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Home , American Legion Baseball, Dave Righetti, Kathy Hochul, Lee Smith (baseball)

LEGION N E W Y O R K

Legion Ball leads to Hall of Fame A CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

SUMMER/FALL 2019 Vol. 6 No. 2

LEGION • 1 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 www.nylegion.net WORDS FOR LEGIONNAIRES TO LIVE BY LEGION by GARY SCHACHER NEW YORK “Veterans take care of veterans.” The Department of New York, I cannot remember how many times I 112 State Street, Suite 1300, have repeated those words in my travels Albany, New York 12207. on behalf of The Department of New 518-463-2215 York. [email protected] Whether it’s during visits to districts COMMANDER and counties, or traveling to Gettysburg Gary M. Schacher battlefield to lay a wreath in memory of ADJUTANT New York’s soldiers, or paying respects James Casey at major memorials in the nation’s VICE COMMANDERS capital, I am constantly reminded of, Districts 1 & 9 and inspired by, The American Legion’s Conrad Flickenschild mission to take care of veterans. Districts 2 & 10 Frank J. Fazzio Yes, veterans take care of veterans. Districts 3 & 4 That drives our legislative efforts to get Edward R. Lupian, Jr proper recognition for World War II Districts 5 & 6 sailors who died on the USS Turner, and Leslie F. Crossett to get alternative PTSD therapies sup- Districts 7 & 8 ported and funded. Thomas Schreck NATIONAL EXEC. It is also why we showed up at the COMMITTEEMAN grave of a War of 1812 veteran, whose Commander Schacher takes a quiet moment Edward Bertrand descendants reached out to us. Thanks at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washing- ALT. NAT. EXEC. to the effort of Department Adjutant ton, D.C. COMMITTEEMAN James Casey, we were able to unveil a William Kearsing new headstone to replace the one that And it should make all of us proud. TREASURER had been destroyed over time. John C. “Jack” Clancy In fact, there is so much that so many Veterans taking care of veterans is a JUDGE ADVOCATE of you are doing as members of the Le- W. Patrick Falvey big reason why you and I belong to the gion Family. MASTER-AT-ARMS largest veterans service organization in Thank you for your continued service! Richard F. Calbo the U.S. CHAPLAIN Rev. Robert J. Sweeney HISTORIAN COVER: LEGION BALL LEADS TO HALL OF FAME Frank Carletta Departmet Commander Gary Schacher is with Hall of Fame inductee . A former Legion Baseball standout, Smith headlined The American Legion Weekend EDITOR at the Baseball Hall of Fame on March 29-30. See PAGES Robert Stronach 3-6. Photo by SCHELLY STONE/The American Legion. To submit photos, news, BACK COVER: FACES OF VETERANS articles, email the editor at: The portrait of an Army veteran on the back cover is [email protected] part of Stephen Willette’s Faces of Veterans project. Wil- Volume 6, No. 2 lette (pictured at left) hopes to capture the uniqueness and SUMMER / FALL character of veterans in all of New York’s 62 counties. Most 2019 of his photo shoots take place at Legion Posts. See PAGES 10-11. Photo by STEPHEN WILLETTE/Patriot Images.

LEGION NEW YORK • 2 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 HALL OF FAMER SAYS LEGION BASEBALL STARTED HIS CAREER WAS AN HONOR TO WEAR LEGION UNIFORM by PAUL POST

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y., March 29 – Lee Smith still can’t help marveling where he came from and where he’s headed, a kid from a rural Louisiana town so small it didn’t have a red light, to the hallowed National Baseball Hall of Fame. It wouldn’t have been pos- sible, however, without the opportunities afforded him by The American Legion’s youth baseball program. Smith and three oth- ers – , Har- old Baines, – slated for induction on Lee Smith speaks to Legion Family guests at the Baseball Hall of Fame. Smith is one of 81 play- Sunday, July 21, are among ers whose path to Cooperstown was greatly influenced by Legion Baseball. Photo by Schelly the 81 players whose path Stone, The American Legion. to Cooperstown was greatly influenced by Legion ball. whether you can play the certain things, like the to hear American Legion “ g am e .” and run, and learning how baseball is still here. It’s doesn’t pick you because you “American Legion base- to read the bat, who has really needed because a lot can afford to travel,” Smith ball really started my career good bat speed,” he said. “It of people overlook sound said. “They take you because as far as understanding the was a real learning experi- fundamental baseball.” of how good you are and game and why coaches do ence for me. I’m really glad Continued on next page.

Lee Smith signed autographs for Legion Family members, young and old. Photo by Schelly Stone, The American Legion.

LEGION NEW YORK • 3 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 Continued from previous page Smith pitched for 18 sea- sons with the Cubs, Red Sox, Cardinals, Yankees, Orioles, Angels, Reds and Expos. His 478 saves were the top mark in baseball from 1993 into the 2006 season and still rank third on the all-time list behind ’s 652 and Hall of Famer ’s 601. A seven-time All-Star who finished in the Top 5 of his league’s Award Legion Family voting three times, Smith led members en- his league in saves four times joyed getting and topped the 30- mark autographs in 10 seasons. from Lee Smith Early this spring, he trav- during Ameri- eled to Cooperstown for can Legion special festivities commemo- weekend at the rating the contributions of Baseball Hall American Legion baseball of Fame. to the nation’s pastime. He Photos by was joined there by numer- Schelly Stone/ ous Legion officials includ- The American ing National Commander Legion. Brett P. Reistad, New York Department Commander Adjutant James Casey. gave one to Bruce Mayfield, Reggie (Jackson) signs,” Sch- Gary Schacher, National Schacher presented Hall New York State American acher said. “And right after I Vice Commander Paul of Fame official Scot E. Legion baseball chairman. got released from active duty Spedaliere, past National Mondore, an army veteran “I grew up outside of New in the Navy, in 1983, I went Commander David K. Reh- and Legion member, with a York City so I would go down to the July 4 game and got to bein, chairman of the 100th special commemorative bat quite often to Yankee Sta- see throw a no- Anniversary Observance in recognition of the Legion’s dium and sit in the right field hitter against the Red Sox.” Committee, and New York 100th anniversary. He also corner where they held the Continued on next page.

Department Commander Gary Schacher presents American Legion Centennial Commemorative Bat to Scot E. Mondore, a Hall of Fame official who served in the U.S. Army. Looking on are, from left, Hall of Fame inductee Lee Smith, National Vice Commander Paul Spedaliere, National Commander Brett Reistad and Department Adjustant Jim Casey. Photo by Paul Post. LEGION NEW YORK • 4 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 Continued from previous page

During the weekend, Hall of Fame guests could visit the Gallery where plaques are located, and take guided tours highlighting players who served in the military and the equipment they used. A special Operation Grati- tude was also planned, in which visitors could thank ABOVE & LEFT: military personnel and Legion Fam- veterans by writing letters of ily members appreciation to them. enjoy Lee Smith’s “American Legion base- interactive talk ball isn’t just about playing at the Hall of sports,” Reistad said. “It’s Fame. At left is about sportsmanship, physi- National Com- cal fitness, learning to work mander Brett Reistad. Photos as a team. Legion baseball by Schelly Stone/ started in South Dakota in The American 1925 and has flourished over Legion. the years. It’s a mainstay of The American Legion program. There are roughly 3,500 teams around the country. Many of those who played American Legion baseball made their way to this coveted location.” Jon Shestakofsky, Hall of Fame vice president ‘Legion Baseball part of fabric of America’ for communications and -- Hall of Fame vice president education, described Legion baseball as part of the fabric of America. “In this room, the most discipline, hard work and “We had great times,” I have family members. It sacred space in the game of determination needed to Smith said. “When we will be like that for the rest baseball, we’re surrounded succeed. But most of all, he played, not just the team, of my life.” by 329 members of the Hall enjoyed the camaraderie of but the whole family would “Now when a game is over, of Fame,” he said. “Of those, teammates, which he still go afterward to a restaurant everybody goes their sepa- 81 were shaped by American considers family. In fact, called the Cotton Patch and rate way,” he said. “It looks Legion baseball, one-quarter he’s already invited his now we’d go there and talk about like a concert when the game of the all-time greats repre- 87-year-old former , the game. There was six of us is over.” sented on these walls.” James Morgan, and best in the truck and five on the On the diamond, Smith Smith also credits local friend and Legion catcher back of the truck. Families was one of the most feared men, who served in the Charles Cockfield to join got to meet each other. We relief the game has military, for teaching him him on Induction Weekend, all hung together. That’s why ever seen. Off the field, he’s valuable lessons about the scheduled for July 19-21. I say, I don’t have teammates, Continued on next page.

LEGION NEW YORK • 5 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 HALL OF FAME WEEKEND CANDIDS photos by Paul Post and Schelly Stone

Continued from previous page a good-natured gentle giant who enjoys a good laugh, even when poking fun at himself. For example, he likes telling the story about a mon- ster that Hall of Fame Twins once hit off him. “Kirby hit a mammoth home run off me in Min- nesota. Bob Stanley was my . He came up to me with a baseball in his hand and said, Hey, Smitty. How’d you hold that one? He said, I want to make sure I said. “Every time I left the leisure suit.” your best foot forward and don’t ever grip the ball like hotel room I had to wear “That had to be the top of don’t second guess yourself,” that,” Smith said smiling. this outfit. Needless to say I the list right there for most Smith said. “If you go out and He also told about his ini- didn’t leave the hotel room embarrassing moments,” he do the best you can, there’s tiation to the big leagues as a very much. When we got said, laughing. no way anybody else can young Cubs rookie. back home to all the On the mound, though, he second guess you. And you’ve “We were on a 10-day players had to go through was all business, which also got to work hard. It’s not go- road trip to California and the airport and I threw a goes back to his days as a ing to be given to you. Those they bought me a short- shoe! One of my heels came young Legion player. things were instilled in me sleeved yellow leisure suit off! So there I was limping “The one thing I learned by American Legion base- and real high shoes, three through O’Hare Airport so much from my coach ball. It really was an honor to four inches high,” Smith with one shoe and a yellow was to go out there and put to put that uniform on.” LEGION NEW YORK • 6 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 UTICA BLUE SOX TAP 3 LEGION PLAYERS

FROM LEFT: Vincent Castronovo (Utica Post 229), Dewey Roden (Sherrill Post 230), and Ryan Enos (Oriskany Post 1448).

by MARK MITCHELL UTICA -- The . Enos, Castronovo and that they would be successful. Legion baseball league has “I was very excited to be Roden expressed how their “There is a lot that we do as been in existence since 1925. able to come home for the fathers helped them deal a coaching staff when picking The program helps young summer and play on the with the mental stresses that players for our team. First and high school players develop field that I basically grew up baseball brings when climb- foremost: does the player meet their skills over hot summers on,” said Castronovo. ing the levels of the game. the physical requirements to to get the attention of college Enos enjoyed his four Noted Enos: “I would play for us. Second, what type and even some pro scouts in years playing for Oriskany say my dad Eric Enos, my of person is he? Does he have the stands. The league not Post, but he is ready to create uncle Steve Strife, and all of behavioral issues? Is he a good only helps develop baseball new memories alongside the other coaches I’ve had teammate in the clubhouse? skills, but provides lessons that Castronovo and Roden. along the way through my We look for the character young men take with them for “It felt great knowing that career. They have helped me just as much as the talent and the rest of their lives. Legion I would be staying home for develop my skills while also these three guys fit that mold baseball supports the morals of the summer and playing in a teaching me about the men- perfectly,” said Deak. equality, sportsmanship, good great league...,” said Enos. tal aspect of the game.” Playing legion baseball health and active citizenship. Roden loved playing legion All the hard work that makes good players better Three players from the baseball, but is excited for these men have put into and gives everyone a fair Mohawk Valley that played the challenges ahead. “It’s their games and getting shot at climbing the ladder to through the legion baseball definitely nice to be able to better every day has got- play at the next level. Deak program are now a part of the climb the ladder of competi- ten the attention of George expressed his belief about Utica Blue Sox. Vincenzo Cas- tion and keep striving to play Deak, team owner and how legion baseball can tronovo from Utica Post 229, on better stages,” he said. general of the Utica highlight players in a good Ryan Enos from Oriskany Post Athletes always have that Blue Sox. Deak sees over a and fair light for college and 1448 and Dewey Roden from one person who helps them thousand player applications pro scouts. Sherrill Post 230 are suiting get through a tough loss or for the chance to be a part of Noted Deak: “Legion ball up in the blue and white this help when they are strug- the Blue Sox and when these is the fairest, most unbiased summer as a part of the Per- gling with a situation on the three players came across his proving ground at that level fect Game Collegiate Baseball field or in the clubhouse. desk, he had a good feeling of baseball.”

LEGION NEW YORK • 7 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul presents Department Commander Gary Schacher and Legislative Chair Frank LaMarsh with a procla- mation honoring The American Legion on its 100th anniversary. The proclamation was signed by Gov. . The presentation took place March 12 during the Legion’s annual Legislative Hill Day. LEGISLATIVE HILL DAY 2019 LEGION SHARES TOP PRIORITY ISSUES WITH LAWMAKERS

Providing alternative “…Too many of today’s re- reaching out and helping urges the State Legislature to therapies to combat post turning warriors are battling our Veterans’ community by approve and fund this work. traumatic stress and prevent- homelessness, suicide, and enacting legislation or poli- In addition, we ask that ing veterans’ suicides are top the need for employment. In cies designed to meet those State agencies be directed to legislative priorities for The addition, as the of needs. “ undertake such studies as American Legion Depart- woman Veterans continues He identified priority necessary and make public ment of New York, legion- to grow, additional focus and legislation, such as: the results. naires told state legislators emphasis must be placed 1. The devastating impact 2. Suicide is an epidemic March 12. on the care and treatment of PTS and TBI demands a among our Veterans, still Legion leaders laid out of our woman Veterans. In dedicated and comprehen- averaging more than 20 per their priorities during their looking toward the future, sive study to delineate viable day nationwide. The Ameri- annual Hill Day breakfast we can’t forget the children treatments such as animal can Legion encourages with lawmakers in Albany. of our returning Veterans therapy, hyperbaric oxygen Congress and the President Then veterans from around and the impact multiple treatment (HBOT), and var- to sign into law acts similar the state took the message deployments of one or more ious other courses of action to the Suicide Prevention for to the State Capitol as they parents has on them or the including medical marijua- American Veterans Act that visited legislators’ offices. needs of the Veteran care- na, that have demonstrated will expand and improve “Many of our returning giver. beneficial results. Another care provided for Veterans Veterans come home physi- “The American Legion alternative, the RTM proto- and service members with cally and emotionally scarred Department of New York col (The Reconsolidation of mental health issues who by the horrors of war,” De- recognizes these concerns Traumatic Memories) has a are at risk for suicide. We partment Legislative Chair- and calls upon our New proven track record and the also urge the New York man Frank LaMarsh noted York State Legislature and American Legion Depart- State Legislature and State in his report to legislators. Governor to join us in ment of New York strongly Continued on next page.

LEGION NEW YORK • 8 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 LEGISLATIVE HILL DAY

Oneida County Legionnaires visit with Sen. Joe Griffo during the Legion’s Hill Day. Photos by Frank Carletta.

Department Legislative Chair Frank Department Commander Gary Schacher with Sen. LaMarsh with Assemblyman Michael of the Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Cusick of the Assembly Veterans Affairs Affairs. Senator Brooks recognized Legion members on the floor of Committee. the Senate.

Continued from previous page. ans Affairs, the Legion urges to state legislature Legion would like the re- agencies to provide greater encourages New York State to pass a resolution asking mains to be given the respect awareness and to keep fund- to muster support for any the federal government to and burial they deserve, and ing programs and groups and all viable treatment take action to identify the that their families be given that reach out to men and that offers help for military remains of crewmen killed the opportunity to grieve and women in uniform, Veterans service men and women to aboard the USS Turner that lay their loved ones to rest. and their families through deal with the trauma of war. exploded and sank on Jan. 3, 5. The American Legion family care programs, sui- The Legion further asks 1944 outside New York har- urges the State Legislature cide prevention programs, New York State and its agen- bor. A total of 136 crewmen to formally recognize the job fairs, and public service cies to review any means of were killed. The remains of date June 8 as USS Liberty announcements, bringing extending State recognized some crewmen may be in- Day now and forever, and about awareness of PTS and alternative health care pro- terred in four graves in Long dedicate a Memorial in suicide prevention. grams to disabled Veterans Island National Cemetery Albany, NY befitting the 3. Even though medical unable to receive such care in Farmingdale marked courage and dedication of and mental health care are through their VA health care Unkown U.S. Sailor with the the USS Liberty’s crew, and primarily the responsibility providers. date Jan. 3, 1944. the five New York sailors of the Department of Veter- 4. The American Legion Upon being identified, the who lost their lives.

LEGION NEW YORK • 9 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 FACES OF VETERANS

Photos by STEPHEN WILLETTE

IRAQ VET FOLLOWS PASSION TO CAPTURE PORTRAITS by ROBERT STRONACH Stephen Willette spent 16 he began looking around at community?” pictures of veterans). years in Air Force secu- the aging veterans. It took over a year, but His passion is to pho- rity forces, including two He studied their faces, that musing was the genesis tograph, for free, as many deployments to Iraq, before noticing their uniqueness, for his photography service, veterans as he can in all of medically retiring with their character. Patriot Images, and the New York’s 62 counties for multiple sclerosis in Janu- He thought about captur- birth of his Faces of Veterans an exhibit that will portray ary 2017. A month later he ing that character, musing at project several months later the uniqueness and per- found himself in the waiting the time: “When I am older, (especially after a Saratoga sonalities of veterans, and room at Stratton VA Medi- what will have been my County veterans service “prompt an awareness that cal Center in Albany. And contribution to the veteran officer invited him to take veterans are all around us.”

LEGION NEW YORK • 10 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 Many of his images are join The American Legion veterans get together, they didn’t want to draw atten- already in his online gallery at Lake George Post 374, occasionally open up. “I tion to anything other than at patriotimages.org. while photographing War- just kind of show up and do that person.” It’s a self-funded project ren County veterans. what I do,” and sometimes that relies on donations. Stephen sometimes “they start telling stories,” To invite Stephen to By June 2019, Stephen photographs veterans with even to the point of tears. your county or post, had conducted photo shoots family members, or service The Faces of Veterans im- contact him at: in seven counties, mostly at dogs; whatever the veteran ages are black and white. “I [email protected] American Legion Posts. In feels comfortable doing. believe it shows a lot more 518-350-3119 fact, his project led him to He has noticed that when character of the individual. I

LEGION NEW YORK • 11 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 MID-WINTER CONFERENCE STANDING OVATION FOR WOUNDED MARINE

Commander Gary Schacher (left) and Marines huddle around wheelchair-bound Sgt. Eddie Ryan at the Mid-Winter Conference banquet. Photos by Robert Stronach. by ROBERT STRONACH ALBANY -- Department “He’s my best friend.” didn’t happen again. Retired to the podium to address the Commander Gary Schacher Schacher then asked any Sgt. Eddie Ryan is now a life gathering. stood at the podium, looking Marine veterans present to member of Lake George Post “My theme is, ‘Serving Our out at the packed banquet come forward and surround 374, the commander said. Heroes.’ YOU are my heroes.” hall Saturday evening during Eddie for a group photo. ••• It was just a few words, but the Mid-Winter Conference, Schacher noted that Eddie Before Department Adju- she got a standing ovation. and said: had been a member of The tant James Casey introduced ••• “I have a good friend here American Legion, but with featured speaker Paul Dil- Paul Dillard, a Vietnam era -- Sgt. Eddie Ryan.” his family focusing on his lard, the 2020-21 candidate veteran who hails from Texas, Suddenly everyone was rehabilitation, his member- for national commander, he also pointed to what his standing and applauding. ship lapsed. The Department called National Auxiliary theme would be as national Ryan, a Marine confined took steps to make sure that President Kathy Dungan up commander. to a wheel chair after being “No veterans left behind!” shot in the head and face He received rousing ap- in Iraq in 2005, was a guest plause for that, and went on of honor. He also was the to say: honor veteran last Septem- “I honestly believe, a hun- ber at the Patriot Highlander dred years ago, that was the in- Challenge, an obstacle tent of those doughboys” who course race that Schacher founded The American Legion co-founded to raise money on the four pillars of Veterans for wounded warriors. Affairs & Rehabilitation, Na- The commander intro- tional Security, Americanism, duced Eddie’s father, Chris and Children & Youth. – to which Eddie quipped: Paul Dillard, 2020-21 candidate for national commander Continued on next page. LEGION NEW YORK • 12 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 MID-WINTER CONFERENCE

The Saturday evening reception featured the American Legion Yankee Doodle Band. Photos by Robert Stronach.

Continued from prevous page. ber and thank them” for being didate Dillard got to share Welfare Foundation. Per- Those pillars need a foun- a member, for paying their their thoughts on the Legion forming were SAL members dation, he said, which is the dues, for supporting the work and veterans’ concerns with Joe Guidice (keyboards and membership. of The American Legion. representatives from sev- vocals), Gabe Cinquegrana Membership rolls suffer “Let’s take that with us and eral news media outlets (The (guitar and vocals), Kevin Har- due to the number of older go back to our posts.” He Saratogian, The Times-Union rington (percussion), Joe Pos- veterans going on to “post urged the audience to carry and CBS WRBG Chan. 6). savino (bass guitar) and Larry everlasting,” and the num- on the mission, to carry on ••• DiLorenzo (lead guitar). ber who do not renew. It’s “what the founding fathers A reception prior to the ••• time to turn that around, did for this organization” banquet featured a number of Sunday’s general session at the post level, by making (which turned 100 on March patriotic and popular tunes featured, among other things, personal contacts with mem- 15, 2019). performed by the Yankee a video of Department Com- bers, letting them know “you After all, “where would Doodle Concert Band from mander Gary Schacher’s appreciate their support of veterans be, where would Fort Crailo American Legion interview with Theodore the Legion.” And by asking America be, without The Post 471 in Rensselaer. Roosevelt IV, grandson of neighbors, in-laws, work and American Legion?” ••• one of the Legion’s founders, professional contacts if they ••• Following the banquet, a Jr. His served and urging them to The banquet capped a day newly formed Sons of the great grandfather was Presi- join The American Legion. of seminars and meetings American Legion rock ‘n roll dent Teddy Roosevelt. Theo- He recounted how World on Legion programs and band, SALute, entertained the dore Roosevelt IV, a Vietnam War II veterans mentored veterans’ issues. Legion Family to bring atten- war Navy SEAL, is honorary him. “Those World War II Commander Schacher and tion to the Sons’ campaign on chair of The Legion’s 100th guys would call every mem- National Commander-Can- behalf of the Legion’s Child Anniversary Celebration. LEGION NEW YORK • 13 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 MONROE COUNTY HONORS LEGION AT RED WINGS GAME

Monroe County honored The American Legion at the Rochester Red Wings baseball game on Father’s Day. County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo presented a proclamation to County Vice Commander Charles Clark.

ROCHESTER, June 16, mation to County American “It was great to see everyone Monroe County to recog- 2019 – Monroe County Legion Vice Commander at the Rochester Red Wings nize the incredible service celebrated American Legion Charles Clark prior to the AAA baseball game today. that Legionnaires provide Day at the Rochester Red start of the game. Alongside County (Vice) to their fellow service Wings AAA baseball game “Happy 100th Anniver- Commander and Irond- members, veterans, and our on Father’s Day. sary to The American Le- equoit’s own Charlie Clark, entire community. We are County Executive Cheryl gion…,” Dinolfo declared in we proclaimed today to be fortunate to have you!” Dinolfo presented a procla- a follow-up Facebook post. American Legion Day in

NY LEGION FAMILY HONORS DOC GIBBS

The American Legion Family honored the national commander of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) during a weekend “Home- coming Celebration” April 26-27 in Buffalo. Department Commander Gary Schacher and Department Adju- tant Jim Casey joined members of the Sons, the Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary as they welcomed and paid tribute to New York’s own Greg “Doc” Gibbs, the 2018-2019 national SAL com- mander. Gibbs is also past com- Department Commander Gary Schacher with mander of the SAL Detachment of National SAL Commander Greg “Doc” Gibbs. Ne w York.

LEGION NEW YORK • 14 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 MELISSA IS STATE ORATORICAL CHAMP

Oratorical Champion Melissa Barnosky, center, with Department Commander Gary Schacher, left, and Oratorical Chairman An- thony Paternostro. Photo by Frank Carletta. ALBION CENTRAL SENIOR WINS TITLE 2ND YEAR IN ROW

ALBANY —Melissa Bar- Contest. at St. Pius V School, was • Aiden Boehm, a junior nosky, a senior at Albion Cen- Melissa won a $6,000 awarded a $4,000 scholar- at Coxsackie-Athens High tral School in Albion, New scholarship and represented ship. Lea was sponsored by School, was awarded a $2,000 York, is The American Legion New York in the National Green Lawn Post 1244 of scholarship. Aiden was spon- New York State Oratorical Oratorical Contest in India- Suffolk County, 10th Dis- sored by Coxsackie Post 166 Champion for 2019, Ora- napolis, Indiana in April. trict, and Zone 2. and Cairo Mohican Post 983 torical Chairman Anthony She was sponsored by • David Bruen, a senior of Green County, 3rd Dis- Paternostro announced. Sheret Post 35, Orleans at Clarkstown South High trict, and Zone 3. This is the second year in County, 8th District, and School, was awarded a • Victor Gelfuso, a junior a row that Melissa has won Zone 5. The “Constitutional $2,500 scholarship. David at Richfield Springs Cen- the title. Melissa competed Speech Contest” took place was sponsored by William tral School, was awarded a against four other finalists March 2 at Sand Creek E. DeBevoise, Jr. Post 1682 $2,000 scholarship. Victor from a cross section of the Middle School in Colonie, of Rockland County, 9th was sponsored by Hugick- state in the 82nd Annual New York. District, and Zone 1. Purcell-Shepard Post 616 of American Legion Depart- The other finalists were: Rounding out the awards Otsego County, 6th District, ment of New York Oratorical • Lea Pohalski, a junior are: and Zone 4.

LEGION NEW YORK • 15 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 BRET REISTAD TALKS ‘BUDDY CHECK’ NATIONAL COMMANDER VISITS EASTERN NEW YORK

Chief-Select Hospital Corpsman Marchant Da Silva helps clean up the yard at Samuel H. Young American Legion Post 620 in the Bronx on Aug. 18. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Roger S. Duncan. Department Commander Gary Schacher accompanies National Commander Brett Reistad on his vist to Eastern New York districts. Photo by Doug Malin.

SARATOGA SPRINGS — ship campaign,” he said. “It’s was formed a century ago Reistad was joined by New The American Legion does a comradeship campaign. around personal contact and York Department Com- a good job at recruiting new Remember, this organization engagement.” mander Gary Schacher and members, but must step up many other district officials. retention efforts to ensure Locally, Navy veteran the organization’s strength Keith Koster, of Saratoga and effectiveness. National Springs, has started an Commander Brett Reistad initiative called The Ameri- shared such concerns with can Legion Athletic Club, 320 people who turned designed to get the younger out for an official visitation War on Terror veterans in- dinner at the Gideon Put- volved in outdoor activities. nam Hotel, The Saratogian “It gives veterans another reported March 30. option for getting involved Specifically, he is promot- in [the] Legion and joining ing a grass-roots Buddy if they want to, which would Check program, in which build membership,” he said. Legionnaires contact cur- On St. Patrick’s Day, rent and former members Koster completed a gruel- to see how they’re doing ing, year-long Centennial and if there are any issues Challenge by carrying The they might need help with, American Legion flag to the reporter Paul Post wrote. Keith Koster, who was featured in the previous issue of summit of all 46 Adiron- “This is not a member- Legion New York, made the cover of Legion Magazine. Continued on next page.

LEGION NEW YORK • 16 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 WAR OF 1812 VETERAN GETS NEW HEADSTONE NATURAL BRIDGE — and he (Mr. Casey) paid for er Timothy Mulvaney, and Thanks to the effort of everything,” Mrs. Kinney Carthage Legion members Department Adjutant James told reporter Elaine M. Stanley Akins and Ed Rebb. W. Casey, the grave of War Avallone. “What an amazing “Veterans take care of of 1812 veteran William organization. My father, the veterans,” Commander Dawley is sporting a new late John Dawley, would be Schacher saod. “This is our headstone in Sand Hill so extremely happy to see 100th anniversary year. We Cemetery. this happen.” She added her do as much as we can for It all started when Lillian father was a World War II veterans.” Dawley Kinney of Water- veteran, serving as a Navy Mrs. Kinney’s cousin, town was doing genealogi- medic in the Philippines. Alice Dawley Stewart of cal research and located the Department Commander West Carthage and brother, grave of her great grand- Gary Schacher was on hand Thomas Dawley of Water- father William Dawley, an for the unveiling, along with town, praised The American original settler of Wilna, 5th District and Lowville Legion. The newspaper the Carthage Republican Commander C. Lee Hinkl- quoted Mrs. Stewart: “It is a Tribune reported May 26. unearthed was barely read- eman, Department Ameri- great honor that they were The headstone had broken able. canism Chair John Konkol, able to do this for us and our off, was buried and when “All I did is ask for help Carthage Legion Command- ancestor.” NY LEADERS KICK OFF FLAG DAY ON FOX TV

Department Com- mander Gary Schacher and Department Legisla- tive Chair Frank LaMarsh appeared on the early morning TV show, Fox & Friends First. They helped to celebrate Flag Day by showing proper flag etiquette. They demontrated the proper folding of Old Glory while host Heather Childers read the meaning Commander Gary Schacher and Legislative Chair Frank LaMarsh demonstrated flag eti- behind each fold. quette during a live broadcast on “Fox & Friends First”.

Continued from previous page. Reistad touted the Legion’s medical facilities throughout of House and Senate Veter- dack High Peaks, in obser- many contributions and the country. “There weren’t ans Affairs Committees, to vance of the Legion’s 100th work on behalf of veterans enough hospital beds in address veterans’ needs, in anniversary. He was recent- throughout its history. After this country to take care of both houses of Congress. ly featured in a cover article World War I, it was directly everybody,” said Reistad. Most recently, the Legion’s in the national American responsible for approval by During World War II, the temporary financial assis- Legion Magazine. Congress of the U.S. Veter- Legion successfully fought tance program helped U.S. People at the dinner gave ans Bureau, the forerunner for passage of the G.I. Bill. Coast Guard members who Koster, a three-time cancer of today’s Department of The organization was also were without pay during a re- survivor, a standing ovation. Veterans Affairs, which has responsible for the creation cent government shutdown.

LEGION NEW YORK • 17 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 COMMANDER SCHACHER LAYS WREATH AT GETTYSBURG

Department Commander Gary Schacher renders salute during wreath- laying at Gettys- burg Battlefield. Photo by Mario Cristaldi.

Department Commander Gary Schacher traveled Auxiliary make the trip.” to Gettysburg, PA for Memorial Day services, along While there Commander Schacher met Lewis with a few members of the Legion and American Jones, commander of Gettysburg American Legion Legion Auxiliary. Post 202, and “ran into Rich Heiland, a Seabee that I “I was so honored to be invited to lay a wreath at served with back in 2001.” the New York Monument inside the National Cem- He also got the chance to present a commander’s etery in Gettysburg,” he said, and “was so fortunate to coin to a reenactor playing President Lincoln. have members of the New York American Legion and

SHERRILL TEAM BOWLS WAY TO TOP PRIZE IN STATE TOURNEY

The Sherrill Legion team of Pete Noto, Chad Glover, DJ LeRoy and Mancuso Bowling Center in Batavia. Fogg and John Fogg bowled its way to the top team prize in Other first place finishers were: the 70th annual New York State American Legion Bowling • Treva Pecore, All Event category. Tournament. • Dennis Jones, Singles. The tourney was held over several weekends in April and • Jeff Coleman and Kyle Ewen, Doubles. May at LeRoy Legion Lanes (Botts-Floritto Post 576) in VETERANS PARK OFFERS SPEAKERS PROGRAM SIDNEY, NY – Posts looking for a meeting program may be interested in a presentation being offered by Sidney Veterans Memorial Park. Navy veteran Dick Germond, a member of Charles L. Jacobi Post 183 in Sidney and president of the park association, announced the initiative to offer a 20 to 25-min- ute program about the veterans park. Dedicated three years ago, he said, the park is a “jewel and must-see attraction.” To schedule a presentation, especially for posts in the Southern Tier and Leatherstocking Region, contact Dick Germond at 607-643-8318; or, send e-mail to: [email protected].

LEGION NEW YORK • 18 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 NY CONTINGENT VISITS D.C. MEMORIALS

A contingent from the Department of New York, led by Department Com- mander Gary Schacher, took time to pay respects to fallen servicemen and women in a visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the National Seabee Memorial (especially since the com- mander served with the Seabees in Iraq). The New York Legion- naires and Sons of the American Legion members were in Washington, D.C. for The American Legion Washington Conference, New York legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members at the Vietnam Veterans Memo- Feb. 24-27. rial in Washington, D.C. SCHOOL DISTRICT HONORS LEGIONNAIRE FOR SERVICE

HAMPTON BAYS, NY —Hampton Troop, 101st Cavalry Regiment, and Bays School District honored Legion- was deployed to Afghanistan for njne naire Rick Robinson in February. months. He was stationed at Forward “The district is proud to honor Mr. Operating Base Hughey in Nangarhar Robinson for his bravery and service Province, Jalalabad. He served as a to the ,” School Superin- gunner in the turret of a Humvee, uti- tendent Lars Clemensen told the Patch lizing 50-caliber and M240 weapons online news. systems in support of ground troops High school senior Kevin McNamara and convoys. read Robinson’s bio; county and town Once home, Robinson was again officials presented proclamations. assigned to B Company, 69th Infantry The Patch reported: Regiment, this time on Long Island. In Robinson started to feel a need to 2010, his unit was reassigned to Japan serve his country in 2007: His twin to train with the Japanese Defense brother joined the Navy at 39 — and, Forces. During the remainder of his motivated by his brother, Robinson service, back in the U.S., his unit was joined the Army National Guard twice activated for state emergencies at 40 years of age. After basic and that included protecting airports and advanced training at Fort Benning, train stations after the Boston Mara- GA (where he was nicknamed “the old thon bombing. Robinson was honor- man”), he returned and was assigned ably discharged in January 2017 after 10 to B Company of the Fighting 69th years of service. He is an active member Infantry Regiment. In April 2008, of American Legion Hampton Bays Robinson volunteered to join with C Post 924 and VFW Post 5350. Rick Robinson

LEGION NEW YORK • 19 • SUMMER/FALL 2019 FACES OF VETERANS a project by Stephen Willette

“This project belongs to the veteran community and their families. I’m just the man holding the camera.”

LEGION NEW YORK • 20 • SUMMER/FALL 2019