Table of Contents
Welcome Greetings from Houston ...... 3 National Commander’s Year in Pictures ...... 4-5 From the National Adjutant ...... 6 From the Auxiliary National President ...... 7 2013 National Convention Offi cials ...... 9 Welcome to Houston ...... 10-11 Hotel Directory and Map ...... 12-13 Entertainment ...... 14-18 Past National Convention Cities ...... 20 Parade Route and Rules ...... 22-23 George R. Brown Convention Center ...... 24 Exhibit Hall ...... 25 Programs & Agendas Standing Rules of the National Convention ...... 27 Patriotic Memorial Service ...... 29 Standing Commissions, Committees Meetings . . 30-31 Legion Training ...... 32-33 Distinguished Guests ...... 34-35 Agenda of the 95th National Convention ...... 37-42 Honor Roll ...... 43 Distinguished Service Medal Recipients ...... 45 Youth Champions ...... 46 Resources...... 47-52 Organization Report ...... 53 National Offi cers ...... 54 National Executive Committee ...... 55 SAL National Convention ...... 56-57 Commissions & Committees ...... 59-63 Financial Reports ...... 64-78 Thank You ...... 79-80
Cover photo by Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
American Legion Auxiliary Sons of The American Legion 93rd National Convention 42nd National Convention
Space Center Houston Photo by Eldon Lindsay "We“When cannot you always come build to the the endfuture of for your our rope, ytieouth, a knot but we and can hang build ouron.” youth for the future." -Franklin D. Roosevelt
Have a great convention from your friends at Hoosier Trust Company!
Connie S. Allman ConniePresident S. Allman & Senior Trust Officer 3UHVLGHQW 6HQLRU7UXVW2I¿FHUHoosier Trust Company Hoosier55 Monument Trust Company Circle, Ste 800 9339 Priority Way West Drive, Suite 130 Indianapolis,Indianapolis, Indiana Indiana 46240 46204 Bus:Bus: (317) (317) 816-4288 816-4288 Fax:Fax: (317) (317) 848-0586 848-0586 Greetings From Houston
Gov. Rick Perry Mayor Annise D. Parker Department Commander As governor of Texas, it is my pleasure Greetings! As mayor of Houston, I Dan Corbin to welcome everyone to Houston for welcome you all to the 95th National On behalf of the Department of Texas, the 95th American Legion National Convention, hosted by The American we welcome everyone to our great state Convention. Legion Department of Texas. It is an and to the city of Houston for the 95th honor that you have chosen our city for As the nation’s largest wartime service National Convention of The American your meetings. organization, The American Legion plays Legion. We are delighted you are here a critical role in supporting our nation’s The city of Houston salutes and and hope you all enjoy our Texas veterans and their families. commends the organizers and hospitality. participants of this worthwhile endeavor, Your program for wounded warriors I hope you will take time to enjoy our and extends best wishes for continued and their families provides support to city and the many top attractions and success. Houston is wonderfully those who have sacrifi ced so much. cultural venues Houston has to off er for diverse – in its people, its cultures and its Your volunteer work with America’s your entertainment and enjoyment. young people in athletic programs that ideas. More than 30 million people visit If at any time you need assistance or champion sportsmanship and fi tness is the Greater Houston area every year to directions, please feel free to ask one crucially important. Fundraising eff orts experience our world-class restaurants, of our greeters at the George R. Brown by your members help countless veterans appealing museums and thrilling sports Convention Center, or anyone from the and provide youngsters with college arenas. Texas delegation, and they will be more scholarships. Please accept my best wishes for a than happy to assist you. I thank each of you for your service, successful event, and I appreciate your Thank you for coming. God bless and commend you all for the excellent support of our city. Enjoy your stay and, America and the men and women who work you do for America’s heroes. As once again, welcome to Houston. defend her. a proud member of the Legion, I feel blessed to share in the company of such an extraordinary group of individuals. I know this convention will provide a wonderful opportunity for you to renew old acquaintances, make new friends Annise D. Parker and, most importantly, continue the Mayor of the City of Houston Dan Corbin excellent work you do for our veterans Commander, Department of Texas and our communities. First lady Anita Perry and I wish you all an enjoyable event.
Rick Perry Governor of the State of Texas
95th National Convention 3 From the National Adjutant of the American Legion
NATIONAL COMMANDER’S YEAR IN PICTURES JAMES E. KOUTZ Legion message delivered around the world From local posts across the country to the Oval Offi ce, remains of U.S. military personnel never recovered from the from the beaches of Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam, Vietnam War. He raised more than a half million dollars for from Capitol Hill to the combat theater of Afghanistan, Operation Comfort Warriors. He led the charge to provide American Legion National Commander James E. Koutz critical relief for veterans and their families whose lives were spread the message of the nation’s largest veterans service turned upside down by Superstorm Sandy, fl oods in Illinois organization far and wide in 2012 and 2013. and tornadoes in Oklahoma. He crowned champions in junior His voice was especially powerful in Washington, where shooting sports, the oratorical competition and American the Legion made major progress in the areas of veterans Legion Baseball. It was a year of progress for the Legion, employment and the VA benefi ts adjudication process. He which saw a surge of young veterans chartering new posts on successfully advocated for better transferability of military college campuses, motivated by the camaraderie and support experience into training credits for licenses and credentials in they can only get from Legion membership. a number of career fi elds. He brought new ideas to the table As active-duty forces fi ght terrorism around the globe, to help reverse the VA claims backlog. He made it clear to as troops discharge and re-enter civilian life, and as young President Barack Obama that VA services must not fall victim people look for opportunities and direction, National to budget cuts under sequestration. Commander Koutz made it clear during his tenure how The In Normandy, as the last veterans of the D-Day invasion American Legion can help veterans, troops, families and assembled to receive France’s gratitude, he was the top communities every day of the week, no matter where on the U.S. dignitary representing our nation. He searched for the planet assistance is needed.
The American Legion From the National President of the American Legion Auxiliary
ABOVE: National Commander Jim Koutz holds up his end of a massive U.S. l ag during an Indianapolis Colts game at Lucas Oil Stadium on Oct. 21. TOP RIGHT: Koutz joins in the search for remains of a U.S. pilot shot down during the Vietnam War. Photo by Steve Short RIGHT: At the Brittany American Cemetery in France, Koutz brings down and helps fold the l ag that l ies over the graves of more than 4,400 who gave their lives i ghting in World War II. Photo by Jeff Stoff er
ABOVE: Koutz and wife Vickie join wounded warriors on The American Legion’s l oat during the Indianapolis 500 Festival Parade. Photo by Steve Short RIGHT: The commander meets with the commander in chief at the White House. White House photo by Pete Souza LEFT: At Fort Jackson, S.C., Koutz i res an M-16 on a training range before visiting a Warrior Transition Battalion that received exercise equipment and other items purchased through Operation Comfort Warriors. Photo by Brett Flashnick
95th National Convention 5 From the National Adjutant of the American Legion
American Legion Family members, welcome to Houston and the 2013 National Convention. Each year I use this space to sing the praises of my fellow Legionnaires for the amazing work they’ve done since our last national convention. And once again, I’m not at a loss for material. Your generosity knows no bounds. Thanks to your contributions to the National Emergency Fund, we were able to award more than $425,000 in grants to victims of Superstorm Sandy. Your NEF donations, along with those to the American Legion Endowment Fund, have enabled us to provide nearly half a million dollars in combined NEF and Temporary Financial Assistance grants to those aff ected by the tornado in Moore, Okla. One year ago, newly elected National Commander Jim Koutz asked you to help him raise $500,000 for Operation Comfort Warriors, which provides Daniel S. Wheeler items such as exercise equipment and entertainment to wounded warriors National Adjutant recovering in military hospitals. A little more than halfway through the year, Virginia Koutz raised that goal because you’d already hit the mark. By the start of this summer, donation totals had reached more than $621,000. The Legion Riders, one of the most dynamic programs of The American Legion, continued to set new highs for the Legacy Run. Last year’s ride raised a record $722,774 for The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund, providing college scholarships for the children of military parents who died while on active duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001. As you’ve done for decades, you continue to provide time and money to make it possible for American Legion Baseball teams to take to the fi eld, for Boy Scout troops to gather, for young men to attend Boys State and for Junior Shooting Sports participants to hone their skills. You donated more than 900,000 hours volunteering at VA medical facilities throughout the country. You manned booths and answered questions at nearly 200 Hiring Our Heroes job fairs, a collaborative eff ort of the Legion and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. You showed up en masse in the nation’s capital to meet with your senators and representatives, lobbying for better benefi ts for the nation’s veterans, and better pay, quality of life and equipment for those in uniform. Your eff orts at the grass-roots level resulted in a better GI Bill for today’s – and tomorrow’s – veterans, and your infl uence was instrumental in bringing about huge accomplishments on the credentialing and licensing front for servicemembers transitioning into the civilian workforce. I’m just scratching the surface. There is not enough room in this entire publication to list all the good you did this year. Thank you again for all your hard work. Your dedication to your country, our military and your fellow veterans is an example for others to follow.
6 The American Legion From the National President of the American Legion Auxiliary
Welcome to all members of The American Legion Family! As members of this great family, we have become accustomed to thanking others for their service. But let me take this opportunity to thank you for your service. We are in the midst of our nation’s heroes when at the national convention. With that being said, it truly has been a humbling honor to work with National Commander Jim Koutz. Jimmy is, and always has been, a great supporter of our military, and he still continues to serve with PRIDE. I must also say it has been a pleasure to work with Sons of The American Legion Commander Chris Huntzinger. I’ve seen nothing but complete dedication from both of these men. Peggy Thomas And their dedication should be inspiration for us all to persevere, for the National President work of The American Legion Family is not complete. We must continue Virginia to work with legislators at the grass-roots level to fi ght for the benefi ts promised to our veterans, to fi ght for both the VA and defense budgets, and to increase membership in order to remain a strong voice on Capitol Hill. Working together as a family is the key to our success on all past, present and future endeavors. One of these endeavors must be membership. We must, as a family, look toward our future – children, teens and young adults. Collaborating on service opportunities for them, and personal contact both meaningful and engaging, will be vital to our organization in the coming years. In a world that faces many moral issues, I am proud to belong to an organization that puts God fi rst. It has been a great honor to serve with all of you. Thank you for all of your hospitality this past year as I paid visits to your units, post homes and departments. Be sure to read the American Legion Auxiliary’s convention guide, which is included in your packet. I hope you will fi nd admiration of, and inspiration from, our unit-level members who have absolutely lived up to my theme of “Soaring to New Heights.” For God and Country,
Peggy Thomas Unit 144, Richmond, Va.
95th National Convention 7 " HOUSTON TEXAS 2013 Vjg"Cogtkecp"Ngikqp"Hcokn{" Okuukpi"kp"Cevkqp"Rquv"453" 355"Cto{"Cxg0""Rqvvudqtq."Vgzcu""97298" 95th National Convention " " " Ofi cial Program James E. Koutz National Commander Michael E. Walton Chairman, National Convention Commission
Texas 2013 National Convention Corp. " " " " John D. Morris " President John Brieden Executive Vice President Herbert Odell Vice President
" Dellano Simmons Vice President Ygneqogu"Vjg"Cogtkecp"Ngikqp"Hcokn{" Don Daft vq"Vgzcu"cpf"Ykujgu"[qw"C"" Vice President William West Uweeguuhwn"Eqpxgpvkqp" Secretary " Walter Ivie " Treasurer Bryan Coleman General Counsel Dan Corbin Department Commander WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT C.W. Sparks THE AMERICAN LEGION. Badges & Packets Lynn Sparks Information Since our founding Glenn Scott Parade during the Civil War, Glen Moody RR Donnelley and its Parade many veterans have Julian Weisler II been helping to tell Distinguished Guests America’s story. Paul Dillard Distinguished Guests – Holding Area 800.742.4455 Harry Hicks Distinguished Guests – Registration www.rrdonnelley.com Harvey Klee Patriotic Memorial Service Milton Chatham SAL Liaison
Corporate Headquarters This ofi cial program is produced by 111 South Wacker Drive The American Legion Magazine Chicago, IL 60606-4301 James H. Hall U.S.A. Chairman
Copyright © 201 R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company. All rights reserved.
0 The American Legion 2013 NNationalational Convention OfficialOfficialss
2013 National Convention Commission 2013 National Convention Corporation
Michael E. Walton John D. Morris Bill Firkins John R. Eckhoff John D. Morris John Brieden Herbert Odell Chairman, Illinois Vice Chairman, Texas National Commander’s Consultant, Missouri President Executive Vice President Vice President Representative, Indiana
Robert F. Neville James T. Higuera Charles E. Gannon Roger P. Mathison Dellano Simmons Don Daft William West Consultant, New York California Maryland Wisconsin Vice President Vice President Secretary
Ray Hendrix E. Michael Stelacio Gunner D. Baatrup William Kearsing Jr. Walter Ivie Bryan Coleman Dan Corbin Georgia Pennsylvania South Dakota New York Treasurer General Counsel Department Commander
Wayne D. Satrom William E. Anderson David L. Buist John Aldecoa C.W. Sparks Lynn Sparks Glenn Scott North Dakota Ohio Michigan Advisory Board, Arizona Badges & Packets Information Parade
Photo Not Available
Charles R. Knox Leslie J. McKittrick Jr. Jerry L. Hedrick Larry J. Marcouillier Glen Moody Julian Weisler II Paul Dillard Parade Distinguished Guests Distinguished Guests – Advisory Board, Georgia Advisory Board, Massachusetts NEC Liaison, Chairman, NEC Liaison, Delaware North Carolina Holding Area
Harry Hicks Harvey Klee Milton Chatham Charles F. Wessinger Ray DeZurik Warren D. Wilson Distinguished Guests – Patriotic Memorial Service SAL Liaison NEC Liaison, Georgia NEC Liaison, Minnesota NEC Liaison, Oklahoma Registration
95th National Convention 9 Entertainment Welcome to HOUSTON
Buffalo Bayou ArtPark
From Aug. to Aug. , tens of thousands of Legionnaires from the convention center, off ers farmers markets, concerts, group and their families will gather in Houston for the th National fi tness events and other free activities. If you’re looking for more Convention of The American Legion. The George R. Brown fl ash, entertainment complexes such as Live! at Bayou Place and Convention Center and guest hotels are located in downtown GreenStreet combine shopping, dining and socializing. Houston’s Central Business District. If the district seems somewhat According to a Zagat Survey, Houston residents dine out spread out – the entire Houston metropolitan area is an astounding more frequently than in any other city: . times a week. One , square miles – there are plenty of easy ways to get around: reason may be the wide variety of options the city off ers, from the city authorizes a fl at $ cab fare for trips within the Central Tex-Mex to Cajun to steakhouses – and that’s just Texas! More than Business District, and free Greenlink shuttles transport passengers nations are represented on the local dining scene. throughout the downtown area. Texas in late August can be a very hot and humid place. Several Even so, plenty of opportunities for entertainment and recreation bays and beaches, as well as the famous town and island of are a short walk away. The -acre Discovery Green, across the street Galveston, are about an hour’s drive away.
10 The American Legion EntertainmentEnEntertainmenttertainment
SculpturWorx
San Jacinto Space Center Houston Monument
Battleship Texas Museum
George R. Brown Convention Center rel ected in Kinder Lake The Bishop’s Palace, Galveston
Photos by Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau 95th National Convention 11 Hotel Directory
4 Hotels Dining Attractions and Museums Shopping
9
11 2 11 10 9
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10 1 La Branch
6 12
1 Lamar
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4 8 2 7 11 GREEN STREET 7
6
3 41
6 9
Entertainment venues not located on the map 3 Pappasito’s Cantina - 20 miles N 3 Buff alo Soldiers National Museum - 11 miles S 5 Goode Company Texas Bar-B-Q/Seafood - 13 miles SW 4 Houston Fire Museum - 15 miles S 8 Pappas Bros. Steakhouse - 30 miles SW 5 Museum of Fine Arts, Houston - 10 miles S 10 Max’s Wine Dive - 12 miles W 7 Space Center Houston - 56 miles NW 1 Houston Museum District - 15 miles S 8 Houston Zoo - 15 miles S 2 Holocaust Museum Houston - 11 miles S 1 The Galleria - 20 miles W
12 The American Legion EntertainmentEntertainment
1 Club Quarters in Houston 7 Hilton Americas-Houston 720 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77002 1600 Lamar St., Houston, TX 77010 (713) 224-6400 (713) 739-8000 Nat’l Headquarters Alaska Nebraska California Nevada Colorado Philippines 2 Courtyard by Marriott Delaware Puerto Rico Houston Downtown District of Columbia South Dakota 916 Dallas St., Houston, TX 77002 Florida Virginia (832) 366-1600 France Wyoming Maine Minnesota Hawaii SAL Indiana 8 et 40 3 Crowne Plaza Houston Mexico Auxiliary Downtown Montana Nat’l Headquarters 1700 Smith St., Houston, TX 77002 8 Hyatt Regency Houston (713) 739-8800 1200 Louisiana St., Houston, TX 77002 Arkansas South Carolina (713) 654-1234 New Mexico Texas Georgia New York Oklahoma Utah Illinois Ohio Louisiana Pennsylvania 4 Doubletree Houston Maryland Washington Downtown Missouri West Virginia 400 Dallas St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 759-0202 9 Inn at the Ballpark Alabama New Jersey 1520 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002 Connecticut North Carolina (713) 228-1520 Idaho Oregon Iowa Mississippi Kentucky Rhode Island Massachusetts 10 Magnolia Hotel Houston 5 Four Seasons Hotel Houston 1100 Texas Ave., Houston, TX 77002 1300 Lamar St., Houston, TX 77010 (713) 221-0011 (713) 650-1300 Kansas Wisconsin Arizona Vermont Tennessee
6 Holiday Inn Express 11 Residence Inn by Downtown Marriott Downtown 1810 Bell St., Houston, TX 77003 904 Dallas St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 652-9400 (832) 366-1000 North Dakota Michigan New Hampshire
95th National Convention 13 Entertainment
DINING 10 Max’s Wine Dive 7 Space Center Houston 4720 Washington Ave. 1601 NASA Parkway 1 Tejas Grill & Sports Bar Houston, TX 77007 Houston, TX 77058 1201 Lamar St. (713)880-8737 (281) 244-2143 Houston, TX 77010 www.maxswinedive.com www.spacecenter.org (713) 739-8352 www.tejasgrillandsportsbar.com 11 Hard Rock Cafe Houston 8 Houston Zoo 502 Texas Ave. 6200 Hermann Park Drive 2 Home Plate Bar & Grill Houston, TX 77002 Houston, TX 77030 1800 Texas Ave., Suite 100 (713) 227-1392 www.houstonzoo.org Houston, TX 77003 www.hardrock.com (713) 222-1993 9 Downtown Aquarium www.homeplategrill.com 12 Whataburger 410 Bagby St. 1000 Main St. Houston, TX 77002 3 Pappasito’s Cantina Houston, TX 77002 (713) 223-3474 2515 S. Loop West at South Main 713-658-9602 www.aquariumrestaurants.com Houston, TX 77054 www.whataburger.com (713) 668-5756 10 The Hobby Center www.pappasitos.com MUSEUMS/ATTRACTIONS for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Suite 300 4 Original Ninfa’s on Navigation 1 Houston Museum District Houston, TX 77002 2704 Navigation Blvd. 1401 Richmond Ave., Suite 290 (713) 315-2400 Houston, TX 77003 Houston, TX 77006 www.thehobbycenter.org (713) 228-1175 www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org www.ninfas.com 11 Wortham Theater Center 2 Holocaust Museum Houston 501 Texas Ave. 5 Goode Company Texas Bar-B-Q/ 5401 Caroline St. Houston, TX 77002 Seafood Houston, TX 77004 (713) 237-1439 2621 Westpark Drive (713) 942-8000 www.houstoni rsttheaters.com/WorthamCenter.aspx Houston, TX 77098 www.hmh.org 713.523.7154 SHOPPING www.goodecompany.com 3 Buff alo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St. 1 The Galleria 6 Pappas Bar-B-Q Houston, TX 77004 5085 Westheimer Road, Suite 4850 1217 Pierce St. (713) 942-8920 Houston, TX 77056 Houston, TX 77002 www.buf alosoldiersmuseum.com (713) 621-1907 (713) 659-1245 www.simon.com/mall/the-galleria www.pappasbbq.com 4 Houston Fire Museum 2403 Milam St. TAXI COMPANIES 7 Shula’s Steak House Houston, TX 77006 1200 Louisiana St. (713) 524-2526 Lone Star Cab Company Houston, TX 77002 www.houstoni remuseum.org 5825 Kelley St. (713) 375-4777 Houston, TX 77026 www.donshula.com 5 Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (713) 444-4444 1001 Bissonnet St. 8 Pappas Bros. Steakhouse Houston, TX 77005 Yellow Cab Houston 5839 Westheimer Road (713) 639-7300 1406 Hays St. Houston, TX 77057 www.mfah.org Houston, TX 77009 (713) 780-7352 (713) 428-5810 6 www.pappasbros.com Houston CityPASS Houston Visitors Center 9 BlackFinn American Grille 901 Bagby St., Suite 100 1910 Bagby St., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77002 Houston, TX 77002 (888) 330-5008 (713) 651-9550 www.citypass.com/houston See page 12 for locations from www.blacki nnamericangrille.com the convention center and hotels.
14 The American Legion Entertainment
American Legion Family Night with the Astros Last spring, Major League Baseball’s Houston Astros announced a deal off ering specially priced tickets exclusively to Legion convention-goers. The Astros will take on the Toronto Blue Jays at Minute Maid Park in downtown Houston, near the George R. Brown Convention Center and convention hotels, at 7:10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23. National Commander Jim Koutz will throw the fi rst pitch. Box seats were off ered in the dugout, fi eld and bullpen boxes at various rates, plus fees and addi- Temptations Review tional taxes. Anyone interested in attending should visit the link below to see the availability of tickets. The Temptations Review, featuring Dennis Edwards, will perform at the National Commander’s Banquet at www.astros.com/legion the George R. Brown Convention Center on Aug. 27. (password: legion) Edwards was the fi rst new member to join the legendary group after its “classic fi ve” heyday, replacing David Ruffi n as lead singer in July 1968. With the new addition, the group recorded hits such as “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “Cloud Nine,” “I Can’t Get Next to You” and “My Girl,” and won the fi rst Grammy for VS Motown Records. The rest of the group’s lineup includes David Sea, Mike Pattillo, Chris Arnold and Paul Williams Jr., whose father was one of the original Temptations. Edwards has also found success as a solo artist with the 1984 single “Don’t Look Any Further,” and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Temptations in 1989. The group is appearing at the 95th National Convention courtesy of The American Legion National Headquarters.
Photo by Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau American Legion Contests
Color Guard Contest 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23 George R. Brown Convention Center, General Assembly Theater, Level 3
Band Contest 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24 George R. Brown Convention Center, General Assembly Theater, Level 3
Photo by Tom Strattman Photo by Tom Strattman
95th95th NationalNational ConventionConvention 1511 EntertainmentEntertainment
Rita Cosby in Exhibit Hall Convention Master of Ceremonies Rita Cosby will be at Booth 113 in the exhibit hall at various times during the convention, greeting attendees and signing copies of her book, “Quiet Hero: Secrets From My Father’s Past.” The book details Cosby’s discovery about her late father, a Polish re- sistance fi ghter in the Warsaw Uprising and Nazi prisoner of war who was saved by U.S. troops at the end of World War II. He later immigrated to the United States, where Cosby was born and raised. Learn more about “Quiet Hero” online: www.quiethero.org
PERFECT GETAWAY! Join us at our three incredible locations for great food, exhibits, rides and fun! AMERICAN LEGION DISCOUNTS AUGUST 22-27 50% Off 25% Off All-Day All-Ride Passes & exhibits at Downtown Boardwalk Beast Aquarium, Kemah Boardwalk & Pleasure Pier & FantaSea Yacht
MUST PRESENT CURRENT AMERICAN LEGION MEMBERSHIP CARD
Please contact Katie Simms for additional information at [email protected] or 281-535-8100
410 Bagby 215 Kipp Ave 25thh &&S Seawalleawall 713-223-FISH Kemah, TX 77565 409-766-4950 downtownaquarium.com 281-535-8100 Pleasurepier.com kemahboardwalk.com Entertainment
Rebuilding Together Outreach Event In conjunction with Sears and Rebuilding Together, Residents pay a sliding rental fee based on income. from Minute Maid Park and less than a mile from the The American Legion will renovate the De George The facility is full, with a waiting list of four to fi ve George R. Brown Convention Center. Department of building from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 23. months. Current residents range in age from 27 to 84. Texas offi cials will have information on what items The De George at Union Station provides housing American Legion volunteers will paint fi ve hallways are needed. for male and female homeless veterans. The De and donate items for residents. A media event will George building is 100 years old but has housed more follow at noon. The De George is located at 1418 than 900 homeless veterans over the past 13 years. Preston Street in downtown Houston, one block
Legacy Run Arrival Reception After a cross-country journey raising funds for the Legacy Scholarship Fund, riders of the 2013 Legacy Run will arrive in Houston for the 95th National Convention on the afternoon of Thursday, Aug. 22. A special reception event, featuring National Commander James E. Koutz, delegates and other VIPs, will begin about 3 p.m. at American Legion Post 554 in League City, just south of Houston.
“Welcomes The American Legion National Convention” Albert Cardenas General Manager 0F.LQQH\6XLWH+RXVWRQ7; PDQDJHU#WHMDVJULOODQGVSRUWVEDUFRP
95th National Convention 17 Entertainment
A view on the convention fl oor as Secretary of State William P. Rogers spoke in 1971. Convention City The city of Houston is a relative newcomer to the roster of American Legion the Legion’s operations facility in Indianapolis, and following his death in 2011 convention destinations. The fi rst national convention here, the 53rd, was in the facility was renamed in his honor. 1971. Some 13,000 registrants took in the convention and related events, The national convention, the 61st, returned to Houston in 1979. Nearly shuttling between the hot outdoors and air-conditioned buildings – a recur- 20,000 attendees again braved the heat while doing the business of The ring theme in Legion press coverage of the event. American Legion. Sessions were conducted in the downtown Sam Houston A source of much debate and controversy that year was what position the Coliseum, which was demolished in 1998 and whose site now hosts the Hobby Legion should take on the burgeoning relationship between President Richard Center for the Performing Arts. Nixon and China. A 38-point policy to combat drug use in the United States The starting Vietnam War date aff ecting Legion membership eligibility was was approved. Shimon Peres, now president of Israel, addressed the fl oor; at pushed back from 1964 to 1961. Hamilton Fish, the 91-year-old co-author of the time, he was Israel’s Minister of Transportation and Commerce. the Legion’s Preamble, addressed the fl oor. That year, more than 50 Vietnam War-era Legionnaires from across the coun- The National Convention Parade covered two miles of downtown and went try conducted a multi-platform American Legion Vietnam Veterans Workshop, on for four hours. Legionnaires attended an energy forum to discuss the focusing on reintegration, education and employment, Legion involvement then-current “crisis.” And sadly, the 61st National Convention saw the loss of a and more for returning U.S. servicemembers – not dissimilar to workshops great link in the Legion’s history – Past National Commander Harry Colmery, off ered at this year’s convention. And John H. Geiger of Illinois was elected considered the principal architect of the GI Bill, died at the end of the conven- national commander; years later, Geiger was instrumental in the building of tion after participating in a founders luncheon.
Legionnaires applauded at the 1971 convention in Houston.
18 The American Legion ©2013 Anheuser-Busch, Budweiser® Beer, St. Louis, MO Past National Convention Cities
1919 Minneapolis, Minn. 1965 Portland, Ore. 2012 Indianapolis, Ind. 1920 Cleveland, Ohio 1966 Washington, D.C. 1921 Kansas City, Mo. 1967 Boston, Mass. 1922 New Orleans, La. 1968 New Orleans, La. Future convention cities 1923 San Francisco, Calif. 1969 Atlanta, Ga. 2014 Charlotte, N.C. 1924 St. Paul, Minn. 1970 Portland, Ore. 2015 Baltimore, Md. 1925 Omaha, Neb. 1971 Houston, Texas 2016 Cincinnati, Ohio 1926 Philadelphia, Pa. 1972 Chicago, Ill. 2017 Louisville, Ky. 1927 Paris, France 1973 Honolulu, Hawaii 2018 Minneapolis, Minn. 1927 New York, N.Y. 1974 Miami Beach, Fla. 2019 Indianapolis, Ind. 1928 San Antonio, Texas 1975 Minneapolis, Minn. 1929 Louisville, Ky. 1976 Seattle, Wash. 1930 Boston, Mass. 1977 Denver, Colo. 1931 Detroit, Mich. 1978 New Orleans, La. 1932 Portland, Ore. 1979 Houston, Texas 1933 Chicago, Ill. 1980 Boston, Mass. 1934 Miami, Fla. 1981 Honolulu, Hawaii 1935 St. Louis, Mo. 1982 Chicago, Ill. 1936 Cleveland, Ohio 1983 Seattle, Wash. 1937 New York, N.Y. 1984 Salt Lake City, Utah 1938 Los Angeles, Calif. 1985 New Orleans, La. 1939 Chicago, Ill. 1986 Cincinnati, Ohio 1940 Boston, Mass. 1987 San Antonio, Texas 1941 Milwaukee, Wis. 1988 Louisville, Ky. 1942 Kansas City, Mo. 1989 Baltimore, Md. 1943 Omaha, Neb. 1990 Indianapolis, Ind. 1944 Chicago, Ill. 1991 Phoenix, Ariz. 1945 Chicago, Ill. 1992 Chicago, Ill. 1946 San Francisco, Calif. 1993 Pittsburgh, Pa. 1947 New York, N.Y. 1994 Minneapolis, Minn. 1948 Miami, Fla. 1995 Indianapolis, Ind. 1949 Philadelphia, Pa. 1996 Salt Lake City, Utah 1950 Los Angeles, Calif. 1997 Orlando, Fla. 1951 Miami, Fla. 1998 New Orleans, La. 1952 New York, N.Y. 1999 Anaheim, Calif. 1953 St. Louis, Mo. 2000 Milwaukee, Wis. 1954 Washington, D.C. 2001 San Antonio, Texas 1955 Miami, Fla. 2002 Charlotte, N.C. 1956 Los Angeles, Calif. 2003 St. Louis, Mo. 1957 Atlantic City, N.J. 2004 Nashville, Tenn. 1958 Chicago, Ill. 2005 Honolulu, Hawaii 1959 Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn. 2006 Salt Lake City, Utah 1960 Miami Beach, Fla. 2007 Reno, Nev. 1961 Denver, Colo. 2008 Phoenix, Ariz. 1962 Las Vegas, Nev. 2009 Louisville, Ky. 1963 Miami Beach, Fla. 2010 Milwaukee, Wis. 1964 Dallas, Texas 2011 Minneapolis, Minn.
20 The American Legion (Please Print Clearly) BRICK TEXT
it’s not just a brick. 18 characters per line including spaces it’s their story. Mrs. Mr. Ms. ______Address ______WITH A BBRICKRICK AATT THTHEHE NANATIONALTIONAL WWORLDORLDL WWARAR IIII MUMUSEUM,SEUM City ______State ______Zip ______you can create a lasting tribute to loved ones who served their country. These fathers and grandfathers, sons and daughters, Telephone (Day) ______(Evening) ______friends and neighbors overcame a once-in-a-generation PLEASE RESERVE MY PERSONALIZED BRICK(S) challenge and they deserve a memorial that will last for Number ______@ $200 each Total $______generations to come. Please make check or money order payable to: The National WWII Museum. Learn more at www.nationalww2museum.org. ºCheck/Money Order ºMasterCard ºVISA ºDiscover ºAMEX Card # ______Exp. ______THE ROAD TO VICTORY BRICK CAMPAIGN Signature ______
AL2013
The National WWII Museum reserves the right to refuse to engrave any message or material that it determines to be inappropriate, such as telephone numbers, political messages and suggestive wording. If you need additional information, please call 877-813-3329 ext 500 or email [email protected] Fax orders to 504-527-6088 or mail to: The National WWII Museum, Road to Victory Brick Program, 945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130. Parade Routeute
95th American Legion National Convention Parade Sunday, Aug. 25, 2013 4 p.m.
Grand Marshal Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez Jr. Commandant, Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets Reviewing Stand Smith Louisiana
Honorary Grand Marshal Fang A. Wong Past National Commander New York Start
parade route
vehicle dispersal route marchers dispersal route Milam Smith
Louisiana formation areas
reviewing stand
cooling bus
bus pickup
bus dropoff
Legion Riders
Vendors
22 TheThe AmericanAmerican LLegionegion Parade Rules
guards and drill teams must abide by immoral or in bad taste. this regulation. 5. Firecrackers and any 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25 D. Distances other explosives. Formation area: Along Smith, Louisiana and Milam streets. Exact 1. Between divisions – 30 yards C. Violators of any of the above rules will be dismissed from the parade formation locations will be announced at the Aug. 24 parade meeting. 2. Between departments – 20 yards immediately. Route: Beginning at the intersection of Louisiana Street and Clay Street, 3. Between elements of a proceeding north on Louisiana, west on Walker Street and south on Smith department – 10 yards 5. FIRST-AID STATIONS Street. The parade ends at the intersection of Dallas Street and Smith. First-aid stations (mobile) and water 3. OFFICIAL REVIEWING stations will be located throughout the STAND Disbanding area: Marchers turn west onto Dallas Street off Smith Street; parade route and in the disbanding vehicles turn west onto Lamar Street off Smith Street. A. The offi cial reviewing stand will be area. Additionally, ambulances will be Reviewing stand: In front of City Hall on Smith Street, between Walker located in front of City Hall, between available to assist parade marchers Street and McKinney Street. McKinney and Walker streets. and spectators. B. Elements will render a salute to the 6. PARKING OF national commander while passing the CHARTERED OR POST reviewing stand (eyes right). BUSES The offi cial parade of the 95th National these divisions, order of march, time and 4. ELIGIBILITY Bus parking will be addressed at the Convention of The American Legion will place of assembly, and parade map have TO PARTICIPATE parade meeting on Saturday, Aug. 24. be governed by instructions contained been supplied to each department‘s IN THE PARADE, Buses will load their personnel at the herein, together with the parade chairman. AND CONDUCT OF assigned area within the disbanding Organization and March Timetable. PARTICIPANTS B. All Department of Defense units area. Parade offi cials will direct 1. TIME will be governed by applicable A. Pursuant to a resolution adopted at participants to their buses. regulations, but summer uniforms a meeting of the National Convention (All times in these orders are are recommended. PERSONAL BELONGINGS AND ALL Central Time.) Commission at Miami Beach on March EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE REMOVED C. Each department commander or 12, 1960, there will be no participation A. The leading element of the parade FROM THE BUSES WHEN UNLOADING appointed parade representative of any vehicles, equipment or items of AT THE ASSEMBLY AREA. will move from the “initial point” will be responsible for the order of wearing apparel of the 40 promptly at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, march, and promptness of arrival at et 8. The 2013 Convention regardless of weather (the exception the assembly area, of all units of his or Corp. Parade Committee will being an electrical storm). enforce this regulation. her department. All units will conform SAVE OFF B. The time and place of assembly for to the following distribution and B. With the exceptions of 20% each department or element of the formation: police, fi remen, military AT NEARLY 7,200 parade will be shown in detail on the 1. All U.S. fl ags, the department and and naval escorts, and PARTICIPATING Organization and March Timetable, post colors of each department, and distinguished guests, a copy of which will be given to each the department and unit colors of eligibility to participate HOTELS department’s parade chairman. each department of the Auxiliary is limited to members of A meeting of all department parade will be massed at the head of each The American Legion and chairmen will be conducted at 2 p.m. department delegation, in that order. the uniform bodies of the Saturday, Aug. 24, in the George R. American Legion Auxiliary Brown Convention Center, Room 370, 2. American Legion units within and Sons of The American Sections A-C, Level 3. departments will march in formation Legion, subject to restriction eight abreast, one and one-half yards of the following activities C. A parade offi cial will direct between ranks. departments and elements of the prohibited in the line of parade to their assigned assembly areas. 3. Bands and Drum Corps: As directed march: That offi cial will advise all bus drivers by drum majors, but not to exceed 1. The drinking, or of the route to follow to the disbanding eight abreast. simulated drinking, of area. 4. Authorized fl oats and automobiles intoxicants. D. Because of the nature of the assembly in single column. No unauthorized 2. Participants under the Call 877.670.7088 areas, accurate logistics are essential. fl oats or automobiles may participate. infl uence of intoxicants. and mention you are an Promptness in arrival at the assembly All vehicles must be equipped with areas is highly recommended. identifying signs on sides thereof and 3. Use of water pistols American Legion member must also carry an “Offi cial Car” sticker and electric shocking and ID# 8000000307 2. ORGANIZATION on their windshields. devices. to receive discount. A. All elements have been assigned to 5. Absolutely no maneuvers except 4. Female/male divisions, each under the direction of for a forward movement. Marching impersonators, or any the parade offi cials. The composition of and mounted units, bands, color presentation either
95th National Convention 23 George R. Brown Convention Center
REGISTRATION / INFORMATION
The registration and information desks for the 95th National Convention of The American Legion will be open from Thursday, Aug. 22, to Wednesday, Aug. 28, in Hall C, Level 1, of the George R. Brown Convention Center. Thursday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Saturday 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Tuesday 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Wednesday 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
The Exhibit Hall will be open from Friday, Aug. 23, to Tuesday, Aug. 27, in Hall B, Level 1, of the George R. Brown Convention Center. Friday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Monday 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Tuesdayuesday 8 a.m.a.m. – 2 p.m.p.m.
24 TheThe AmericanAmerica Legion ExhibitExhibit HHallall
95th National Convention 25 Who will ensure their children’s basic needs are met when they can’t?
WE WILL
The American Legion ENDOWMENT FUND
Your generous tax-deductible donation to The are distributed each year in the form of cash grants American Legion Endowment Fund helps to provide to assist with the costs of shelter, utilities, clothing for the basic needs of military and eligible veterans’ and food. TFA grants ensure that a stable home and minor children through the Temporary Financial As- family environment is maintained for the children sistance Program (TFA). Over half a million dollars when a hand-up is needed.
Contribute online at www.legion.org/donate/endowment_fund Mail your gift to: The American Legion Endowment Fund P.O. Box 1055 Indianapolis, IN 46206 DoD Photos DoD All donations are acknowledged in writing. Standing Rules of the National Convention
As contained in the “Uniform Code of Procedure for the Organization of National Conventions of The American Legion,” the following standing rules are authorized under Article V, Section 6, of the National Constitution of The American Legion:
1. “Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly 8. When the poll of any Department election each candidate going to to the National Commander for Revised” shall be the authority on Delegation is demanded by a the ballot shall be entitled to one announcement of the results. parliamentary procedure, with the delegate of such Department, the teller of his choice. 24. Those recognized by the National following modifi cations: Convention Secretary shall poll 18. Nominations for National Offi cers Commander shall be entitled to a 2. A delegate desiring to make a the vote without discussion of the shall be from the fl oor on Roll Call respectful hearing, and the Chair motion or address the Convention question being voted upon. of the Departments alphabetically shall have the authority to clear shall rise, address the Chair as 9. On the Roll Calls, the delegation arranged. Each Department may the gallery or the fl oor or have “Mr. Commander” and state his Chairman shall poll his delegation present as many candidates as the Sergeant-at-Arms escort from name and the name of the on the fl oor and announce its vote. it chooses. the Convention anyone creating Department before proceeding. 10. In the event a delegation secretary 19. Nomination speeches for National a disturbance or interfering with 3. Debate shall be limited to fi ve is not an accredited delegate or Offi cers shall be limited to fi ve orderly procedure. minutes for each speaker. alternate, he shall be seated with minutes each. Not more than 25. None of the above rules shall 4. Debate on any one subject his delegation. two seconding speeches shall be construed as preventing an presented to the Convention 11. Past National Commanders’ votes be made for any candidate, and alternate delegate from serving on shall be limited to two hours, shall be cast with their delegations. said speeches shall be limited to a Convention Committee. three minutes. 26. except under such special rule 12. Only accredited delegates or The consent of two-thirds of the 20. as the Convention shall adopt their alternates shall participate, When more than two candidates voting strength of the Convention prior to debate. directly or indirectly, in a viva voce are nominated for any offi ce, is necessary for suspension of the 5. But two delegates from any one vote on any subject before the balloting shall continue until one standing rules of the Convention. delegation shall be permitted the Convention. candidate receives a majority of 27. Any amendment to any resolution the votes of the Convention, except fl oor on any one question. Where 13. Department delegations may or report originating on the fl oor disagreement exists within a in the election of National Vice shall be presented in writing and arrive at a vote in such manner Commanders. delegation, one delegate shall be as they choose, but shall announce transmitted to the Presiding Offi cer 21. permitted to speak on each side of it in terms of full units and not In a contested election for National at the time of the introduction of the question. Upon a division of the in terms of a fractional part of a Vice Commanders, balloting shall such amendment. question, however, this rule shall be vote. The vote of any delegate continue until (a) majorities and 28. Special rules applying to specifi c applied separately for each division. absent and not represented by (b) pluralities are established for issues or order of business shall be 6. The fl oor shall be permitted an alternate shall be cast by the one or more candidates under the written and presented to the but once to any individual majority of the delegates present following provisions: If, on any ballot Convention by the Legislation and delegate on any one question, from his Department. taken, less than fi ve candidates Rules Committee for adoption by except by a two-thirds vote of 14. receive the necessary majority to majority vote at least one hour There shall be no unit rule of voting. elect, the candidate or candidates the Convention. Chairmen of 15. before such issue or order is to Convention Committees may Voting shall be by acclamation, receiving a majority vote shall be be considered, unless such rule is speak as frequently as may be except when a Roll Call is declared elected and a new ballot agreed to by unanimous consent necessary, in connection with the demanded by the Chairmen shall be taken for the remaining of the fi nal session. Special reports of their committees. The of at least three Departments. number of places to be fi lled. The rules shall prevail only when the Presiding Offi cer shall not entertain Election of National Offi cers candidate receiving the lowest Convention adopts them. Any any motion which will curtail shall be by roll call. number of votes on the preceding delegate may apply for a special further debate without aff ording 16. In the event a Department has not ballot shall be disqualifi ed; rule to the Legislation and Rules the Committee Chairman an provided the method by which should two candidates remain to Committee or may appeal to the opportunity for rebuttal. alternates shall be designated fi ll one place, a new ballot shall Convention for such special rule be taken. 7. Decisions on Rules of Debate to serve in the place of absent provided the rule be presented 22. or parliamentary order by the delegates, the Chairman of the The Convention will nominate and in writing, be read once from the Presiding Offi cer may be subject to delegation shall make such elect a National Commander, and platform, and shall lay upon the appeal by any two delegates under designation. fi ve National Vice Commanders, in table at least one hour before the a Point of Order. Such appeal shall 17. Prior to the election of National this sequence. vote thereon is taken. take precedence over any pending Offi cers, the National Commander 23. At the conclusion of balloting questions and shall be decided shall appoint, subject to approval of on National Vice Commanders, forthwith. An appeal from the the Convention, a Judge of Election each Department Delegation decision of the Chair shall be put and such number of tellers as he Chairman shall deliver a written to the Convention on the question: deems necessary, provided that ballot to the tellers. Such ballots “Shall the Chair be sustained?” the total tellers so appointed shall shall be in the hands of the tellers be an odd number. In a contested before communication is made
95th National Convention 27 Making Strikes to Spare Transplant-Needy Kids
The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) has a long history of partnering with The American Legion Family to help our nation’s children.
Join posts, units, squadrons and Legion Rider chapters across the country as they raise funds for COTA to help a family in their area. For more information about COTA Bowling for Life please visit www.cota.org/forlife. www.cota.org 800.366.2682 [email protected]
Bulkley Dunton Congratulates The American Legion on their 95th National Convention Patriotic Memorial Service
GRBCC, Hall A, Level 1 11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 25
Prelude For Sons of The American Legion Lighting of the Candle Peter Olé Chris Huntzinger of Remembrance Bristol, N.H. National Commander 2013 Boys Nation President Pennsylvania Welcome Silent Moment of Meditation* Brian O’Hearne National Adjutant Posting of Colors* Taps* Massachusetts American Legion Post 472 Color Guard Closing Prayer* Houston For those in uniform who lost their lives serving America during the past year Penny Chandler Opening Prayer and Department Chaplain Pledge of Allegiance* Ronald Derrick National Chaplain American Legion Auxiliary Texas Music The American Legion Idaho BeBe Winans Music Rosemarie Hauck BeBe Winans Reading of the Holy National Chaplain Scriptures American Legion Auxiliary Retirement of Colors* Missouri Memorial Prayer * Audience stands Rosemarie Hauck National Chaplain American Legion Auxiliary Missouri “God Bless America” Message “Let Your Light Shine” God bless America, Ronald Derrick Land that I love, National Chaplain Stand beside her and guide her The American Legion Thru the night with a light from above. Idaho From the mountains to the prairies Presentation of To the oceans white with foam, Memorial Wreaths God bless America My home, sweet home. For The American Legion God bless America, My home, sweet home. James E. Koutz National Commander Indiana BeBe Winans Benjamin “BeBe” Winans, part of the Daniel S. Wheeler legendary Winans musical family, has National Adjutant topped the charts with gospel, R&B Virginia and inspirational music, and has won numerous awards since getting his For the American start in the mid-1980s. Legion Auxiliary In 2012, Winans released Peggy Thomas “America America,” a collection of National President patriotic songs. The album includes Virginia public-domain songs and originals Dubbie Buckler written by Winans. National Secretary Indiana
95th National Convention 29 Standing Commissions and Convention Committees Meetings
Finance National Security Subcommittees Credentials and Internal Aff airs Most meetings will be 9 a.m. 1:30 p.m. (immediately following joint Credentials and Other conducted at the George R. HAH, Room 340, Internal Matters Brown Convention Center meeting) (GRBCC) or the Hilton Americas Sections A & B, Level 3 Aerospace (Sections I & II) 9 a.m. Houston (HAH). Foreign Relations/ GRBCC, Room 361, Section D, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 351, National Security Conservation and Energy Sections A & D, Level 3 9 a.m. GRBCC, Room 361, Section C, Level 3 THURSDAY-SUNDAY, Membership GRBCC, Room 351, Level 3 AUG. 22-25 General Security Ad Hoc (Section III) Resolutions Assignment Legislative GRBCC, Room 361, Section B, Level 3 9 a.m. Committee 9 a.m. Homeland Security & GRBCC, Room 351, 8 a.m. HAH, Room 343, Section B, Level 3 Civil Preparedness Sections C & F, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 361, Section E, Level 3 HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section F, National Security/ Economic – Employment and Level 4 Foreign Relations Law and Order Veterans Preference & Other 9 a.m. GRBCC, Room 361, Section F, Level 3 Economic Matters FRIDAY, AUG. 23 GRBCC, Room 351, Level 3 Merchant Marine 9 a.m. Americanism Screening Committee GRBCC, Room 371, Section A, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 361, 9 a.m. Public Relations Military Sections D & E, Level 3 HAH, Room 337, Section A, Level 3 9 a.m. HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section B, GRBCC, Room 361, Section A, Level 3 Emblem Economic Screening Committee Level 3 Naval 9 a.m. 9 a.m. HAH, Room 336, Revenue Enhancement GRBCC, Room 371, Section B, Level 3 HAH, Room 336, Section A, Level 3 Sections A & B, Level 3 9 a.m. SUNDAY, AUG. 25 Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation GRBCC, Room 350, Section A, Level 3 Finance Screening Committee Americanism 9 a.m. The American Legion Magazine 9 a.m. 8:30 a.m. GRBCC, Room 350, Section F, Level 3 HAH, Room 337, Section B, Level 3 9 a.m. HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section E, HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, Level 4 National Security SATURDAY, AUG. 24 Section A, Level 2 Joint Meeting Foreign Relations Convention 9 a.m. Children & Youth Joint Meeting 8 a.m. GRBCC, Room 370, Level 3 10 a.m. 8:30 a.m. HAH, Room 336, Level 3 National Security Subcommittees HAH, Room 346, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 360, Level 3 9:15 a.m. (immediately following joint Americanism/ Emblem Foreign Relations Subcommittees meeting) Children & Youth 10:15 a.m. 8:30 a.m. (immediately following joint Aerospace 8:30 a.m. HAH, Room 336, meeting) GRBCC, Room 380, Section C, Level 3 HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, Sections A & B, Level 3 Far Eastern Aff airs Sections D & E, Level 2 Conservation and Energy Membership & GRBCC, Room 361, Section A, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 380, Section B, Level 3 Constitution & By-Laws Post Activities General Foreign Policy General Security Ad Hoc 8:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. GRBCC, Room 361, Section C, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 380, Section A, Level 3 HAH, Room 339, Level 3 HAH, Room 334, Middle Eastern and Homeland Security & Sections A & B, Level 3 Economic African Aff airs Civil Preparedness 8:30 a.m. Foreign Relations GRBCC, Room 361, Section B, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 380, Section D, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 352, Section D, Level 3 1:30 p.m. Children & Youth Law and Order GRBCC, Room 360, Level 3 Internal Aff airs 9 a.m. GRBCC, Room 371, Section A, Level 3 8:30 a.m. Foreign Relations Subcommittees GRBCC, Room 350, Merchant Marine HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section E, 1:45 p.m. (immediately following joint Sections D & E, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 371, Section D, Level 3 Level 4 meeting) Constitutional Amendments Military Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation Far Eastern Aff airs 9 a.m. GRBCC, Room 371, Section E, Level 3 8:30 a.m. GRBCC, Room 371, Section C, Level 3 HAH, Room 339, Naval GRBCC, Room 350, Sections D-F, Level 3 General Foreign Policy Sections A & B, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 371, Section B, Level 3 Distinguished Guests GRBCC, Room 371, Section D, Level 3 Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation 9 a.m. Middle Eastern and Joint Meeting with Claims & HAH, Room 344, African Aff airs Ratings and Hospitals & Sections A & B, Level 3 GRBCC, Room 371, Section E, Level 3 Medical Services
30 The American Legion Standing Commissions and Convention Committees Meetings
9 a.m. Legislation and Rules 8 a.m. THURSDAY, AUG. 29 HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, 10 a.m. GRBCC, Room 350, Sections D & E, Level 3 Post-Convention National Section D, Level 2 HAH, Room 337, Level 3 Pre-Convention National Executive Executive Committee Meeting (Hospitals & Medical Services will proceed Committee Meeting 12:30 p.m. to Section E) MONDAY, AUG. 26 8:30 a.m. GRBCC, Room 360, Level 3 National Convention GRBCC, Room 360, Level 3 Sergeant-at-Arms Meeting
Other Meetings and Events
THURSDAY, AUG. 22 SATURDAY, AUG. 24 SUNDAY, AUG. 25 MONDAY, AUG. 26 & Veterans on Campus Education American Legion Subject Matter Patriotic Memorial Service TUESDAY, AUG. 27 Roundtable Discussion Experts Training 11 a.m. – noon Employment Transition Workshop 10 a.m.– noon 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. GRBCC, Hall A, Level 1 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. HAH, Room 337, Sections A & B, Level 3 GRBCC, Hall B, Level 1 National Convention Parade HAH, Grand Lanier Ballroom, Section A, VA&R Breakout Sessions 4 – 6:30 p.m. Level 4 FRIDAY, AUG. 23 10 a.m. – noon Louisiana/Walker/Smith streets Empowering Conference Career & Credentialing Roundtable GRBCC, Room 352, Sections A & C, Level 3 Benefi ts Fair Workshop MONDAY, AUG. 26 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 10 a.m. – noon NALPA Annual Meeting Digital Media Training Workshop HAH, Grand Lanier Ballroom, HAH, Room 339, Section A, Level 3 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 8:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. HAH, Room 338, Level 3 Sections B & C, Level 4 Color Guard/Honor Guard Clinic GRBCC, Room 350, Section F, Level 3 HEROES Women’s Entrepreneurship 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Band Contest POW/MIA Update Course GRBCC, Room 320, Sections E & F, Level 3 1 – 4:30 p.m. 9 a.m. GRBCC, General Assembly Theater, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Contest Representatives Meeting GRBCC, Room 370, Level 3 Level 3 HAH, Grand Lanier Ballroom, Section D, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. American Legion Subject Matter Level 4 GRBCC, Room 320, Sections E & F, Level 3 National Convention Experts Training Parade Meeting 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. TUESDAY, AUG. 27 American Legion Riders Meeting 2 – 4 p.m. GRBCC, Hall B, Level 1 Hiring Our Heroes Transition & 2 – 4 p.m. GRBCC, Room 370, Sections A-C, Level 3 Ask the Expert/Hear Screening Benefi ts Job Fair GRBCC, Room 381, Level 3 National American Legion College Session, brought to you by HearPO 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Color Guard Contest Alumni Association (NALCAA) 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. GRBCC, Room 342, Level 3 5 – 7:30 p.m. 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. GRBCC, Room 351, Section D, Level 3 GRBCC, General Assembly Theater, HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section E, Level 3 Level 4
2013 Reunions, Receptions and Meals
FRIDAY, AUG. 23 Sections A-C, Level 2 Past Department Commanders TUESDAY, AUG. 27 Ye Stevios (Department Adjutants) Chaplain’s Breakfast Club Luncheon Western Caucus – Sponsored by Resource One 7 – 9 a.m. Noon – 2 p.m. 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. 5:30 – 7 p.m. HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, GRBCC, Room 351, Sections A, B, D & E, HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, Sections A-C, Level 4 Sections A-C, Level 2 Level 3 Section A, Level 2 Past National Commanders’ National Commander’s Banquet MONDAY, AUG. 26 Wives Luncheon 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. SATURDAY, AUG. 24 FODPAL Breakfast 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. GRBCC, Hall B3, Level 3 National Historian’s Luncheon 7 – 8:30 a.m. HAH, Room 339, Sections A & B, Level 3 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. HAH, Room 335, Sections A & B, Level 3 Past National Vice WEDNESDAY, AUG. 28 HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Section A, Central States Caucus Breakfast Level 4 Commanders Reunion 6 p.m. (after) 7 – 9 a.m. NALPA Luncheon American Legion Post 521 GRBCC, Room 320, Sections B & C, Level 3 SUNDAY, AUG. 25 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (location subject to change) ANAVICUS Breakfast HAH, Room 335, Sections A & B, Level 3 Houston Southern Caucus Breakfast 7 – 9 a.m. 7 – 8:45 a.m. HAH, Ballroom of the Americas, GRBCC, Grand Ballroom, Level 3
95th National Convention 31 Legion Training
Magazine Division Digital Media Workshop New 100th Anniversary website Monday, Aug. 26, 8:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The American Legion 100th Anniversary GRBCC, Room 350, Section F, Level 3 Committee is launching a new website The Magazine Division is off ering a free one-day to give posts a place to share their workshop on membership promotion using social histories and visions for the future of media and the Web. the nation’s largest veterans service This year’s workshop will be broken into organization. The site will be shown beginner, intermediate and advanced groups. and demonstrated in the American Participants can attend any or all of the breakout Legion Magazine Division booth in the convention exhibit hall. Visitors sessions. Each group will come together at the can see how to upload text, stories and timelines to celebrate their post end of the sessions for a panel discussion to share legacies. Printed guides and other materials related to the Legion’s plans best practices and question Legion digital media for the 100th anniversary will also be provided at the booth. staff . Honor & Remembrance Topics (subject to change) will include: Visitors will also have an • Digital media overview opportunity to see how to • How to drive membership using social media submit stories and photos to the Legion’s new site, www. • E-marketing, membership management legion.org/honor, honoring • How to drive membership / renewals / those who’ve served. donations using free online tools Visit www.legion.org/convention/ workshop to preregister.
VA&R Breakout Sessions Saturday, Aug. 24 As part of the Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation Legionsites.com Information about Commission’s meeting at the national Legionsites.com, the website program used convention, a set of breakout sessions is being by hundreds of American Legion posts and off ered on various related topics. many departments, will be available. The commission meeting itself will be held Videos you can use Videos that can be used from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in GRBCC, Hall B, at post meetings or in public presentations Level 1. will be shown at the Magazine Division Breakout Session 1 (10 a.m. – noon): booth. GRBCC, Room 352, Section A, Level 3 Breakout Session 2 (10 a.m. – noon): Burn Pit blog site GRBCC, Room 352, Section C, Level 3 Award-winning American Topics (subject to change) will include: Legion blogger Mark Seavey • Claims panel will post his observations • Health care panel from the Magazine Division booth. • Women veterans panel
32 The American Legion American Legion Subject Matter Expert Training GRBCC, Hall B, Level 1 Several subject-matter experts will be conducting free mini- workshops on various subjects. Each class will last between 30 and 45 minutes, including time for questions. Saturday, Aug. 24 9 a.m. Post/District Revitalization 10 a.m. USAA – Financial Planning 11 a.m. VA&R Noon Military Outreach 1 p.m. Temporary Financial Assistance/Family Support Network 2 p.m. Public Relations Monday, Aug. 26 9 a.m. Post/District Revitalization 10 a.m. USAA – Financial Planning 11 a.m. VA&R Noon Military Outreach 1 p.m. Public Relations 2 p.m. Americanism – Youth Programs Champions Empowering Our Active-Duty, Veterans and Spouses Transition and Employment Summit The Economic Commission is working with the Small Business Administration, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and major companies with veteran-hiring programs to provide information and opportunities free of charge to veterans in transition. This new summit brings a variety of events and workshops together. HAH, Lanier Grand Ballroom, Level 4 Monday, Aug. 26, and Tuesday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. HEROES Women’s Entrepreneurship Course Section D Employment Transition Workshop Section A Monday, Aug. 26, and Tuesday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Empowering Conference Career & Benefi ts Fair Sections B & C Visit www.legion.org/convention/economic/register to preregister for any events. The summit also includes the Hiring Our Heroes Transition & Benefi ts Job Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
95th National Convention 33 Distinguished Guests
Thomas L. Bock Milton R. Chatham Ronald Derrick Hon. H.F. Gierke Clarence E. Hill Highlighted text Past National Commander Beaumont, Texas National Chaplain Past National Commander Past National Commander indicates a distinguished The American Legion The American Legion The American Legion The American Legion guest who will take the Aurora, Colo. Mark Chmielewski Rigby, Idaho Windermere, Fla. Jacksonville, Fla. stage at the national 2013 Eagle Scout convention. Dennis R. Boland of the Year William M. Detweiler John Gonzalez, CMP James H. Holland Chairman Salem, Conn. Past National Commander Director of Events & Guest National Vice Commander Children & Youth The American Legion Services, George R. Brown The American Legion Commission Michael J. Christensen Metairie, La. Convention Center Aiken, S.C. Petty Offi cer 2nd Class Lehigh Acres, Fla. Monument, Colo. Houston Komlan Agbagba Dominic D. DiFrancesco Stephen Hope U.S. Navy Ralph P. Bozella Bryan Coleman Past National Commander Kenneth F. Governor President, CIAN, Inc. Chairman Houston The American Legion Chairman Peoria, Ill. Charlotte Jones Veterans Aff airs & Middletown, Pa. Legislative Commission Anderson Rehabiltation Commission John P. “Jake” Comer Wynantskill, N.Y. Christopher J. President Longmont, Colo. Past National Commander Paul Dillard Huntzinger Dallas Cowboys The American Legion Lake Kiowa, Texas Mark and Jean Gullion National Commander Cheerleaders Hon. John Brieden Whiting, N.J. Indianapolis Sons of The American Irving, Texas Past National Commander Joseph W. Dooley Legion The American Legion Marty Conatser President General David R. Hall Harrisburg, Pa. John C. Arant Brenham, Texas Past National Commander National Society, Sons of National Vice Commander Cumming, Ga. The American Legion the American Revolution The American Legion Walter Ivie Wayne Brock Champaign, Ill. Falls Church, Va. New Haven, W.Va. Austin, Texas Clarence M. Bacon Chief Scout Executive Past National Commander Boy Scouts of America Ronald F. Conley Mike Durant James H. Hall Edgar J. Johnson The American Legion Irving, Texas Past National Commander President Chairman National Recruiter Bethesda, Md. The American Legion Pinnacle Solutions, Inc. The American Legion of the Year Bobby Bryant Pittsburgh Madison, Ala. Magazine Commission The American Legion Harold Barnett LVER The American Legion Columbus, Ga. Chairman Workforce Oklahoma Dan Corbin Miles S. Epling Hopewell, N.J. Economic Commission Stillwater, Okla. Killeen, Texas Past National Commander Jerry J. Johnson The American Legion The American Legion Gareth Hanson Operation Manager Douglasville, Ga. Mary “Dubbie” Buckler Rita Cosby Point Pleasant, W.Va. 2012 American Legion L-3 STRATIS National Secretary Master of Ceremonies Baseball All-Academic Fayetteville, N.C. Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. American Legion Auxiliary New York Kelli Finglass Team Captain Battaglia Indianapolis Director Enderlin, N.D. Anthony G. Jordan U.S. Marine Corps John Crisford Dallas Cowboys Past National Commander Senior Enlisted Adviser to Mr. and Mrs. Ron National Chairman Cheerleaders John T. Hanson The American Legion Chairman of Joint Chiefs Byrley The Royal British Legion Irving, Texas Senior Vice President Augusta, Maine of Staff Boonville, Ind. London USO Washington Randall Fisher Washington Genevieve Keller Thomas P. Cadmus Hon. Ted Cruz Chairman Bourbonnais, Ill. George Beaulieu Past National Commander U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Marta Hedding Dominion President The American Legion Washington Commission National Treasurer Robert D. Kiley Army, Navy and Air Force Lincoln, Mich. The American Legion American Legion Auxiliary The Villages, Fla. Veterans in Canada Nancy Curran Paris, Ky. Indianapolis Ottawa Dora Lee Campbell Local Offi ce Manager Yang Kyu Kim Seymour, Ind. Illinois Department of Thomas J. Florez Jerry L. Hedrick President & CEO David Bellavia Employment Security Sugar City, Colo. National Executive Samsung North America Batavia, N.Y. Joseph E. Caouette Ottawa, Ill. Committee Ridgefi eld Park, N.J. Chairman George Foreman The American Legion Larry J. Besson Americanism Commission Don Daft Pearland, Texas Lexington, N.C. Harvey Klee Chairman Rollinsford, N.H. Wallis, Texas Bluff ton, Texas Internal Aff airs Jimmie L. Foster Tom Henderson Commission Sgt. Man Chan Mike Dakduk Past National Commander Valparaiso, Ind. Michael Koutz The American Legion U.S. Marine Corps Executive Director The American Legion Wilton Manors, Fla. Stonington, Ill. Student Veterans Meridian, Idaho Glenn A. Hickman Maj. Gen. Chin-Fan of America National Vice Commander Vickie Koutz Jerome A. Billups Chang Washington Joseph J. Frank The American Legion First Lady of Veterans’ Representative Director, Department Past National Commander Grove City, Ohio The American Legion (DVOP) of International Relations, Kenneth D. Danilson The American Legion Boonville, Ind. Job Service North Dakota Veterans Aff airs Chairman St. Louis Harry Hicks Fargo, N.D. Commission, Republic of Finance Commission El Paso, Texas Keith A. Kreul China The American Legion Sgt. Edwin Garcia Past National Commander Taipei Woodward, Iowa U.S. Army The American Legion Fennimore, Wis.
34 The American Legion DistinguishedDistinguished Guests
Hon. Alan G. Lance Herb Odell Josue “Joe” Robles Jr. Steve Short Peggy Thomas Julian E. Weisler II Past National Commander Fort Worth, Texas President/CEO Aide to the National National President Breham, Texas The American Legion USAA Commander American Legion Auxiliary Culpeper, Va. Robert and Deborah San Antonio The American Legion Indianapolis William West Oeth Indianapolis Austin, Texas William Laramore Elberfeld, Ind. Denise Rohan John E. Thompson Vice President, Strategic Chairman Dellano Simmons President Pete Wheeler & Homeland Defense Nancy Park-Brown Membership & Post Vidor, Texas American Legion National Commissioner Division, CAS, Inc. National Vice President Activities Committee Press Association Georgia Department of Colorado Springs, Colo. American Legion Auxiliary The American Legion Nick Smith Lincoln, Neb. Veterans Service Palm Desert, Calif. Verona, Wis. Senior Vice President and Atlanta Patricia E. Liddell General Manager Craig Tillman Columbus, Ga. Richard M. Pedro Lawrence G. Romo L-3 STRATIS Chairman Brad White Past National Commander Director Fayetteville, N.C. Homeless Veterans’ Dominion Secretary Karen Lowe The American Legion Selective Service System Task Force The Royal Canadian Legion Whitestown, Ind. Albany, N.Y. Arlington, Va. Hans Song The American Legion Ottawa Deputy Secretary General of Michigan Leesburg, Va. Butch Miller Petty Offi cer 2nd Class Theodore Roosevelt IV Veterans Aff airs Dearborn, Mich. Past National Commander Shawn Pugmire Chairman, American Commission BeBe Winans The American Legion U.S. Coast Guard Legion 100th Anniversary Republic of China Gary and Brenda Nashville, Tenn. Greenfi eld, Ind. Honorary Committee Taipei Towers Alfonso Pulido New York Motorcycle display Fang A. Wong Hon. Jeff Miller National Jennifer Soroka Granbury, Texas Past National Commander U.S. House of Sergeant-at-Arms N. Larry Rozier Assistant Director of The American Legion Representatives The American Legion National Historian Events Gen. Jing-Ling Tseng Flushing, N.Y. Washington Griffi th, Ind. The American Legion Hilton Americas Houston Minister Raleigh, N.C. Houston Veterans Aff airs Carol Wright Bron R. Mogenis Alex Quade Commission Senior Event Manager Trustee Freelance reporter Hon. Bernard Sanders Gil Sosa Republic of China Hilton Americas Houston Four Chaplains Foundation Fayetteville, N.C. U.S. Senate Superintendent of Taipei Houston Woodbridge, Va. Washington Veteran Services Judi Quesonova, CMP Precinct 2 Harris County Robert S. Turner Allison Young Glenn Moody Vice President of Richard J. Santos Highlands, Texas Past National Reporter Angleton, Texas Convention Services Past National Commander Commander USA Today Greater Houston CVB The American Legion Robert Spanogle The American Legion McLean, Va. Gordon Moore Houston Selbyville, Del. Past National Dalton, Ga. Dominion President Commander/Past National Deputy Chief The Royal Canadian Legion Jeanette Rae G. Michael Schlee Adjutant Maggi Van Dyk Leslie Young Ottawa National Vice Commander Chairman The American Legion President Mahoning Township The American Legion National Security Indianapolis S.A. Van Dyk Insurance, Fire Department Paul A. Morin Reno, Nev. Commission Inc. Mahoning Township, Pa. Past National Commander The American Legion C.W. Sparks Oak Brook, Ill. The American Legion Brig. Gen. Joe E. Alexandria, Va. Pearland, Texas Pamela Young Chicopee, Mass. Ramirez Jr. Staff Sgt. Beau A. Vore Reporter Commandant, Kevin M. Schmiegel Lynn Sparks U.S. Air Force KITV-TV Robert L. Morrill Corps of Cadets Vice President Pearland, Texas Honolulu Chairman Texas A&M University U.S. Chamber of Commerce Michael E. Walton Public Relations College Station, Texas Washington Deputy Miste M. Chairman Commission Strickland Convention Commission The American Legion David K. Rehbein William F. Schrier Nash County The American Legion Latham, N.Y. Past National Commander Advisory Committee Sheriff ’s Offi ce Springfi eld, Ill. The American Legion to the National Nashville, N.C. John D. Morris Ames, Iowa Commander Roseann Waters Houston The American Legion Lt. Gen. Jeff rey Seymour, Ind. Maurice Renaud Sedro-Woolley, Wash. W. Talley John E. Neylon Amis des Vététans Chief, Army Reserve Mr. and Mrs. Dave National Vice Commander Américains Glenn Scott Washington Watson The American Legion Normandy, France El Paso, Texas Chandler, Ind. Twin Mountain, N.H. Bruce Thiesen Agnes Rieger Hon. Eric K. Shinseki Past National Jerome Webb Brian O’Hearne 2013 National Oratorical Secretary Commander Project Director National Adjutant Contest Winner Department of Veterans The American Legion AARP Foundation-SCSEP Sons of The Kansas City, Mo. Aff airs Fresno, Calif. South Atlanta, Ga. American Legion Washington Buzzards Bay, Mass.
95th National Convention 35 TIFANI HIGHTOWER CSU Graduate, 2012 Data Supervisor, United Parcel Service 42A Human Resource Specialist, US Army Reserves YOU CAN. YOU WILL.
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George R. Brown Convention Center – Hall A, Level 1, Aug. 27 – 29, 2013
AGENDA SUBJECT Gareth Hanson, Enderlin, N.D. TO CHANGE 2013 Boys Nation President TUESDAY, AUG. 27 2013 Eagle Scout of the Year Mark Chmielewski, Salem, Conn. 7:30 a.m. 2013 Junior Shooting Sports Prelude Precision Champion Maestro Peter Ole’ 2013 Junior Shooting Sports 8 a.m. Sporter Champion Call to Order 2013 National Oratorical James E. Koutz Contest Champion National Commander Agnes Rieger, Kansas City, Mo. Indiana Presentation of Spirit of Rita Cosby Advancement of Colors Service Awards Master of Ceremonies Harrisburg Post 472 By James E. Koutz Houston National Commander Rita Cosby is a TV host, correspondent and best-selling Indiana author who has anchored highly rated prime-time shows National Anthem on Fox News Channel and NBC. She is currently a special By Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. correspondent for “Inside Edition” and hosts WOR’s radio Invocation Bryan B. Battaglia program “The Rita Cosby Show.” The three-time Emmy Ronald Derrick Senior Enlisted Adviser to the Chairman winner’s honors include the Matrix Award, Headliner National Chaplain of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Idaho Award and Jack Anderson Award. Because of Cosby’s 9:15 a.m. “extraordinary journalism and exemplary service on behalf Pledge of Allegiance Address of her community,” the state of New York declared Oct. 11, Alfonso Pulido 2010, as “Rita Cosby Day.” In 2011, she was recognized by Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. National Sergeant-at-Arms Congress for her professional and charitable Bryan B. Battaglia Indiana achievements. Senior Enlisted Adviser to the Chairman POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony Cosby’s recent best-seller, “Quiet Hero: Secrets From My of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Father’s Past,” details her discoveries about her father’s past G. Michael Schlee 9:30 a.m. as a Polish resistance fi ghter in the Warsaw Uprising and Chairman, National Security Commission Introduction Nazi POW who was saved by U.S. troops. Met with critical Maryland acclaim, the book is required reading at some major U.S. Randall Fisher Peggy Thomas universities and has been used by others in discussions on Chairman, Foreign Relations Commission National President PTSD suff erers and their families. Kentucky American Legion Auxiliary Preamble to The American 9:35 a.m. Legion Constitution Presentation of Sons of The American Legion To Samsung North America James E. Koutz The American Legion Pennsylvania Yang Kuy Kim National Commander Distinguished Service Medal 10 a.m. President and CEO Indiana By James E. Koutz Address 11:30 a.m. 8:15 a.m. National Commander Indiana Mike Durant Welcome Opening Ceremony To Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders President, Pinnacle Solutions Inc. Daniel A. Corbin Musical Selections “The Real ‘Black Hawk Down’” 2012-2013 Department Commander, Charlotte Jones Anderson The American Legion of Texas BeBe Winans President 11:15 a.m. Rita Cosby Presentation of John D. Morris Kelli Finglass President, The American Legion 2013 Master of Ceremonies Director The American Legion Patriot Award Convention Corp. of Texas The American Legion 9:55 a.m. Youth Champions By James E. Koutz 11:40 a.m. Greetings 2012 Baseball All-Academic National Commander Address Team Captain Christopher J. Huntzinger Indiana Theodore Roosevelt IV Past National Commander
95th National Convention 37 Agenda of the 95th National Convention of The American Legion
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Distinguished Service Medal recipient Described in the awarding NEC resolution For God and Country as “an organization who during its existence we associate ourselves has actively sought to provide excitement, together for the glamour, a constant smile of thanks and lifted spirits,” the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders following purposes: made their fi rst USO tour to South Korea in To uphold and defend 1979. Since then, the organization has been the Constitution of a partner with the USO as a morale builder the United States to deliver a “touch of home” to U.S. troops of America; and military families around the world, and is been greatly appreciated by those serving in to maintain law uniform. On the Cowboys sideline since 1960, and order; “America’s Sweethearts” have embraced an to foster and iconic role at home and abroad. perpetuate a one dallascowboyscheerleaders.com hundred percent Americanism; Sons of the American Revolution subject to change by the chairman. to preserve the 11:55 a.m. John E. Thompson WEDNESDAY, AUG. 28 memories and incidents Presentation President, National American Legion Press Association (NALPA) 7:30 a.m. of our associations in To James E. Koutz the Great Wars; National Commander Michael Dakduk Prelude Indiana Executive Director, Student Veterans Mystro Peter Ole’ to inculcate a sense of of America individual obligation to By The American Legion Riders 8 a.m. 1:15 p.m. the community, state Additional Check Presentations Musical Selections National Commander’s Report and nation; to Legacy Fund “Seven” musical group to Convention to combat the 12:35 p.m. 8:30 a.m. autocracy of both James E. Koutz Address National Commander Call to Order the classes and Lt. Gen. Jeff rey W. Talley Indiana the masses; James E. Koutz Chief, Army Reserve 1:30 p.m. National Commander to make right the Indiana 12:50 p.m. Call for Convention master of might; Salute to Colors Greetings Daniel S. Wheeler to promote peace and Gordon Moore National Adjutant Invocation good will on earth; Dominion President, The Royal Virginia Ronald Derrick to safeguard and Canadian Legion 1:40 p.m. National Chaplain transmit to posterity Idaho George Beaulieu Report of Credentials & Internal the principles of Dominion President, Army, Navy and Aff airs – Section 1 Pledge of Allegiance justice, freedom and Air Force Veterans in Canada (ANAVIC) 1:55 p.m. Alfonso Pulido democracy; John Crisford National Sergeant-at-Arms Report of Legislation and Rules to consecrate National Chairman, The Royal Indiana British Legion and sanctify our 2:10 p.m. 8:35 a.m. Gen. Tseng Jing-Ling comradeship by Report of Finance Certifi cate of Appreciation our devotion to Minister, Veterans Aff airs Commission, RECESS By James E. Koutz mutual helpfulness. Republic of China National Commander Joseph W. Dooley Note: Times of subsequent sessions Indiana President General, National Society, and convention committee reports are
38 The American Legion AgendaAgenda of the 95th National Convention of The American Legion
To Ronald Derrick President and CEO, USAA 9:20 a.m. Report of Economic National Chaplain 9 a.m. Address Employment and Veterans Idaho Preference, and Other Matters Presentation of Plaque to The Hon. Jeff Miller 8:40 a.m. the City of Indianapolis for the Chairman, U.S. House Committee on 11:50 a.m. Presentation – Chapel of Four 2012 National Convention Veterans Aff airs Report of Children & Youth Chaplains Legion of Honor Bronze By Fang A. Wong 9:35 a.m. Presentation of Garland Murphy Medallion Past National Commander Address Award and Legacy Award By Bron Mogenis New York Collection of Donations to the Trustee, Chapel of Four Chaplains The Hon. Eric Shinseki To James E. Koutz Secretary, U.S. Department of American Legion Child To James E. Koutz President, The American Legion 2012 Veterans Aff airs Welfare Foundation National Commander National Convention Corp. of Indiana 12:15 p.m. Indiana 9:55 a.m. 9:05 a.m. Address To David R. Hall Address Presentation – 2013 National Law The Hon. Bernard Sanders National Vice Commander Enforcement Offi cer of the Year Lawrence Romo West Virginia Director, Selective Service Chairman, U.S. Senate Committee on By James E. Koutz Veterans Aff airs To Glenn A. Hickman National Commander 10:05 a.m. National Vice Commander 12:45 p.m. Indiana Address Ohio Presentation – Employer of the To Deputy Miste M. Strickland Kevin M. Schmiegel To James H. Holland Year Awards for Hiring Veterans Nash County Sheriff ’s Offi ce Vice President National Vice Commander Middlesex, N.C. U.S. Chamber of Commerce By James E. Koutz South Carolina National Commander Presentation – 2013 National 10:20 a.m. Indiana To John E. Neylon Firefi ghter of the Year National Vice Commander Report of Credentials & Internal To CIAN, Inc. New Hampshire By James E. Koutz Aff airs – Membership Peoria, Ill. National Commander To Jeanette Rae Indiana 10:35 a.m. To Strategic & Homeland Defense National Vice Commander Department Membership Awards Division Nevada To Deputy Chief Leslie Young Colorado Springs, Colo. Mahoning Township Fire Department Collection of Donations to 8:50 a.m. Danville, Pa. National Emergency Fund To L-3 STRATIS Fayetteville, N.C. Address 11:35 a.m. Josue “Joe” Robles Presentation – American Legion Local Veterans Employment Representative of the Year Award By James E. Koutz National Commander Indiana To Stillwater Workforce Center Stillwater, Okla. Presentation – Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist of the Year Award By James E. Koutz National Commander Indiana Samsung Group To Job Service North Dakota Patriot Award recipient Fargo, N.D. In 1996, the South Korean electronics leader endowed a scholarship fund of $5 million for ad- Presentation – Enhance the Lives ministration by The American Legion. Through its endowment, Samsung was able to show its ap- of Disabled Persons Award preciation to the United States for coming to South Korea’s aid in its struggle against communist By James E. Koutz forces during the Korean War. Through the interest earned from the fund, the Samsung American National Commander Legion Scholarship Program has granted more than $4.66 million of scholarship money since its Indiana establishment. Nearly 1,700 direct descendents of U.S. wartime veterans have been able to attend colleges and universities because of the Samsung Group’s fi nancial support. To Precinct 2 Harris County Highland, Texas
95th National Convention 39 LFV&R/WG HIRU&KLOGUHQDUHWUDGHPDUNVVHUYLFHPDUNVRI6DPVXQJ(OHFWURQ 6DPVXQJ(OHFWURQLFV$PHULFD,QF6DPVXQJDQG6DPVXQJ+RS
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6DPVXQJLVFRPPLWWHGWRLPSURYLQJDFFHVVWRHGXFDWLRQIRUFKLOGUHQDFURVVWKH FRXQWU\2XU6ROYHIRU7RPRUURZSURJUDPSURPRWHV67(0 6FLHQFH7HFKQRORJ\ (QJLQHHULQJDQG0DWK OHDUQLQJDPRQJVWXGHQWVLQJUDGHVKHOSLQJWRNHHS $PHULFDQ\RXWKDWWKHIRUHIURQWRIWHFKQRORJ\DQGLQQRYDWLRQ Agenda of the 95th National Convention of The American Legion
Presentation – Employment Service Trophy Invocation 9:10 a.m. Service Local Offi ce Award 3:20 p.m. Ronald Derrick Address By James E. Koutz Report of Credentials & Internal National Chaplain Wayne Brock National Commander Aff airs – Section 2 Idaho Chief Scout Executive Indiana Pledge of Allegiance Boy Scouts of America 3:35 p.m. To Ottawa One Stop Center Alfonso Pulido 9:35 a.m. Ottawa, Ill. Report of National Sergeant-at-Arms Constitutional Amendments Report of Foreign Relations Presentation – Homeless Veterans Indiana 8:35 a.m. Outreach Award Salute to Colors 10:10 a.m. RECESS Presentation – The American Report of National Security By James E. Koutz Legion Fourth Estate Award National Commander Note: Times of subsequent sessions Aerospace Indiana By James E. Koutz and convention committee reports are Homeland Security and subject to change by the chairman. National Commander Craig Tillman Indiana Civil Preparedness Chairman, Homeless Veterans Task Force, Law and Order The American Legion of Michigan THURSDAY, AUG. 29 To KITV-TV Honolulu Merchant Marine Dearborn, Mich. 8:30 a.m. To Alex Quade Military Aff airs Presentation – Employer of Call to Order Older Workers Award Fayetteville, N.C. Naval Aff airs James E. Koutz By James E. Koutz To USA Today Collection of Donations to National Commander McLean, Va. National Commander Indiana Operation Comfort Warriors Indiana Salute to Colors To AARP Foundation – SCSEP South Atlanta, Ga. 1:30 p.m. Address Leslie Young David Bellavia Firefi ghter of the Year Award Silver Star recipient recipient Second Battle of Fallujah Batavia, N.Y. Leslie Young, deputy chief for the Mahoning Township Fire Department in 1:45 p.m. Montour County, Pa., has spent the past 10 Address years developing and implementing a fi re The Hon. Ted Cruz prevention curriculum, and serves as the U.S. Senate county’s Fire Prevention Committee chair. Young established a junior fi refi ghter 2 p.m. program and co-founded a fi re-safety summer Report of Americanism camp for children, and in 2010 she helped rescue a woman from an apartment fi re. Announcement of Winning Departments Frank N. Belgrano Jr. Trophy Ralph T. O’Neil Education Trophy 2:15 p.m. Miste M. Strickland Presentation – Daniel J. O’Connor Law Enforcement Offi cer Americanism Trophy of the Year Award recipient To winning department Miste M. Strickland, a deputy with the Nash 2:20 p.m. County, N.C., Sheriff ’s Offi ce, has worked in a number of diff erent departments and Report of Veterans Aff airs operations, with special emphasis on juvenile & Rehabilitation crime and sex abuse. She served as a court- Claims and Ratings appointed children’s advocate before being Hospitals and Medical Services hired by the sheriff ’s offi ce. Strickland is an Army veteran who recently Announcement of joined The American Legion. Winning Department William F. Lenker National
95th National Convention 41 Agenda of the 95th National Convention of The American Legion
11:10 a.m. Spirit of Service Army Sgt. Edwin Presentations Award recipients Garcia, based at Camp Pendleton, Calif., 11:30 a.m. The Spirit of Service Award, now in its volunteers at least Presentation of Plaque and Colors 14th year, is given to outstanding military twice a month with to Outgoing National Commander professionals in each of the fi ve service several community branches who are actively committed to By John P. “Jake” Comer (colors) organizations, including volunteer community service during their the Bread of Life Rescue Past National Commander off -duty hours. Massachusetts Mission, Brother Beeno’s Rescue Mission and Big Brothers of San By Richard M. Pedro (plaque) Each servicemember is selected by his or her command offi ce. The winners Diego County, and coordinates volunteer Past National Commander sessions for Habitat for Humanity. Garcia New York will receive trophies from National Commander James E. Koutz, as well as a has not only coordinated fundraising Noon (or at the conclusion of all one-year membership in The American events for St. Jude Children’s Research other business) Legion. They will also participate in the Hospital but persuaded co-workers to national convention parade. volunteer, and serves at the fi rst-aid and Special Order of Business water stations during St. Jude walks. Election of National Offi cers National Commander Navy Petty Offi cer Coast Guard Petty Administration of the Oath of 2nd Class Komlan Offi cer 2nd Class Offi ce to the National Commander Agbagba was born Shawn Pugmire has in Togo and moved donated numerous Acceptance Speech by Newly Elected to the United States hours of off -duty time National Commander in 2004. Based at to volunteer endeavors Election of National Norfolk, Va., Agbagba in the community Vice Commanders has directed or surrounding Air Installation of National participated in Station San Francisco. Vice Commanders numerous community relations projects, Perhaps the most intensive is his work as including trash pickup, Red Cross a volunteer fi refi ghter for a nearby fi re Presentation of Colors to Newly outreach, multicultural events, the department, where Pugmire donated more Elected National Commander command food bank, and organizing than 600 hours in the last year responding Response Speech by Newly Elected Habitat for Humanity programs that his to emergency calls, coordinating support National Commander fellow sailors can support. He also serves for various events and more. He also Presentation of Newly Elected as a leadership continuum instructor for coaches a boys soccer team and created a President of the American newly promoted petty offi cers. teen workout program with his wife. Legion Auxiliary Presentation of Newly Elected National Commander of the Sons of Marine Corps Air Force Staff Sgt. The American Legion Sgt. Man Chan, in Beau Vore, based at the words of one Traverse City, Mich., Unfi nished Business nominator, “always maintains a large roster Benediction conducts himself as a of volunteer activities. Ronald Derrick goodwill ambassador His eff orts in the local National Chaplain to the local community range Idaho community.” Based at include founding and Camp Lejeune, N.C., managing a local food Retirement of POW/MIA Flag Chan has donated more than 390 hours pantry, serving as entertainment director Retirement of Colors since 2011 to Marine Corps community- for the Vacation Bible School at his church, Adjourn building events, most often in interaction and volunteering at a community heritage with military family members, and festival. In addition, his work on behalf of Note: The National Executive more than 75 hours to the surrounding his fellow servicemembers and veterans Committee will meet within 24 hours after community, events involving children, ranges from directing the county’s largest the close of the convention. housing construction and the elderly. military funeral to visiting patients at a local VA hospital on Veterans Day.
42 The American Legion The American legion Honor Roll
Past National Commanders 1919-2012
Franklin D’Olier† Daniel J. Doherty† Dan Daniel† Harry G. Wiles† William M. Detweiler Pennsylvania 1919-20 Massachusetts 1937-38 Virginia 1956-57 Kansas 1975-76 Louisiana 1994-95 Frederic W. Galbraith Jr.† Stephen F. Chadwick† John S. Gleason Jr.† William J. Rogers† Daniel A. Ludwig Ohio 1920-21 Washington 1938-39 Illinois 1957-58 Maine 1976-77 Minnesota 1995-96 John G. Emery† Raymond J. Kelly† Preston J. Moore† Robert Charles Smith† Joseph J. Frank Michigan 1921 Michigan 1939-40 Oklahoma 1958-59 Louisiana 1977-78 Missouri 1996-97 Hanford MacNider† Milo J. Warner† Martin B. McKneally† John M. Carey† Anthony G. Jordan Iowa 1921-22 Ohio 1940-41 New York 1959-60 Michigan 1978-79 Maine 1997-98 Alvin M. Owsley† Lynn U. Stambaugh† William R. Burke† Frank I. Hamilton† Harold L. Miller Texas 1922-23 North Dakota 1941-42 California 1960-61 Indiana 1979-80 Virginia 1998-99 John R. Quinn† Roane Waring† Charles L. Bacon† Michael J. Kogutek† Alan G. Lance Sr. California 1923-24 Tennessee 1942-43 Missouri 1961-62 New York 1980-81 Idaho 1999-00 James A. Drain† Warren H. Atherton† James E. Powers† Jack W. Flynt† Ray G. Smith† District of Columbia 1924-25 California 1943-44 Georgia 1962-63 Texas 1981-82 North Carolina 2000-01 John R. McQuigg† Edward N. Scheiberling† Hon. Daniel F. Foley† Al Keller Jr.† Richard J. Santos Ohio 1925-26 New York 1944-45 Minnesota 1963-64 Illinois 1982-83 Maryland 2001-02 Howard P. Savage† John Stelle† Donald E. Johnson† Keith Kreul Ronald F. Conley Illinois 1926-27 Illinois 1945-46 Iowa 1964-65 Wisconsin 1983-84 Pennsylvania 2002-03 Edward E. Spaff ord† Paul H. Griffi th† L. Eldon James† Clarence M. Bacon John A. Brieden III New York 1927-28 Pennsylvania 1946-47 Virginia 1965-66 Maryland 1984-85 Texas 2003-04 Paul V. McNutt† James F. O’Neil† John E. Davis† Dale L. Renaud† Thomas P. Cadmus Indiana 1928-29 New Hampshire 1947-48 North Dakota 1966-67 Iowa 1985-86 Michigan 2004-05 O. Lee Bodenhamer† Perry Brown† William E. Galbraith† James P. Dean† Thomas L. Bock Arkansas 1929-30 Texas 1948-49 Nebraska 1967-68 Mississippi 1986-87 Colorado 2005-06 Ralph T. O’Neill† George N. Craig† William C. Doyle† John P. Comer Paul A. Morin Kansas 1930-31 Indiana 1949-50 New Jersey 1968-69 Massachusetts 1987-88 Massachusetts 2006-07 Henry L. Stevens Jr.† Erle Cocke Jr.† J. Milton Patrick† Hon. H.F. Gierke Marty Conatser North Carolina 1931-32 Georgia 1950-51 Oklahoma 1969-70 North Dakota 1988-89 Illinois 2007-08 Louis A. Johnson† Donald R. Wilson† Alfred R. Chamie† Miles S. Epling David K. Rehbein West Virginia 1932-33 West Virginia 1951-52 California 1970-71 West Virginia 1989-90 Iowa 2008-09 Edward A. Hayes† Lewis K. Gough† John H. Geiger † Robert S. Turner Clarence E. Hill Illinois 1933-34 California 1952-53 Illinois 1971-72 Georgia 1990-91 Florida 2009-10 Frank N. Belgrano Jr.† Arthur J. Connell† Joe L. Matthews † Dominic D. DiFrancesco Jimmie L. Foster California 1934-35 Connecticut 1953-54 Texas 1972-73 Pennsylvania 1991-92 Alaska 2010-11 Ray Murphy† Seaborn P. Collins† Robert E.L. Eaton† Roger A. Munson† Fang A. Wong Iowa 1935-36 New Mexico 1954-55 Maryland 1973-74 Ohio 1992-93 New York 2011-12 Harry W. Colmery† J. Addington Wagner† James M. Wagonseller† Bruce Thiesen Kansas 1936-37 Michigan 1955-56 Ohio 1974-75 California 1993-94
Past National Commanders By Vote of National Convention
Bennett Champ Clark† Henry D. Lindsley† Eric Fisher Wood† Maurice Stember† Robert W. Spanogle Missouri Texas Pennsylvania New York 1975 Michigan 2008 Presided at Paris Caucus, Presided at St. Louis Caucus, Temporary Chairman Hamilton Fish† Richard M. Pedro March 1919 May 1919 and Secretary at Paris Caucus New York 1979 New York 2012 † † † Milton J. Foreman Theodore Roosevelt Jr. Thomas W. Miller E. Roy Stone Jr.† Illinois New York Nevada South Carolina 1987 Chairman, Executive Chairman Pro Tempore Committee at Paris Paris Caucus, March 1919
Honorary National Commanders
Gen. John J. Pershing† Marshal Ferdinand Foch† † Deceased
95th National Convention 43 More saving – more smiling
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The American Legion vision discount program is managed by EyeMed Vision Care. This is not insurance. Limitations and exclusions apply. The Sears trademark is registered and used under license from Sears Brands LLC. Target Optical® is a registered mark of Target Brands Inc. used under license. Distinguished Service Medal Recipients
The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal is awarded after nominations are presented by the national commander, or by department action. The gold-based medallion is inscribed with the words “Distinguished Service” on the front. The reverse side of the medallion features the name of the recipient. The medal is awarded at the national convention, in recognition of outstanding service to the nation and to the ideals of The American Legion. Also presented is a walnut plaque with a gold-plated relief depicting the “Guardians of Freedom” and the name of the recipient. Read profi les of each recipient online: www.legion.org/distinguishedservicemedal
1951 Gen. Charles P. Summerall 1981 American space shuttle astronauts John Young and Robert Crippen 1953 Rep. Royal C. Johnson* 1982 President Ronald W. Reagan 1954 Maj. Gen. George A. White* 1983 Adm. Hyman G. Rickover 1955 Dr. Jonas E. Salk 1921 Marshal Ferdinand Foch of France Maj. Gen. Ellard A. Walsh 1984 Sen. J. Strom Thurmond Adm. David Beatty of Great Britain 1956 Vice Adm. Joel T. Boone 1985 Hon. Caspar W. Weinberger Gen. Baron Jacques of Belgium Charles Stewart Mott Fleet Adm. William F. Halsey Jr.* Gen. Armando Diaz of Italy M. Charles Bertrand of France 1957 Gen. Mark W. Clark 1987 Hon. William H. Webster Bishop Fulton J. Sheen 1922 Gen. John J. Pershing 1988 Douglas Edwards 1958 Bernard Mannes Baruch 1923 Adm. Robert E. Coontz Unknown servicemen of WWI, WWII 1989 Hon. Howard H. Baker Jr. Gen. Josef Haller of Poland and Korea, interred at the Tomb of 1990 Dr. Michael E. DeBakey 1926 Ignace Jan Paderewski of Poland the Unknowns, Arlington National Cemetery* 1991 President George H.W. Bush 1927 Comte Francois Marie Robert Dejean of France 1959 Sen. Robert S. Kerr 1992 Richard Thornburgh 1993 1928 Field Marshal Edmund Allenby 1961 President John F. Kennedy Gen. Colin Powell of Great Britain 1962 Gen. Lucius D. Clay 1994 Walter Annenberg 1929 Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis Dr. Thomas A. Dooley* 1995 Crew of the Enola Gay 1930 Adm. William S. Sims 1963 Cardinal Francis Spellman (Paul W. Tibbets, Dutch Van Kirk, Tom Ferebee, Dick Nelson and 1942 Gen. Douglas A. MacArthur 1964 Dr. Charles W. Mayo Bob Caron*) 1943 Gen. George C. Marshall 1965 President Herbert C. Hoover* 1996 Rep. G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Hon. James F. Byrnes Adm. Ernest J. King 1997 Sen. Robert J. Dole 1966 Capt. Roger H.C. Donlon 1944 Hon. Frank Knox* 1999 Zachary Fisher* Henry Ford 1967 Hon. Tom C. Clark Gen. Henry H. “Hap” Arnold 2000 Sen. Orrin Hatch 1968 President Lyndon B. Johnson 1945 President Franklin D. Roosevelt Gen. William C. Westmoreland 2001 Gen. Henry H. Shelton Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr.* 2002 Rep. Bob Stump Ernest (“Ernie”) Pyle* 1969 President Richard M. Nixon Hon. Henry L. Stimson 1970 Rep. Olin E. Teague 2003 Drs. Jeanne Mager Stellman and Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz Steven Stellman Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower 1971 Rep. L. Mendel Rivers* Sen. Richard B. Russell* 2005 Gen. Richard B. Myers 1946 J. Edgar Hoover Bob Hope 1972 Sen. John C. Stennis 2006 Maj. Gen. Patrick H. Brady William Randolph Hearst DeWitt Wallace 2007 Dr. Kenneth W. Kizer Maj. Gen. Lewis B. Hershey 1974 Hon. Henry A. Kissinger 2008 President George W. Bush Hon. Cordell Hull Rep. F. Edward Hebert 2009 Gen. David H. Petraeus 1947 Lt. Gen. William S. Knudsen 1975 Harry W. Colmery Sen. Edward Martin 2010 Boy Scouts of America Chief Justice Fred M. Vinson 1976 Pat O’Brien 2011 Chet Edwards 1949 President Harry S. Truman 1977 Dr. Howard A. Rusk George Herman (“Babe”) Ruth* 2012 Sen. Richard Lugar Maj. Gen. Frank Parker* 1978 Bowie K. Kuhn 2013 Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders 1979 1950 Charles F. Johnson Jr. Thomas A. Murphy Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord 1980 President Gerald R. Ford Rep. Edith Nourse Rogers Dead and missing of the Vietnam War*
Not awarded in 1924, 1925, 1931-1941, 1948, 1952, 1960, 1973, 1986, 1998 and 2004. * awarded posthumously
95th National Convention 45 Youth Champions
2013 Oratorical Champion 2013 Eagle Scout of the Year Agnes Rieger Mark Chmielewski Kansas City, Mo., sponsored by Post 95, Salem, Conn., Troop 123 Liberty, Mo. Chmielewski, a junior at East Lyme High School Rieger won the 76th American Legion Oratorical and a member of Troop 123, is The American Contest in Indianapolis in April with a speech Legion Eagle Scout of the Year for 2013. He about the need for Americans to study and know received a $10,000 college scholarship. well the U.S. Constitution. She earned an $18,000 college scholarship. The award recognizes Chmielewski’s practical citizenship at school and in Scouting, and his “Now don’t get me wrong – knowing the story passioni andd commitmentit t tot community service. For his Eagle Scout project, he behind the spelling of ‘Pennsylvania’ in our Constitution is a pretty fun fact,” planned and led the restoration of a 100-year-old dam and the creation of an she said during one of her orations. “It could even be an ice-breaker to a adjacent public park. conversation – a conversation about how, when it comes to our Constitution, we don’t know enough and must educate ourselves and each other. It is one of He received the Lions Club Young Leaders in Service Gold Seal Award (for more our honors to do this. than 100 hours of community service in a year) each year from 2009 through 2012. He is also the junior vice commander of Sons of The American Legion “And we have no excuse not to. George Washington had stage fright, and to Squadron 128. be honest, so do I. But if President Washington could try to create and save something great, then so can I. So can you. And together we must.” Chmielewski plans to become a health/physical education teacher, and perhaps, eventually, a school principal.
2012 Baseball Player of the Year 2012 Boys Nation President Emerson Gibbs Jonathan Hess New Orleans, sponsored by Post 125, Tuscaloosa, Ala., sponsored by New Orleans Holy Spirit Catholic High School, Tuscaloosa, Ala. Gibbs was named the 2012 George W. Rulon American Legion Baseball Player of the Year at the Hess was elected president of American Legion conclusion of the 2012 American Legion World Boys Nation at Marymount University in Arlington, Series in August. He also won the Bob Feller Va., in July 2012. Pitching Award, and pitched a complete shutout in A student at Holy Spirit Catholic High School, Hess the fi nal game. has participated in youth orchestra, the Science Gibbs recently completed his freshman year as a pitcher at Tulane University. Olympiad, National Honor Society and the academic team Scholar’s Bowl. He is Thanks to the ongoing relationship between The American Legion and the an Eagle Scout and a member of the Mayor’s Youth Council. National Baseball Hall of Fame, Gibbs and his family attended the 2013 Hess plans to attend the University of Alabama and become a physician. Baseball Hall of Fame Game in Cooperstown, N.Y., in June.
2012 Shooting Sports Champion 2012 Shooting Sports Champion
Colt Gross Cody Sanchez North Augusta, S.C., sponsored by Post Los Lunas, N.M., sponsored by Post 85, 71, North Augusta, S.C. Los Lunas, N.M. Gross won the National Championship Precision Sanchez won the National Championship Sporter Award at the 22nd Annual American Legion Air Award at the 22nd Annual American Legion Air Rifl e National Championship in Colorado Springs, Rifl e National Championship in Colorado Springs, Colo., in August 2012. Colo., in August 2012. He totaled an aggregate score of 2457.5 out of a He totaled an aggregate score of 2330.2 out of a possible 2509. possible 2509. Gross is a member of the North Augusta High School Naval Junior ROTC. Sanchez is a member of the Valencia County 4-H Club.
46 The American Legion Resources
SOUTH PACIFIC LINES POST 416 SPRING BRANCH POST 654 CROSBY POST 658 Support local 1216 W. Clay St. 3105 Campbell Road 14890 FM 2100 American Houston, TX 77019 Houston, TX 77080 Crosby, TX 77532 Contact: Johnny Molock (713) 462-5290 Contact: Don Guillory Legion posts (713) 240-3658 11 miles from GRBCC (281) 328-3591 or [email protected] PASADENA POST 521 (713) 819-5976 2 miles from GRBCC 20 miles from GRBCC Can host 150 2221 Preston Road Can host 250 Houston, TX 77503 HARRISBURG POST 472 Contact: Danny King RICHMOND POST 567 7299 Ave. C (281) 779-3792 1950 Lockwood Bypass Houston, TX 77012 12 miles from GRBCC Richmond, TX 77406 Contact: Ben Saenz Can host 300 (281) 342-6435 (713) 645-7015 SOUTH HOUSTON POST 490 25 miles from GRBCC 4 miles from GRBCC LEAGUE CITY POST 554 Can host 250 11702 Old Galveston Road South Houston, TX 77034 1650 Highway 3 South GARDEN OAKS POST 560 Contact: Wendell Denney League City, TX 77573 (713) 515-8267 (281) 332-8733 3720 Alba Road 15 miles from GRBCC 25 miles from GRBCC Houston, TX 77018 Can host 250 Can host 300 Contact: Landis Wyatt (713) 277-4956 CHANNELVIEW POST 644 ROSENBERG POST 271 5.5 miles from GRBCC 16417 Market St. 4520 Highway 36 South Can host 120 Channelview, TX 77530 Rosenberg, TX 77471 (281) 452-0466 Contact: Robert Rohan GRIFFITHZAHN POST 594 17.5 miles from GRBCC (281) 341-9966 7139 Dixie Drive 32 miles from GRBCC Houston, TX 77097 Can host 300 Contact: John Morris (713) 240-1905 5.5 miles from GRBCC Can host 170 NORTH SHORE SERGEANT YORK POST 397 10216 Challenger 7 Drive Jacinto City, TX 77029 (713) 673-5771 6.5 miles from GRBCC CRAIG POST 499 1601 16th St. Galena Park, TX 77547 (281) 974-4241 7 miles from GRBCC NORTHLINE POST 586 708 E. Parker Road Houston, TX 77076 Contact: Jose Galindo (830) 526-2320 7.2 miles from GRBCC Can host 100 JIM HAVENS POST 578 3415 Aldine Mail Route Houston, TX 77039 Contact: Joe Galindo (713) 692-0674 10 miles from GRBCC Can host 130
95th National Convention Resources
Houston Tours
Destination Houston (DH) is the offi cial tour operator for the 95th National Convention. All tours will depart from the George R. Brown Convention Center, Street Level, in front of Hall E, on the Avenida de las Americas. You may register on site at the DH booth, located at the registration desk in the convention center, during the following days and times: Moody Gardens on the Water, a science and nature wonderland in Galveston, features a Thursday, Aug. 22, noon to 4 p.m. spectacular Rainforest Pyramid, Discovery Pyramid, Aquarium Pyramid, two IMAX Friday, Aug. 23, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. theaters, lush gardens and nature trails. Photo courtesy Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau Saturday, Aug. 24, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, 9 to 11 a.m. to a number of great shopping locations. recovery from the disaster and has become The most famous is the Houston Galleria, a fascinating combination of old, restored Monday, Aug. 26, 8:30 a.m. to noon. located close to downtown. and new. Your group will tour two of the Times are subject to change. Final tour landmark historical homes in Galveston, prices are determined based on the total highlighting the glamour and wealth of the number of attendees for each tour. All tour SHOPPING EXCURSION – city in the 1800s. Price includes admission descriptions include a high and low range, OLD TOWN SPRING/WOODLANDS to the Bishop’s Palace and the 1894 Opera and the fi nal price will be determined Saturday, Aug. 24, 1 – 6 p.m., $25-$48 House, and a meal voucher for your stroll 48 hours prior to the scheduled tour. Two other popular Houston shopping along the famed “Strand” for lunch. Convention registration badges are required locations are Old Town Spring (for the for all tours. antique shopper) and the Woodlands Mall & Market Street. HOUSTON CITY TOUR Friday, Aug. 23, Saturday, Aug. 24, Sunday, Aug. 25, and Monday, Aug. 26, SPACE CENTER HOUSTON 9 a.m. – noon, $26-$40 Friday, Aug. 23, Saturday, Aug. 24, and Experience the excitement of Houston as Monday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., a truly international city. From the impres- $48-$57 sive downtown Theater District to the As the offi cial visitors center for NASA’s historic Rice University campus, the tour Johnson Space Center, guests will highlights some of the green spaces and experience the thrill and adventure of the skyscrapers that coexist in downtown manned spacefl ight program fi rsthand. Houston. The tour passes the affl uent River Space Center Houston gives visitors an Oaks area, where stunning homes of the opportunity to learn the accomplishments rich and famous abound. The tour continues of NASA while exploring the past, present at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, the and future of human spacefl ights Price Houston Children’s Museum, the Museum includes admission to Space Center of Health and Medical Science, and the Houston. Houston Holocaust Museum. The “Magic Circle” with the Galleria, a luxurious 3-story GALVESTON ISLAND HISTORIC TOUR shopping extravaganza sporting a center Friday, Aug. 23, Saturday, Aug. 24, and ice-skating rink and the impressive Williams Monday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Tower, is another of the city’s highlights. The $65-$75 dynamic 64-foot-high “Water Wall” is the Take a comfortable journey through focal point of Williams Park. historic Galveston Island, where the glories of the 19th century are interwoven with SHOPPING EXCURSION – GALLERIA 20th-century pleasures. Galveston, Texas, Friday, Aug. 23, and Monday, Aug. 26, was the second richest city in the United 1 – 5 p.m., $20-$42 States and the leading cotton port in the Partake in one of Houston’s favorite world until the devastating hurricane activities: shopping. The city plays host of 1900. The city made a remarkable PhotoPhotocourtesyGreaterHoustonConventionandVisitorsBureau courtesy Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
48 The American Legion ResourcesResources
Houston Tours
MOODY GARDENS GEORGE BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & Friday, Aug. 23, Saturday, Aug. 24, MESSINA HOF WINERY and Monday, Aug. 26, Monday, Aug. 26, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., $80-$90 $65-$85 Moody Gardens is a 142-acre recreation- This tour travels north of Houston to al and educational facility in Galveston. the library that is a tribute to George Experience the massive 40,000-square- H.W. Bush. The experience includes a foot Rainforest Pyramid that journey of his amazing career in politics, simulates the jungles of Asia, Africa and from ambassador to the United Nations the Americas. Moody Gardens features to becoming the 41st president of the more than 1,700 species of tropical United States. After the library tour, you plants, fi sh, exotic birds and brilliant will visit the Messina Hof Winery for butterfl ies. We will also visit the incred- lunch, a tour and a wine tasting. Price ible IMAX 3-D Theater. Moody Gardens includes admission to the George Bush houses the only one of its kind in the Presidential Library, tour and wine Southwest and one of only three such tasting at Messina Hof Winery, and theaters in the world. The six-story-tall lunch at a local restaurant. screen will amaze you with images that seem to come alive and leap off GALVESTON HAAK WINERY & the screen. Inside the newly opened TEXAS SEAPORT MUSEUM Aquarium Pyramid, guests will enjoy Friday, Aug. 23, and Monday, Aug. 26, touch tanks, special diver-to-guest 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., $72-$84 presentations and more. The Visit the fi rst and only winery in aquarium houses thousands of exotic, Galveston County for a tour and beautiful and mysterious creatures from tasting. The next stop: Galveston’s the world’s oceans. Visitors can observe historic Strand for lunch before taking a fur seals frolicking in frigid waters like harbor cruise in Galveston Bay. After the those of their North Atlantic homeland. cruise, take a tour of the tall ship Elissa Price includes admission to all Moody and visit the Texas Seaport Museum. With stores, The Galleria is the fourth largest Gardens attractions. Price includes admissions to Haak shopping center in the nation. Winery and the Texas Seaport Museum Photo courtesy Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (including Harbor Cruise), and lunch on the Strand.
At Home Health Equipment (scooter rental)
SCOOTER EXPO (713) 384-4235 Contact: Felicia Williams 4702 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, TX 77021 Wheelchair rental $40 per day, scooter rental $300 per week/$65 per day No delivery fee. Advance reservations required.
WHEELCHAIR & SCOOTER EXPRESS (713) 942-2522 Contact: Randy or Austin Wheelchair rental $48 per week, scooter rental $125 per week, delivery fee $155 (includes delivery and pickup) wheelchairscooterexpress.com
95th National Convention 49 Resources
Bus Transportation
Free and convenient transportation has returned to downtown Houston with Greenlink. Seven buses operate 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, approximately seven to 10 minutes apart. The route spans 2.5 miles with 18 stops, and connects major offi ce buildings along Smith and Louisiana streets to METRO transit, the convention corridor, hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Popular downtown destinations along the route include the George R. Brown Convention Center, Main Street Square, Discovery Green, Macy’s, GreenStreet (formerly Houston Pavilions), Phoenicia Specialty Foods, City Hall and the Central Library. The buses run on compressed natural gas (CNG), making them a cleaner transportation alternative. Features include a streamlined and modern design, low-fl oor access, perimeter seating, high-quality air conditioning and 28-seat capacity; the buses are also ADA-compliant and manufactured in the United States by GILLIG. Greenlink is operated by METRO through an interlocal agreement with the Downtown District. For more information, including stop locations, visit downtownhouston.org/getting-around.
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Area hospitals
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX 77030 (713) 791-1414
The Methodist Hospital
6565 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77030 La Branch (713) 790-3311 2 1 St. Joseph Medical Center 1401 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 757-1000 Lamar
Nearby pharmacies and drugstores GREEN STREET
1 The Park Drug Store (in Houston Center) 1200 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77010 (713) 650-1610
2 CVS 917 Main St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 982-5565
3 Walgreens 1315 St. Joseph Pkwy., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 658-0022 3
Medical Services
Arrangements have been made through various agencies to in case of an emergency situation within the convention center, list provide medical services for those attending The American Legion’s (713) 853-8087 as the number for security. 95th National Convention. If you are attending a meeting or other function at the Hilton During convention hours, if inside the George R. Brown Americas Houston, use any house telephone and dial 911 to Convention Center, a person needing medical attention should go report an emergency. The operator will then dispatch emergency to the nearest house telephone, dial 8087 and advise the dispatcher assistance to your location. If you would like to program your of the nature of the call. If you would like to program your cellphone cellphone in case of an emergency situation at the hotel, list (713) 577-6134 as the number for security. It is recommended that you verify emergency medical procedures at your hotel after checking in to your room. Personnel from the local VA medical center will be in Hall B of the George R. Brown Convention Center during trade-show hours to provide VAMC-related information. They will not attend to emergency medical situations unless absolutely necessary. Should you require medical services, you are encouraged to contact a nearby hospital, or follow the procedures listed above and seek the appropriate assistance. Any questions concerning these medical services may be directed to the Convention & Meetings offi ce at (317) 908-2426 or (317) 250-8150.
95th National Convention 51 Resources
Shuttle Schedule
52 The American Legion Inside the Organization National Offi cers ...... 54 National Executive Committee ...... 55 SAL Annual Report ...... 56-57 Commissions and Committees Americanism Legislative Commission ...... 59 Commission ...... 62 Commission on The American Children & Youth . . . . 59 Legion Magazine Convention Commission ...... 62 Commission ...... 59 National Security American Legion Commission ...... 62 Child Welfare Public Relations Foundation, Inc...... 60 Commission ...... 63 Economic Veterans Aff airs & Commission ...... 60 Rehabilitation Foreign Relations Commission ...... 63 Commission ...... 60 Administrative Finance Services ...... 63 Commission ...... 61 Financial Reports 64-78 Internal Aff airs Thank You ...... 79-80 Commission ...... 61 Covers the period ending June 1, 2013 The following pages of this offi cial program of the 95th National Convention of The American Legion contain an organization report for the year 2012-2013. Believing that delegates to the national convention are entitled to receive a concise statement of the major activities of The American Legion for the past year, ending with this national convention, your National Headquarters provides this organization report as a part of the offi cial program. A full detailed report has been submitted to the Congress of the United States, in accordance with the Legion’s congressionally granted charter and provisions of Public Law 249, 77th Congress, approved Sept. 18, 1941.
Presented to the City of Houston by George Hermann in 1914, Hermann Park is Houston’s most historically signifi cant public green space. The park rests on 401 acres in the heart of the Museum District. Things to see within the park include the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theatre, the Houston Garden Center, the Japanese Garden, a public golf course, the equestrian statue of Gen. Sam Houston, and the Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer Survivors’ Plaza. Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau National Officers
James E. Koutz Daniel S. Wheeler David R. Hall Glenn A. Hickman National Commander, Indiana National Adjutant, Virginia National Vice Commander National Vice Commander West Virginia Ohio The American Legion continues its commitment to serving the nation’s veterans, their families and all children. This commitment has served us well since 1919, when the veterans of World War I returned to U.S. soil and formed what would become the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization. As The American Legion convenes in Houston, delegates gather to conduct the vital business of this great organi- zation. From this convention will come policies that will direct the volunteer members as they work to make their communities – and our nation – better in the coming year, James H. Holland John E. Neylon Jeanette Rae and beyond. National Vice Commander National Vice Commander National Vice Commander The American Legion accomplishes its goals primarily South Carolina New Hampshire Nevada at the grass-roots level, but with direction from National Headquarters in Indianapolis and a major offi ce in Washington, D.C. The American Legion’s chief executive offi cer is the national commander, elected by national convention delegates to a one-year term. The fi ve national vice commanders are also chosen by the national convention. James E. Koutz is the 2012-2013 national commander of The American Legion. The major accomplishments of the Legion during his term are detailed in this offi cial program and organization report. Daniel S. Wheeler, national adjutant, is the chief Alfonso Pulido Ronald L. Derrick N. Larry Rozier administrative offi cer of The American Legion. The National Sergeant-at-Arms National Chaplain National Historian appointed national offi cers of the Legion are the national Indiana Idaho North Carolina adjutant, the national judge advocate, the national treasurer, the national chaplain, the national historian and the national sergeant-at-arms.
Steve Short P.B. Onderdonk Jr. George A. Buskirk Jr. Aide to the National National Judge Advocate National Treasurer Commander, Indiana Maryland Indiana
54 The American Legion National Executive Committee
National Executive Committee
Between national conventions, the administrative authority of The American Legion is exercised by the National Executive Committee, composed of the national commander, the fi ve national vice commanders, and one National Executive Committeeman (plus alternate) elected by each department.
Alabama Willis Frazier Montana Elmer W. Palmer Alaska James E. Pisa Nebraska Jerry Landkamer Arizona S. Paul Griffi n Nevada Dale R. Salmen Arkansas James V. Bynum New Hampshire Earlon L. Beale California Alan C. Lennox New Jersey Wm. Billy Mack Colorado Neal L. Thomas Jr. New Mexico Prospero J. Sanchez Connecticut Richard W. Anderson New York Charles I. Herschlag Delaware Larry J. Marcouillier North Carolina Jerry L. Hedrick District of Columbia Arturo Rivera North Dakota Curtis O. Twete Florida Robert J. Proctor Ohio William K. Balser France John H. Miller Oklahoma Warren D. Wilson Georgia Charles F. Wessinger Oregon Charles E. Schmidt Hawaii Andrew W. Johnson Pennsylvania Richard A. Coccimiglio Idaho Thomas E. Mattice Philippines Herbert J. Scholten Illinois Luis V. Gonzalez Puerto Rico Edwin Vargas Indiana W. Darrell Hansel Rhode Island Normand G. Vadnais Iowa John J. Ross South Carolina John E. Palmer Jr. Kansas David O. Warnken South Dakota Paul A. Evenson Kentucky Randall Coff man Tennessee Charles R. Dornan Louisiana Charles D. Aucoin Texas James E. Prendergast Maine Paul A. L’Heureux Utah William E. Christoff ersen Maryland Daniel E. Winpigler Vermont Richard H. Farmer Massachusetts Michael E. Cassidy Virginia George C. Lussier Jr. Mexico Michael D. Wood Washington Michael L. Montaney Michigan John H. Skinner West Virginia William W. Kile Minnesota Raymond DeZurik Wisconsin David L. Gough Mississippi Robert E. Gosa Wyoming William R. Wright III Missouri Charles W. Goodin
Past National Commanders
Past national commanders are life members of the National Executive Committee but have no vote. The NEC appoints the national adjutant, treasurer, judge advocate, chaplain, historian and sergeant-at-arms, and has complete control over the annual budget.
Keith A. Kreul Dominic D. DiFrancesco Harold L. Miller Thomas L. Bock Jimmie L. Foster Wisconsin Pennsylvania Virginia Colorado Alaska Clarence M. Bacon Bruce Thiesen Hon. Alan G. Lance Sr. Paul A. Morin Fang A. Wong Maryland California Idaho Massachusetts New York John P. Comer William M. Detweiler Richard J. Santos Marty F. Conatser Richard M. Pedro Massachusetts Louisiana Maryland Illinois New York Hon. H.F. Gierke Daniel A. Ludwig Ronald F. Conley Robert W. Spanogle North Dakota Minnesota Pennsylvania Michigan Miles S. Epling Joseph J. Frank Hon. John A. Brieden III David K. Rehbein West Virginia Missouri Texas Iowa Robert S. Turner Anthony G. Jordan Thomas P. Cadmus Clarence E. Hill Georgia Maine Michigan Florida
95th National Convention 55 42nd Sons of The American Legion National Convention
Greetings, and welcome to the 42nd National Convention of the Sons of The American Legion. During our visit to Houston, let us acknowledge and always remember REGISTRATION the sacrifi ces our veterans have made so we Thursday, Aug. 22 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. may have the freedom to celebrate another Friday, Aug. 23 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. outstanding year “for God and country.” Saturday, Aug. 24 8 a.m. – noon “Thank you veterans and all our troops” for your service to our great nation. CONVENTION COMMITTEE MEETINGS Who knew what great things we would Friday, Aug. 23 8:30 a.m. accomplish this year as “Proud Possessors of a Priceless Heritage” when the SAL bandwagon NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE steamed out of the 94th National Convention in Indianapolis? Traveling across the country, Christopher J. Huntzinger MEETINGS we gathered thousands of new members National Commander Friday, Aug. 23 10 a.m. into the American Legion family, constantly Pennsylvania Sunday, Aug. 25 2 p.m. promoting our ever-improving programs while “Forging our Future Together.” By using education, communication and motivation, our Sons of The American Legion provide a strong and powerful voice within the nation’s largest wartime veterans FRIDAY, AUG. 23 Roll Call organization. 10 a.m. First Report of We exhibited leadership once again this year with donations to the American Credentials Committee Legion Child Welfare Foundation. A total of $453,599 in contributions surpassed Pre-Convention National Membership Committee Report our goal and inched us closer to another all-time-high milestone. “Just for Kicks, Executive Committee Meeting and Awards Let’s Go for Six” (million) is our next target. 1 p.m. Child Welfare Foundation The commitment is in the numbers. I truly appreciate the hard work that our Call to Order team of more than 353,000 SAL members does to aid the nation’s veterans, our Committee Awards men and women currently serving, children and youth, and our communities. Salute to the Colors Presentation of National History Millions of dollars hwere donated this year by the Sons, as well as thousands of Invocation Book Contest Awards volunteer hours. Pledge of Allegiance Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation It was a privilege to serve and promote our American Legion family this year Committee Report and Awards with American Legion National Commander Jim Koutz and American Legion Preamble to the Constitution of Auxiliary National President Peggy Thomas. It has been an honor and pleasure to Sons of The American Legion Internal Aff airs Committee Report work for you as your national commander. Reading of the Convention Call Americanism Committee Report As we put the fi nishing touches on another marvelous year and look toward Roll Call more great things in the coming year, I want to thank you for all you do. It is you and Awards that makes the SAL what we have become: a positive infl uence in today’s society. Opening Remarks Presentation of the Community Sincerely yours in comradeship, Welcome from Host Detachment Service Scrapbook Awards Establishment of Convention National Vice Commanders Committees Reports Legislative and Rules Committee Children & Youth Committee Final Report of the National Report and Awards Commander Legislative and Rules Salute to the Colors Committee Report Finance Committee Report Christopher J. Huntzinger Recess Constitution and By-Laws National Commander SATURDAY, Committee Report AUG. 24 Final Report of the 9 a.m. Credentials Committee Call to Order Recess Salute to the Colors 2 p.m. Invocation Area Caucuses Pledge of Allegiance (or immediately following recess)
56 The American Legion SUNDAY, AUG. 25 Introduction of 2013 National 10:30 a.m. Installation of Newly Elected Sons of The American Legion Color Offi cers 8 a.m. Recess for Joint Memorial Service Guard Champions Benediction Call to Order 11 a.m. Special Order of Business Retirement of Colors Salute to the Colors Joint Memorial Service Nominations of Sons of The Final Adjournment Invocation American Legion Offi cers 12:30 p.m. 2 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance Election of National Commander, Call to Order Post-Convention National National Vice Commanders Salute to the Colors Roll Call Executive Committee Meeting Memorial Service
2012-2013 National Ofi cers
National Commander Christopher J. Huntzinger Pennsylvania National Chaplain Steven A. Blank Arizona National Vice Commanders National Historian Michael Kane Pennsylvania East John P. Waite Vermont National Judge Advocate Joseph Paviglianti New York South John T. Jennings Florida National Sergeant-At-Arms Brian K. Waters Pennsylvania Central Harrell T. Sorrels Indiana National Assistant Midwest Mike Deutser Oklahoma Sergeants-At-Arms Danny J. Poole Michigan West Mark S. Severance California Robert Fifi eld Massachusetts National Adjutant Brian J. O’Hearne Massachusetts Jeff L. Alvis Texas National Assistant Adjutants Michael W. Dooley Florida Harold E. Thompson Jr. Nebraska William Hill Maryland Ed Sheubrooks Florida National Commander’s Aide George Flasinksi Pennsylvania David Ridenour Indiana Robert J. Avery New York Lyle Larson Kansas Anthony W. Wright Pennsylvania
Past National Commanders
1968 Michael Seaton California 1983 Christopher R. Cerullo New York 1998 William E. Matoska Maryland 1969 Robert McBride Ohio 1984 Fred Hartline Ohio 1999 Byron J. Robichaux Louisiana 1970 J.R. Stillwell Illinois 1985 Woodrow L. Mudge† Colorado 2000 Richard L. Cook Oklahoma 1971 J.R. Stillwell Illinois 1986 Royce Doucet† Louisiana 2001 Kevin N. Winkelmann Texas 1972 John Smolinsky Massachusetts 1987 Douglas Bible Minnesota 2002 Cliff ord A. Smith Massachusetts 1973 Robert Faust California 1988 Richard L. League Maryland 2003 Steve C. Laws North Carolina 1974 James Hartman Maryland 1989 David Faust Wisconsin 2004 Neal C. Warnken Kansas 1975 Gregory Reis Illinois 1990 Charles R. Belles Virginia 2005 Michael J. Deacon Iowa 1976 Grant Jamieson Michigan 1991 Robert A. Worrel Indiana 2006 William L. Sparwasser Maryland 1977 Charles Gannon Maryland 1992 Eugene L. Sacco Oregon 2007 Earl R. Ruttkofsky Michigan 1978 John M. Sherrard California 1993 Charles Rigsby† Michigan 2008 Raymond P. Giehll Jr. Indiana 1979 Richard Kepler† Florida 1994 Roland D. Matteson Arizona 2009 Thomas E. Cisna Illinois 1980 Ernest Wilson† New Jersey 1995 Joseph Mayne Minnesota 2010 Mark E. Arneson Georgia 1981 Donald Willson† Pennsylvania 1996 John T. Dietz Kentucky 2011 David L. Dew Texas 1982 David P. Stephens Indiana 1997 Jack E. Jordan Texas 2012 James K. Roberts III Florida
Past National Commanders By Vote of National Convention
2009 Patrick J. Shea† Ohio †Deceased
95th National Convention 57 Veterans are twice as likely to be infected with chronic hepatitis C as the general population.
Chronic hepatitis C is a potentially serious disease that can damage the liver over time and lead to cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease and liver cancer. You can learn more about chronic hep C at www.TuneInToHepC.com. Tune In to Hep C is a national public health campaign created to educate people about chronic hepatitis C infection and the importance of taking action.
Are you ready to tune in to your hep C?
Doing nothing is not an option. Take action today. Don’t wait.
Copyright © 2013 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co. Inc., All rights reserved. INFC-1085319-0000 06/13 The American Legion 2013 Commissions & Committees
AMERICANISM COMMISSION The Americanism Commission off ers a variety of programs and activities Americanism committees to give recognition to the ideal of human values, along with the dignity
and worth of each individual. These programs and activities embrace ̈ Counter-Subversive essential aspects of an American’s relationship to his or her community, Activities Committee state and nation. Robert G. Bournival, Legion programs for our nation’s youth – the National High School New Hampshire, Chairman Oratorical Contest, Junior Shooting Sports, Boys State and Boys Nation, Emphasizes importance, Junior Law Cadet, American Legion Baseball and support for Scouting, awareness of subversive activities Joseph E. Caouette and infl uences New Hampshire including The American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year Award and The American Legion Scouting Square Knot Award – have helped thousands Chairman ̈ National Committee on Education to reach their potential by building physical, mental and moral alertness The Rev. James T. Akers, Jill K. Druskis while cultivating strong character and civic responsibility. Kansas, Chairman Nebraska The commission also works to help legal immigrants prepare for Works to maintain a strong Director citizenship and assimilation into U.S. society. Over the decades, many relationship between posts posts, districts and departments have hosted orientation sessions to help and schools teach profi ciency in English, U.S. history and civics.
COMMISSION ON CHILDREN & YOUTH The Children & Youth Commission strives to strengthen families against the forces of Children & Youth today’s complex society, and maintains programs that meet the needs of minors facing by the numbers challenges. The American Legion has been a strong advocate for the children and youth ̈ More than $300,000 of our nation since the organization’s founding in 1919. annually donated to Among the commission’s prominent programs is the Family Support Network (FSN), Children’s Miracle which connects Legion volunteers to military families with children at home. The Network Hospitals Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program provides cash grants to help military families through diffi cult times. Dennis R. Boland ̈ $847,158 to veterans’ Florida To fulfi ll its mission, the commission supports such notable organizations as families through TFA Chairman Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH), the Children’s Organ Transplant in 2012, helping Association (COTA), the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program and 1,711 children Jill K. Druskis Operation: Military Kids (OMK). Nebraska This pillar of The American Legion also includes support for programs that aim to Director prevent teen suicides, eradicate child pornography, ensure child safety and reduce substance abuse.
CONVENTION COMMISSION The Convention Commission conducts regular meetings during Convention Committee the year to review materials and choose future Legion national
convention cities from those that submit requests for proposals ̈ Distinguished Guests Committee Julian E. Weisler II, Texas, Chairman (RFPs). This process provides an opportunity for cities to be judged Coordinates activities for all distinguished guests in the same way during the initial review and site-visit process. invited to a national convention It is the commission’s desire to continue to attract new cities to host national conventions. Parades, concerts, special parties and more are worked out among the commission and local and Michael E. Walton Future convention sites Illinois regional entities. Cities are chosen several years in advance so the commission has plenty of time to plan an outstanding convention. Chairman ̈ Charlotte, N.C. (2014) ̈ Minneapolis (2018) Each year, the Convention & Meetings staff coordinates the Baltimore (2015) Indianapolis (2019) Bridget Robinson, CMP activities and programs of the national convention, as well as of ̈ ̈ Georgia the Spring and Fall Meetings in Indianapolis, and the Washington ̈ Cincinnati (2016) Director Conference. ̈ Louisville, Ky. (2017)
To read full versions of the 2013 reports by commission, visit www.legion.org/commissionsandcommittees.
95th National Convention 59 The American Legion 2013 Commissions & Committees
AMERICAN LEGION CHILD WELFARE FOUNDATION, INC. The mission of The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation (CWF) is to contribute CWF by the to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children. The foundation numbers corresponds with the mission of the Children & Youth Commission in the areas of child ̈ $734,220 in grants health, safety and family support. approved in 2012, In 1954, the Legion endorsed the separate incorporation of CWF. Since then, helping 20 the foundation has granted more than $12.6 million to nonprofi t youth-oriented organizations organizations. Grants are awarded to contribute to child welfare in two ways: ̈ More than $810,153 Dennis R. Boland ̈ Through the dissemination of knowledge about new and innovative organizations and/or programs designed to benefi t youth; in CWF contributions Florida received in 2012, President ̈ Through the dissemination of knowledge already possessed by established organizations so that such information can be best used in society. more than $509,451 of Jason R. Kees At its annual meeting, the CWF board of directors approves grants for projects to which came from Sons Illinois be completed in the next calendar year. Members of The American Legion Family are of The American Legion Executive Secretary primary contributors to the success and growth of CWF.
ECONOMIC COMMISSION The Economic Commission and its two standing subcommittees Economic committees are responsible for ensuring that U.S. veterans have the opportunity
to provide, with honor and dignity, the economic necessities of life of ̈ Employment Committee Albert M. Robotti, themselves and their families. To achieve this goal, the commission New Jersey, Chairman and subcommittees work closely with government agencies, nonprofi t Guides policy on veteran employment, organizations and industry. education, business development, These include the Department of Labor, the Department of Housing housing, transition assistance and Urban Development, the Offi ce of Personnel Management, the Small Harold D. Barnett and other matters Georgia Business Administration, the Department of Homeland Security, VA, Microsoft, PNC Bank and Military.com. Chairman Veterans Preference Committee The commission also continues to guide The American Legion’s eff orts ̈ Wendall J. Sandell, Joseph C. Sharpe Jr. to provide veterans with comprehensive education benefi ts and new Pennsylvania, Chairman District of Columbia employment and business opportunities, address the issue of better Director Covers federal employment law and recognizing military training and experience in the civilian workforce, and rights, U.S. Postal Service engage in the fi ght to end homelessness among veterans.
FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMISSION The Foreign Relations Commission is dedicated to the full accounting of POWs and Highlights MIAs, the defense of human rights and freedom, the promotion of peace, and the care of recent of veterans and their families living abroad. The commission works diligently to advance resolutions resolutions that speak to key foreign-relations issues concerning national interests of ̈ Taiwan Strait dialogue the United States. Secure national borders The commission conducts meetings and programs throughout the year to keep the ̈ against illegal drugs membership of The American Legion fully informed on current foreign-policy issues. It encourages bipartisan development of foreign policies consistent with the principles of ̈ Enhanced funding for Randall Fisher USAID Kentucky democratic activism and with the Legion’s portfolio of active resolutions. Chairman ̈ Support for world press freedom John Stovall ̈ Central America District of Columbia democracy promotion Director
60 The American Legion The American Legion 2013 Commissions & Committees
FINANCE COMMISSION The primary responsibilities of the Finance Commission Committees and divisions are to prepare a yearly budget for the National Executive
Committee, handle funds under that budget, and exercise ̈ Revenue ̈ National Emblem reasonable oversight to see that various divisions and Enhancement Sales Division departments of The American Legion operate within Committee Alvan T. Fuller, appropriations. The commission includes seven members, with Walter W. Ivie, Texas, Massachusetts, the national adjutant as ex offi cio secretary and the national Chairman Chairman Helps bring revenue Oversees sales of the Kenneth D. Danilson commander and national treasurer as ex offi cio members. Also attending these meetings, among others, are the executive into the Legion to Legion emblem and Iowa better achieve its items bearng the Chairman directors of the Washington and Indianapolis offi ces and the fi nance director. mission emblem, as well as George A. Buskirk Jr. A full fi nancial statement is incorporated in the auditor’s other organizational ̈ Fundraising Division equipment Indiana report inside this publication. Attention is also directed to the William A. Pease, National Treasurer report of The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, Inc. Indiana, Director ̈ Information Shawn T. Long, CPA Emblem Sales reported $11,871,268 in gross sales in 2012, Focuses mainly on Technology Division Indiana $1,728,552 in operating profi t, and 101,433 orders processed. nonmember donors Brad Pryor, Director From Jan. 1 to March 31, 2013, Emblem Sales reported to support Legion Indiana, Director $2,406,388 in gross sales, $415,610 in operating profi t, and programs through Plays a key role in the 22,293 orders processed. planned giving and selection and major gifts maintenance of all hardware and software Membership ̈ used by National Support Services Headquarters Greg Roth, Indiana, Director Manages the DMS program that focuses on new-member acquisition
INTERNAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION The Internal Aff airs Commission is charged with Internal Aff airs committees formulating and recommending policies, and overseeing
the implementation of adopted policies, relating to activities ̈ Constitution & ̈ Resolutions conducted within The American Legion as an organization. By-Laws Committee Assignment Among its purposes are membership and post development, Vincent Gaughan, Committee records administration for posts and individuals, Illinois, Chairman C. Wayne Schrader, post-revitalization training, Sons of The American Legion, Focuses on matters Illinois, Chairman relating to the Advances resolutions Larry J. Besson American Legion Riders, Legion College, and long-term programs and activities such as Paid-Up-For-Life (PUFL) organization of the during the national Illinois Legion convention Chairman membership, the Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) training program, and special projects.
John W. Querfeld The commission provides guidance and assistance to the ̈ Membership & ̈ Trophies, Awards Illinois national adjutant on necessary administrative operations, Post Activities and Ceremonials Director and monitors legislative and other regulatory activities that Committee Committee could potentially aff ect Legion posts and departments, Denise Rohan, Randall W. Busch, recommending appropriate courses of action. Wisconsin, Chairman Nebraska, Chairman Works to strengthen Supervises all offi cial Legion membership national awards and and relevance in the Offi cer’s Guide and communities Manual of Ceremonies
To read full versions of the 2013 reports by commission, visit www.legion.org/commissionsandcommittees.
95th National Convention 61 The American Legion 2013 Commissions & Committees
LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION The purpose of the Legislative Commission is to promote the legislative mandates Recent legislative of The American Legion before Congress. These mandates are dictated by resolutions victories adopted at a national convention or any meeting of the National Executive Committee. ̈ Stolen Valor Act of 2013 Neither the commission nor its staff can make policy decisions. National Defense The Legion’s legislative portfolio covers a large spectrum of issues, such as the ̈ Authorization Act for 2013 global war on terrorism, juvenile delinquency, veterans employment and education, military preparedness, immigration, fl ag protection and veterans health care. The ̈ Commercial Driver’s License Act of 2012 Kenneth F. Governor Legion’s mandates are promoted by oral and written testimony at congressional New York hearings, writing and mailing letters, and lobbying Congress through countless hours of ̈ World War I Centennial Chairman telephone calls, emails and face-to-face meetings. The National Legislative Council, the Commission Act American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion are critical components in Louis J. Celli the Legion’s grass-roots lobbying program. Massachusetts The legislative focus for the remainder of 2013 will be on fi scal 2014 appropriations Director and 2015 advance appropriations for medical care accounts for VA, homeland security and national defense, support for legislation to eliminate the disabled veterans tax, and passage of a constitutional amendment to protect the U.S. fl ag.
THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE COMMISSION The American Legion Magazine Commission is responsible for seven lines Lines of Legion media of media outreach emanating from National Headquarters, ranging from the ̈ National print publications, includ- organization’s printed annual report to real-time Twitter feeds to smartphone ing The American Legion Magazine, apps. Dispatch, the Annual Report, the The fl agship of the operation is The American Legion Magazine itself, which national convention guide, and debuted July 4, 1919, and today stands as the most widely circulated veterans numerous brochures and documents publication in the nation with a total monthly readership of approximately Legion.org web platform 3.5 million. The magazine also ranks No. 1 in the industry for subscribers having ̈ James H. Hall Social media New Jersey read four of the past four issues received. ̈ Chairman The Magazine Commission also has oversight of www.legion.org – the ̈ The national e-newsletter national American Legion website – and The American Legion Online Update, portfolio, including The American R. Jeff rey Stoff er a weekly e-newsletter with more than 435,000 subscribers. Other media Legion Online Update, the Dugout, Indiana responsibilities include the Burn Pit blog site, the organization’s national Legislative Update and emails from Director Facebook presence, outreach to major national media outlets, brochures and the national commander internal documents, the Annual Report, the National Convention Offi cial Program ̈ The Legion’s mobile platform, & Organization Report, and more. including apps for smartphones
̈ External media relations NATIONAL SECURITY COMMISSION The National Security Commission is responsible for developing and maintaining Top National The American Legion’s positions and policies relevant to national defense, homeland Security priorities security, and the well-being of U.S. servicemembers and their families. National security ̈ Opposing TRICARE fee is regarded as one of the Legion’s four pillars. increases Commission members and division staff work closely with each branch of the National defense U.S. military in an eff ort to stay well-informed on issues that aff ect troops and their ̈ funding families. Troop strength and military quality-of-life are among the commission’s highest Cyberspace threats G. Michael Schlee priorities. The commission also addresses issues related to illegal immigration. ̈ Maryland The commission meets during Spring and Fall Meetings, the Washington Conference ̈ Domestic oil pipeline Chairman and the national convention to hear presentations from military authorities and bring construction forward resolutions refl ecting the most up-to-date positions of the Legion on the latest ̈ Military sexual assault John Stovall national security concerns. Iranian nuclear-weapon District of Columbia The commission also coordinates the Legion’s blood-donor program, as well as the ̈ development Director ROTC Medals program and the National Law Enforcement and National Firefi ghter of the Year awards. ̈ Anti-fi nancial terrorism laws
62 The American Legion The American Legion 2013 Commissions & Committees
PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMISSION The Public Relations Commission communicates the organizational image, goals, Public Relations programs and legislative positions of The American Legion to national, regional and campaigns specialized media, corporate America and the public. ̈ Radio/television PSAs Public Relations tools can be downloaded online and are also available in print, free for patriotic holidays upon request. The commission off ers several media tools, such as regularly updated The American Legion suggested speeches for patriotic holidays, various information-campaign kits, and radio ̈ Amateur Radio Club and TV public-service announcements. (TALARC) Robert L. Morrill In May, the commission consolidated Heroes to Hometowns into Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW) and granted the latter status as an offi cial program of American ̈ Twitter.com/ New York AmLegionNewsCtr Chairman Legion Charities. In the same action, OCW was transferred from Public Relations to the Americanism Commission for operational oversight. ̈ Radio spots for Joseph H. March The commission will continue to engage emerging communication technologies to disaster-struck areas Maryland provide the most accurate, timely information to veterans and their families, and will about applying for Director help the Legion continue as the pre-eminent voice of, and for, the American veteran. Legion assistance
VETERANS AFFAIRS & REHABILITATION COMMISSION As one of the four pillars upon which The American Legion was founded, the Veterans VA&R priorities Aff airs & Rehabilitation (VA&R) Commission actively advocates for and exercises ̈ Fully Developed Claims independent oversight over hundreds of benefi ts, programs and opportunities that aim (FDC) process to compensate and care for U.S. military veterans and their dependents. Health-care services VA&R provides direct assistance to veterans and their families in a variety of ways, ̈ for female troops and including representation on disability claims and appeals, health-care advocacy, veterans deployment health and environmental exposures, medical and physical evaluation System Worth Saving Ralph P. Bozella boards, and memorial benefi ts. Additionally, the VA&R staff maintains an active voice ̈ Colorado in congressional deliberations regarding veterans issues, and has a well-established ̈ VA Voluntary Service Chairman and respected working relationship with the Department of Veterans Aff airs (VA) that (VAVS) program includes regular participation in major VA advisory committees. ̈ Improved care for those Verna L. Jones The commission will continue to lobby and fi ght to ensure that VA will indeed be with PTSD/TBI North Carolina capable of fulfi lling its mission to “care for him who shall have borne the battle, and his Annual Department Director widow and his orphan.” ̈ Service Offi cer School
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Executive Director Richard D. Holmes oversees operations of the commercial and technical- support divisions of the Legion’s facility in eastern Indianapolis, and is responsible for the performance of Emblem Sales, Information Technology, Fundraising, Corporate Sponsorships and Membership Support Services. Executive Director Peter S. Gaytan leads the Economic, Legislative, Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation and National Security/Foreign Relations divisions in Washington. Executive Director Jeff rey O. Brown performs duties assigned by the national adjutant Richard D. Holmes Peter S. Gaytan Jeff rey O. Brown and fi lls in for him when he is out of the offi ce. He also oversees the Indianapolis-based Indiana Maryland Indiana divisions, including Americanism, Children & Youth, The American Legion Magazine, Public Executive Director, Executive Director, Executive Director, Relations, Internal Aff airs, Human Resources, Maintenance, Convention & Meetings, The John H. Geiger Washington Offi ce National Headquarters, American Legion Library and the Emil A. Blackmore Museum. Operations Center, Indianapolis Indianapolis
To read full versions of the 2013 reports by commission, visit www.legion.org/commissionsandcommittees
95th National Convention 63 Report of Independent Auditors
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
Members of the National Finance Commission The American Legion National Headquarters Indianapolis, Indiana Report on Financial Statements We have audited the accompanying consolidated fi nancial statements of The American Legion National Headquarters (“Legion”), which comprise the consolidated statements of fi nancial position as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of activities and cash fl ows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the fi nancial statements. Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated fi nancial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of consolidated fi nancial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. Auditor’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated fi nancial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated fi nancial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated fi nancial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstate- ment of the consolidated fi nancial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated fi nancial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the eff ectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of signifi cant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated fi nancial statements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is suffi cient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Opinion In our opinion, the consolidated fi nancial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated fi nan- cial position of The American Legion National Headquarters as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the changes in its net assets and its cash fl ows for the years then ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Other Matter Our audits were conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the consolidated fi nancial statements as a whole. The consoli- dating statements of fi nancial position and activities are presented for purposes of additional analysis of the consolidated fi nancial statements rather than to present the fi nancial position and results of operations of the individual companies, and are not a required part of the consolidated fi nancial statements. Such information is the responsibility of management and was derived from and relates directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the consolidated fi nancial statements. The informa- tion has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audits of the consolidated fi nancial statements and certain additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the consolidated fi nancial statements or to the consolidated fi nancial statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. In our opinion, the information is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the consolidated fi nancial statements as a whole.
Indianapolis, Indiana May 2, 2013
64XX The AmericanThe American Legion Legion The American Legion NationalEntertainmentEntertai nHeadquartersment Consolidated Statements of Financial Position December 31, 2012 and 2011
See accompanying notes to consolidated fi nancial statements.
95th94th National National Convention Convention 65 The American Legion National Headquarters Consolidated Statement of Activities Year ended December 31, 2012
See accompanying notes to consolidated fi nancial statements.
66 The American Legion The American Legion NationalEntertainmentEntertai nHeadquartersment Consolidated Statement of Activities Year ended December 31, 2011
See accompanying notes to consolidated fi nancial statements.
95th94th National National Convention Convention 67 The American Legion National Headquarters Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011
See accompanying notes to consolidated fi nancial statements.
68 The American Legion The American Legion NationalEntertainmentEntertai Headquartersnment Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 and 2011
NOTE 1 – NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING Permanently Restricted Net Assets - The permanently restricted net asset class includes assets POLICIES of the Legion for which the donor has stipulated that the contribution be maintained in Nature of Organization: The American Legion National Headquarters (“Legion”) is a perpetuity. Donor-imposed restrictions limiting the use of the assets or its economic benefi t national veterans organization which was declared to be a corporate body by an Act of the neither expire with the passage of time nor can be removed by satisfying a specifi c purpose. United States Congress on September 16, 1919. Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents consist of bank deposits in According to the original act and subsequent amendments, the purpose of the Legion is “to accounts that are federally insured up to $250,000 per fi nancial institution. Additionally, the uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to promote peace and Legion holds funds at fi nancial institutions which are participating in the FDIC’s goodwill among the peoples of the United States and all the nations of the earth; to preserve transaction account guarantee program. Under this program non-interest bearing and the memories and incidents of the two World Wars and the other great hostilities fought to certain low interest accounts are FDIC insured in full through 2012 in addition to and uphold democracy; to cement the ties and comradeship born of service; and to consecrate separate from the coverage available under FDIC’s general deposit insurance rules. the eff orts of its members to mutual helpfulness and service to their country.” For purposes of the consolidated statement of cash fl ows, the Legion considers all highly Approximately 50% of the Legion’s income is derived from membership dues (including liquid investments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash amounts allocated for magazine subscriptions). An additional 13 to 14% is generated equivalents. through advertising for The American Legion Magazine. Another signifi cant source of income Inventory: Inventory consists of Emblem items held for sale, magazine paper and is Emblem Sales, which includes the sale of apparel, jewelry, and other items bearing the publication rights and is stated at the lower of cost or market using the fi rst-in, fi rst-out American Legion Emblem. Income is expended by the Legion on several diff erent programs, (FIFO) method. Supplies which are not intended for sale are expensed when purchased. including The American Legion Magazine, Emblem Sales, veterans’ assistance and Investments: Investments are carried at fair value. The fair values of investments are based rehabilitation, youth programs and others. The Legion’s youth programs include American on quoted market prices, where available. If quoted market prices are not available, fair Legion Baseball, oratorical contests and Boys Nation. values are based on quoted market prices of comparable instruments. Realized and unreal- Principles of Consolidation: The consolidated fi nancial statements include the accounts ized gains and losses are refl ected in the consolidated statements of activities. Premiums or of The American Legion National Headquarters, The American Legion Charities (“ALC”), The discounts on investments are generally recognized at the time of disposal or maturity. American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation (“ALEF”), and the National Emergency Fund Property and Equipment: Expenditures for property and equipment and items which (“NEF”) (collectively, “the Legion”). All material inter-organizational accounts and substantially increase the useful lives of existing assets and are greater than $1,500 are transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. capitalized at cost. The Legion records depreciation on the straight-line method at rates The American Legion Charities is a tax exempt trust established to solicit funds from designated to depreciate the costs of assets over their estimated useful lives. Buildings are individuals, organizations and corporations and to disburse said funds as may be directed to depreciated on the straight-line method using a thirty year life. All other capital assets are various Legion programs and charities. depreciated over lives ranging from three to seven years. The American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation, a tax-exempt Indiana corporation, Impairment of Long-Lived Assets: In accordance with GAAP, the Legion reviews its was created to provide permanent funding for the rehabilitation of American veterans and property and equipment for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indi- assistance to orphans of veterans. cate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. If the fair value is less than The National Emergency Fund is a tax-exempt trust established to provide gifts and grants to the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized for the diff erence. No relieve suff ering and ameliorate fi nancial hardship incurred by American Legion members, impairment loss has been recognized during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011. families and Posts. Collections: The Legion owns many collectible military related items and historical Basis of Accounting: The fi nancial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of documents which were not recorded as they were acquired. It is often impracticable to accounting in accordance with accounting standards generally accepted in the United States determine a value for collections and accordingly, the Legion has concluded that they need of America (“GAAP”). not be capitalized. Some of these items have been appraised for insurance purposes. Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements: The preparation of fi nancial Support and Revenue: The Legion reports gifts of cash and other assets as restricted statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and support if they are received with donor stipulations that limit the use of the donated assets. assumptions that aff ect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of When a donor restriction expires, that is, when a stipulated time restriction ends or purpose contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the fi nancial statements and the reported restriction is accomplished, temporarily restricted net assets are reclassifi ed to unrestricted amounts of revenues, expenses, gains, losses and other changes in net assets during the net assets and reported in the statement of activities as net assets released from restrictions. reported period. Actual results could diff er from those estimates. Dues Income and Expense: Dues are recognized as income over the applicable Financial Statement Presentation: The fi nancial statements have been prepared in membership period, which is on a calendar-year basis. In addition to other methods of accordance with GAAP, which requires, among other things, that the fi nancial statements obtaining new members, the Legion uses direct mail and other direct marketing approaches. report the changes in and total of each of the net asset classes, based upon donor The income generated from direct membership solicitation is recognized over the applicable restrictions, as applicable. Net assets are to be classifi ed as unrestricted, temporarily membership period (calendar year). The direct-response expenses incurred in obtaining new restricted and permanently restricted. members are deferred and recognized in the subsequent membership year. The following classes of net assets are maintained: Income Taxes: The Legion is exempt from federal income taxes under Section 501(c)(19) of Unrestricted Net Assets – The unrestricted net asset class includes general assets and liabili- the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. ALC, ALEF and NEF are exempt from federal income taxes un- ties of the Legion, as well as assets and liabilities designated by the National Executive der Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. None of the entities are considered Committee, the governing body of the Legion. The unrestricted net assets of the Legion may to be a private foundation. The Legion is subject to income tax on unrelated business income. be used at the discretion of management to support the Legion’s purposes and operations. In 2012 and 2011, the Legion incurred no tax expense and received $0 and $6,000 in refunds. Temporarily Restricted Net Assets – The temporarily restricted net asset class includes assets Current accounting standards require the Legion to disclose the amount of potential benefi t of the Legion related to gifts with explicit donor-imposed restrictions that have not been or obligation to be realized as a result of an examination performed by a taxing authority. For met as to specifi ed purpose, or to later periods of time or after specifi ed dates. Unconditional the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, management has determined that the Legion promises to give that are due in future periods and are not permanently restricted are does not have any tax positions that result in any uncertainties regarding the possible impact classifi ed as temporarily restricted net assets. As the restrictions are met, the net assets are on the Legion’s fi nancial statements. The Legion is no longer subject to examination by released from restrictions and included in unrestricted net assets. Contributions for which taxing authorities for years before 2009. The Legion does not expect the total amount of un- the restrictions are met in the same period in which the contribution is received are also recognized tax benefi ts to signifi cantly change in the next 12 months. The Legion recognizes recorded as temporarily restricted net assets. interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. The Legion
95th94th National National Convention Convention 69 The American Legion National Headquarters Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 and 2011
did not have any amounts accrued for interest and penalties at December 31, 2012 and 2011. for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The carrying amount of all fi nancial instruments of that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. the Legion, which include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, benefi cial interest Level 3: Signifi cant unobservable inputs that refl ect a reporting entity’s own assumptions in trust, investments, accounts payable, and notes payable, approximate fair value. about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. Expense Allocation: Expenses have been classifi ed as program services, management In many cases, a valuation technique used to measure fair value includes inputs from and general, member development and fund raising based on actual direct expenditures. multiple levels of the fair value hierarchy. The lowest level of signifi cant input determines the Additionally, some expenses are allocated among departments based upon estimates of the placement of the entire fair value measurement in the hierarchy. amount of time spent by Legion employees performing services for these departments. The fair value of money markets and common stock are based on quoted prices in active Reclassifi cations: Certain reclassifi cations have been made to present last year’s fi nancial markets. (Level 1 inputs) The fair value of U.S. Government obligations, asset backed statements on a basis comparable to the current year’s fi nancial statements. These securities, corporate and state bonds, and municipal bonds are based on quoted market reclassifi cations had no eff ect on the change in net assets or total net assets. prices of similar securities with similar due dates using the market approach. (Level 2 inputs) Subsequent Events: Management has performed an analysis of the activities and Common stock and asset backed securities are not held by the Legion, but are held in the transactions subsequent to December 31, 2012, to determine the need for any adjustments defi ned benefi t plan assets which are disclosed in Note 15. or disclosures to the audited fi nancial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012. The fair value of benefi cial interest in trust assets is determined using the income approach Management has performed their analysis through May 2, 2013, the date the fi nancial and is based on a valuation model that calculates the present value of estimated distributed statements were available to be issued. income. The valuation model incorporates assumptions that market participants would use NOTE 2 – COLLECTIONS in estimating future distributed income. The Legion is able to compare the valuation model The Legion owns many collectible military related items and historical documents which inputs and results to widely available published industry data for reasonableness; however, were not recorded as they were acquired. It is often impracticable to determine a value for the Legion is unable to redeem the assets of the trust and only receives distributions. (Level collections and accordingly, the Legion has concluded that they need not be capitalized. 3 inputs) These items have been appraised, or are in the process of being appraised for insurance GAAP provides additional guidance on how companies should estimate the fair value of purposes and are as follows: certain alternative investments and other fi nancial instruments, such as the benefi cial Appraisal date Replacement value interest in assets or trusts. The fair value of such investments can be determined using Net World War I posters 2/10/2005 $ 461,769 Asset Value (NAV), unless it is probable that the asset will be sold at something other than World War II posters 3/11/2005 472,919 NAV. GAAP also requires disclosure of certain attributes of all investments within its scope, Military unit histories 3/18/2005 112,410 regardless of whether NAV is used to measure the fair value of these investments and indi- Fine art collection 10/14/2005 695,600 cates that liquidity of the assets should be an input in determining the level classifi cation. Firearms and uniforms collection 3/24/2006 99,950 Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis: Assets and liabilities measured Original GI Bill not applicable - at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below: Other collections not applicable - Fair-Value Measurements at Dec. 31, 2012, using NOTE 3 – INVESTMENT IN AFFILIATE Quoted Prices in Signifi cant Other Signifi cant The Legion, in conjunction with approximately 120 other organizations, has created a Active Markets for Observable Unobservable nonprofi t corporation known as The Citizens Flag Alliance, Inc. (CFA) for the purpose of aiding Identical Assets Inputs Inputs in the campaign to secure a constitutional amendment empowering the Congress and the (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) States to enact legislation to protect the Flag of the United States of America from physical Assets: desecration. Benefi cial interest in trust $ - $ - $ 285,278 CFA recognized a change in net assets of ($8,347) and ($11,757) in 2012 and 2011, Money market accounts 10,436,511 - - respectively. Accordingly, the Legion’s investment in CFA has been changed by these amounts U.S. government obligations 59,029,085- - and corresponding adjustments have been refl ected in unrestricted designated net assets for State and municipal bonds - 11,980,085 - 2012 and 2011. Corporate bonds - 28,736,975 - NOTE 4 – BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN CHARITABLE LEAD TRUST $ 10,436,511 $99,746,145 $ 285,278 The ALEF has been named a benefi ciary of a charitable lead trust. Under the charitable trust, Fair-Value Measurements at Dec. 31, 2011, using the ALEF is to receive quarterly distributions in the amount of $9,919 until December 2020, or until the funds of the trust are exhausted. Based on the terms of the trust and a 2.64% Quoted Prices in Signifi cant Other Signifi cant discount rate in 2012 and 2011, the present value of future benefi ts expected to be received Active Markets for Observable Unobservable by the ALEF is estimated to be $285,278 and $316,898 at December 31, 2012 and 2011, Identical Assets Inputs Inputs respectively. (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) NOTE 5 – FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Assets: Fair value is defi ned as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a Benefi cial interest in trust $ - $ - $316,898 Money market accounts 13,038,485 - - liability (an exit price) in the Legion’s principal or most advantageous market for the asset or U.S. government obligations 71,873,306- - liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. State and municipal bonds - 8,271,091 - GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of Corporate bonds - 19,261,809 - observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. $ 13,038,485 $99,406,206 $ 316,898 GAAP describes three levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value: Level 1: Quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date. Level 2: Signifi cant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices
70 The American Legion EntertainmentEntertainment
The tables below present a reconciliation and statement-of-activities classifi cation of gains NOTE 8 – LEASES and losses for all assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using signifi cant The Legion has several non-cancelable operating leases, primarily for facilities, computer unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended Dec. 31, 2011 and 2010: equipment, and copiers that expire at various dates through the year 2016. Rent expense Benefi cial Interest in Trust under these leases for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $494,582 and Beginning balance, Jan. 1, 2012 $ 316,8987 $498,825, respectively. Change in value of split-interest agreements (31,620) Minimum lease commitments are as follows: 2013 532,910 Ending balance, Dec. 31, 2012 $ 285,278 2014 480,205 2015 471,888 Benefi cial Interest in Trust 2016 427,649 Beginning balance, Jan. 1, 2011 $ 336,597 Total $ 1,912,652 Change in value of split-interest agreements (19,699) Ending balance, Dec. 31, 2011 $ 316,898 In addition, the Legion has a lease with the State of Indiana for rental of the National Headquarters building in Indianapolis which expires on June 30, 2013. The lease can be NOTE 6 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT renewed at the option of the Legion for four additional four-year periods. According to the The Legion’s property and equipment, and the related accumulated depreciation at terms of the lease, the Legion is required to maintain the interior of the building, and provide December 31, 2012 and 2011 are as follows: adequate insurance on the building in lieu of lease payments. The cost of maintenance for 2012 and 2011 was $948,840 and $906,400 respectively. Insurance coverage is included in 2012 2011 the Legion’s general insurance policy. Washington, D.C., real estate Land $ 80,000 $ 80,000 NOTE 9 – PAID-UP-FOR-LIFE MEMBERSHIP FUND Building 5,603,402 5,257,798 The National Executive Committee approved the establishment of a life membership plan Construction in progress 3,698 available to any member of a participating department. In accordance with the plan, the Indianapolis real estate assets of the Paid-Up-For-Life (PUFL) Membership Fund are included in unrestricted, board Land 389,264 389,264 designated net assets and segregated in a trust account from which funds equal to the Building 3,879,173 3,851,186 annual dues of life members are withdrawn for current operations each year. The trust Construction in progress 78,733 1,442 agreement provides that the Legion has the right to withdraw part or all of the assets of the Furniture, fi xtures and equipment trust account and to modify or terminate the trust agreement at its discretion. National Headquarters, Indianapolis 6,824,830 6,236,955 Under the terms of the PUFL program, participating member’s national, state and local dues Washington, D.C. 845,302 804,316 are paid by the Legion for the remainder of the individual’s life. Management has estimated 17,700,704 16,624,659 and recognized a liability for the future payments to state and local Legion organizations. Less accumulated depreciation (11,278,016) (10,452,788) Likewise, management has deferred recognition of the national dues portion of the $ 6,422,688 $ 6,171,871 members’ payment. Deferred PUFL dues are recognized in annual amounts equal to the national dues in eff ect each year. The liability and deferred revenue amounts are estimated Depreciation expense for the years ended, December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $1,042,774 and by the Legion’s actuaries using PUFL membership summaries and discount rates comparable $1,063,977, respectively. to the Legion’s recent investment performance.
NOTE 7 – LONG-TERM DEBT NOTE 10 – RESTRICTED AND RESERVE DESIGNATED FUNDS In 2003, the Legion refi nanced its long-term debt on its facility for emblem sales, The restricted fund is designated for use by the National Finance Commission and National information technology, and member benefi ts. This debt is payable in monthly installments Executive Committee and reported as unrestricted, board designated net assets. Earnings of of $25,213, including interest, beginning July 30, 2003, with a stated rate of 5.3% and fi nal the restricted fund, along with the principal, can be expended only upon recommendation of payment due August 1, 2018. The outstanding balance on long-term debt is $1,459,498 and the National Finance Commission and a two-thirds affi rmative vote of the National Executive $1,678,367 for 2012 and 2011. Committee at two successive meetings. It is the policy of the Legion to transfer 10% of the prior year’s defi ned net income from operations to the restricted fund. The Legion made no The future maturities of the long-term debt are as follows: transfers to the restricted fund in 2012 and 2011. 2013 230,755 The reserve fund is also designated for use by the National Finance Commission and National 2014 243,287 Executive Committee and reported as unrestricted, board designated net assets. However, 2015 256,499 earnings of the reserve fund may be used for the general operations of the Legion. The 2016 270,428 principal can be expended only by action of the Legion at its national convention, or by a 2017 285,114 two-thirds affi rmative vote of the National Executive Committee in two successive meetings Thereafter 173,415 not less than 60 days apart. Total $ 1,459,498
Interest expense was $83,688 and $94,961 for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
95th94th National National Convention Convention 71 The American Legion National Headquarters Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 and 2011
NOTE 11 – TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS (2) The purposes of the Legion and the donor restricted endowment fund Temporarily restricted net assets are donor-restricted for specifi c purposes. At December 31, (3) General economic conditions 2012 and 2011 the restricted purposes are as follows: (4) The possible eff ect of infl ation and defl ation 2012 2011 (5) The expected total return from income and the appreciation of investments Overseas Graves Decoration Fund $ 1,049,265 $ 1,084,917 (6) Other resources of the Legion Samsung scholarships 2,361,349 2,101,778 American Legacy Fund 7,601,563 6,461,292 (7) The investment policies of the Legion National Emergency Fund 3,352,924 3,103,583 Boy Scouts 467,899 467,899 Endowment net asset composition by type of fund as of December 31, 2012: Operation Comfort Warriors 582,126 251,149 Temporarily Permanently Others 203,133 185,349 Unrestricted restricted restricted Total $ 15,618,259 $ 13,655,967 Donor-restricted $ - $ 2,402,192 $ 12,733,882 $ 15,176,074 endowment funds NOTE 12 – NET ASSETS RELEASED FROM RESTRICTION Net assets were released from donor restrictions by incurring expenses satisfying the restricted purposes or by occurrence of other events specifi ed by donors. Endowment net asset composition by type of fund as of December 31, 2011: 2012 2011 Temporarily Permanently Purpose restrictions accomplished Unrestricted restricted restricted Total Donor-restricted Overseas graves decoration $ 56,851 $ 27,657 $ - $ 2,101,778 $ 12,633,433 $ 14,765,211 Scholarships and grants (including relief aid) 694,017 965,745 endowment funds Veterans Aff airs & Rehabilitation and 372,586 236,021 Children & Youth programs $ 1,123,454 $ 1,229,423 Changes in endowment net assets for the year ended December 31, 2012: Temporarily Permanently NOTE 13 – PERMANENTLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS Unrestricted restricted restricted Total Net assets, Permanently restricted net assets represent donor-restricted gifts that have been invested $ - $ 2,101,778 $ 12,633,433 $ 14,765,211 and are to be maintained in perpetuity. Income from the Samsung scholarship fund is to be beginning of year used to fund undergraduate scholarships for descendents of Korean War veterans and other Investment return wars in which U.S. servicemen and servicewomen participated. Income from the American Investment income, - 488,481 - 488,481 Legion Endowment Fund is to be used to support the veterans aff airs and rehabilitation and net of fees children and youth activities of the Legion. Net appreciation - 38,270 53,920 92,190 At December 31, 2012 and 2011 the permanently restricted net assets are as follows: (realized and unrealized) Total investment return - $ 526,751 $ 53,920 $ 580,671 2012 2011 Samsung scholarships $ 5,000,000 $ 5,000,000 New gifts - - 56,529 56,529 American Legion Endowment Fund 7,773,882 7,663,433 Appropriation of $ 12,773,882 $ 12,663,433 endowment assets for - (226,337) - (226,337) expenditure NOTE 14 – ENDOWMENT COMPOSITION Net assets, end of year $ - $ 2,402,192 $ 12,773,882 $ 15,176,074 The Legion’s endowments include donor restricted endowment funds and are comprised of Changes in endowment net assets for the year December 31, 2011: two separate funds, the American Legion Endowment Fund and the Samsung scholarship Temporarily Permanently fund. In accordance with GAAP, net assets associated with endowment funds, including funds Unrestricted restricted restricted Total designated by the National Executive Committee to function as endowments, are classifi ed Net assets, and reported based on the existence or absence of donor imposed restrictions. $ - $ 1,821,311 $ 12,409,095 $ 14,230,406 beginning of year The National Executive Committee has interpreted the Interpretation of Relevant Law: Investment return Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA) as requiring the preserva- tion of the fair value of the original gift as of the gift date of the donor restricted endowment Investment income, net of fees - 495,931 - 495,931 funds absent explicit donor stipulations to the contrary. As a result of this interpretation, the Legion classifi es as permanently restricted net assets (a) the original value of gifts donated Net appreciation (realized and unrealized) - 298,457 169,800 468,257 to the permanent endowment, (b) the original value of subsequent gifts to the permanent endowment, and (c) accumulations to the permanent endowment made in accordance Total investment return - $ 794,388 $ 169,800 $ 964,188 with the governing documents of the Legion. The remaining portion of the donor restricted New gifts - - 84,538 84,538 endowment fund that is not classifi ed in permanently restricted net assets is classifi ed as temporarily restricted net assets until those amounts are appropriated for expenditure by the Appropriation of Legion in a manner consistent with the standard of prudence prescribed by UPMIFA. In endowment assets for - (513,921) - (513,921) expenditure accordance with UPMIFA, the Legion considers the following factors in making a determina- tion to appropriate or accumulate donor restricted endowment funds: Net assets, end of year $ - $ 2,101,778 $ 12,663,433 $ 14,765,211 (1) The duration and preservation of the fund
72 The American Legion EntertainmentEntertainment
Return Objectives and Risk Parameters: The Legion has adopted investment and spend- Estimated future benefi t payments: ing policies for endowment assets that attempt to provide a predictable stream of funding 2013 3,230,330 to programs supported by its endowment while seeking to maintain the purchasing power 2014 3,277,184 of the endowment assets. Endowment assets include those assets of donor-restricted funds 2015 3,343,442 that the Legion must hold in perpetuity or for a donor-specifi ed period(s). Under this policy, 2016 3,421,401 as approved by the National Executive Committee, the endowment assets are invested in a 2017 3,475,180 manner that is intended to produce income while assuming a low level of investment risk. 2018-2021 17,140,573 Strategies Employed for Achieving Objectives: To satisfy its long-term rate-of-return objectives, the Legion relies on a total return strategy in which investment returns are The asset investment policy is a lower risk strategy with the primary objective of preserva- achieved through both capital appreciation (realized and unrealized) and current yield tion of capital with an emphasis on long-term growth and generation of current income to (interest and dividends). The Legion targets fi xed income securities to achieve its long-term provide adequate cash fl ow needed for benefi t payments. The target asset allocation return objectives within prudent risk constraints. is 0-20% in cash or cash equivalents, 40-70% in fi xed income and 30-60% in equities. Spending Policy and How the Investment Objectives Relate to Spending Policy: Prohibited investments include real estate investment trusts, real estate partnerships, Capital appreciation (realized and unrealized) is added to the principal of the American mutual funds, private equity, hedge funds and guaranteed investment certifi cates. Legion Endowment Fund and distributions are limited to cumulative interest, net of fees. The fair value of the Legion’s defi ned benefi t plan assets at December 31, 2012 and 2011 are On the Samsung scholarship fund, the capital appreciation is temporarily restricted and can as follows. See Note 5 for descriptions of inputs for each type of asset. be spent, along with the interest, net of fees, according to the spending policy. Endowment Fair-Value Measurements at Dec. 31, 2012, using fund principal, unless otherwise directed by the donor, shall not be disbursed except for emergency situations. In order to make a principal disbursement, a majority vote by the Quoted Prices in Signifi cant Signifi cant Legion National Executive Committee will be required. Active Markets for Other Observable Unobservable Identical Assets Inputs Inputs NOTE 15 – EMPLOYEE BENEFITS (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) The Legion has a defi ned-benefi t pension plan covering substantially all of its employees as well as those of certain affi liated and subordinated groups. The plan was established in Money market accounts $ 1,665,688 $ - $ - 1944 by vote of the Legion’s National Convention. Contributions to the plan are made by the U.S. government and - 13,128,885 - Legion and other participating groups on the basis of annual actuarial valuations. agency obligations In May 2008, the Legion voted to freeze the plan eff ective June 30, 2008 and voted to adopt Asset-backed securities - 5,623,114 - a 401(k) savings plan with a qualifi ed automatic contribution arrangement eff ective July 1, Municipal bonds - 2,194,986 - 2008. The result of the freeze is that current employees still received the benefi ts they had Corporate bonds - 10,697,599 - earned as of June 30, 2008, but no future benefi ts were earned and no new employees were Common stock added. The 401(k) savings plan calls for a 100% match of the fi rst 1% contributed by the Materials 695,525 - - employee and a 50% match of the net 5% contributed by the employee. Thus, the maximum Industrials 1,625,398 - - matching percentage an employee will receive is 3.5%. The Legion made contributions of Consumer discretionary 1,549,771 $387,124 and $364,833 in 2012 and 2011, respectively. Consumer staples 832,015 The following table sets forth the Legion’s portion of the plan’s funded status and amounts Energy 1,716,280 recognized in the Legion’s consolidated statement of fi nancial position at December 31, 2012 Health care 3,337,489 - - and 2011: Financials 342,505 2012 2011 Telecommunication 1,924,469 - - Benefi t obligation $ (56,386,015) $ (51,114,809) Technology 515,346 Fair value of plan assets 48,399,167 47,811,011 Utilities and other 490,602 - - Funded status $ (7,986,848) $ (3,303,798) Accrued interest 220,767 - - Interest cost $ 2,602,150 $ 2,714,869 $ 16,754,583 $ 31,644,584 $ - Actual return on assets (3,382,597) (1,996,724) Amortization of prior service costs 121,085 121,085 Fair-Value Measurements at Dec. 31, 2011, using Amortization of loss 1,209,526 666,288 Quoted Prices in Signifi cant Signifi cant Diff erence between expected and actual return on assets (318,453) (1,770,796) Active Markets for Other Observable Unobservable Net periodic pension cost $ (231,711) $ (265,278) Identical Assets Inputs Inputs (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 3) Net loss (gain) $ 4,572,424 $ 5,232,668 Prior service cost (121,085) (121,085) Money market accounts $ 1,623,455 $ - $ - Pension-related changes other $ 4,572,424 $ 5,111,583 U.S. government and 14,601,727 - than net periodic pension cost agency obligations Asset-backed securities - 5,556,069 - Prepaid benefi t cost $ 14,280,033 $ 14,511,744 Municipal bonds - 1,768,208 - Accumulated benefi t obligation 56,386,015 51,114,809 Corporate bonds - 10,732,185 - Vested benefi t obligation 56,233,191 50,949,483 Common stock Net periodic pension cost (231,711) (265,278) Materials 634,981 - - Benefi ts paid 2,796,599 2,785,091 Industrials 1,728,855 - - Measurement date 12/31/2012 12/31/2011 Consumer discretionary 1,451,892
95th94th National National Convention Convention 73 The American Legion National Headquarters Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements December 31, 2012 and 2011
Consumer staples 754,519 Energy 1,469,565 Health care 1,781,671 - - Financials 2,462,856 Telecommunication 501,042 - - Technology 1,626,752 Utilities and other 813,442 - - Accrued interest 303,792 - - $ 15,152,822 $ 32,658,189 $ -
Historical returns of multiple asset classes were analyzed to develop a risk free real rate of return and risk premium for each asset class. The overall rate for each asset class was developed by combining a long-term infl ation component, the risk free real rate of return, and the associated risk premium. A weighted average rate was developed based on those overall rates and the target asset allocation of the plan.
Weighted-average assumptions 2012 2011 Discount rate 4.16% 5.25% Expected return on plan assets 7.00% 8.00% Rate of compensation increase 0.00% 0.00%
The amounts of net loss and net prior service cost expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefi t cost for the year ending December 31, 2013 are $1,707,475 and $121,085, respectively.
NOTE 16 – FUNCTIONAL EXPENSES The following represents a functional breakdown of the Legion’s expenses by program and supporting services:
2012 2011 Program services Veterans programs and services $ 34,357,211 $ 33,604,636 Americanism, Children & Youth activities 4,469,397 3,958,400 $ 38,826,608 $ 37,563,036 Supporting services Management and general 17,267,299 16,442,779 Member development 11,934,376 11,367,471 Fundraising 5,263,208 5,234,392 $ 34,464,883 $ 33,044,642 $ 73,291,491 $ 70,607,678
Member development includes direct response advertising expense of $8,794,493 and $8,447,032 for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.
NOTE 17 – LITIGATION The Legion is currently involved in and/or has been mentioned as a defendant or co-defendant in several legal actions. It is the opinion of the national judge advocate that these claims are without merit, and that any ultimate liability of the Legion with respect to these actions will not materially aff ect the fi nancial statements of the Legion.
74 The American Legion SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:EntertainmentEntertai Thenme Americannt Legion National Headquarters Consolidating Statement of Financial Position December 31, 2012
95th94th National National Convention Convention 75 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The American Legion National Headquarters Consolidating Statement of Financial Position December 31, 2011
76 The American Legion SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:EntertainmentEntertai Then Americanment Legion Headquarters Consolidating Statement of Activities Year ended December 31, 2012
95th94th National National Convention Convention 77 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The American Legion Headquarters Consolidating Statement of Activities Year ended December 31, 2011
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