matter, re- Thomas R. Edgerton, of Mazon, Illinois; who served as Chaplain ferred to the committee. Subject: Junior American Legion. Spon- of the Illinois Department, The American Legion, during the year sored by Colonel J. L. Rose of Abingdon, Virginia. 1936-37; and Recommended that this subject matter be rejected on the basis Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while that it lacks proper Legion sponsorship. ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American Memorial Resolutions Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it The following memorial, resolutions were adopted with a Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day unanimous rising vote: of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- MAJOR GENERAL ROBERT ALEXANDER one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Rev. Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to Thomas R. Edgerton; that we commend to all men his works, and summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Major Gen- to God his spirit; and be it further eral Robert Alexander, who served as Commander of the Depart- Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this ment of Washington, The American Legion, during the year 1927- resolution be presented to his family. 28; member of the National Military Affairs Committee, in 1929; CECIL C. HARBERSON and Department National Defense Chairman during the year 1933- 34; and Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Cecil C. ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- Harberson, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; who served as Commander ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American of the Oklahoma Department, The American Legion, during the Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it year 1934-35; and Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Ameri- Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while can Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth of ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Major Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it General Robert Alexander; that we commend to all men his works, Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- and to God his spirit; and be it further ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- resolution be presented to his family. one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Cecil C. Harberson; that we commend to all men his works, and to God THOMAS J. BANNIGAN his spirit; and be it further Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Thomas reesolution be presented to his family. J. Bannigan, of the Department of Connecticut; who served as Adjutant of the Department of Connecticut, The American Legion, THEODORE W. KOLBE during the years 1919-21; member of the National Executive Com- Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to mittee, 1921-22; member of the Committee on Distinguished Guests summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Theodore in connection with the Foch Tour in 1921; member of the War W. Kolbe, who served as Adjutant and Service Officer of the De- Risk and Compensation Commission in 1921; National Vice-Com- partment of Michigan, during the years 1924 and 1925; and mander during the period of June 14, 1921, to November 2, 1921; Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while and member of the National Distinguished Guests Committee, ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- 1939, 1940 and 1941; and ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of the Amer- one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled, on this fourteenth day Theodore W. Kolbe; that we commend to all men his works, and to of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- God his spirit; and be it further one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this Thomas J. Bannigan; that we commend to all men his works, and resolution be presented to his family. to God his spirit; and be it further ANTHONY MACKEY Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this resolution be presented to his family. Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Anthony CHARLES BECHT Mackey, Vice-Commander of the Department of Mexico, The Amer- Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, ican Legion; and to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Charles Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while 16 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- Department of Kentucky, The American Legion, during the year ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American 1939-40; and at the time of his passing, was serving as General Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it Member and Vice-Chairman of Area C, National Child Welfare Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- Committee; and ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- while ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, service to our country and his outstanding contributions to Amer- Anthony Mackey; that we commend to all men his works and ican Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it to God his spirit; and be it further Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this ican Legion, in regular meting assembled on this fourteenth day of resolution be presented to his family. September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- THOMAS MASON, JR. one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, M. Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to G. Sullivan; that we commend to all men his works, and to God summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Thomas his spirit; and be it further Mason, Jr., of Washington, D. C.; who served as Graves Registra- Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this tion Chairman of the District of Columbia Department of The Am- resolution be presented to his family. erican Legion, during the year 1935-36; Department Adjutant, 1936-37; Department Commander, 1937-38; and as a member of the National Distinguished Guest Committee, during the years 1938- Committee Appointment 39-40 and 1941; and The following interim appointment on a standing national Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while committee, since the May, 1941, meeting of the National ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American Executive Committee, was confirmed: Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it Child Welfare Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of the Amer- A. Reid Mann, Florida, to serve as Area C Vice-Chairman until ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day close of November Meeting, 1941. (To fill vacancy due to death of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- of M. G. Sullivan, of Kentucky). Also to serve as member to close of one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, November Meeting, 1942. Thomas Mason, Jr.; that we commend to all men his works, and to God his spirit; and be it further Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this With consent of the committee, Jeremiah F. Cross, New resolution be presented to his family. York, introduced Legionnaire Eddie Egan, Secretary of the EDW. H. PRELL Joint Army and Navy Committee on Welfare and Recrea- Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, tion, who discussed the activities of that committee. to summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Edward H. Prell, who served as Director of the Administration Division of the National Headquarters, from February, 1921, to December, Report on Repatriation of World War Veterans 1923; and and Families Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- The following report of John H. Quill, Service Officer, The ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American American Legion, Jersey City, New Jersey, on repatriation Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it of World War Veterans and families, was, without objection, Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- introduced in the record: ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- JOHN H. QUILL one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Ed- Attorney at Law ward H. Prell; that we commend to all men his works, and to 665 Newark Avenue God his spirit; and be it further Jersey City, N. J. Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this Journal Square 2-2973 resolution be presented to his family. August 11, 1941. Mr. Milo J. Warner, EARL H. SMITH National Commander of The American Legion, Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to Indianapolis, Ind. summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Earl H. Dear Sir: Smith, of the Department of West Virginia; who served as Com- mander of the West Virginia Department of The American Legion, It has been my pleasure to act as Chairman of a Special Welfare from February 24, 1920, to August 25, 1920; and Department Chair- Committee whose duty was to assist in every way possible the re- man of the Education of Orphans of Veterans Committee, from patriation of American veterans returning from war-torn Europe. September 3, 1940, until the time of his death; and The first group of veterans, their wives and children, arrived in Whereas, We humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while Jersey City on the S S Siboney, an American Export Line ship, ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- whose home port is Jersey City, on January 29, 1941. I have ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American attached a supplement with the names of all veterans who re- Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it ceived aid from the committee. Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Amer- The veterans were housed at the Hotel Holland by the American ican Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this fourteenth day Red Cross and their arrival was not known to the Legionnaires of September, in the year of our Lord, nineteen hundred and forty- of Jersey City until February 3rd, when, by chance, Harold Kelly, one, does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Earl a member of Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52, of the Department of H. Smith; that we commend to all men his works, and to God New Jersey, met a group of the returned veterans in Bickford’s his spirit; and be it further restaurant. Comrade Kelly phoned me and as Service Officer of Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this Post No. 52, I interviewed them and took up the question of resolution be presented to his family. service work in reference to their plight with members of the Post. A dinner was arranged for the group and was held at the Quinn M. G. SULLIVAN Post Home. Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to The original plans of the American Red Cross, which was paying summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, M. G. Sul- the expenses of board and room for the veterans, were to send livan, of Frankfort, Kentucky; who served as Commander of the them to their homes in this country. This plan was found to be DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 17 impossible as most of the men had been away from this country ficulties. The friends of members of the committee, non-veterans since 1917 and had lost touch with their relatives and friends. as well as veterans came to its assistance and made the employ- When the first group was interviewed by me, I learned that ment record an enviable one. groups would be coming from Lisbon every week until the month In March it was found necessary to open an office in the Hotel of June. Our National Committeeman, William McKinley, recog- Plaza which is centrally located. Here the veterans, wives and nized that the rehabilitation of the veterans would be a mighty children could come with their problems, receive cigarettes, cloth- large undertaking and he, therefore, called a conference on Febru- ing, medicine and find out what was planned for their entertain- ary 10, 1941, at the office of Edward Vosseler, New York City. ment. The Auxiliary and the Eight and Forty had special enter- Those in attendance were: tainment for the women and children. The managers of the Motion Mr. Edward Vosseler, Dept. Com., New York; Mr. Sedley Peck, Picture Theatres, namely, the Stanley, State and Loew’s, permitted Alt. Nat. Ex., France; Mr. John Cronin, Nat’l Child Welfare parties of thirty to attend their theatres once a week. It was nec- Committee; Mr. Harold Kelly, Asst. Serv. Off., Quinn Post No. essary only to pay the theatre tax. The Boulevard Arena, a roller 52, Jersey City; Miss Sadie L. James, Ex. Director, J. C. Chap., skating rink, was visited every Saturday afternoon by the boys and Am. Red Cross; Mr. Joseph Leverens, Asst. Nat’l. Director, girls, and the manager permitted them to skate and furnished the Civilian Relief, Am. Red Cross. skates without charge. It was agreed at this conference: At the request of George Denis, Chairman of Memorial Day exer- (A) The American Red Cross would continue as the primary cises for the Department of France, the committee under the direc- agent on behalf of the American Government and would make all tion of Michael G. Pipi arranged exercises at the graves of a major decisions concerning the movement and care of these citi- French soldier and sailor in the Holy Name Cemetery of Jersey zens. City. These exercises were in addition to the exercises of the com- (B) The American Legion would co-operate and render addi- bined Legion, V. F. W., D. A. V. and Spanish-American Veteran tional assistance insofar as veterans and their families are con- Posts of Jersey City. The speakers were John H. Quill; Jean cerned to include provision for entertainment and recreation, serv- Millon, President of the Federation of French Veterans of the ice assistance, and such other help as could be supplied within the Great War; Guy DeBiron, French Vice-Consul; and Frank DeStasio, organization’s name. Commander of Bordeaux Post No. 2. The American Legion ritual The successful work done by the committee was made possible was rendered by the team of the Boulevard Police Post No. 288 and through the co-operation and active support of Bill McKinley, the the Firing Squad of Jersey City officiated at the grave. Officers of the Department of New Jersey, the Hudson County Two young men, Leon Ball and Louis Lemaire, who were mem- Committee and the individual Posts’ participation. The Jersey bers of the American Ambulance Corps, were encouraged to enlist City Commissioners, of which Frank Hague is mayor, placed the in the United States Army and they volunteered for induction medical and educational facilities at the committee’s command. through the draft board which the writer is attached to as United Frank Eggers, secretary to Mayor Hague, took an active interest States Government Appeal Agent. They are now stationed at Camp in the work of the committee and advised me to call on him at any Beloir, Va. time for assistance. Hudson County Boulevard Commissioner Ezra The committee, through Comrade Michael G. Pipi, was able to Nolan, a Past Commander of Quinn Post, placed buses at the com- arrange a radio audition for Lillian McCabe, daughter of Phillip mittee’s disposal. McCabe, a member of Paris Post, and she appeared on Lyle The women and children were unable to talk or read English and Talbot’s program. An Art Exhibit was held at the Jersey City many of the veterans had nearly forgotten their native tongue. Museum of Art for Elizabeth Fitz-Hugh Rahtjen, widow of a Father Mark J. Duffy, pastor of St. Aloysius Church, permitted the departed comrade. girls to attend classes at St. Aloysius High School during the morn- The committee worked in close harmony with the Federal Bureau ing sessions and the good Fathers at St. Peters High School ad- of Investigation, and it is my pleasure to state that aid was given mitted the boys for the morning sessions. The sisters at St. Joseph’s by the returning veterans which we have been given to under- Parochial School were delighted to take in the small boys and stand was of great value. girls. The Board of Education of Jersey City permitted the boys At times the work of the committee and the Red Cross over- and girls of high school age to attend Dickinson High School dur- lapped and as is natural some friction arose, but I may say that I ing the afternoon session and they established an adult evening found that the officers of the American Red Cross were at all class at school No. 25 under the supervision of the principal, James times very willing to co-operate and they did an excellent job on a Doyle. Miss Gladys Ascherthe, teacher, did such an excellent job project that required all their skill and knowledge. They had to that Jacqueline Austin, daughter of Eddie Austin, Bordeaux Post take care of all the repatriates while the committee looked after No. 2, was the winner of the award for the best essay on Amer- the welfare of the veterans. icanism, given by the Daughters of the American Revolution. For The task of handling this situation was placed before the Legion- these people, who had been ill fed, suffering from the horrors of naires of Hudson County and the Department of New Jersey with- actual war, who were under great nervous strain after leaving all out any warning and as there was no precedent for such a situ- their worldy goods behind them and who faced a future without ation, the committee had to feel its way and meet each new prob- any money or prospects of making a livelihood, to be sick in body and. lem to the best of its ability as it came up. If a similar situation mind was not strange. The committee was fortunate in having Drs. should arise, I would recommend that: John T. Higgins, A. R. Kolar, Fred A. Batzle, and A. W. Little, 1. A separate employment office be established. volunteer their services. We called on them in emergency cases 2. A special Service Officer be appointed. and in cases that confinement to the Jersey City Medical Center 3 A general chairman who is in a position politically or other- was found to be unnecessary. wise to co-ordinate and make use of all agencies. Members of the committee met every boat that brought in I believe that I speak for my full committee when I say that this repatriates from the 1st of February to July 1st. We found that has been a task that was well worth while; that the advice and there were many courtesies that made their entrance into the assistance of our National Executive Committeeman, William Mc- United States easier. This was true especially in the cases of Kinley, made our work much easier than it might have been and French wives who were returning without their husbands. If it that we owe to him in no small way the successful ending of our had not been for the work of the committee many of them would endeavors. have had to spend time at Ellis Island. The way through the Cus- Reespectfully yours, toms was smoothed by the fact that a committee of Legionnaires JOHN H. QUILL. met the boat. Most of the Custom Inspectors are members of The The Committee American Legion and they extended the committee the utmost courtesy. Chairman, John H. Quill, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. The committee is very proud of the fact that every man with one Vice-Chairman, Harold F. Kelly, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. exception was placed in employment. It was found impossible to Fred Beisser, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. secure any position for one poor unfortunate who is suffering from David Canter, Jewish War Veterans Post No. 10. skin cancer. The committee took upon itself the work of getting Joseph Cline, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. birth certificates for these men and in some cases had great dif- Harry A. Cloeren, Cusick Post No. 15. 18 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

Clinton Cook, Fiske Post, V. F. W. Feapo, Mr. and Mrs., and four children. George Dennis, Paris Post No. 1. Thomas, Mr. and Mrs. Rene. Frank DeStasio, Bordeaux Post No. 2. Kopp, Mr. Robert Foster, Boulevard Police Post No. 288. Pellegreno, Mr. Max Heiss, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. Luppino, Mrs., and daughter (father deceased). Patrick Kiley, Hoboken Post No. 14. Kerno, Mrs., and son. Bernard Kiernan, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. Beauvais, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred. Daniel Law, District Commander, V. F. W. McGourty, Mrs., and son (father deceased). Frank LaMorte, Jersey City Voiture Forty and Eight. Moore, Mrs., and son. Joseph Marchiano, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. Cowan, Mr. and Mrs., and son. Philip McCabe, Paris Post No. 1. Chevariat, Mr. Frank Marchiano, Jersey City Post, D. A. V. No. 6. Dowling Brown, Mr. and Mrs., and children. Ezra L. Nolan, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. March 4, 1941—SS Exeter Stephen Nilan, Spanish American War Veterans. Michael O’Brien, Arlington Post. Martin, Mr. Arthur, and son. Charles O’Neil, Hoboken Post No. 14. McCabe, Mr. and Mrs. Phillip, and daughter. Michael Pipi, Albert L. Quinn Post No. 52. MacAfee, Mr. and Mrs. Donald. Fred Plant, Weehawken Post No. 136. Foster, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence, and son. Leon Stoveken, Makenzie Post, Bayonne. Osborne, Mr. and Mrs., and eight children. Harry Striner, Wheeler Post, V. F. W. Thorn, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin. James Sweeney, Bayonne Post No. 19. Dickson, Mr. and Mrs. Lee. Duncan, Mrs., and three children (husband veteran in St. Eliza- Repatriates Who Received Aid Through My Office beth Hospital, Washington, D. C.) January 29, 1941—SS Siboney March 10, 1941—SS Excalibur Berger, Mr. and Mrs. Fred W., and son. Mahoney, Mr. Daniel J. (wife, son and daughter). Willard, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, Mr. Ted. March 18, 1941—SS Excambion Black, Mr. (Bill). Tipton, Mr. Oscar. Barker, Mr. and Mrs. Charlie. Busch, Mr. Frank. Tuson, Mr. and Mrs., and son. Kilmer, Mr. and Mrs. Wallace. Cole, Mr. and Mrs. Mary, Mr. Raoul. Marcotte, Mr. and Mrs., and son and daughter. Daty, Mr. and Mrs. Nicholas. Shaeffer, Mr. Raphael. Johnston, Mrs. Alexandrina. Aronson, Mr. and Mrs. Harry. Harriman, Mrs., and three children. Dufour, Mr. Harry, son A. L. (father deceased). Davidson, Mr. and Mrs., and one child. Sheffer, Mr. Henri, son (father deceased). March 27, 1941—SS Siboney February 3, 1941—SS Exeter Campbell, Charles. McNellis, John. Coniglio, P. R. (and wife). Miron, Capt. Phillip. Prevost, A. A. (boy). Galletin, Major Frederick. Curry, A. C. (wife and four children). Seery, Edward. O’Havar, Harold. Brady, Joseph. Iselin, J. P. Gambrel, D. (wife and daughter). February 10, 1941—SS Excalibur California Joe. Baron, Mrs. Florence (wife of Army Rabbi Chaplain). Murray, John (wife and son). Mitling, Mr. and Mrs. Orrin. DeRose, Mrs. (widow). Mitling, Daisy. Graham, Mr. Mitling, Annette. Bolann, John. Mitling, Harold. De Stasio, Frank. March 31, 1941—SS Exeter Miles, Robert (wife and two daughters). Seguim, Joseph and son. Erickson, Albert and wife. Gallagher, Vincent, and wife. Marchand, Frank (wife and son). Gitelman, Samuel. Sitton, Ora (wife and daughter). Beck, Charles. Austin, Edward (wife and daughter). Laval, Mr. and Mrs. R. Kerr, Elmer. Laval, Miss E. Examimier, Marius. Laval, Charles. Waller, Richard (wife and son). Lewkowicz, Mr. John. Leach, Mrs. Georgette (husband in veterans’ hospital). Lewkowicz, Walter. Leach, Miss Lillian (daughter of veteran). Altman, Mr. Soloman. February 17, 1941—SS Excambion Christe, Mrs. M. Valente, Anthony. April 8, 1941—SS Excalibur Marchand, Mr. John. Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel. Dennis, George. Bradley, Mr. Roy. Church, Joseph. DePoix, Mr. Elzear. Shuman, Albert. Harbes, Mrs. Andree. Miller, Robert. Harbes, Mr. Milton. Introligator, John. Harbes, Mr. Stamatis. Walters, George Harbes, Master John. Smith, Ed. Chahill, John. February 27, 1941—SS Siboney Pierce, William. Will, Miss Joscelyne (father deceased). April 15, 1941—SS Excambion Withrow, Mr. Ed. Berthoux, Mr. Henri, ex-soldier of France (husband of Mrs. Goodrow, Robert and Raymond. Berthoux, who came on a former boat). Natt, Misses Rose and Marion. Pierce, Mrs. Olga. DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 19

Shadley, Mr. Fred. Davenport, Miss Gisele. Shadley, Mr. and Mrs. Rex. Davenport, Miss Solange. Shadley, Mr. Don. Davenport, Miss Nellie. Shadley, Mr. Jacques. Davenport, Miss Minnie. Yakes, Mr. Irwin. Destinn, Mr. Ralph. Yakes, Mrs. Jeanne. Frazer, Mr. Alan. Yakes, Mr. James. Healey, Mr. Gerald. Yakes, Mr. Jacques. Healey, Mrsi Marguerite. Waldberg, Mr. John (son of a veteran). Healey, Miss Marie. Kildare, Mr. George. April 18, 1941—SS Exeter Kildare, Mrs. Andree. Asher, Mr. Newman. Kildare, Master Michel K. Asher, Mrs. Anne Marie. Lepere, Mr. Gratten. Asher, Misses Madeline and Anne Marie J. Lepere, Mrs. Raymonde. Bragin, Mr. Joe. Lepere, Miss Lilliane. Bragin, Mrs. Marcelle. Shenker, Mr. Harry. Behm, Mr. Ludwig F. Shenker, Mrs. Marcelle. Behm, Mrs. Suzanne Schwartz. Smyth, Mr. Edgar Cornwall, Mr. Lloyd H. Smyth, Mr. Daniel. Cornwall, Mrs. Antoinette. Smyth, Mr. Paul. Fitch, Mr. Harold M. Smyth, Mr. Guy. Fitch, Mrs. Felice V. Todd, Mr. Charles. Fitch, Miss Jean Sherman. Todd, Mrs. Elisa. Lodge, Mr. J. Norman. Todd, Mr. Robert. Mackey, Mr. Frank B. Todd, Miss Betty. Mackey, Mrs. Alphonsine. Todd, Master Ronald. Mackey, Miss Maud. Visser, Mrs. Suzanna (Gold Star Mother). Visser, Mr. William. April 21, 1941—SS Siboney Visser, Mrs. Susan. MacKnight, Howard W., and wife. Visser, Miss Suzanna. MacKay, Peter. Cabraz, Mr. Camillo. Gschwend, A. C. Le Maire, Mr. Louis. Gutfleisch, Edward H. Schwartz, Gare. May 12, 1941—SS Excambion Blain, John H., and daughter. O’Connor, Miss Frances. Suskey, Anthony (wife, daughter and son). Ross, Mrs. Kathleen. Henderson, James M. Ross, Master Michael. Smith, Henderson T. Ross, Master Peter. Smith, Rene G. May 26, 1941—SS Siboney Smith, Mrs. Remee Tarde (Vice-President American Legion Auxiliary, Miami, Florida, Post No. 29). Downie, George. Troughton, Mr. Albert (son of Legionnaire). Downie, Mrs. Berthe. Weil, Mr. Frederick (Eric) (son of veteran). Huval, Eddie. Osgood, Messrs. Allen and Donald (sons of veteran). Huval, Mrs. Alice. Watson, Mr. George Henry (son of veteran). Schectmann, Mr. Wiliam. Kreft, Messrs. Andre and Joseph (sons of Legionnaire). Schectmann, Mrs. Jacques. Schectmann, Master George. May 3, 1941—SS Excambion May 29, 1941—SS Exeter Prevost, Mrs. Victoria. Prevost, Miss Kathleen. Allen, Mr. Henry C. Prevost, Mr. Jacques. Kennedy, Mr. Horton P. Prevost, Mrs. Marianna. Kennedy, Mrs. Germaine. Wolff, Mr. Albert. Kennedy, Miss Eleanor. Wolff, Mr. Arthur. Kennedy, Master Horton. Wolff, Mr. Jacques. O’Brien, Mr. John V. Wolff, Mrs. Denise. Revoir, Mr. Arthur F. Revoir, Mrs. Nora J. Wolff, Mr. Francis. Revoir, Master Clifford. Wolff, Mr. Hubert. Wolff, Robert. June 2, 1941—SS Exealibur Wolff, Mrs. Marthe. Williams, Clayton E. (Rev.) Wolff, Miss Orlette. Bitner, Mr. Waclaw. Wood, Mr. Theodore. Wood, Mrs. Elise. Wood, Mrs. Raymonde. Confirmation of Mail Votes Wood, Mr. Theodore, Jr. The following statements of the National Adjutant, Frank Wood, Miss Claude. E. Samuel, were duly confirmed: McCafferty, Mr. William. Mr. Commander and Members of the Committee: Two sets of Rushiny, Mr. Robert. votes have been taken by mail since the last meeting, which we now May 7, 1941—SS Exealibur feel should be confirmed for these records: Baldwin, Mr. Richard. On the increase in price of Legion shirts and Sons of The Ameri- Baldwin, Mrs. Helene. can Legion caps—for the Legion shirts 37 votes “yes,” 7 “no.” In- Baldwin, Miss Charlotte. crease in price of the Sons of The American Legion caps, 37 votes Copp, Mr. Raymond. “yes” and 7 “no.” Davenport, Dr. Ralph. On the setting up of the Division of Defense at National Head- Davenport, Mrs. Yvonne. quarters, upon which you voted in July: Davenport, Miss Myriam. 41 votes "yes;” 5 “no,” and one “protest.” 20 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

Cancellation of Post Charters Cancellation of Squadron Charters The cancellation of Post charters, as recommended by the The cancellation of Sons of The American Legion Squad- respective Departments, was confirmed. The list of Posts ron charters, as recommended by the respective Depart- whose charters were canceled follows: ments, was confirmed. The list of Squadrons whose charters Department Name of Post No. Location were canceled follows: California L. S. McGahan Women’s 556 Los Angeles Detachment Name of Squadron No. Location Scomath 496 Scott Bar Arizona John C. Greenway 50 Phoenix Sharp Park 559 Sharp Park Massachusetts ....John E. Harkins 42 Holden Indiana Wm. Noble Wallace . . .198 Indianapolis California Oroville 95 Oroville -Ralph Williamson 238 Redkey Wilkins 37 San Rafael Guy K. & Garth C. Respectfully, submitted, Davis 163 Oolitic Massachusetts .... Avery W. Putnam 288 Rutland Heights FRANK E. SAMUEL, National Adjutant. Raymond Moore 233 Granville Nebraska Eipperle-McCourtie ... 99 Ralston New York Wheaton-Curtice 512 Pompey Ohio Mil-Bow-Mar 280 Greenwich Lawrence H. Smith, Wisconsin, Chairman of the National Pennsylvania Grant Smith Post 458 Timblin Child Welfare Committee, being necessarily absent from the Texas . . Leo Reioux 114 Driscoll meeting of the National Executive Committee, due to Child Kansas .Claude Kemp 201 Cedar Vale Welfare conference and meetings, no report was had from Bernard R. Parks 246 Galena that committee. Weaver-McLane 215 Fowler Selden 321 Selden Holmes-Anderson 127 Geneseo Respectfully submitted, The meeting adjourned at 4:40 p. m., Sunday, September FRANK E. SAMUEL, National Adjutant. 14, 1941. DIGEST OF MINUTES National Executive Committee Meeting Milwaukee, Wisconsin September 18, 1941

THURSDAY AFTERNOON SESSION Whereas, The Department of Panama, The American Legion, through its Department Commander, W. B. Godfrey, has on Septem- September 18, 1941 ber 17, 1941, communicated to the National Headquarters of The American Legion the approval of such affiliation; now, therefore, The post-convention meeting of the National Executive Commit- be it tee, The American Legion, convened at 2:55 p. m., Thursday, Sep- Resolved, That the National Executive Committee, The American tember 18, 1941, in the Milwaukee Auditorium, National Com- Legion, in session assembled, September 18, 1941, hereby approves mander Lynn U. Stambaugh presiding as Chairman. National Ad- the affiliation of the Aruba Esso Post No. 1, The American Legion, jutant Frank E. Samuel acted in capacity of Secretary. Aruba, N. W. I., with the Department of Panama, The American Invocation by the National Chaplain, The Reverend Fr. Frederick Legion. J. Halloran, New Jersey. It is recommended that this resolution be approved by the Na- Roll call by the National Adjutant showed the following present: tional Executive Committee, the Department of Panama concur- National Commander, National Chaplain, three Past National Com- ring. manders, four National Vice-Commanders, and fifty Departments represented. Reading of the minutes of the preceding meeting was suspended, Appointment of National Officers in view of the fact that the minutes were due to be sent out in Upon motion by Joseph S. Clark, Florida, duly seconded digest form. and adopted, John R. Ruddick, Indiana, was reappointed to serve as National Treasurer for the ensuing year. Upon Memorial Resolution motion by Roane Waring, Tennessee, duly' seconded and The following resolution, as read by Secretary Samuel, adopted, Ralph B. Gregg, Indiana, was reappointed to serve was adopted with a unanimous rising vote: as National Judge Advocate for the ensuing year. Upon Whereas it has pleased Almighty God, the Great Commander, to motion of Dr. F. M. Inge, Alabama, duly seconded and summon to His immortal legions our beloved comrade, Fred W. Chambers, of Missouri, who served as Commander of the Depart- adopted, Thomas M. Owen, Jr., Alabama, was reappointed ment of Missouri, The American Legion, and at the time of his to serve as National Historian during the ensuing year. passing was a member of the Advisory Board of the Legion Pub- lications Commission, who has died during the course of our 23rd Election of National Adjutant Annual National Convention, and Whereas we humbly bow to the will of Divine Providence, while Upon nomination of National Commander Stambaugh, ever cherishing in our hearts the memory of his distinguished serv- Frank E. Samuel, Kansas, was re-elected to serve as Na- ice to our country and his outstanding contributions to American tional Adjutant. Legion comradeship; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the National Executive Committee of The Ameri- Selection of Dates can Legion, in regular meeting assembled on this 18th day of Sep- tember, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and forty-one, After discussion, the following dates were selected for the does mourn the passing of our distinguished Legionnaire, Fred W. fall meetings of The American Legion, at National Head- Chambers; that we commend to all men his works, and to God his quarters, Indianapolis: spirit; and be it further Resolved, That in token of our common grief, a copy of this reso- Annual Conference of Department Commanders and De- lution be presented to his family. partment Adjutants—Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, November 3, 4 and 5, 1941. Affiliation of Aruba Esso Post No. 1 Meetings of Subcommittees, Committees, Boards and Com- The following resolution, as presented by the National missions—Wednesday, November 5, 1941. Adjutant, was duly adopted, thus approving the affiliation Meeting of the National Executive Committee—Thursday of Aruba Esso Post No. 1, Netherlands West Indies, with and Friday, November 6 and 7, 1941. the Department of Panama, The American Legion: Convention Dates Whereas, The National Constitution and By-Laws of The Ameri- can Legion contains the following: “Any existing Post in the terri- There was introduced in the records a protest received torial or insular possessions of the United States or in foreign from a Pennsylvania Legionnaire, on the conflict between countries, which is not under the jurisdiction of a present existing Department, shall within one year following the adoption hereof, the dates set for the 1942 National Convention and Yom Kip- unless extended by the National Executive Committee, request the pur, Jewish holiday. Upon motion duly adopted, subject National Executive Committee to place it under the jurisdiction of matter was postponed for further discussion at the time of a Department to be selected by such Post. Said request shall have the November, 1941, meeting of the National Executive Com- attached thereto the formal consent of such Department”; and Whereas, The Aruba Esso Post No. 1, N. W. I., The American Le- mittee, with the suggestion that the National Adjutant re- gion, has applied for affiliation with the Department of Panama, quest the New Orleans Convention Corporation officials to The American Legion; and present their recommendations. 22 DIGEST OF MINUTES NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

Maurice F. Devine, New Hampshire, retired member of The meeting adjourned at 3:20 p. m., Thursday, Septem- the National Executive Committee, briefly addressed the ber 18, 1941. National Executive Committee, expressing his appreciation of the companionship. Several new members of the National Executive Commit- tee, and alternates, were introduced. * FRANK E. SAMUEL, \ National Adjutant.