104th Congress, 1st Session – – – – – – – – – – – – House Document 104–51

PROCEEDINGS OF

76th NATIONAL

CONVENTION of the

AMERICAN

LEGION

Minneapolis, Minnesota

September 6–8, 1994
1994 : 76th NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE AMERICAN LEGION : 1994
104th Congress, 1st Session – – – – – – – – – – – – House Document 104–51

PROCEEDINGS OF

76th NATIONAL

CONVENTION of the

AMERICAN

LEGION

Minneapolis, Minnesota

September 6–8, 1994

JANUARY 9, 1995.—Referred to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and ordered

to be printed.

86–484
(II)

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL

THE AMERICAN LEGION,

Washington, DC, January 5, 1995.

Hon. NEWT GINGRICH,

The Speaker of the House of Representatives,

Washington, DC.

DEAR MR. SPEAKER: In compliance with current public law we

herewith transmit for printing as a House document: a financial

statement and independent audit of The American Legion, proceedings of our 76th annual National Convention held in Minneapolis,

Minnesota from September 6, 7, and 8, 1994 plus a report on our

organization’s activities for the year preceding the Convention.

Sincerely,

STEVE ROBERTSON,

Director, National Legislative Commission.
(III)

C O N T E N T S

Page

National Conventions and Officers of The American Legion, 1919–1994 ........... VI

TUESDAY SESSION—SEPTEMBER 6, 1994

Call to Order—National Commander Bruce Thiesen ........................................... 1

Invocation—National Chaplain Monsignor Raymond J. Kozlowski .................... 2

Reading of Convention Call—National Adjutant Robert Spanogle ..................... 3

Greetings:

Bernie Melvin, Commissioner, Minnesota Dept. of Veterans Affairs .......... 7

Honorable Sharon Sayles Belton, Mayor of Minneapolis .............................. 8

Raymond L. Galazan, Department Commander, Minnesota ........................ 9

Donald L. Schroedl, President, National Convention Corporation of Minnesota ............................................................................................................. 10

Address—Honorable Lane Evans, U.S. House of Representatives (IL) .............. 11

Presentation of Plaque—City of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania .................................. 13

Certificate of Appreciation—National Chaplain Monsignor Kozlowski .............. 14

Greetings:

Mrs. Helen Holcomb, National President, American Legion Auxiliary ....... 15

Presentation, Distinguished Service Award—Honorable Walter Annenberg ..... 16

National Commander’s Convention Report ........................................................... 17

Report of Committee:

Credentials and Internal Affairs, Section I .................................................... 25

Certificate of Appreciation—Warren Hutching, Adolph Coors Company ........... 27

Reports of Committees:

Legislation and Rules ....................................................................................... 28

Children and Youth .......................................................................................... 31

Awards:

Garland Murphy ............................................................................................... 36

Report of Committee—Americanism ...................................................................... 37

Awards:

Ralph T. O’Neil Education ............................................................................... 55

Frank Belgrano, Jr ........................................................................................... 55

William Randolph Hearst Americanism Trophy ............................................ 55

National Youth Champions ............................................................................. 57

Addresses:

Honorable Jim Ramstad, U.S. House of Representatives (MN) ................... 61

Lt. Gen. Claude M. Kicklighter, Executive Director, World War II Commemorative Committee ................................................................................ 64

George W. Bentley, Society of American Legion Founders ........................... 68

W.T. Russ Ward, Dominion President, Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada ............................................................................................... 69

Joseph Kobolak, Dominion President, Royal Canadian Legion .................... 70

General Chou Shin-Pin, Chairman, Vocational Assistance Commission

for Retired Servicemen—Republic of China ............................................... 72

Award—Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion Award Chapel of Four Chaplains . 73

WEDNESDAY SESSION—SEPTEMBER 7, 1994

Call to Order—National Commander, Bruce Thiesen .......................................... 77

Address—Honorable Paul Wellstone, U.S. Senate (MN) ...................................... 77

Report—John P. Comer, PNC and Member, Korean War Memorial Advisory

Board ..................................................................................................................... 81

Address—Honorable Jesse Brown, Secretary of Veterans Affairs ....................... 82

Award—Employer of The Year ............................................................................... 85
Page

IV

Report of Committee:

Employment and Veterans’ Preference and Other Economic Matters ......... 87

Address—Honorable Preston Taylor, Assistant Secretary for Veterans Employment ............................................................................................................... 111

Report of Committee—Credentials and Internal Affairs, Section II ................... 115

Special Committee Report—Credentials and Other Internal Affairs .................. 121

Presentation—Citation for Meritorious Service to Honorable Robert C. Smith,

U.S. Senate (NH) .................................................................................................. 123

Addresses:

Honorable Robert C. Smith, U.S. Senate (NH) .............................................. 124

Diane Carlson Evans, Vietnam Women’s Memorial Project ......................... 127

Wilma L. Vaught, Brigadier General, USAF Retired, President, Women

in Military Service for American Memorial Foundation ........................... 129

Major General Robert Ensslin, National Guard Association of U.S. ........... 131

Certificate of Appreciation—Frank Dosio, NYNEX .............................................. 134

Address—Joe Mayne, National Commander, Sons of the American Legion ...... 136

Report of Committee—Credentials and Internal Affairs, Section III .................. 138

Award—National Recruiter of the Year ................................................................ 144

Reports of Committees:

Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation ............................................................... 145

Finance .............................................................................................................. 170

Foreign Relations .............................................................................................. 171

Constitutional Amendments ............................................................................ 197

THURSDAY SESSION—SEPTEMBER 8, 1994

Call to Order—National Commander, Bruce Thiesen .......................................... 200

Presentation—George Greene, Buick Motor Division, GMC ................................ 201

Addresses:

Honorable Arne Carlson, Governor, State of Minnesota ............................... 202

Honorable Rod Grams, U.S. House of Representatives (MN) ....................... 204

Vice Admiral James M. Loy, U.S. Coast Guard ............................................. 208

Award—Fourth Estate Award ................................................................................ 213

Certificate of Appreciation—Brain Science Foundation, Minneapolis MN ......... 214

Report of Committee—National Security .............................................................. 217

Election of National Commander ........................................................................... 267

Address—National Commander, William Detweiler ............................................ 277

Election of National Vice Commanders ................................................................. 281

Greetings—Mrs. Linda Newsome, President, American Legion Auxiliary ......... 285

Benediction—Outgoing National Chaplain, Msgr. Raymond Kozlowski ............. 286

APPENDIX

Annual Awards ........................................................................................................ 288

Financial Report ...................................................................................................... 293

THE AMERICAN LEGION 74TH ANNUAL REPORT

Foreword, National Adjutant Robert W. Spanogle ............................................... 311

Excerpts from the Constitution of The American Legion ..................................... 312

National Executive Committee ............................................................................... 314

Reports of National Vice Commanders:

Juan Cintron, Puerto Rico ............................................................................... 316

Douglas A. Mason, Utah .................................................................................. 317

John Mulkern, Massachusetts ......................................................................... 318

K.W. Ohl, Indiana ............................................................................................ 319

Curtis O. Twete, North Dakota ....................................................................... 320

Reports:

National Chaplain ............................................................................................ 321

National Historian ............................................................................................ 322

National Judge Advocate ................................................................................. 323

Administrative Services ................................................................................... 330

Library and Museum ................................................................................ 332

Americanism Commission ................................................................................ 333

Counter-Subversive Activities Committee ............................................... 337

Education Committee ................................................................................ 337

Children & Youth Commission ........................................................................ 339

American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, Inc ................................... 350
Page

V

Reports—Continued

Convention Commission ................................................................................... 351

Economic Commission ...................................................................................... 352

Employment Committee ........................................................................... 355

Veterans Preference Committee ............................................................... 355

Finance Commission ........................................................................................ 358

Emblem Committee ................................................................................... 358

American Legion Life Insurance Committee .......................................... 359

Foreign Relations Commission ........................................................................ 369

Internal Affairs Commission ........................................................................... 379

Membership and Post Activities Committee ........................................... 383

Legislative Commission ................................................................................... 387

National Security Commission ........................................................................ 399

Aerospace Committee ................................................................................ 404

Defense Civil Preparedness Committee .................................................. 405

Law and Order Committee ....................................................................... 406

Merchant Marine Committee ................................................................... 407

Military Affairs Committee ...................................................................... 408

National Security Council ......................................................................... 415

Naval Affairs Committee .......................................................................... 416

Public Relations Commission .......................................................................... 416

American Legion Magazine Commission ........................................................ 417

Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission .......................................... 418

Report of the National President of the American Legion Auxiliary ........... 435

Financial Statements ....................................................................................... 442
vi

NATIONAL CONVENTIONS AND NATIONAL OFFICERS AMERICAN

LEGION, 1919 to Date

Note: In the following list it should be noted that the terms of each group of officers expire with that particular convention under which they are listed.

* indicates deceased.

HONORARY COMMANDERS

General John J. Pershing*

Marshall Ferdinand Foch*

PARIS CAUCUS

Paris, France, March 15 to 17, 1919

Temporary Chairman: Eric Fisher Wood,* Pennsylvania. (Voted title of Past Na- tional Commander at the 1955 National Convention.)

Permanent Chairman: Bennett C. Clark,* Missouri. (Voted title of past National

Commander at the 1926 National Convention.)

Chairman Pro Tempore: Thomas W. Miller,* Delaware. (Voted title of Past National

Commander at the 1968 National Convention.)

Secretary: Eric Fisher Wood,* Pennsylvania. (Voted title of Past National Commander at the 1955 National Convention.) At the Paris Caucus an Executive

Committee was elected to complete arrangements, the chairman and secretary

of which were:

Chairman: Milton J. Foreman,* Illinois. (Voted title of Past National Commander

at the 1921 National Convention.)

Secretary: George A. White,* Oregon.

ST. LOUIS CAUCUS

St. Louis, Missouri, May 8 to 10, 1919

Temporary Chairman: Theodore Roosevelt, Jr.,* New York. (Voted title of Past National Commander at the 1949 National Convention.)

Permanent Chairman: Henry D. Lindsley,* Texas.

Vice Chairmen: John J. Sullivan,* Washington; Fred Humphrey,* New Mexico; P.C.

Calhoun,* Connecticut. (Voted titles of Past National Commanders at 1933 National Convention.)

Secretary: Eric Fisher Wood,* Pennsylvania.

Chaplain: Thomas H. Wiles,* Colorado. (Voted title of Past National Commander at

the 1921 National Convention.)

1st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Minneapolis, Minnesota, November 10 to 12, 1919

Chairman: Henry D. Lidsley,* (Voted title of Past National Commander at the 1919

National Convention.)

Vice Chairman: Bennett C. Clark,* Missouri.

Secretary: Eric Fisher Wood,* Pennsylvania.

Treasurer: Gasper G. Bacon,* Massachusetts.

Chaplain: Thomas H. Wiles,* Colorado.

2d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Cleveland, Ohio, September 27 to 29, 1920

Commander: Franklin D’Olier,* Pennsylvania.

Vice Commanders: James O’Brien,* California; Allan Tukey,* Nebraska; Joyce S.

Lewis,* Minnesota; Alden B. Chambers, Massachusetts; William Follett,* Oregon.

Adjutant: Lemuel Bolles,* Washington.
vii

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Chaplain: Rev. Francis A. Kelly,* New York.

3d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Kansas City, Missouri, October 31 to November 2, 1921

Commander: Frederic W. Galbraith, Jr.,* (killed June 9), succeeded by John G.

Emery,* Michigan.

Vice Commanders: John G. Emery,* Michigan; Thomas Goldingay,* New Jersey;

Claudius G. Pendill,* Wisconsin; James G. Scrugham,* Nevada; E. Jackson

Winslett,* Alabama.

Adjutant: Lemuel Bolles,* Washington.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. John W. Inzer,* Tennessee.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

4th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New Orleans, Louisiana, October 16 to 20, 1922

Commander: Hanford MacNider,* Iowa.

Vice Commanders: H. Nelson Jackson,* Vermont; George L. Berry,* Tennessee; Raymond O. Brackett,* Massachusetts; Charles H. Kendrick, California; John A.

McCormack,* Colorado.

Adjutant: Lemuel Bolles,* Washington.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Earl A. Blackman,*

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

5th NATIONAL CONVENTION

San Francisco, California, October 16 to 19, 1923

Commander: Alvin M. Owsley,* Texas.

Vice Commanders: Edward J. Barrett,* Wisconsin; Watson B. Miller,* District of Columbia; E. Erle Cocke, Sr.,* Georgia; Robert O. Blood,* New Hampshire; Chiles

P. Plummer, Wyoming.

Adjutant: Lemuel Bolles,* Washington.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplin: Rev. William F. O’Connor,* Ohio.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

6th NATIONAL CONVENTION

St. Paul, Minnesota, September 15 to 19, 1924

Commander: John R. Quinn,* California.

Vice Commanders: Lester Albert,* Idaho; Celora M. Stoddard, Arizona; William B.

Healey,* Pennsylvania; F. Ryan Duffy,* Wisconsin; Dr. I. Thurman Mann,*

North Carolina.

Adjutant: Lemuel Bolles,* Washington.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Ezra Clemens,* Minnesota.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

7th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Omaha, Nebraska, October 5 to 9, 1925

Commander: James A. Drain,* Washington.

Vice Commanders: Frank H. McFarland,* Kansas; Eugene P. Armstrong,* Connecticut; A.L. Perry, Panama; Peyton H. Hoge, Jr,* Kentucky; William Stern,* North

Dakota.
viii

Adjutant: Russell G. Creviston,* Indiana (resigned), succeeded by James f. Barton,*

Iowa.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Joseph M. Lonergan,* Illinois.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

8th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, October 11 to 15, 1926

Commander: John R. McQuigg,* Ohio.

Vice Commanders: Joseph Y. Cheney,* Florida; Hughes B. Davis,* Oklahoma; Vincent A. Carroll,* Pennsylvania; Raymond B. Littlefield,* Rhode Island; James

A. Howell,* Utah.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. William E. Patrick,* California.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

9th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New York, New York, October 18, 1927

Paris, France, September 19 to 22, 1927

Commander: Howard P. Savage,* Illinois.

Vice Commander: C. Thomas Busha, Jr.,* Montana; Stafford King,* Minnesota;

John G. Sims, Tennessee; John E. Curtis,* Nebraska: John G. Towne,* Maine.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Treasurer: Robert H. Tyndall,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Joseph L.N. Wolfe,* Pennsylvania.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Robert A. Adams,* Indiana.

10th NATIONAL CONVENTION

San Antonio, Texas, October 8 to 11, 1928

Commander: Edward E. Spafford,* New York.

Vice Commanders: John T. Raftis,* Washington; Ralph T. O’Neil,* Kansas; Paul R.

Younts,* North Carolina; Dan Spurlock,* Louisiana; John M. Henry,* Minnesota.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Chaplain: Rev. Gill Robb Wilson,* New Jersey.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Scott W. Lucas,* Illinois.

11th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Louisville, Kentucky, September 30 to October 2, 1929

Commander: Paul V. McNutt,* Indiana.

Vice Commanders: Lawrence E. McGann, Jr.,* Illinois; George W. Malone,* Nevada;

Edward L. White,* Connecticut; Miller C. Foster, South Carolina; Walton D.

Hood,* Texas.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Chaplain: Rabbi Lee J. Levinger,* Ohio.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Scott W. Lucas,* Illinois.

12th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Boston, Massachusetts, October 6 to 9, 1930

Commander: O.L. Bodenhamer,* Arkansas.
ix

Vice Commanders: Milt D. Campbell,* Ohio; John J. Dugan,* Delaware; Morton M. David,* Colorado; Frank Schoble, Jr.,* Pennsylvania; Willis M. Brewer,* Michigan. Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Chaplain: Rev. George K. Kettell, D.D.,* New York.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Scott W. Lucas,* Illinois.

13th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Detroit, Michigan, September 21 to 24, 1931

Commander: Ralph T. O’Neil,* Kansas.

Vice Commanders: Bert S. Hyland,* Vermont; Roland B. Howell,* Louisiana; Harry B. Henderson, Jr.,* Wyoming; Dr. James A. Duff,* West Virginia; Dr. Neal D.

Williams,* Missouri.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Chaplain: Rev. Joseph N. Barnett, Wisconsin.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Scott W. Lucas,* Illinois.

14th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Portland, Oregon, September 12 to 15, 1932

Commander: Henry L. Stevens, Jr.,* North Carolina.

Vice Commanders: Richard F. Paul,* Massachusetts; Forrest G. Cooper,* Mississippi; Roy L. Cook,* New Mexico; Frank N. Brooks,* Washington; Harold L.

Plummer,* Wisconsin.

Adjutant: James F. Barton,* Iowa.

Chaplain: Rev. H.A. Darche,* Illinois.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts.

Judge Advocate: Remster A. Bingham,* Indiana.

15th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, October 2 to 5, 1933

Commander: Louis A. Johnson,* West Virginia.

Vice Commanders: Russell Meadows,* Arizona; Robert D. Flory,* Nebraska; William Easterwood, Jr.,* Texas; John J. Maloney,* Maine; Chas. A. Mills,* Florida. Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Irvin Q. Wood,* Idaho.

Treasurer: Bowman Elder,* Indiana.

Historian: Eben Putnam,* Massachusetts (died January 22, 1933), succeeded by Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Judge Advocate: Remster A. Bingham,* Indiana.

16th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami, Florida, October 22 to 25, 1934

Commander: Edward A. Hayes,* Illinois.

Vice Commanders: Charles R. Mabey,* Utah: Robert L. Gordon, Arkansas; Miguel Munoz,* Puerto Rico; Ed W. Carruth,* Kansas; Charles L. Woolley,* Rhode Island.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Robert J. White,* Massachusetts.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Remster A. Bingham,* Indiana.

17th NATIONAL CONVENTION

St. Louis, Missouri, September 23 to 26, 1935

Commander: Frank N. Belgrano, Jr.,* California.
x

Vice Commanders: Daniel J. Doherty,* Massachusetts; Harold J. Warner,* Oregon;

John K. Kennelly,* North Dakota; Milo J. Warner,* Ohio; Quimby Melton,*

Georgia.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Park W. Huntington,* Delaware.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: James A. Drain,* Washington.

Judge Advocate: James A. Drain,* Washington.

18th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Cleveland, Ohio, September 21 to 24, 1936

Commander: Ray Murphy,* Iowa.

Vice Commanders; Raymond F. Gates,* Connecticut; Dr. W.E. Whitlock,* Florida;

Oscar W. Worthwine, Idaho; Dr. F. Whitney Godwin, Virginia; Lewis R. Probst,*

Wyoming.

Adjutant; Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Thomas D. Kennedy,* Missouri.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

19th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New York, New York, September 20 to 23, 1937

Commander: Harry W. Colmery,* Kansas.

Vice Commanders: Salvatore Capodice,* California; Leo A. Temmey,* South Dakota;

Leonard Sisk,* Tennessee; J. Fred Johnson, Jr.,* Alabama; Jack Crowley,* Vermont.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Bryan H. Keathley,* Texas.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

20th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Los Angeles, California, September 19 to 22, 1938

Commander: Daniel J. Doherty,* Massachusetts.

Vice Commanders: Drury M. Phillips,* Texas; Phil Conley, West Virginia: Harry M.

Johnson,* Montana; James F. Daniel, Jr.,* South Carolina; James R. Mahaffy,*

Hawaii.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Frank J. Lawler,* Illinois.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

21st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, September 25 to 28, 1939

Commander: Stephen F. Chadwick,* Washington.

Vice Commanders: Edward J. Quinn,* Maine; Charles W. Crush, Virginia; Earl T.

Ross,* Nevada; James T. Crawley,* Mississippi; Henry C. Oakey,* Wisconsin.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Frank J. Lawler,* Illinois.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

22d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Boston, Massachusetts, September 23 to 26, 1940

Commander: Raymond J. Kelly,* Michigan.
xi

Vice Commanders: Leo E. Ray,* New Hampshire; Charles Q. Kelly,* Arkansas; Matthew J. Murphy,* Illinois; James B. Fitzgerald,* Maryland; H. Elwyn Davis,*

Colorado.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Patrick N. McDermott,* Iowa.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

23d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, September 15 to 18, 1941

Commander: Milo J. Warner,* Ohio.

Vice Commanders: Erwin A. Froyd,* Wyoming; James L. McCrory,* Nebraska; Harold P. Redden,* Massachusetts; Edward R. Stirling,* Pennsylvania; Alcee S.

Legendre,* Louisiana.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Brigadier William G. Gilks, Texas.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

24th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Kansas City, Missouri, September 19 to 21, 1942

Commander: Lynn U. Stambaugh,* North Dakota.

Vice Commanders: W.C. Sawyer,* Arizona; William DeLacy Allen,* Georgia; Charles

E. Booth,* West Virginia; V.M. Armstrong,* Indiana; John F. Sullivan,* Vermont.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas.

Chaplain: Rev. Frederick J. Halloran,* New Jersey.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

25th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Omaha, Nebraska, September 21 to 23, 1943

Commander: Roane Waring,* Tennessee.

Vice Commanders: John T. Batten,* Alabama; Arthur J. Connell,* Connecticut; Fred

G. Fraser,* District of Columbia; Herman H. Lark,* Missouri; Jefferson Davis

Atwood,* New Mexico.

Adjutant: Frank E. Samuel,* Kansas (died July 25), succeeded by Donald G.

Glascoff,* Michigan, Acting Adjutant.

Chaplain: Rev. Paul De Forrest Mortimore,* Idaho.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

26th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, September 18 to 20, 1944

Commander: Warren H. Atherton,* California.

Vice Commanders: Martin V. Coffey,* Ohio; E.A. Littlefield,* Utah; Robert ‘‘Roy’’

McMillan,* North Carolina; Edward Al Mulrooney,* Delaware; Hector G. Staples,* Maine.

Adjutant: Donald G. Glascoff,* Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Paul F. McManus,* Kansas.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.
xii

27th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, November 18 to 21, 1945

Commander: Edward N. Scheiberling,* New York.

Vice Commanders: Bascom F. Jones,* Tennessee; Frank E. McCuffrey,* Rhode Island; Dan M. McDade,* Oregon; Ray S. Plerson,* Kansas; William P. Shadoan,*

Kentucky;

Adjutant: Donald G. Glascoff,* Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. DeWitt C. Malloy,* Florida.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

28th NATIONAL CONVENTION

San Francisco, California, September 30 to October 4, 1946

Commander: John Stelle,* Illinois.

Vice Commanders: R. Graham Huntington,* New Jersey; Fred LaBoon,* Oklahoma;

Sam L. Latimer, Jr.,* South Carolina; H. Dudley Swim,* Idaho; Jeremiah

Twomey,* Massachusetts.

Adjutant: Donald G. Glascoff,* Michigan.

Chaplain: Rt. Rev. Msgr. Edward J. Smith,* Iowa.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

29th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New York, New York, August 28–31, 1947

Commander: Paul H. Griffith,* Pennsylvania.

Vice Commanders: Joseph W. Brown,* New Hampshire; Martin B. Buckner,* Michigan; Richard C. Cadwallader,* Louisiana; Earnest H. Dervishian,* Virginia; Edward J. Sharkey,* California.

Adjutant: Donald G. Glascoff,* Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Arthur L. Rustad,* Minnesota.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

30th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami, Florida, October 18 to 20, 1948

Commander: James F. O’Neill,* New Hampshire.

Vice Commanders: L.W. Barns,* South Dakota; Albert A. Cree,* Vermont; Richard

B. Ott,* Washington; Myron R. Renick,* West Virginia; Edward J. Sharkey,*

California.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. Frank L. Harrington,* Montana.

Historian: Thomas M. Owen, Jr.,* Alabama.

Treasurer: John Ruddick,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

31st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 29 to September 1, 1949

Commander: S. Perry Brown,* Texas.

Vice Commanders: James Lane,* Alabama; Leonard W. Moody,* Arkansas; James

Annin,* Montana; Walter E. Alessandroni,* Pennsylvania; Edward J. Kelly,*

Connecticut.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. Thomas Grice,* California.

Historian: Monte C. Sandlin,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.
xiii

32d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Los Angeles, California, October 9 to 12, 1950

Commander: George N. Craig,* Indiana.

Vice Commanders: Milton G. Boock,* Minnesota; David H. Fleisher,* Missouri;

Frank E. Lowe,* Maine; J.E. Martie,* Nevada; Dr. D.R. Perry,* North Carolina.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. Edward J. Carney,* O.S.A., Massachusetts.

Historian: Monte C. Sandlin,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

33d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami, Florida, October 15 to 18, 1951

Commander: Earl Cocke, Jr.,* Georgia.

Vice Commanders: Joe Adams,* Florida; Herbert J. Jacobi,* District of Columbia;

Felix Pogliano,* Colorado; Lewis K. Gough,* California; Fred C. Bramlage,*

Kansas.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rabbi David Lefkowitz,* Louisiana.

Historian: Monte C. Sandlin,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

34th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New York, New York, August 25 to 28, 1952

Commander: Donald R. Wilson,* West Virginia.

Vice Commanders: Adolph F. Bremer,* Minnesota; Frank R. Kelley,* Massachusetts; Thomas E. Paradine,* New York; Oscar B. Rohiff,* Wyoming; Audley H.

Ward,* South Carolina.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. Olaf G. Birkeland,* Wisconsin.

Historian: Monte C. Sandlin,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

35th NATIONAL CONVENTION

St. Louis, Missouri, August 31 to September 2, 1953

Commander: Lewis K. Gough,* California

Vice Commanders: William R. Bourdon,* Arizona; Lyon W. Brandon,* Mississippi;

Wilbur C. Daniel,* Virginia; Harry V. Groome,* New Jersey; J. Addington Wagner, Michigan.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. John E. Duff,* Ohio.

Historian: Monte C. Sandlin,* Alabama.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

36th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Washington, D.C., August 30 to September 2, 1954

Commander: Arthur J. Connell,* Connecticut.

Vice Commanders: John A. High,* New Hampshire; Dr. Deward H. Reed,* New

Mexico; Truman C. Wold, North Dakota; Thomas W. Bird,* North Carolina,

Herbert M. Walker,* Pennsylvania.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Dr. Tom B. Clark,* Oklahoma.

Historian: Robert T. Fairey,* South Carolina.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.
xiv

37th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami, Florida, October 10 to 13, 1955

Commander: Seaborn P. Collins,* New Mexico.

Vice Commanders: Leonard H. Jackson,* Louisiana; Patrick H. Mangan, Jr., Vermont; Howard C. Kingdom,* Ohio; Dr. Carl J. Rees,* Delaware; Robert L. Shelby, Utah.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska.

Chaplain: Rev. Albert J. Hoffman,* Iowa.

Historian: Robert T. Fairey,* South Carolina.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

38th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Los Angeles, California, September 3 to 6, 1956

Commander: J. Addington Wagner, Michigan.

Vice Commanders: Guy Stone,* Georgia; John H. Van Horn,* Alaska; L. Everett

Page,* Texas; Gilman H. Stordock,* Wisconsin; James V. Day,* Maine (resigned

Jan. 1, 1956), succeeded by William J. Holliman, District of Columbia.

Adjutant: Henry H. Dudley,* Nebraska (resigned), succeeded by E.A. Blackmore,*

Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Joseph MacCaroll,* New Jersey.

Historian: Robert T. Fairey,* South Carolina.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

39th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Atlantic City, New Jersey, September 16 to 19, 1957

Commander: W.C. ‘‘Dan’’ Daniel,* Virginia.

Vice Commanders: Gaylord M. Brown,* Iowa; George T. Lewis, Jr., Tennessee; Carl

R. Moser,* Oregon; John E. Stay, Pennsylvania; J. Edward Walter,* Maryland.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Joseph MacCaroll,* New Jersey.

Historian: Robert T. Fairey,* South Carolina.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

40th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, September 1 to 4, 1958

Commander: John S. Gleason, Jr.,* Illinois.

Vice Commanders: William A. Cottrell,* Hawaii; Ramon R. Guas,* Puerto Rico;

Harry W. Miller,* West Virginia; Leo A. Lemos,* Rhode Island; Isador Levine,*

Indiana.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Feltham S. James,* South Carolina.

Historian: Mrs. Charles A. (Emily) Herbert,* New Jersey.

Treasurer: Neal Grider,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.

41st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Minneapolis, Minnesota, August 24 to 27, 1959

Commander: Preston J. Moore, Oklahoma.

Vice Commanders: C.D. DeLoach, District of Columbia; John W. Collins, Pennsylvania; James B. Kerrigan,* Missouri; Robert Charles Smith,* Louisiana; James C.

Bangs,* Idaho.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rt. Rev. Msgr. John J. Twiss,* Massachusetts.

Historian: Mrs. Charles A. (Emily) Herbert,* New Jersey.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Ralph B. Gregg,* Indiana.
xv

42d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami Beach, Florida, October 15 to 20, 1960

Commander: Martin B. McKneally,* New York.

Vice Commanders: William A. Brennan, Jr., Indiana; A. Layman Harman,* South Carolina; Nate V. Keller,* Minnesota; Irven Frank Gianotti,* Minnesota (appointed September 14, 1960, to fill vacancy created July 25 by the death of Nate

V. Keller); Willard W. Brandt, North Dakota; Charles McGonegal,* California;

Corydon T. Hill,* California (appointed May 4, 1960, to fill vacancy created January 27 by the death of Charles McGonegal). Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rabbi Robert I. Kahn, D.H.L., Texas.

Historian: Mrs. Charles A. (Emily) Herbert,* New Jersey.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

43d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Denver, Colorado, September 9 to 14, 1961

Commander: William R. Burke, California.

Vice Commanders: George K. Walker, Massachusetts; James M. Wagonseller, Ohio; Vincent J. Maxheim,* Iowa; Dr. Harry Kretzler,* Washington; R.C. Godwin,*

North Carolina.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. William H. Moss,* Tennessee.

Historian: Glenn B. Hoover,* Iowa.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

44th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Las Vegas, Nevada, October 5 to 11, 1962

Commander: Charles L. Bacon,* Missouri.

Vice Commanders: Walter W. Barnard,* Montana; Edward T. Hoak,* Pennsylvania; Wilson H. Morrison, Michigan; J. Milton Patrick, Oklahoma; Edward Wysocki,

New Jersey. Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Robert G. Keating,* Connecticut.

Historian: Earl David Young,* Colorado.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

45th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami Beach, Florida, September 6 to 12, 1963

Commander: James E. Powers,* Georgia.

Vice Commanders: Harold D. Beaton, District of Columbia; James W. Doon,* New

Hampshire; Claude A. Hamilton,* South Dakota; Paschal C. Reese,* Florida;

Victor F. Whittlesea,* Nevada.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rabbi Albert M. Shulman, Indiana.

Historian: H. Armand de Masi,* Italy.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

46th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Dallas, Texas, September 22 to 24, 1964

Commander: Daniel F. Foley, Minnesota.

Vice Commanders: Earl D. Franklin, Jr., Colorado; Emilio S. Iglesias,* Vermont;

Garland D. Murphy, Jr.,* M.D., Arkansas; George Emory Sipple,* Wisconsin;

Harry Wright,* Mexico.

Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. John J. Howard,* Virginia.

Historian: H. Armand de Masi,* Italy.
xvi

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

47th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Portland, Oregon, August 24 to 26, 1965

Commander: Donald E. Johnson, Iowa.

Vice Commanders: David Aronberg,* Kentucky; Herbert D. Black,* South Carolina; Ward W. Husted,* Wyoming; Edward H. Lynch, Jr.,* Connecticut; Joseph

Paul,* Michigan. Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Morris N. Dummet,* Louisiana.

Historian: Harold A. Shindler,* Indiana.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram A. Davis, New York.

48th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Washington, D.C., August 30 to September 1, 1966

Commander: L. Eldon James, Virginia.

Vice Commanders: Dr. A.R. Choppin,* Louisiana; William E. Galbraith, Nebraska;

Robert O. Phillips,* Philippines; William J. Rogers, Maine; Soleng Tom, Arizona. Adjutant: E.A. Blackmore,* Wyoming.

Chaplain: Rev. Alfred C. Thompson, New York.

Historian: Harold A. Shindler,* Indiana.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

49th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Boston, Massachusetts, August 29 to 31, 1967

Commander: John E. Davis,* North Dakota.

Vice Commanders: Robert M. Fritz,* Indiana; Lewis W. Emerich, Texas; Harry V. Klein, Pennsylvania; Frank L. Orfanello,* Massachusetts; James A. Tadlock,*

New Mexico.

Adjutant: Earnest N. Schmit, North Dakota.

Chaplain: Rev. Anthony J. O’Driscoll,* New York.

Historian: Harold A. Shindler,* Indiana.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

50th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New Orleans, Louisiana, September 6 to 12, 1968

Commander: William E. Galbraith, Nebraska.

Vice Commanders: Coleman Nolen, Oklahoma; Louis R.J. Malo, Rhode Island; Roscoe D. Curtiss,* Tennessee; Dr. Edward L. Peterson, Utah; Marvin W. Roth,

Wisconsin.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Edward P. Nolan,* Pennsylvania.

Historian: Harold A. Shindler,* Indiana.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

51st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Atlanta, Georgia, August 22 to 28, 1969

Commander: William C. Doyle,* New Jersey.

Vice Commanders: C. Russell Huber,* Alaska; John A. Jones,* West Virginia; How- ard E. Lohman,* Minnesota; Lewis E. McCray, Alabama; Maurice Parisien,*

Maine.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. C.J. Olander,* Mississippi.

Historian: Harold A. Shindler,* Indiana.
xvii

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

52d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Portland, Oregon, August 28 to September 3, 1970

Commander: J. Milton Patrick, Oklahoma.

Vice Commanders: Kent. T. Lundgren,* Michigan; Roland D. Marble, Mississippi; Raymond F. Mudge, New Hampshire; Earl R. Norgard, Oregon; Gilberto M.

Font, Puerto Rico.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. William D. Curtis, Minnesota.

Historian: John A. May,* South Carolina.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

53d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Houston, Texas, August 27 to September 2, 1971

Commander: Alfred P. Chamie,* California.

Vice Commanders: Claude Carpenter, Arkansas; Max Hanson,* Idaho; *Robert E.L.

Eaton; Maryland; Gabriel T. Olga,* Massachusetts; John E. Gilbert, Pennsylvania.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Milton B. Faust,* North Carolina.

Historian: Howard M. Swinney,* Kentucky.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

54th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, August 22 to 24, 1972

Commander: John H. Geiger, Illinois.

Vice Commanders: Howard W. Fann, Kentucky; Arthur M. MacCarthy,* Florida; Roy Sweet, Vermont; Harry G. Wiles, Kansas; Wallace C.S. Young, Hawaii. Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Paul J. Schwaab, Nebraska.

Historian: G. Greer McCallister,* Ohio.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

55th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Honolulu, Hawaii, August 21 to 23, 1973

Commander: Joe L. Matthews, Texas.

Vice Commanders: Tim T. Craig,* North Carolina; Sam Gray,* California; Donald L. Gruenbaum, Ohio; Albert J. Moeller, New Jersey; Raymond J. Novak, South

Dakota.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. L.P. Fitzpatrick,* Iowa.

Historian: Mrs. Loretta O. Phillips, California.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

56th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Miami Beach, Florida, August 20 to 22, 1974

Commander: Robert E.L. Eaton,* Maryland.

Vice Commanders: John N. Roberto, Connecticut; Frank C. Brooks, Washington; Gil- bert E. Sheeks, Indiana; Merrick W. Swords Jr.,* Louisiana; N.E. Brown,*

South Carolina.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Jerome D. Fortenberry, Missouri.

Historian: R. Robert Filter,* Wisconsin.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.
xviii

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

57th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Minneapolis, Minnesota, August 19 to 21, 1975

Commander: James M. Wagonseller, Ohio.

Vice Commanders: Boyd H. Clemens, North Dakota; Jack W. Flynt, Texas; Jay E. Harville, Tennessee; Donald H. Jeffery, Pennsylvania; William A. Lindsay, Montana.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Harvey T. Goodling,* Oregon.

Historian: Nolie C. Deas, Sr., Florida.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

58th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Seattle, Washington, August 24 to 26, 1976

Commander: Harry G. Wiles, Kansas.

Vice Commanders: John W. Adams, Jr., Kentucky; Fred W. Anderson, Jr., Nevada; Leo F. Malloy, Massachusetts; Thomas W. Miller, Arkansas; James F. Walker,

Minnesota.

Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. Claude E. Smithmier, Georgia.

Historian: Mrs. Dorothy Grimes, Colorado.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

59th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Denver, Colorado, August 23 to 25, 1977

Commander: William J. Rogers, Maine.

Vice Commanders: Lloyd J. Berken, Wisconsin; Thomas B. Coll, District of Colum- bia; Robert B. Grauberger,* Colorado; Frank A. Kelly, Georgia; Wilbur Walker,

Virginia. Adjutant: William F. Hauck,* Indiana.

Chaplain: Rev. James C. Tuxbury, North Dakota.

Historian: Alton H. Carpenter, New York.

Treasurer: Francis Polen,* Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

60th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New Orleans, Louisiana, August 22 to 24, 1978

Commander: Robert Charles Smith,* Louisiana.

Vice Commanders: Eugene V. Lindquist, Minnesota; Roger A. Munson, Ohio; John J. O’Connell,* Rhode Island; Chester Phillips, West Virginia; Irving B. Selmer,*

Wyoming. Adjutant: Frank C. Momsen,* Minnesota.

Chaplain: Rev. Walter D. Power, Maryland.

Hostorian: Arnold J. Stockstad,* North Dakota.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

61st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Houston, Texas, August 21 to 23, 1979

Commander: John M. Carey, Michigan.

Vice Commanders: L. Max Connoly,* Arizona; Alvin F. Grauerholz, Kansas; Joseph F. Ward, New Jersey; John H. Wienand, Jr.,* Alabama; Nathan M. Wolfe,

South Carolina.

Adjutant: Frank C. Momsen,* Minnesota.

Chaplain: R. Drew Wolcott,* Mexico.

Historian: Harry H. Kretzler, M.D.,* Washington.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.
xix

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

62d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Boston, Massachusetts, August 19 to 21, 1980

Commander: Frank I. Hamilton, Indiana.

Vice Commanders: G.Y. Fails,* New Mexico; Keith A. Kreul, Wisconsin; Bob Legan, Arkansas; Max E. Robinson, North Carolina; Lawrence R. Spauldin,* New

Hampshire.

Adjutant: Frank C. Momsen,* Minnesota.

Chaplain: Rev. Karl E. Kniseley, California.

Historian: Phillip Haddad, Oklahoma.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

63d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Honolulu, Hawaii, September 1 to 3, 1981

Commander: Michael J. Kogutek, New York.

Vice Commanders: Ralph M. Godwin,* Mississippi; Keith H. Gwilliam, Utah; Matthew W.Jamieson,* Michigan; Robert W. Lowry, Nebraska; Dr. Almo J.

Sebastianelli, Pennsylvania. Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. George S. Macres,* Minnesota.

Historian: Neal S. Sundeen, Arizona.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

64th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, August 24 to 26, 1982

Commander: Jack W. Flynt, Texas.

Vice Commanders: Frank T. Markovich,* Missouri; Dan C. McDonough,* Alaska; Percy C. Miller, Tennessee; Melvin ‘‘Doc’’ Simon, Vermont; David A. Wade,*

Maryland. Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. George R.M. Rumney, Virginia.

Historian: Bernard J. Chisholm,* Minnesota.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

65th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Seattle, Washington, August 23 to 25, 1983

Commander: Al Keller, Jr., Illinois.

Vice Commanders: Robert C. Gabrielson, South Dakota; Margaret M. Malone, New Jersey; H. Melvin Napier, Indiana; Jack C. Plato,* Oregon; Leo O. Walker,

Oklahoma.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. John D. Kempf,* Ohio.

Historian: James W. Conway, Massachusetts.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Bertram G. Davis, New York.

66th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Salt Lake City, Utah, September 3 to 5, 1984

Commander: Keith Kreul, Wisconsin.

Vice Commanders: J. Leslie Brown, Jr., Kentucky; Roberto Gonzalez, Puerto Rico; Charles R. Green,* Ohio; Robert W. Groccia, Massachusetts, John N. Lockhart,

Hawaii.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: James Clay McKee, Utah.

Historian: Herberta T. Stark,* New Hampshire.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.
xx

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

67th NATIONAL CONVENTION

New Orleans, Louisiana, August 26 to 28, 1985

Commander: Clarence M. Bacon, Maryland.

Vice Commanders: Robert S. Turner, Georgia; Harold E. Collett,* Idaho; Ronald D.

Birk, Kansas; Stewart Kunde,* Minnesota; Stephen J. Mikosky,* Pennsylvania.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Charles G. Rice, Jr., New York.

Historian: Roy B. Mahoney, Florida.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland

68th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Cincinnati, Ohio, September 2 to 4, 1986

Commander: Dale L. Renaud, Iowa.

Vice Commanders: Bernard Black, South Carolina; Norman Conn,* California; Vito

M. DeFilipp, Maine; Miles S. Epling, West Virginia, H.R. Gierke, North Dakota.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Dr. Gordon L. Patterson, Nebraska.

Historian: Ethel M. Matuschka, Wisconsin.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

69th NATIONAL CONVENTION

San Antonio, Texas, August 25 to 27, 1987

Commander: James P. Dean, Mississippi.

Vice Commanders: William M. Detweiler, Louisiana; Doris R. Gross, Washington;

Donald E. Neil, Delaware; Allen L. Titus, Indiana; Ervin F. Van Dyke, Wisconsin.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Arthur J. Jakobiak, New Mexico.

Historian: J. Ruffin Apperson, Virginia.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

70th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Louisville, Kentucky, September 6 to 8, 1988

Commander: John P. ‘‘Jake’’ Comer, Massachusetts.

Vice Commanders: Neale V. Cabral, Connecticut; Joe Frank, Jr., Missouri; W.P.

‘‘Bill’’ Peterson, Montana; Paul B. Phifer, Jr., Virginia; Leon Reed, Arkansas.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Jerry Salveson, Minnesota.

Historian: Edward F. Brennan,* Illinois.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

71st NATIONAL CONVENTION

Baltimore, Maryland, September 5 to 7, 1989

Commander: H.F. ‘‘Sparky’’ Gierke, North Dakota.

Vice Commanders: Thomas L. Gabel, Ohio; Harvey Holcomb, Texas; Archie Pozzi,

Jr., Nevada; Ray G. Smith, Sr., North Carolina; John P. Tipping, New York.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. F. Robert Davidson, Michigan.

Historian: Richard A. Stevens, Louisiana.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.
xxi

72d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Indianapolis, Indiana, August 28 to 30, 1990

Commander: Miles S. Epling, West Virginia.

Vice Commanders: Vincent E. Blank, Iowa; Joseph E. Caoette, New Hampshire; Andrew J. Cooper, Alabama; Gerald Goetzinger, South Dakota; Vinton R. Guy,

Colorado.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Lynn S. Kearsley, Idaho.

Historian: C. Carl Pilgrim, South Carolina.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

73d NATIONAL CONVENTION

Phoenix, Arizona, September 3 to 5, 1991

Commander: Robert S. Turner, Georgia.

Vice Commanders: Lewis Adams, Nebraska; James T. Anderson, Wyoming; Fred M.

Ingellis, Mississippi; Harry F. McDowell, Florida; George E. Sampson, New Jersey.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Michas M. Ohnstad, Minnesota.

Historian: Harold Matthew Branton, Teaxas.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

74th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Chicago, Illinois, August 25 to 27, 1992

Commander: Dominic D. DiFrancesco, Pennsylvania.

Vice Commanders: James ‘‘Jim’’ G. Brouillette, Vermont; Thomas P. Cadmus, Michigan; Ronald C. Murphy, Arizona; Lawrence F. Roy, Oklahoma; Lee R. Stolful,

Kansas.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. Donal M. ‘‘Jack’’ Squires, West Virginia.

Historian: Bettie M. Canon, Montana.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.

75th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, September 7 to 9, 1993

Commander: Roger A. Munson, Ohio.

Vice Commanders: Joseph V. Adams, Pennsylvania; Paul Andrejewski, Minnesota;

Robert E. David, South Carolina; John Wm. (Bill) Murphy, Arizona; Louis A.

(Tony) Santillanes, New Mexico.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Rev. James R. Wagner, Mississippi.

Historian: Delfo Barabani, Massachussetts.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk. Jr., Maryland

76th NATIONAL CONVENTION

Minneapolis, Minnesota, September 6 to 8, 1994

Commander: Bruce Thiesen, California.

Vice Commanders: Juan H. Cintron, Puerto Rico; Douglas A. Mason, Utah; John J.

Mulkern, Massachussetts; K.W. Ohl, Indiana; Curtis O. Twete, North Dakota.

Adjutant: Robert W. Spanogle, Michigan.

Chaplain: Msgr. Raymond J. Kozlowski, New York.

Historian: Marjorie T. Simpson, Georgia.

Treasurer: Webber LaGrange, Indiana.

Judge Advocate: Philip B. Onderdonk, Jr., Maryland.
(1)
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309

THE AMERICAN LEGION 76TH ANNUAL

REPORT

(311)

FOREWORD

The American Legion continued to have a strong year under the

leadership of National Commander Bruce Thiesen of Kingsburg,

California. Membership was strong with more than 3 million veterans in more than 15,000 posts throughout the Nation and overseas.

We recorded another year of rewarding service to America, her veterans, and their families.

The American Legion national headquarters is located in Indianapolis, Indiana. In addition to the Indianapolis facilities, offices are

maintained in Washington, DC, to house those organizational functions requiring a close working relationship with the Congress and

the appropriate agencies of the federal government. The editorial

and advertising staffs of The American Legion Magazine are located at The American Legion’s Indianapolis headquarters.

The National Commander’s report is published herein as a part

of the National Convention proceedings. Reports of the other national officers, the national commissions, financial statement with

accompanying data, and a report of the National President of the

American Legion Auxiliary are included.

Throughout the year, the two organizations continued to provide

vital leadership to the nation and, through our activities and programs, contributed significantly to the preservation of the American way of life. We are proud of our accomplishments and look forward to the challenges ahead in the coming year.

ROBERT W. SPANOGLE,

National Adjutant.
312

EXCERPTS FROM CONSTITUTION OF

THE AMERICAN LEGION

ARTICLE II

Nature

Section 1. The American Legion is a civilian organization; mem- bership therein does not affect nor increase liability for military or

police service. Rank does not exist in the Legion; no member shall

be addressed by his military or naval title in any convention or

meeting of the Legion. Section 2. The American Legion shall be absolutely non-political and shall not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles

nor for the promotion of the candidacy of any person seeking public

office or preferment.

ARTICLE III

Organization

Section 1. The American Legion shall be organized in Depart- ments and these in turn in Posts. There shall be one Department

in each state, in the District of Columbia, and there may be one

Department in each territory in insular possessions of the United

States. The National Executive Committee may establish Posts in

the territorial and insular possessions of the United States and foreign countries, and shall designate the Department under whose

jurisdiction they shall function, but this shall in no way affect the

status of Departments already established.

ARTICLE IV

Eligibility

Section 1. Any person shall be eligible for membership in The

American Legion who was a member of the Army, Navy, Marine

Corps, Coast Guard or Air Force of the United States and assigned

to active duty at some time during any of the following periods:

April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918; December 7, 1941, to December 31, 1946; June 25, 1950, to January 31, 1955; December 22,

1961, to May 7, 1975; August 24, 1982, to July 31, 1984; December

20, 1989, to January 31, 1990; August 2, 1990 to the date of cessation of hostilities as determined by the Government of the United

States period; all dates inclusive, or who, being a citizen of the

United States at the time of his entry therein, served on active

duty in the armed forces of any of the governments associated with

the United States during any said periods; provided however, that

such service shall have been terminated by honorable discharge or

honorable separation, or continued honorably after any of said periods; provided, further, that no person shall be entitled to membership who, being in such service during any of said periods, refused

on conscientious, political or other grounds to subject himself to

military discipline or unqualified service.
313

Section 2. There shall be no form of class of membership except

an active membership, and dues shall be paid annually or for life.

Section 3. No person may be a member at any time of more than

one Post.

Section 4. No person, who has been expelled by a Post shall be

admitted to membership in another Post, without the consent of

the expelling Post except that where such consent has been asked

for and denied by such Post, he may then appeal to the Executive

Committee of the Department of the expelling Post for permission

to be admitted to membership in another Post, and shall be ineligible for membership until such permission is granted.

ARTICLE V

National Convention

Section 1. The legislative body of The American Legion shall be

the National Convention, except as otherwise provided in the Constitution and By-Laws.

Section 2. The time and place of the National Conventions shall

be determined by the National Executive Committee, which shall

have authority to change such time and place for sufficient reasons

to it appearing.

Section 3. In the National Convention each Department shall be

entitled to five delegates and one additional delegate for each one

thousand members, or major fraction thereof, whose current dues

have been received by the National Treasurer 30 days prior to the

meeting of said Convention and whose registration fees, as fixed by

the National Executive Committee, for its total authorized delegate

strength, have been paid, and to one alternate for each delegate.

The delegate shall be chosen not less than 2 weeks before the National Convention at Department Conventions or in any other manner specified by the Department Constitution.

Section 4. Each duly registered delegate shall be entitled to one

vote. The vote of any registered delegate absent and not represented by an alternate shall be cast by the majority of the registered delegates present from his Department. Alternates for registered delegates shall have all the privileges of registered delegates except that of voting. A registered delegate is one who has

received his credentials after his registration fee has been paid.

Section 5. A quorum shall exist at a National Convention when

sixty percent of the Departments are represented as provided

above.

ARTICLE VI

National Officers

Section 1. The National Convention shall elect a National Commander, and five National Vice-commanders, who shall serve without seniority. No two Vice-commanders, shall be chosen from the

same Department. No person shall be eligible for re-election to the

Office of National Commander or National Vice-commander.
314

Section 2. Such officers shall serve until the adjournment of the

succeeding National Convention following their election and thereafter until their successors are chosen. Vacancies in these offices

occurring between National Conventions shall be filled by election

by the National Executive Committee, and any member of The

American Legion, in good standing, shall be eligible for election to

such vacancy. Provided, however, that no Past National Commander or Past National Vice-Commander shall be elected to fill

any vacancy in these respective offices.

Section 3. The National Executive Committee at its first meeting

following the National Convention shall appoint the National Adjutant, National Treasurer, National Judge Advocate, National Chaplain and National Historian, such officers to hold office at the

pleasure of the appointing power. All persons having the custody

of funds shall give adequate bonds, which shall be approved by the

National Executive Committee.

Section 4. All Past National Commanders, while in good standing

in their respective Posts, shall be members for life of the National

Executive Committee, without vote, and shall also be life delegates

to all National Conventions of The American Legion, with vote, to

be exercised by them with their respective Departments.

ARTICLE VII

National Executive Committee

Section 1. Between National Conventions, the administrative

power shall be vested in the National Executive Committee, which

shall be composed of the National Commander, the National ViceCommanders, and one National Executive Committeeman and one

alternate from each Department to be elected as such Department

shall determine, the alternate to vote only in the absence of the

National Executive Committeeman.

Past National Commanders

E. Roy Stone, Jr., South Carolina

Erle Cocke, Jr., Georgia

J. Addington Wagner, Michigan

Preston J. Moore, Oklahoma

William R. Burke, California

Hon. Daniel F. Foley, Minnesota

Donald E. Johnson, Iowa

L. Eldon James, Virginia

William E. Galbraith, Nebraska

J. Milton Patrick, Oklahoma

John H. Geiger, Illinois

Joe L. Matthews, Texas

James M. Wagonseller, Ohio

Harry G. Wiles, Kansas

William J. Rogers, Maine

John M. Cary, Michigan

Frank I. Hamilton, Indiana

Michael J. Kogutek, New York

Jack W. Flynt, Texas

Al Keller, Jr., Illinois

Keith Kreul, Wisconsin

Clarence M. Bacon, Maryland

Dale L. Renaud, Iowa

James P. Dean, Mississippi

John P. (Jake) Comer, Massachusetts

Hon. H.F. (Sparky) Gierke, North Dakota

Miles S. Epling, West Virginia

Robert S. Turner, Georgia

Dominic D. DiFrancesco, Pennsylvania

Roger A. Munson, Ohio

Bruce Thiesen, California
315

National Executive Committeemen

Fred Schuler, Alabama

William M. Bishop, Alaska

Richard H. Patton, Arizona

Claude B. Carpenter, Arkansas

Russell R. Wood, California

David F. Martinez, Canada

Ovie H. Vernon, Colorado

Richard W. Anderson, Connecticut

John R. Hughes, Sr., Delaware

John D. Dowdell, District of Columbia

George L. Derrick, Florida

Douglas C. Haggan, France

Horace Borders, Georgia

Robert J. Conrad, Hawaii

Michael G. Schow, Idaho

Roy B. Koeneman, Illinois

Gilbert E. Sheeks, Indiana

Bernard E. Blink, Iowa

Frank C. Bottigliero, Italy

U.S. (Udie) Grant, Kansas

Robert E. Steward, Kentucky

J.O. Berthelot, Louisiana

William L. Ciciotte, Maine

Michael J. Reagan, Maryland

Nicholas G. D’Alessandro, Massachusetts

Royce J. Wheeler, Mexico

Elwin O. Kline, Michigan

Donald R. Schroedl, Minnesota

Hershel O. Ladner, Mississippi

Harrell H. Boedeker, Missouri

Hugh C. (Tony) Cumming, Montana

Jack O. Gilmont, Nebraska

Archie Pozzi, Jr., Nevada

George V. West, New Hampshire

Albert M. Robotti, New Jersey

Bennie Casaus, New Mexico

Vincent J. Colasacco, New York

(died in office)

Robert J. Patton, North Carolina

Aaron (Moody) Dalke, North Dakota

Gerald L. Moore, Ohio

Lawrence F. Roy, Oklahoma

T. Les Galloway, Oregon

L. Dwight Haskins, Panama Canal

Ronald F. Conley, Pennsylvania

Eli S. Tionamba, Philippines

Carlos Orria-Medina, Puerto Rico

James J. Converse, Rhode Island

E. Roy Stone, Jr., South Carolina

Donald T. Clarke, South Dakota

Ralph M. Stovall, Tennessee

Lee Guy, Texas

William E. Christoffersen, Utah

David N. Garland, Vermont

Roger N. Messier, Virginia

Richard C. Calahan, Washington

Jack T. Gribben, West Virgiania

Lloyd A. Wagener, Wisconsin

Robert P. (Pat) McCreery, Wyoming

Alternate National Executive Committeemen

James F. Fraughnaugh, Alabama

Joseph T. Craig, Alaska

William C. Bingham, Arizona

Hoy M. Haught, Arkansas

James E. Shank, California

Raymond J. LeBrun, Canada

Thomas L. Bock, Colorado

Eliott Hank Morris, Connecticut

Ronald E. Pospichal, Delaware

Dr. Louis J. Glekas, District of Columbia

Robert J. Proctor, Florida

Merwyn M. Beavers, France

Jimmy C. Hartwick, Georgia

LeRoy P. Pulawa, Hawaii

Alan G. Lance, Idaho

Eugene Corum, Illinois

Richard R. Quattrin, Indiana

Wilford J. Huebner, Iowa

Lionel A. Morais, Italy

Jerry L. Kitchen, Kansas

Joe E. Woods, Kentucky

Roy L. Kirkham, Louisiana

Gard W. Enman, Maine

Richard J. Santos, Maryland

Anthony J. Bicchieri, Jr., Massachusetts

John E. Hayes, Mexico

James L. Lane, Michigan

Robert C. Reeve, Minnesota

Tommy Mills, Mississippi

Charles W. Salter, Missouri

Ralph D. Gardner, Montana

Hubert A. Short, Nebraska

Dale R. Salmen, Nevada

Albert J. Hunnewell, New Hampshire

Joseph F. Ward, New Jersey

Robert L. Crotzer, New Mexico

William L. Brown, New York

Vacant, North Carolina

James O. Coats, North Dakota

Richard J. Cherry, Ohio

Charles LeRoy Brown, Oklahoma

Robert D. Scott, Oregon

Patrick J. O’Connell, Panama Canal

Alfred Pirolli, Pennsylvania

Horosi S. Aguiling, Philippines

Andres Rosario Bordonada, Puerto Rico

Raymond W. Lynch, Sr., Rhode Island

R.M. Singletary, Jr., South Carolina

Donavon R. Mason, South Dakota

John L. Jones, Tennessee

John W.J. Richter, Texas

Milton M. Hall, Utah

Joseph F. Murphy, Vermont

William R. Bryant, Virginia

Robert W. Westphal, Washington

William W. Kile, West Virginia

Robert K. Zukowski, Wisconsin

Robert Nab, Wyoming
316

EXCERPTS FROM BY-LAWS OF THE

AMERICAN LEGION

ARTICLE I

National Executive Committee

Commission, Committee, and Employees

Section 6. The National Executive Committee, upon nomination

by the National Commander, appoints the following standing commissions: National Americanism Commission, National Commission on Children and Youth, National Convention Commission, National Economic Commission, National Finance Commission, National Foreign Relations Commission, National Internal Affairs

Commission, National Legislative Commission, The American Legion Magazine Commission, National Public Relations Commission,

National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, and National Security Commission.

The National Executive Committee shall provide for the appointment and employment of such subordinate officers and employees

as may be needed for the administration of The American Legion,

and prescribes their duties and emoluments.

REPORT OF NATIONAL VICE COMMANDER

JUAN H. CINTRON

The 9th day of September 1993 I was elected one of the five National Vice Commanders of the American Legion at the 75th National Convention held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Under the newly elected National Commander Bruce Thiesen of California, I was

assigned the following departments:

Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, France, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi,

North Carolina, Oklahoma, Panama, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas

and Virginia.

During the 1993–1994 year I visited eight departments. In October 1993, I attended the rap session of Region 3 where I had the opportunity to talk to a great

number of District Commanders of the vast Southern Region. Thru the year I attended mid-winter conferences and visited numerous Posts where I dialogued with

officers and rank and file Legionnaires.

Although the Southern Region did not cover the 100% membership expected, I

want to commend the Department Commanders for their dedication and courage in

transmitting the priorities of National Commander Thiesen.

The Department Conventions of Florida, Tennessee and Arkansas, which I attended, gave me the opportunity to focus and transmit to all the delegates the priorities and points of view of National Commander Thiesen and the determination of

the National Executive Committee in the vital issues brought to their attention. The

project for the children in Oklahoma is an example of the excellent coordination of

unselfish men and women with great sentiments to our children.

On May 30, (Memorial Day) I participated in the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, representing National Commander Thiesen, while he

was in Europe representing the Legion during the 50th Anniversary of WW II in

connection with Memorial Day and D-Day observances.

During my official trips to the Departments of my area, I emphasized on the concern of the Legion, since its foundation: Veterans and their health needs and of

course, the Legion’s position under the Administration’s new National Health Care

Reform proposal. Besides these important matters I also clarified our position in the

‘‘Flag Amendment’’ issue and other subjects published in our American Legion Magazine.
317

The well known southern hospitality was shown in every occasion and the desire

of complying with the Legion goals is clearly manifested through the region.

I conclude giving my heartfelt and sincere thanks to the National Staff for their

cooperation.

It has been a distinct honor to serve under the leadership of National Commander

Thiesen.

REPORT OF NATIONAL VICE COMMANDER

DOUGLAS A. MASON

I was elected the National Vice Commander of the American Legion at the 75th

Annual National Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to serve under National

Commander Bruce Thiesen. My primary responsibility was the 13 Western States,

consisting of the Departments of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii,

Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. I

also was assigned the two foreign Departments of Mexico and The Philippines for

a total of 15 Departments.

The Western States membership has not reached our expectations this year. In

the West the Department of Idaho has led the Nation in membership this year and

the Departments of New Mexico and Utah have achieved all-time high status.

It has been a privilege for me to serve as a National Vice Commander in this our

Diamond Jubilee 75th Anniversary year. To have served with the caliber of elected

and appointed officers and staff that we have in our National Organization has been

rewarding.

The Department Commanders elected and serving during this year are all highly

dedicated Legionnaires. Their efforts in our Legion Programs this year are to be

commended along with other elected and appointed officials. In volunteering to

serve they have had the best for the American Legion in their uppermost thoughts

and all are to be congratulated for their efforts.

During my tenure as Vice Commander, it was my honor to visit all of my Departments at least once except The Philippines which was not authorized.

The following is a list of all authorized visitations and all other meetings I attended this past year:

September 3–9, 1993, 75th Annual National Convention, Pittsburgh.

September 9, 1993, National Executive Committee Meeting.

September 11–15, 1993, Post Convention Briefings, Indianapolis.

September 18–22, 1993, Legislative Conference, Washington, DC.

October 2, 1993, District 8 Meeting Post 132 Kearns Department of Utah.

October 8–10, 1993, Region 8 Leadership Workshop, Spokane, Washington.

October 14–16, 1993, Fresno, California, National Commander’s Homecoming.

October 17–19, 1993, Commanders and Adjutants Conference, Indianapolis.

October 20–21, 1993, National Executive Committee Meeting, Indianapolis.

October 29–31, 1993, Region 7 Leadership Workshop, Las Vegas, Nevada.

November 5–7, 1993, Twin Falls, Idaho. Visited Posts in area, District 4 and 5

Meetings, Department Commander’s Homecoming.

November 11, 1993, Functions in Department of Utah, Parade, various Posts, Utah

Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery and Veterans Hospital.

November 14–21, 1993, Department of New Mexico. Traveled over 1800 miles visiting Posts and attending functions.

November 28, 1993, Visited Veteran’s Hospital in Salt Lake City and helped decorate Christmas Tree.

December 3–8, 1993, Honolulu, Hawaii, Department meetings, visited Posts in the

area, placed wreath on USS Arizona on Pearl Harbor Day.

January 14–16, 1994, Gillette, Wyoming, for Department Mid-Winter Conference.

January 26–28, 1994, Northridge, California, met with Legion Media Team to do article on earthquake for the Dispatch and Emergency Relief Fund.

January 28–31, 1994, Carlsbad, New Mexico, Mid-Winter Conference and Membership Drive.

February 4–6, 1994, Wenatchee, Washington, Mid-Winter Conference and Membership Drive.

February 12–16, 1994, Washington Conference, Washington, D.C.

February 18–20, 1994, Billings, Montana, participated in Veteran’s Awareness Programs on Northern Cheyenne and Crow Indian Reservations.

March 4, 1994, Department of Utah Oratorical Contest Finals, Salt Lake City.

March 11–13, 1994, Palmer, Alaska, Western District Convention.
318

March 17–20, 1994, Department of Idaho, visited Posts from Bonners Ferry to

Lewiston for Legion Birthday Celebrations. Visited new Veteran’s Home in Lewiston.

March 25–27, 1994, Monterey, California, Department of California Executive Committee Meetings. Presented an award from National to dedicated Legionnaire, Edward Sharkey, 97 years young.

April 2, 1994, District I Spring Convention in Brigham City, Utah, Post 10.

April 8–10, 1994, Phoenix, Arizona, attended American Legion College and visited

Posts in the area on membership.

April 11, 1994, National Regional Oratorical Contest in Salt Lake City.

April 12–14, 1994, Portland, Oregon, official visit to Department of Oregon and attended National Sectional Oratorical Contest.

April 14–16, 1994, Colorado Springs, Colorado, official visit and attended National

Oratorical Contest finals.

April 20, 1994, District 4 Spring Convention, Provo, Utah.

April 22–24, 1994, 4-Corners Membership Meetings, Phoenix, Arizona, with Arizona,

Colorado, New Mexico and Utah Department Commanders in attendance.

April 30-May 5, 1994, Spring meetings in Indianapolis.

May 10–15, 1994, Department of Washington Membership Drive in Southwest portion of the state. Attended Department Commander’s Homecoming.

May 27–29, 1994, Palm Springs, California, Post 519 Flag Retirement Ceremony.

May 29–30, 1994, Graduation Ceremonies at the Air Force Academy, Colorado

Springs, Colorado. Presented American Legion Awards.

June 13–14, 1994, American Legion Utah Boys’ State Program, Ogden, Utah.

June 15–17, 1994, Department of Mexico Convention, Chapala, Mexico.

June 18–28, 1994, Department of Alaska Convention, Seward, Alaska. Visited Posts

in Anchorage area.

July 7–10, 1994, Department of Montana Convention, Missoula, Montana.

July 15–17, 1994, Department of Nevada Convention, Las Vegas, Nevada.

September 1–8, 1994, The 76th Annual National Convention, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Throughout this year I also attended my Post, District and Sons of the Legion

meetings in the Department of Utah.

REPORT OF NATIONAL VICE COMMANDER

JOHN MULKERN

On September 9, 1993, I was honored by being elected National Vice Commander

in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at closing session of the 75th Annual Convention of The

American Legion to serve under the leadership of Bruce Thiesen, our National Commander.

The Departments assigned to me were Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New

York, Canada, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont

and Maine.

Spoke with all Department Commanders, Adjutants, Department Vice Commanders, District and County Commanders and membership chairmen via phone regarding membership.

Conducted a survey among all District Commanders within each assigned department. The survey consisted of three topics: Membership, Flag Amendment and Legion issues.

The following is a list of visitations made on behalf of The American Legion:

September 13, 14, 15, 1993, Information meeting National Headquarters, Indpls.,

IN.

September 17, 18, 19, 1993, National Leadership Workshop Region 1, Portland, ME.

October 1, 2, 3, 1993, National Leadership Workshop Region 2, Hampton, VA.

October 16–21, 1993, Fall Meeting National Executive Committee, Indpls., IN.

October 13, 14, 1993, National Commander’s Homecoming, Fresno, CA.

October 27, 1993, Dept. of Massachusetts Auxiliary Meeting.

October 28, 1993, American Legion College, Fairhaven, MA.

November 4, 1993, Membership Drive and Banquet, Rhode Island.

December 5, 1993, Pearl Harbor Day, Boston Navy Yard, MA.

January 7, 8, 9, 1994, Midwinter Conference, Trumbell, CT.

January 14, 15, 16, 1994, Midwinter Conference, Rumford, ME.

January 18, 19, 1994, Vermont State House, Flag amendment, Visit Legion Posts.

January 21, 22, 23, 1994, Midwinter Conference, Albany, NY.
319

February 4, 5, 6, 1994, Midwinter Conference, Linedon, NH.

February 12–16, 1994, Washington Conference, Washington, D.C.

February 18, 19, 20, 1994, Membership Round-up, visiting Posts throughout New

Jersey.

March 5, 1994, Post 1 Diamond Jubilee, Loconia, NH.

March 6, 7, 1994, Department Commander Banquet, Post visitations, Rhode Island.

March 13, 1994, Joint Testimonial Plymouth County, Sandwich, MA.

March 14, 15, 1994, Membership Promotions, Post visitations, Dept. of Maine.

March 19, 1994, Department Vice Commander Banquet, Massachusetts.

March 27, 1994, Represented American Legion 200th anniversary of founding of the

American Navy. Placed the name of American Legion on copper sheeting to be installed on water side of USS Constitution, Boston, MA

April 7–10, 1994, National Commander’s visitation, visit Posts, attended funeral

services for deceased Legionnaire, Norman Callettee, Banquet.

April 10, 1994, POW Dedication, Cohosset, MA.

April 16, 1994, District 3 Commander’s Banquet, Chicapee, MA.

April 22, 23, 24, 1994, Executive Committee Meeting and Department Commander

Banquet, Pittsburgh, PA.

April 30–May 5, 1994, Spring Meeting, National Executive Committee, Indpls., IN.

May 7, 8, 1994, Department Commander Banquet, White River Junction, VT.

May 14, 1994, Sons of American Legion Post 106, Sharon, MA.

May 15, 1994, Department Commander Banquet, Exeter, NH.

May 17, 18, 1994, Award to outstanding student, Coast Guard Academy, New London, CT.

May 20, 21, 1994, Department of Canada Convention, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

May 26, 1994, Speaker, Seventieth Annual Transfer of Flag ceremony at the Kennedy Middle School, Natick, MA.

May 29, 1994, Speaker, Memorial Day, Mt. Hope Cemetery, Boston, MA.

May 30, 1994, Speaker, Memorial Day, Fairview Cemetery, Boston, MA.

June 3, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of Rhode Island, Warrick.

June 4, 5, 1994, Membership Round-up Dept. of Pennsylvania.

June 8, 9, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of MA, Plymouth.

June 9, 10, 11, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of NJ, Wildwood.

June 17, 18, 19, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of NH, Lincoln.

June 19, 1994, Speaker, Memorial Dedication, deceased Marine, Worchester, MA.

July 9, 10, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of DE, Wilmington.

July 20–23, 1994, Department Convention, Dept. of NY, Niagara Falls.

August 3, 1994, Department of Massachusetts Baseball Banquet, Dorchester, MA.

August 5, 1994, Department of Massachusetts Baseball Play-off, Quincy, MA.

August 13, 1994, District Seven Installation, South Boston, MA.

August 19, 1994, Baseball Regional Tournament, Warrick, RI.

September 2–8, 1994, 76th Annual National Convention, Minneapolis, MN.

REPORT OF NATIONAL VICE COMMANDER

K.W. OHL DEPARTMENT OF INDIANA

As a National Vice Commander, elected during the 75th Annual National Convention of The American Legion in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I have had the distinct

privilege to serve under the leadership of National Commander Bruce Thiesen. My

responsibilities included the Departments of Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Maryland,

Michigan, Washington, D.C., West Virginia, Wisconsin and Italy.

These Departments continued their strong support of The American Legion’s programs, as well as building upon their strong membership foundation. During my

year as a National Vice Commander, I was honored to visit all of these Departments, with the exception of Italy and West Virginia. My visits were always productive and filled with the fine hospitality known throughout The American Legion.

The following is a condensed list of my activities for the twelve month period in

which I represented the National American Legion Organization.

September 9, 1993, Elected National Vice Commander at Pittsburgh National Convention—attended NEC meeting followed by briefing by National Staff Directors

and National Adjutant Spanogle.

September 12, Visited Children’s Home, Knightstown, IN.

September 14–15, National Headquarters for briefing, Indpls., IN.

September 20, Washington, D.C. Headquarters for briefing by Washington Staff Directors.
320

September 21–22, Present for National Commander Thiesen’s presentation to the

Joint House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees and visited ‘‘The Hill’’ speaking with Congressmen and Senators (Ref.: American Legion Legislative Priorities).

October 8–10, Region 4 Leadership Conference, Little Rock, Arkansas.

October 14–16, Fresno and Kingsburg, CA; National Commander Thiesen’s Homecoming.

October 18–20, National Fall Meetings, Indpls., IN.

October 21, NEC Meeting, National Headquarters, Indpls., IN.

October 22–24, Dept. Fall Conference, Indpls., IN.

October 29–31, Region 5 Leadership Conference, Indpls., IN.

November 11, Veterans Day, Community Celebration, Lafayette, IN.

November 18–21, Little Egypt Conference, Visited Marion VA, Marion, Illinois;

Toured flooded areas and distributed food along Mississippi River.

December 3–4, Membership Rally, St. Helen, Michigan.

December 12, Christmas Gift distribution and visitation, IVH, West Lafayette, IN.

January 6, 1994, Visited IN. Legislature, Indpls., IN.

January 8, Membership & Post Activities Meeting, Indpls., IN.

January 14–16, Dept. Wisconsin Mid-Winter Conference, Lacrosse, Wisconsin.

February 12–16, Washington, D.C. Legislative visits and Rehab Conference.

February 19, Fly-In Dept. of IN, Toured 11 Districts (by air) collecting membership

cards and visiting Legionnaires.

March 12–13, Toured Posts in 3rd District (IN.) and lower Michigan collecting membership cards and visiting Legionnaires. Birthday Dinner, Post #50 South Bend, IN.

March 20, 2nd District Meeting & Birthday Banquet Post #11, Lafayette, IN.

April 3–9, Dept. Ohio tour of all 14 Districts collecting membership cards and visiting Leigonnaires.

April 15–17, Dept. Spring Conference, Indpls., IN.

April 19, 1995 Membership Strategy Meeting National Headquarters, Indpls., IN.

May 1–5, National Spring Meeting & DEC Meeting, Indpls., IN.

May 26–27, Awards Presentation, West Point Military Academy, West Point, NY.

June 12, American Legion Day, IVH, West Lafayette, IN.

June 14–15, Buckeye Boys State, Bowling Green, Ohio.

June 17, Indiana Boys State, Terre Haute, Indiana.

June 18–19, Post #128, Salem, Ill., 50th Year Anniversary GI Bill of Rights.

June 26, Capital Rotunda, Indpls., IN., Fallen Heroes Ceremony.

July 6–10; Dept. IN. State Convention, Indpls. IN.

July 13–15, Dept. Maryland State Convention, Ocean City, MD.

July 21–24, Dept. Michigan State Convention, Lansing, MI.

July 29–31, National Membership & Post Activities Meeting, Indpls., IN.

August 20–21, Dept. of Ohio State Softball Tournament, West Harrison, Ohio.

September 2–8, 76th National Convention, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

My work with National Commander Bruce Thiesen, as well as all the other National, Department, Post Officers and members of The American Legion, has been

rewarding beyond my expectations. During my year as National Vice Commander,

my outlook for the future of our great Organization leads me to believe that The

American Legion will continue to be the leader in veterans affairs that we have

been for more than 75 years. I want to thank The American Legion for providing

me this opportunity to serve our more than three million members.

REPORT OF NATIONAL VICE COMMANDER

CURTIS O. TWETE

Having been elected to serve as a National Vice Commander at the close of the

75th National Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 9, 1993, it has

been my privilege to serve in a Championship Season.

Serving this Diamond Jubilee year under National Commander Bruce Thiesen

has been a most rewarding year. The Departments of North Dakota, South Dakota,

Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri have worked hard to carry out the

programs of the American Legion. With the Midwest floods, the dues increase, the

aging veteran population, each department has been working diligently to secure

membership.

During this past year two of the three states in my area which have yet to pass

a Memorializing Resolution on flag desecration, joined the ranks when Nebraska

and Minnesota shepherded resolutions through their Legislatures. This brings to 44

the number of Departments having passed resolutions. Throughout the past year

my schedule has been as follows:
321

September 14–15, 1993, Briefings at National Headquarters in Indianapolis, Indiana.

September 17–19, 1993, Region 6 National Leadership Workshop, Fargo, North Dakota.

September 20–22, 1993, Commander Thiesen’s testimony before the Joint Senate

and House Veterans Affairs Committee.

October 16–17, 1993, National Commander Thiesen’s Homecoming, Fresno, California.

October 18–21, 1993, Fall meetings and National Executive Committee meeting at

National Headquarters, Indianapolis, Indiana.

October 30–31, 1993, Department Commander Don Herrley’s Homecoming, Mandan,

North Dakota.

November 4–6, 1993, Fall Conference, St. Paul, Minnesota.

November 11, 1993, Joint Veteran’s Day Observance Pekin, Tolna and McVille Legion Posts, Pekin, North Dakota.

November 28–December 2, 1993, Membership tour of 45 Posts in five days, Department of Iowa.

December 3–12, 1993, Membership tour of 78 Posts in ten days, Department of Kansas.

January 7, 1994, Minnesota Department Adjutant Chuck Ferguson’s Retirement, St.

Cloud, Minnesota.

January 15–16, 1994, Winter Conference, Omaha, Nebraska.

January 25, 1994, Commissioner of Veteran’s Affairs Milt Kane’s Retirement, West

Fargo, North Dakota.

February 3–4, 1994, Winter Conference, Pierre, South Dakota.

February 5–6, 1994, Winter Conference, Dickinson, North Dakota.

February 13–16, 1994, Washington Conference, D.C.

March 4–6, 1994, Spring Conference, Jefferson City, Missouri.

April 29–30, 1994, Aerial Round-up, Crystal, Minnesota.

May 2–5, 1994, Spring Meeting and National Executive Committee Meeting, Indianapolis, Indiana

May 7–8, 1994, Truman Day Observance, Independence, Missouri.

May 14–15, 1994, Leadership Workshop for Incoming Officers, Watertown, South

Dakota.

May 24–25, 1994, Awards Presentation, US Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland.

June 11–14, 1994, Department Convention, Huron, South Dakota.

June 18–20, 1994, Department Convention, Bismarck, North Dakota.

June 24, 1994, Memorial Speaker at AMVETS Convention, Valley City, North Dakota.

June 25–26, 1994, Department Convention, North Platte, Nebraska.

July 15–17, 1994, Department Convention, Dubuque, Iowa.

July 22–24, 1994, Department Convention, Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

September 2–8, 1994, National Convention, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

REPORT OF THE NATIONAL CHAPLAIN

MONSIGNOR RAYMOND KOZLOWSKI, NEW YORK

The many faces of the American Legion have shown brightly this Legion year, from the assistance to flood victims in the Midwest, to earthquake victims in California, again when high waters hit the Southeast. The Children and Youth Programs of Drug Prevention, Fire Safety, Junior Shooting, Baseball to Boys State have

all helped shape the future for the leaders of tomorrow. Veterans caring for Veterans in the volunteer hours donated to VA hospitals and Veterans’ homes; the Legion’s opposition to troops going into Harm’s Way under foreign command and control; the funding and masterminding of the Citizens Flag Alliance; the ground work

for a future Constitutional Amendment prohibiting flag desecration—the list goes on

and on. I, as just one of over three million members, am humbled for having had

the opportunity to serve this great nation and organization under the leadership of

National Commander Thiesen and the Chairman, Directors and Staff of the American Legion. For God and Country.

In a pluralistic society, Chaplains are available for all in need. These needs can

be religious, psychosocial, or economic in nature. Their expertise lies not only in

counseling but also includes knowledgeability for referral and follow-up. The American Legion’s vast membership offers this opportunity for the incumbent Chaplain

to be of service.

I was appointed National Chaplain by the newly elected National Commander

Bruce Thiesen at the Post Convention NEC meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
322

During this interim, I contrived to serve as Post and County Chaplain. These responsibilities along with my employment as Chief, Chaplain Service, VA Medical

Center, Buffalo, NY, offered a wide range of activity for service and visible presence

for the American Legion.

There are many events that have highlighted service to the Legion. Among them

are the National Commanders Homecoming in Kingsburg, California, followed by

the Fall NEC Conference in Indianapolis. Of special significance was being present

at the unveiling of the Viet Nam Women’s Monument in Washington, D.C. It was

there that I had the opportunity to meet many Viet Nam veterans and shared experiences with them. To my surprise, I met several veterans that have gone through

the Buffalo VAMC’s PTSD Program. It was conforting to know that many of these

programs, such as housing homeless vets, job training, educational benefits, and

placement, are available and are working.

The Annual Spring Conference in Washington, D.C., gave me the opportunity to

listen to the wife of the President, Hillary Rodham Clinton, as she presented the

National Health Care Reform Bill and how it affected our current veteran population. The Reform Bill will be significant in Veteran Health Care Management.

The Spring NEC Conference was historic. The American Legion’s battle plan for

a Flag Amendment was unveiled. The Legion committed itself to a grassroots campaign to insure congressional and state protection of the United States Flag. A fitting program for the Legion’s 75th Anniversary!

There are several duties of this office which cannot be detailed in this report.

They include Boys’ Nation in Washington, D.C., the National Chaplains Conference

in Indianapolis, and the 76th National Convention in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Another significant contribution to the Legion was the letters of condolences to

the families of the deceased National Executive Committees and to the sick of the

membership. What a gift it is to know deeply that we are all brothers and sisters

in one human family and that, different as our cultures, languages, religions, lifestyles, or work may be, we are all mortal beings called to surrender our lives into

the hands of a loving God. I feel gifted to feel connected with the many who have

died and to discover the joy and peace that flow from that connectedness. As I experience that gift, I know in a new way what it means to care for the dying. It means

to connect them with the many who are dying or have died, and to let them discover

the intimate bonds that reach far beyond the boundaries of our short lives. The Legion has given me that gift. We belong together, whether we live now or lived long

ago, whether we live close or far away, whether we have biological ties or not. We

are brothers and sisters in communion with each other.

I would take this opportunity to thank the members of the staff of National Headquarters. They were a guiding light for me. Thanks to the American Diocesan Patriotic Service at the National Convention, to our National Commander, Bruce Thiesen

and to all the National Officers that have served with distinction. Deepest regards

and thanks to the National Executive Committee and NY Department Adjutant,

Richard Pedro, for allowing me this wonderful year of service to the American Legion.

REPORT OF THE NATIONAL HISTORIAN

MARJORIE T. SIMPSON, Georgia

Commander Bruce Thiesen appointed me as the National Historian for the year

1994–1995 at the convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Being an Arkansas veteran and then transplanted to the state of Georgia, it was a proud moment for me

to try and serve both these states as well as all the other Departments.

My first duty was to oversee the competition of the histories and yearbooks which

had been judged best from many Departments. This was an interesting and time

consuming endeavor. Twelve judges, along with tabulators were required to judge

each of these books.

During this October session I presented my idea for a Seventy Fifth Mini Histories, which will be presented to the National Commander in September at the

Convention in Minneapolis, This would give our National Commander and the Archives a thumb nail sketch of our Department Histories.

I attended the meeting in Indianapolis in October, the workshop in Florida, the

National meeting in Washington, D.C., and then back to Indianapolis for the Spring

NEC. I have also attended many Posts and special meetings in my state of Georgia.

I was invited to attend the Department of Arizona Convention at Yuma in June

as their guest speaker. It was delightful to be received so well. The Arizona Department Convention was truly the high light of my year as National Historian.
323

At this time we are preparing for the National Historian Luncheon being held at

the Minneapolis Convention. This luncheon will honor our Founders and our Past

National Historians.

Being a part of the history of The American Legion and continuing to make history is a lifetime honor.

REPORT OF THE NATIONAL JUDGE ADVOCATE

P.B. ONDERDONK, JR., Maryland

Contracts

The following 61 contracts have been reviewed or prepared:

(1) Articles of Agreement by and between The American Legion and The American

Legion National Convention Corporation of Oregon, Inc. covering the convocation of

the 1995 National Convention of The American Legion in the City of Portland. (2) Statement of Understanding by and between The American Legion Education

Program and the National College Services, Ltd., wherein the National College

Services, Ltd. agrees to participate in the development of content to be included in

American Legion publications and a college profile directory.

(3) Renewal lease in three revisions as required by the State of Indiana by and

between The American Legion and the State of Indiana for the National Headquarters Building at 700 North Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis, Indiana.

(4) Lease Agreement by and between The American Legion and Ameritech Credit

Corporation (provided by Indiana Bell) whereby Ameritech will lease to The American Legion a Centrex Telephone System.

(5) Annual Service Agreement by and between The American Legion and Advanced Microelectronics, Inc. whereby Advanced Microelectronics, Inc. will service

Apple Mac computers, hard drives, color monitors and Apple Laserwriters, located

at National Headquarters.

(6) Software Maintenance Support Agreement by and between The American Legion and Broderick Data Systems whereby Broderick Data Systems provide maintenance and support for the AS/400 B70 and B45.

(7) Service Agreement by and between The American Legion and Data Comm

whereby Data Comm will provide laser printing cartridges and cleaning.

(8) Agreement by and between The American Legion and Burson-Marsteller to

provide professional consulting and marketing services regarding the The American

Legion’s flag campaign.

(9) Agreement by and between The American Legion and Tim-Cor Marketing and

Administration Agreement to assist The American Legion in selecting, marketing

and selling annuity contracts to Legion members and their families.

(10) Contract by and between The American Legion and Country Ladies Band

Contract to provide musical entertainment during the 1994 National Membership

Workshop.

(11) Eight (8) Baseball Regional Tournament Contracts and the Contract for The

American Legion World Series.

(12) Agreement by and between The American Legion and The Laborers’ Joint

Training Fund of Indiana. and vicinity to develop a joint training and job placement

program to recruit discharged military personnel and upon completion, accept them

in the Laborers Union and seek to place them in construction and environmental

remediation jobs.

(13) Agreement by and between The American Legion and Haynes & Pittenger

Direct, Inc. to represent The American Legion in its advertising and direct marketing flag campaign.

(14) License Agreement by and between The American Legion and Major League

Baseball Properties, Inc., as agent for the Office of the Commissioner of Baseball

to use the service mark consisting of the words ‘‘All-Star’’ in advertising The American Legion All-Star Dream Team drawing to be held at the 1994 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

(15) Maintenance Agreement by and between The American Legion of Quality

Concepts wherein Quality Concepts will maintain and clean the raised floor in the

computer room at Park 100.

(16) Service Agreement by and between The American Legion and Standard Register to service computer machines located at Park 100.

(17) License Agreement by and between The American Legion and Lawson Associates, Inc. to provide software, training, installation assistance, modification, conversion and maintenance for the finance tracking system.
324

(18) License Agreement by and between The American Legion and Commercial Ware, Inc. to provide software and consulting for the emblem sales tracking system. (19) License Agreement by and between The American Legion and Sigma/Micro Corporation to provide Controller computer software and all related tapes, diskettes,

manuals and documentation.

(20) Agreement by and between The American Legion and Stokely-Van Camp, Inc. to display Gatorade logos in selected American Legion Baseball newsletters and advertisements in each Region Tournament program and World Series Program and

national cablecast television distribution in exchange for reasonable amounts of

cups, coolers, squeeze bottles, product and banners bearing Gatorade logos. (21) Thirteen (13) contracts by and between The American Legion and the follow- ing companies for services provided under The American Legion’s Family Benefit

Plan: American Red Ball World Wide Movers, Atlas Van Lines, Avis, Inc., Choice

Hotels International, Days Inn, Eye Care Plan of America, LaQuinta Inns, Mariott,

National Car Rental, North American Van Lines, Inc., Sea World of Florida and

Ohio, and Thrifty Car Rental. (22) Four (4) List Protection Agreements by and between The American Legion and the following companies have been executed companies have been executed to

cover the protection of magnetic tapes used for mass-mailings to the general membership of The American Legion: Brick Mills Studios, Inc.

Barton-Cotton-Famous Hospitality, Inc. (Famous Artists Studios, Inc.)

Association Group Insurance Administrators (AGIA)

Kirke Van Orsdel, Inc.

(23) Seven (7) Standard List Protection Agreements by and between The Amer- ican Legion and the following companies have been executed to cover the protection

of magnetic tapes used for mass-mailings to the general membership of The American Legion:

Haynes & Pittenger Direct, Inc.

Promotion Management, Inc.

Benefit Consultants, Inc.

Fox Associates, Inc.

S. A. Van Dyk, Inc.

John Pearl & Associates

Tim-Cor, Inc.

(24) Ten (10) Subcontractor Standard List Protection Agreements by and between The American Legion and the following companies have been executed to cover the

protection of magnetic tapes used for mass mailings to the general membership of

The American Legion:

Creative Response Associates

Trans National, Inc.

American Premium Fund Raising

Mailing and Printing Services, Inc.

Semarca Corporation

Brown and Bigelow

Faris Mailing

Harris Printing

Print & Mail Advertising, Inc.

The Berlin Journal

LITIGATION

Civil Action No. 90–1808 SSH

Litigation styled:

THE AMERICAN LEGION ET AL, PLAINTIFFS

vs.

EDWARD J. DERWINSKI, SECRETARY UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS

AFFAIRS, ET AL; DEFENDANTS

This is the lawsuit by The American Legion to require the Federal Government to conduct a study of the long term adverse health effects in Vietnam veterans resulting from exposure to phenoxy herbicides, including the herbicide known as

Agent Orange, which was mandated by Congress. The case was filed August 29th.

The United States filed a motion to dismiss on behalf of all of the named parties.

The plaintiffs have filed responses to these motions. The Government filed its rebut-
325

tal raising additional issues which the plaintiffs responded at the end of the 1991

summer. The Government asked for an extension of time to November 12, 1991 to

make its final rebuttal to The American Legion’s response to the additional issues

in this very complex case. Thirty-eight (38) Senators and Congressmen have filed

to intervene in the case as amicus curiae. Their position supports that of The American Legion.

The next step involved motions for discovery before the Court. The Government

has already been forced to change its position. A hearing was set for August 13,

1992. The Court then requested a status review of all motions which was filed. Finally, the Court ruled against The American Legion and all veterans in a very superficial opinion issued prior to the release of NAS Study. A motion for reconsideration to include the NAS Study in the record was filed. The Judge denied it and

the case has been appealed.

Civil Action 4:91–CV–0141 HLM

Litigation styled:

BOYCE L. DEMPSEY

vs.

WTLK TV 14 ROME/ATLANTA AND CABLE NEWS NETWORK THE AMERICAN

LEGION NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS, INDIANAPOLIS ET AL

Civil Action 4:93 CV–0155–HLM

BOYCE L. DEMPSEY, PLAINTIFF

vs.

TURNER BROADCASTING SYSTEMS ET AL

A complaint was filed alleging that the plaintiff was put on television without permission and that he was denied access to televise his message. Plaintiff further alleges that (even though he was not a candidate) he was twice elected Post Commander, but denied his office. A number of other allegations was so garbled that

they cannot be understood. Plaintiff is appearing pro se. A motion to dismiss was

filed and the Court granted the motion to dismiss. The plaintiff thereafter filed a

Notice of appeal of the Court’s order, but the notice was not filed within the prescribed time period and the Court dismissed plaintiff’s appeal. Plaintiff appealed to

the Supreme Court and lost. However, plaintiff refiled the case under the second

number above. A motion to dismiss was granted because the case was frivolous.

Plaintiff did not appeal within the allowed time.

Superior Court Judicial District of Hartford/New Britain at New Britain

Litigation styled:

ANDREW DAWSON AND THE SIMSBURY (TOMALONIS-HALL POST #84)

AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL TEAM, PLAINTIFFS

vs.

DAVID FARR, THE AMERICAN LEGION AND THE AMERICAN LEGION

DEPARTMENT OF CONNECTICUT, INC., DEFENDANTS

A complaint and a temporary injunction was filed by Andrew Dawson and the

Simsbury (Tomalonis-Hall Post #84 American Legion Baseball Team seeking to enjoin the defendants from preventing Andrew Dawson from playing baseball with the

Post #84 team. Plaintiffs also sought to enjoin the defendants from declaring Andrew Dawson ineligible to play for Post #84 team.

Under the rules, Andrew Dawson should play for the team nearest his parents’

residence. The Court ruled that there is no constitutional right to play American

Legion baseball, that the Legion is not a place of public accommodation and even

if it is, any prohibition against Andrew Dawson playing in Connecticut is not prohibited discrimination and made clear it did not find that the rules were a contract.
326

Despite the winning of every issue by The American Legion, the Court entered a

nationwide preliminary injunction allowing Andrew Dawson to play and prohibiting

The American Legion from ruling against Andrew Dawson on challenges from nonparty teams. The Connecticut Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal from the

preliminary injunction which in Connecticut is considered interlocutory or not a

final ruling despite the fact that such orders usually end a case.

A counterclaim has been filed for a declaratory judgment on the validity of the

rules. The trial court ruled the entire matter moot despite the requirements of connected law that a matter is not moot if the time period is so short that the matter

can never be heard if the mootness doctrine is applied and if the matter can recur

like it has. We filed for reconsideration to force the Judge to write an opinion setting

forth his reasons and will appeal. Once this was done, we filed an appeal to the

Connecticut Court of Appeals. The Connecticut Supreme Court then assumed jurisdiction. The Connecticut Supreme Court remanded the case for trial since the case

was not moot. The trial is expected to be scheduled in the Fall of 1994.

In the Common Pleas Court of Jefferson County, Ohio

Litigation styled:

TODD M. BLACKBURN, PLAINTIFF

vs.

BASEBALL COMMISSION, ET AL THE AMERICAN LEGION OF OHIO, ET AL

This case arose in Steubenville, Ohio when the host team for the regional tournament (which gets to play in the regional tournament) wanted to use an illegal

player. The player had been waived by the host team. He now wanted to come back

to the host team. However, the rules only allow one waiver for an individual’s entire

eligibility.

The case arose with a lawsuit against the Department of Ohio to prevent it from

enforcing the rules. The Judge granted a preliminary injunction. The National Organization was not part of the proceeding, although the Judge purported to make his

ruling apply to National tournaments.

When the National Organization found out about the case, it intervened and

moved for a dismissal of the case and quashing of the order. The Court refused.

Since the order did not specifically name the National Organization, when a protest was filed, the National Organization ruled the player ineligible from Indianapolis. The game in which he played in the regional tournament was declared forfeited. The player was not used again by the host team.

After the season was over, the Judge attempted to dismiss the entire case and

our counterclaim without notice. This was protested and our counterclaim reinstated. We are awaiting the Court’s decision in an order that will constitute a precedent.

Commonwealth of Kentucky Floyd Circuit Court Civil Action No. 92–CI–00622

Litigation styled:

TINA V. CASE, ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF CLIVE CASE, JR., LARRY

SPEARS AND CONNIE SPEARS, PLAINTIFFS

vs.

THE AMERICAN LEGION; THE WAR VETERANS CLUB; ROBERT CONLEY ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE WAR VETERANS CLUB; JOHN B. REYNOLDS POST #283,

AMERICAN LEGION DENSIL HALBERT, DELBERT ISON, WARREN

WOLFORD, DEMRA TAYLOR AND ROGER TURNER ALL ACTING ON BEHALF OF

JOHN B. REYNOLDS POST #283, AMERICAN LEGION AND THE WAR VETERANS CLUB;

FRANK DEROSSETT; LOUISE ‘‘LULA’’ SPRADLIN AND BILL SPRADLIN

This is a wrongful death and negligence suit. Tina Case’s husband allegedly was

killed by defendant, Frank DeRossett. It is alleged that Frank DeRossett entered

American Legion Post 283 in Martin, Kentucky and started shooting a gun in the

direction of the band in which Clive Case was a member. Case was shot several

times and subsequently died. Larry Spears was also shot and claims permanent in-
327

jury and disablement. At this point, the matter has been referred to our insurance

company, an appearance has been filed and a motion to dismiss has been filed. The

Floyd County Circuit Judge overruled our Motion for Summary Judgment and will

entertain a Motion to Reserve Entry of his Judgment for Six Months until the plaintiff proves a legal theory against The American Legion. The Court indicated that

it will rule on a Motion for a Directive Verdict if the case goes to trial. A hearing

has not been set.

United States Patent and Trademark Office Before the Trademark Trial and Appeal

Board

Litigation styled:

THE AMERICAN LEGION OPPOSER

vs.

RICHARD G. MATTHEW APPLICANT

This is an action for service mark infringement of The American Legion’s common

law mark and for unfair competition. The American Legion learned that the Defendant was planning to conduct business and to sell products, namely caps, under the

name ‘‘THE LEGIONAIRE’’ or Legionaire. A written demand was made to the defendant to discontinue his plans to use the service mark in connection with the sale

of merchandise. A case and a motion for preliminary injunction may need to be filed

to force discontinance of marketing or distributing of promotional materials or goods

bearing the words The Legionaire or Legionaire and to deliver all materials bearing

such words to The American Legion may become necessary. Motions have been filed

for productions of testimony and exhibits. A hearing was set by the Patent Office

in this matter. The result was a decision of lack of jurisdiction because of an amendment to the petition at the behest of the Patent Office. The entire case will begin

again.

In the United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio, Western Division

Case No. C–1–93–247 Magistrate Judge Steinberg

Litigation styled:

WILLIAM PAUL BARRON, JR. PLAINTIFF

vs

THE AMERICAN LEGION DEFENDANT

In the Third Judicial District Court of Salt Lake County State of Utah

Civil No. 940901735

WILLIAM PAUL BARRON, JR. PLAINTIFF

vs

DUANE S. WILLIS, CARROLL WILLIAMS, AND THE AMERICAN LEGION,

DEFENDANTS

Plaintiff sued The American Legion for slander claiming a letter purportedly bearing his signature was not from him. The letter contained threats against VA staffers. Based on the letter the Department of Utah Service Officer withdrew from representation as did the National Organization.

Since there is no legal duty to represent the plaintiff and since The American Legion did not publish the threat, the case cannot be about slander. A motion to dismiss was filed and granted. Mr. Barron then refiled in Utah (the second case alone).

A motion for summary judgment will be filed.
328

In the Circuit Court of the Twentieth Judicial Circuit in and for Lee County Florida

Litigation styled:

CHRISTOPHER NASH AND AMETHYST NASH PLAINTIFFS

vs

ROBERT H. L. DABNEY AMERICAN LEGION POST 192 AND THE AMERICAN

LEGION

Case No. 93–3166CARWP

This is a personal injury case. Christopher Nash claims negligence against Post

No. 192 after an incident in the parking lot next to the Post No. 192 building. Christopher Nash was walking to his car in subject parking lot and was approached by

three gunmen who attempted to rob him and then shot him four times, twice in

each leg. Mr. Nash refused to identify his assailants. Allegations of a drug deal gone

bad have surfaced. An appearance has been entered, and a motion to dismiss has

been filed.

A hearing was held on August 23, 1993 to hear the Motion to Dismiss, which was

ultimately granted.

In the United States District Court for the District of Wyoming

Litigation styled:

Civil Action No. 94 CV 106B

BENJAMIN W. PHILLIPS, PLAINTIFF

vs

THE AMERICAN LEGION A NON-PROFIT FEDERAL CORPORATION AND

AMERICAN LEGION BASEBALL INC., A WYOMING NON-PROFIT CORPORATION,

DEFENDANTS

This was a baseball case in which the player was and is three days too old to

play this year. At his father’s instigation, he filed an anti-trust case claiming The

American Legion monopolized American Legion Baseball.

A motion to dismiss was filed on a number of grounds including baseball’s immunity from the anti-trust laws. The motion was granted and the case is concluded.

Superior Court of New Jersey Law Division: Camden County Docket NO. L–5161–

94

Civil Action

Litigation styled:

WILLLIAM SHERLOCK, AS NEXT FRIEND FOR BRIAN SHERLOCK A MINOR PLAINTIFF

vs.

THE AMERICAN LEGION, A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND THE AMERICAN LEGION, DEPARTMENT OF

NEW JERSEY, A CORPORATION ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF NEW JERSEY, DEFENDANT

This was another baseball case involving the By Pass Rule and recruiting. Plaintiff was ineligible to play for the Brooklawn team because inclusion of the enrollment of his school and the school districts by-passed, would have put the Brooklawn

team far over the enrollment limit of 3,600 students.

During the investigation of the case, additional rule violations were discovered.

The Department baseball chairman had attempted to help the team several years

ago by agreeing that what was an incidental by-pass was not a rule violation. The

chairman had to admit the error. In addition, the boy’s father tried to claim the
329

school enrollments as stated by The American Legion were not correct. This necessitated a second hearing. After a full and complete review, the Court ruled in favor of the rules.

Other Legal Matters

There are several collection matters currently pending in New York, and a matter in New Jersey to recover monies due to The American Legion Magazine. There are a number of other legal proceedings in which The American Legion has been contacted for discovery purposes which are not part of or named in the particular cause and a number of cases are in the beginning stages but not yet filed.

Opinions Rendered

The National Judge Advocate has rendered 1681 written opinions on questions which have been submitted by the several Departments and/or Posts of The American Legion, National Officers, staff members and individual members of our organization. These opinions involved matters legal, such as contracts, probate matters,

federal tax questions, torts, insurance matters, Articles of Incorporation, civil rights

statutes, retirement benefits under the law and other matters of a legal nature;

problems concerning the interpretation and construction of the National Constitution and By-Laws of The American Legion, policy matters, many of which matters

required a great deal of legal research. In each instance, when appropriate, a copy of the opinion rendered was furnished to each of the following so that they would be acquainted with the decision affecting

their Department; National Executive Committeeman, Department Commander, Department Adjutant, and the Department Judge Advocate of the Department involved.

Many oral opinions were also rendered to the National Officers, National Commission Chairmen, to Department Officers, and to staff Directors of the national organization upon subjects involving matters legal, financial, administrative and policy.

There were 22 written opinions rendered during the year to the National Secretary of the American Legion Auxiliary, in response to queries submitted to her

for determination by me.

The National Judge Advocate has also rendered oral advice on matters legal and

administrative to the National Officers of the American Legion Auxiliary on many

occasions during the past year.

The American Legion Magazine

The National Judge Advocate in accordance with established policy, has reviewed

all manuscripts of articles destined for future publication in The American Legion

Magazine and The Dispatch, for the purpose of expunging statements or material

questionable in character, contained therein which might subject The American Legion to a suit in libel. To date 321 manuscripts have been reviewed and appropriate

comments in connection therewith were transmitted, when necessary, to the Publisher or Editor of The American Legion Magazine.

Firing Line

At the 1955 National Convention of The American Legion it was concluded that

all statements made in each issue of the Firing Line should be documented and that

the National Judge Advocate should approve each issue prior to publication in order

to protect The American Legion from actions in libel. In accordance therewith all

issues have been reviewed and either approved by the National Judge Advocate

prior to publication, or rejected in whole or in part, with appropriate comments.

Bequests

During the past year the national organization of The American Legion was the

recipient of the following bequests in connection with which the paper work was

handled by the office of the National Judge Advocate:

Last Will and Testament of Louese E. Spradley, dated May 24, 1990—bequest

of $1,000 to The American Legion.

The American Legion Retirement Plan for Employees of the National

Headquarters and Subordinate Groups Thereof

In accordance with the requirements of law, the National Judge Advocate has

filed all necessary returns, reports and allied documents for the calendar year 1993
330

with the Internal Revenue Service in connection with The American Legion Retirement Plan. The office of the National Judge Advocate also prepared the Summary

Annual Report for The American Legion Retirement Plan and arranged for the distribution thereof as required by law. A new Summary Plan Description has been

distributed.

Employees’ Salary Savings (401(K)) Plan

In accordance with the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) the office of the National Judge Advocate has filed all of the

necessary Annual Return Reports and allied documents for the calendar year 1992

with the Internal Revenue Service in connection with The American Legion Employees’ Salary Savings 40l(k) Plan. The office of the National Judge Advocate also prepared the Summary Annual Report for the Employees’ Salary Savings Plan and arranged for the distribution thereof as required by law. Amendments to comply with

the Tax Reform Act of l986 have been completed, filed and accepted. A Summary

Plan Description has been distributed.

Parliamentary Duties

The National Judge Advocate attended the past National Convention of The American Legion and all meetings of the National Executive Committee and has

served both bodies in the capacity of National Parliamentarian.

Other Duties

The National Judge Advocate functions as Secretary for newly acquired corpora- tions, Haynes & Pittenger Direct, Inc. and Promotion Management, Inc. and attended all board meetings and caused the minutes of each meeting to be prepared

and distributed. The National Judge Advocate also functions as counsel for both organizations on matters involving to date, contracts, labor issues, real estate law,

postal regulations, corporate organizations and insurance.

Meetings of the National Retirement Committee and Salary Savings

Committee

The National Judge Advocate, as a member of The National Retirement Commit- tee of National Headquarters, The American Legion, and Chairman of the Employee’s Salary Savings Committee, has attended and participated in meetings held by

these committees during the past year.

I have also, in response to requests, drafted legal and other documents for the

use of National Officers of The American Legion and Officers of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Last, during the past year I have met with and attended numerous conferences

with officials of outside corporations, for the purpose of representation of for the rendering of advice and guidance for and on behalf of The American Legion on matters

legal and administrative.

In conclusion, the National Judge Advocate wishes to thank all National Officers,

Department Officials, and members of the National Executive Committee for the

valuable assistance and cooperation extended to him during the past year.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

WILLIAM D. JACKSON (IN), Executive Director

The Executive Director, whose office is locate in the National Headquarters, Indianapolis, has four major responsibilities:

1. He performs such duties as may be assigned to him by the National Adjutant

to assist in meeting the responsibilities of that office, and during temporary absences of the National Adjutant from The American Legion National Headquarters,

acts for him.

2. He heads the Administrative Services Division and through it supervises and

coordinates the many administrative functions of the Indianapolis Headquarters.

3. He serves on the Personnel Committee of the Headquarters and is Chairman

of the Management Review Board.

4. He coordinates computer operations, which has a MIS (Management Information Services) Director reporting to the Executive Director.

Included in the Administrative Services Division of the Indianapolis Headquarters

are the following administrative functions: Purchasing, Shipping & Receiving, Gen-
331

eral Supply & Outgoing Mail; Library, Archives, and E. A. Blackmore Museum; Administrative Communications; Maintenance; Cafeteria; Human Resources; Finance;

Publications; and Insurance.

The Administrative Services Division also provides all secretarial assistance to

the executive officers of The American Legion.

Management Information Services (MIS)

MIS is currently responsible for support of the following programs:

Revenue Enhancement selections for mailings, maintenance of database and

reporting system.

Updating of The American Legion Magazine, Membership, SAL, Firing Line,

Commanders and Adjutants file, Dispatch mailing lists, and printing of labels

and renewal notices.

Direct membership solicitation.

The printing of membership cards and registers, Department accounting reports, statistical information, Consolidated Post Reports, delinquent member

lists.

The printing of Department paper mailing labels.

PUFL members updating and financial checks.

Emblem Sales invoices and reports (mini-computer in Emblem Sales).

Audit control and circulation analysis reports for The American Legion Magazine.

Inventory control and purchase order control of National Headquarters.

General ledger financial reports.

Accounts receivable.

Accounts payable.

Retirement investment program.

Furniture and Fixtures inventory and depreciation reports.

National Commission and Committee list.

Post Office carrier route discount processing on all Department labels and direct billing.

Selecting and creating disks for Department member roster for input to the

computers. Selecting and providing Department membership on microfiche.

Printing of direct bill membership renewal notices.

Outside sales of Laser and other services.

Address standardization on all Department labels and direct billing.

The printing of Stay Active reports and forms.

The printing of annual Commander and Adjutant notification cards and reports.

The printing by Department of 3 x 5 cards and labels for new DMS members.

Request for documents, labels, diskettes, etc., for Divisions, Departments and

Posts.

Statistical Tables

The following statistical tables are indicative of the volume of work routinely performed by this Division:

Administrative Communications June 1, 1993 through May 31,

1994

Envelopes & Labels Addressed ............................................................. 94,018

AS/400 ..................................................................................................... 1,413

A/M Varityper/Processor ....................................................................... 70,682

Binding ................................................................................................... 1,200

Xerox 5090 .............................................................................................. 8,356,910

Xerox 1048 .............................................................................................. 141,144

Print Shop .............................................................................................. 1,795,640

Mail June 1, 1993 through May 31, 1994

Incoming Letters (Distributed to various Divisions for processing) 10,121,001

Incoming Parcels .................................................................................... 5,911

Outgoing Letters .................................................................................... 427,612

Outgoing Parcels (Exclusive of National Emblem Sales) ................... 7,491
332

Freight and Express June 1, 1993 through June 31, 1994

Out (cartons) .......................................................................................... 8,076

Out (pounds) ........................................................................................... 131,982

UPS (in) .................................................................................................. 5,527

UPS (out) ................................................................................................ 17,912

LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

Library

JOSEPH J. HOVISH, Librarian

The mission of The American Legion Library is to provide an information storage

and retrieval system for The American Legion.

The microfilming project is nearing its half-way point. Correspondence is the main

category of material being filmed. In addition to this are reports, newspapers, post

charters, among other items. As in the past, material being filmed is also indexed

on our database.

Indexing of resolutions also occurs. The figures show that over 2,000 resolutions

were indexed. This allows very speedy finding of resolutions when only little information is known about the subject. To date we have over 11,000 resolutions indexed.

Book stock has now been finally cataloged. The next project is to complete the

pamphlet collection, re-cataloging, repairing if necessary, and filing. Many of these

publications are American Legion produced and therefore an important and useful

historical collection. These items need to be carefully organized.

We are always grateful to those kind and generous patrons who contribute to the

resources of the Library via donations to the Verna B. Grimm Memorial Book Collection. These many significant books not only honor and keep alive the memory of

individuals but also service scholars in their work at The American Legion Library.

Special appreciation for their generosity is extended to: Mr. Robert H. Barnes, Mr.

and Mrs. George H. Cornelius, Jr., and the National Association of Department Historians of The American Legion.

Among the new books added to the stock of the library are the following:

Two copies of Wisconsin American Legion, A History, 1919–1992, by George

E. Sweet, donated by Barbara Stuvengen.

An Anti-Aircraft Battalion Unit History, donated by Ernie Lauber.

Poems entitled ‘‘The War Veterans Prayer’’ and ‘‘We’ll Not Forget,’’ donated

by Francis P. Depasquale.

A book, A Collection of 20 Army Talks, donated by John J. Perrotta.

It Doesn’t Take A Hero by General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, donated by William D. Jackson.

The following books are among many donated by Robert Barnes:

Daddy of Them All: Story of the 17th Bombardment Group in World War II,

by Victor C. Tannehill;

49th Fighter Group, by Ernest R. McDowell;

KGB, The Inside Story of Its Foreign Operations from Lenin to Gorbachev,

by Christopher Andrew and Oleg Gordievsky.

The following three books were donated by Mr. and Mrs. George Cornelius:

In the Eye of the Storm: The Life of General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, by

Roger Cohen and Claudio Gatti;

The Way Things Ought to Be, by Rush Limbaugh;

Four Freedoms, Images That Inspire a Nation, by Norman Rockwell.

Statistical Summary of 12 Months Ending May 31, 1994

General Correspondence Received and Filed ................................................ 5,520

Subject Correspondence Received and Filed ................................................. 1,338

Bulletins, Reports, etc. Received and Filed ................................................... 1,285

Periodicals Received ........................................................................................ 5,208

Folders and Guides Made ............................................................................... 125

Books and Pamphlets Cataloged .................................................................... 247

Correspondence Written by National Historian ............................................ 174
333

Correspondence Written by Librarian ........................................................... 1,872

Prominent Legionnaire Questionnaires Mailed ............................................ 70

Prominent Legionnaire Questionnaires Returned ........................................ 17

Prominent Legionnaire Death Memos Written ............................................. 55

Prominent Legionnaire Entries to Membership File .................................... 1,673

Resolutions Indexed ......................................................................................... 2,020

Requests Answered via Telephone ................................................................. 2,210

Requests Answered via Visits to Library ...................................................... 258

Requests Answered via Inter-Office Mail ...................................................... 417

Follow-Ups of Correspondence ........................................................................ 851

Items Microfilmed ............................................................................................ 174,000

Requests of Membership Listing .................................................................... 1,173

Microfiche Copied ............................................................................................ 175

Rolls of Microfilm Added to Stock .................................................................. 60

Emil A. Blackmore Museum

JOSEPH J. HOVISH, Curator

The Emil A. Blackmore Museum continues to be visited by individuals and groups. Our Visitor’s Book also shows most states represented as well as the countries of Holland, Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Central African Republic, and France.

Exhibits have been changed periodically and some of the World War Posters have been hung in some of the Divisions at National Headquarters and have made an

attractive addition to the areas.

The Founding Fathers Exhibit continues to attract positive comments and is very welcomed by the young students who visit the building. Unfortunately, the tape

technology which runs the two dioramas is over 30 years old and eventually the

whole unit will need to be replaced. Replacement parts are no longer available. Donors are once again thanked for their contributions to the collection. Significant objects added in the past year include the following: 1993 National Convention Badge, donated by Leonard R. Parker, Sr.

World War I Victory Medal with three clasps, donated by Mr. Clifford G. Mackinnon.

Legion Color Guard and Firing Squad team items, World War II Civil Defense items, all from Commonwealth Edison Post in Chicago, donated by Dean J. Tillis. Norman Flag, donated by Rene Farrer of France.

French World War II Medals, donated by R. Nadal of France.

Papua-New Guinea Fiftieth Anniversary Flag, donated by Col. H. ‘‘Hug’’ Huggins,

Ret.

Color mounted slides/transparencies of 1941 National Convention Parade, total of

181 items, donated by Dr. Richard A. Riedel. American Legion Band N.J. Post No. 16 Uniform Coat and Uniform Pants circa 1930s, donated by Arlen D. Brown.

A collection of various World War II memorabilia including Ration Book Pouch,

Ration Book Numbers 1–4, Sugar Ration Stamps, OPA Blue Point Coin, and Mailing Envelop, donated by Mrs. Stella Hovish.

World War II U.S. M–1 Helmet, M198 Haversack, and Canteen Pouch, donated

by the National Association of Department Historians of The American Legion.

AMERICANISM COMMISSION

RAY G. SMITH, North Carolina, Chairman

MARTY JUSTIS, Maryland, Director

The Americanism Commission of The American Legion was created by a recommendation adopted by the National Convention of The American Legion held in

Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1919. It read: ‘‘We recommend the establishment of a

National Americanism Commission of The American Legion whose duty it shall be

the endeavor to realize in the United States the basic ideal of this Legion of 100

percent Americanism through the planning, establishment and conduct of a continuous, constructive educational system.’’

It is the objective of the Americanism Commission to translate Americanism precepts, principles and ideals in an understanding and practical manner to Legion

Posts and other groups and individuals, including young America.

While the Americanism program consists of a broad, objective, general plan that

features wide-range community service, better citizenship, youth development and
334

counter-subversive activities, the efforts of the Americanism Commission are educational in nature and embrace these specific objectives:

To promote understanding of the principles of democratic governmental problems, and bringing more citizens to think seriously of the duties of citizenship;

To give sound, practical service in our communities, working to make these

communities better and safer places in which to live;

To emphasize religion, encouraging its continuation in the life of every citizen;

To encourage education in every possible manner, presenting school awards,

sponsoring and conducting oratorical contests, cooperating with education and

citizenship groups, promoting proper flag etiquette and display, and sponsoring

objective youth development programs;

To do important work for the youth of America, sponsoring American Legion

Baseball, the National High School Oratorical Contest, Boys State, Boys Nation,

Junior Shooting Sports, Boy Scout activities and many other citizenship and objective training activities;

To work for the assimilation of aliens through schools of citizenship and other

agencies and stand for the restriction of immigration so that this assimilation

may approach perfection; and

To combat subversion and all un-American groups and activities which have

for their aim the downfall of democracy in America.

In addition, the Americanism Commission has continued to be actively involved

in legislative matters affecting our way of life. Among our legislative priorities are

illegal entry of aliens into this country, voluntary prayer in public buildings, bilingual education alternatives and English as the official language of the United

States. The most recent legislative initiative of The American Legion is an effort to

obtain a Constitutional Amendment that would give Congress and the States the

authority to enact and enforce flag desecration laws.

This Commission has the responsibility for supervision and coordination of two

Standing Committees: The Counter-Subversive Activities Committee and the Committee on Education.

The Americanism Commission participates each year in The American Legion’s

series of National Leadership Workshops. These conferences are held at eight locations in different regions of the country during the months of September and October. The Commission uses these workshops as an opportunity to train and provide

information to Americanism program volunteers.

Following is a summary of various programs which are the responsibility of the

Americanism Commission and have been conducted during the 1994 American Legion year.

Boys State/Boys Nation

The American Legion believes that if the United States is to maintain its present

form of government, it must have a citizenry which has a fundamental understanding and interest in its operation. This is what the Boys State program does for the

young men of our Nation. It teaches the fundamentals of American government

through the state level.

It was 59 years ago that Legionnaires in the State of Illinois recognized the need

for a program that would help high school boys understand and appreciate the government they were learning about in the classroom. It was a time in the history

of this Nation when un-American ideas seriously threatened the future of the Nation. The whole idea of Boys States then and now, is to show young people that beyond a doubt, our form of government is good; but its preservation depends on intelligent, informed and loyal citizens in combination with an honest and impartial administration of government activities.

Ten years after the inception of Boys State as a program of the Legion, the National Organization recognized the need for a program like Boys State at the National level and in 1946, began sponsorship of American Legion Boys Nation. This

year The American Legion will conduct its 48th anniversary session. Both Boys

State and Boys Nation are unique programs that emphasize participation and personal experience in a model ‘‘state’’ that is complete with its governing bodies and

elected officials.

Each year, more than 28,000 young Americans take part in Boys State, and

through 59 years, the program has graduated well over one and a half million young

men.

Every year, each Boys State selects two outstanding graduates to represent them

at American Legion Boys Nation. In 1994, the program was held in Washington,
335

DC, July 22–29, and it introduced delegates first-hand to the structure and function

of the federal government.

The week of government training in the Nation’s Capitol combines lectures and

forums with visitations to federal agencies and institutions, shrines and historical

points in and about Washington, DC. Actual participation in the political process is

highlighted through the week to include the organization of party conventions and

the nomination and election of a Boys Nation president and vice president. In addition to federal legislators and representatives of federal agencies, American Legion

officials and other leaders of national distinction participate in Boys Nation. Thomas

E. Whitehead (MS), was elected President of the 48th annual Boys Nation. He will

join the youth champion delegation as a guest of the National Commander at the

National Convention of The American Legion in Minneapolis, Minnesota, September

2–8, 1994.

National High School Oratorical Contest

The American Legion has awarded over two million dollars in college scholarships

since 1938 to high school students participating in its annual National High School

Oratorical Contest. This program, in its 58th year, was recognized by the Federal

Commission for the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution as a program of

‘‘exceptional merit.’’

Each contestant must give a prepared oration on some phase of the United States

Constitution, giving emphasis to the attendant duties and obligations of a citizen

to his government. The prepared oration must be the original effort of each contestant, taking not less than eight nor more than ten minutes for delivery. Each contestant must also give an extemporaneous discourse on a Constitutional topic (not

known until the time of the contest) taking not less than three nor more than five

minutes for delivery.

The following scholarship awards are made annually: First place receives $18,000;

second place receives $16,000; third place is $14,000 and fourth place takes home

a $12,000 scholarship. Competition begins locally and progresses through the Department (state) to the National level of contests. Each state winner who is certified

into and participates in the Regional Contest receives a $1,000 scholarship. Each

Regional winner who is eliminated in the Sectionals receives a $3,000 scholarship.

Funds for these awards are provided by The American Legion Life Insurance Fund.

The 57th annual National Finals Contest in 1994 was held at Colorado Springs,

Colorado. The four finalists were: First Place—Lisa Tsai, Houston, Texas; second

place—Marshall Burkes, Madison, Wisconsin; third place—David M. Bigge, Delran,

New Jersey; and fourth place—Jason Thielman, Columbia Falls, Montana.

Boys Scouts of America

The American Legion charters approximately 2,500 Scout Units in communities

across the country involving more than 66,000 youth. Its commitment to the principles of Scouting dates back to the Legion’s first National Convention in 1919.

The American Legion selected Matthew A. Heffelfinger of Lansford, Pennsylvania,

as its 1994 Eagle Scout of the Year. His selection was based on his outstanding religious, school, community and scouting achievements. He will receive an $8,000

scholarship.

Three Eagle Scouts were named runners-up for the award and each will receive

a $2,000 college scholarship. They are Corey K. Proctor of Wilton, Iowa; James W.

Lamar of Pulaski, Tennessee; and Michael J. Freeman of Hagerstown, Maryland.

In addition, an estimated 300 certificates honoring new Eagle Scout awards are

distributed annually.

Junior Shooting Sports Program

The American Legion Junior Shooting Sports Program is a national Americanism

program administered through Post-sponsored Junior Shooting Clubs. The purpose

of the program is to provide gun safety and marksmanship training for young people

14 through 20 years of age and to offer a wholesome recreational activity through

organized competition.

Fourth annual National Three-Position Air Rifle Championships were conducted

in August 1994, at the Olympic Shooting Complex at the Olympic Training Center

in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The tournament climaxed two rounds of postal

matches which began shortly after the first of the year and involved over 700 entrants.
336

The competition was divided into two categories: precision air rifle and sporter air

rifle. Medals and plaques were awarded in each category, as well as in each of the

three positions of prone, kneeling and standing.

The 1994 competition was held after this report was submitted; therefore, the

1994 winners are not listed. Past winners include: Michael Douglass and Randall

Owle in 1993; Gavin Lewis and Hillary Snyder in 1992; and Everett Miskelly and

Richard Wilson in 1991.

Eight and Forty National Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing

Scholarship Fund

The American Legion develops, publicizes and administers the Eight and Forty

National Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship Fund. This Fund, established in 1957, was created to assist Registered Nurses in securing advanced

preparation for those positions in either supervision, administration or teaching.

These prospective positions must have a direct relationship in the areas of care and

prevention as it relates to lung and respiratory diseases. The Eight and Forty, for

the year 1994-95, awarded twenty-two $2,500 scholarships to recipients in sixteen

states for one year’s study to assist in furthering their education. This brings their

accumulative total for the past 38 years to 609 scholarships, totaling $1,094,500 to

help eliminate personnel shortages in this important area of nursing. This scholarship program will again be offered for the 1995-96 school year.

Flag Education

The American Legion is a nationally recognized authority on the proper display

of the United States Flag. Each year, hundreds of letters and phone calls are routinely answered giving factual information on the display, use of and respect for the

American Flag.

Additionally, over 63,000 copies of our publication ‘‘Let’s Be Right on Flag Etiquette’’ and more than 100,000 copies of the pamphlet, ‘‘Flag of the United States—

How to Display It, How to Respect It’’ are distributed annually to schools, organizations and individuals. This information is sent at little or no cost to all who request

it.

In 1988, The American Legion published ‘‘Our Country’s Flag’’ for use in elementary schools. Well over a million copies have been distributed since the booklet was

introduced.

The American Legion is involved in a campaign to protect the U.S. Flag from

physical desecration. A total of 44 state legislatures have passed memorializing resolutions as of July 1, 1994, in support of a Constitutional Amendment to give Congress and the States the authority to enact and enforce flag desecration laws.

Service to God and Country

A program of basic Americanism, ‘‘Service to God and Country,’’ seeks to prevent

the spiritual decay of America by charging the citizenry with a spirit of positive

Americanism, respect for law, reverence for authority and awareness of our human

rights and freedoms.

‘‘Service to God’’ emphasizes regular public worship, daily family prayer and the

religious education of children, while ‘‘Service to Country’’ attempts to inculcate a

sense of individual obligation to the community, state and Nation. These objectives

are aimed at preparing young Americans to take up tomorrow’s responsibilities by

teaching them moral and spiritual values, renewed interest in our Country’s history,

self-discipline, self-reliance, ideals of loyalty, honesty and physical fitness.

Each year, a Conference for the Department Chaplains is held under the direction

of the National Chaplain. Training and program information is provided for further

dissemination to District and Post Chaplains who coordinate the program at the

local level.

American Legion Baseball

American Legion Baseball marks its 69th season in 1994. Over 82,000 players on

4,500 teams participated in this American Legion Americanism youth activity during the past year.

More than 15 million dollars in sponsorship fees are spent on American Legion

Baseball teams by the local posts. Almost one million dollars is appropriated by the

Legion’s National Organization to conduct eight Regional Tournaments and the

World Series of American Legion Baseball.
337

Former American Legion Baseball player Steve Carlton was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Thirty-four other former Legion players have gone on

to distinguish themselves in Major League Baseball and have been honored with

election to the Hall of Fame. They include Tom Seaver, Johnny Bench, PeeWee

Reese, Bob Feller, Ted Williams, Willie Stargel, Stan Musial, Carl Yaztremski, Warren Spahn, Brooks Robinson and Frank Robinson.

Over 62 percent of the Major League ballplayers and almost 72 percent of college

players competed in American Legion Baseball as teenagers. The lessons learned on

the baseball diamond, such as leadership, teamwork, respect for the rules, are lessons that are learned for a lifetime.

COUNTER-SUBVERSIVE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

F. RODNEY LOPER, Pennsylvania, Chairman

The Counter-Subversive Activities Committee, since its establishment by the National Executive Committee of The American Legion on November 17, 1950, has

scrutinized and continues to monitor what is transpiring in the realm of subversion

and terrorism. This is a program of the Americanism Commission and detailed reports of its activities are given to the National Executive Committee at its Spring

and Fall Meetings and at National Conventions.

The Committee is responsible for furnishing background information on assigned

resolutions that are considered by the National Americanism Commission for recommended action to the National Executive Committee or the National Convention.

The National Americanism Commission has long been concerned about anti-American activities and, in 1952, developed a publication known as ‘‘Firing Line’’. This

began regular dissemination of information on certain groups and organizations participating in activities of a subversive nature.

Every effort is made to maintain a publication which is current and up-to-date.

During the past year, ‘‘Firing Line’’ has reported on matters concerning desecration

of the U.S. Flag, illegal immigration, espionage and terrorism.

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Education Program

DR. CHARLES L. VAWTER, JR., Arizona, Chairman

The Committee on Education, established in 1976, is the only joint committee

comprised of members of both The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary.

The purposes of the Committee on Education are: (1) to inform itself and The

American Legion of developments, problems and potentials in the field of education;

(2) to recommend appropriate policies and programs for The American Legion; and

(3) to maintain contact with the education community so that there may be an interchange of thinking between The American Legion, educators, students and other organizations concerned with the well-being of education throughout the Nation.

Education was one of the first major concerns of The American Legion. In 1921,

the organization committed itself to a constructive support of education. During the

years which followed, The American Legion developed a formal Policy on Education.

The American Legion has always supported the principle that education is a necessary prerequisite to the successful functioning of a democracy. While recognizing

the right of private and religious groups to maintain schools, The American Legion

vigorously subscribes to the necessity for a publicly supported education system to

ensure that every American child has the opportunity for an adequate education.

The American Legion believes that popular self-government as set forth in the Constitution of the United States, cannot continue to exist unless there is the bulwark

of a continuing system of free public education. Not only does proper national defense require trained personnel, but every phase of life today demands that we have

competent citizens who are qualified, willing and able to discharge their responsibilities.

The availability of educational opportunity for every individual to pursue his own

development is a prerequisite to the achievement of all other social goals. Our education system must be designed to provide every person with the means to reach

his potential which will provide our Country with the high level of responsible citizens and specialized workers which it requires. In turn, we will have greater assur-
338

ance of economic growth, of sound decision-making, and the knowledge necessary to

promote our national security.

The American education system should produce citizens who understand and are

dedicated to principles of free enterprise; to democratic principles and processes; and

whose devotion to freedom and human dignity goes beyond mere lip service.

The Education Program consists of four basic elements: (1) recognition of local

systems through observance of American Education Week; (2) dissemination of

scholarship and financial aid information through the publication of Need A Lift?;

(3) sponsorship of a private education loan program called Option 4 Education Loan

Program; and (4) promotion of involvement by American Legion Posts and American

Legion Auxiliary Units in a community-wide effort to enhance the programs and

policies of the local schools through the guidelines provided in the handbook PACT

(Post, Auxiliary, Community Together).

American Education Week is an annual event co-sponsored nationally by The

American Legion. The observance was originally established by The American Legion with the help of the National Education Association in 1921. The major objective of this program is to focus public attention on the needs and achievements of

the Nation’s schools. This year’s theme is ‘‘Building The Future; One Student At A

Time.’’ The observance will be November 13-19, 1994.

The publication Need A Lift? is revised annually and contains more than 128

pages of scholarships, grants and loan information, work-study cooperative programs and sources of career information for all students. There is a section directed

toward opportunities for veterans and their dependents. Another section lists scholarships and financial aid available from Departments of The American Legion and

American Legion Auxiliary totalling more than $600,000. Need A Lift? also contains

an electronic scholarship search application which the student can request at a reduced cost. Each Fall, complementary copies of Need A Lift? are sent to over 24,000

high schools across the Nation. In all, last year over 125,000 copies of Need A Lift?

were distributed.

A companion to Need A Lift? is the pamphlet ‘‘A Guide for Parents and Students’’

which contains planning and financial aid information for high school students and

their parents. Each year, distribution of more than 100,000 copies of each of these

publications is handled through American Legion Posts, schools, counselors and librarians, by mail, and through distribution at national education conventions. Copies of these publications can also be obtained by writing The American Legion National Emblem Sales Division, P.O. Box 1050, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206. Individual copies of Need A Lift? are $3.00 each prepaid. ‘‘A Guide for Parents and Students’’ is available at a cost of $12.50 per 500 or $18.75 per 1,000 copies prepaid.

In an effort to help those students who may not qualify for scholarships or federal

student aid, The American Legion sponsors the Option 4 Education Loan program.

Option 4 is provided by United Student Aid Funds, Inc. Since the start of this program, over $1.3 million in student loans have helped worthy students fund their college education.

The PACT Handbook is the guide for The American Legion Education Chairmen.

It contains information on the goals and objectives of the program, ideas and suggestions for activities, coordinating concepts and a typical calendar for a successful

program. Programs covered in the handbook include: Citizenship Education, Career

Education activities such as career nights, community resource files.

Adopt-A-School, how to promote American Education Week, and financial aid

nights.

Over 38,000 students are recipients of The American Legion School Award Medal

each year. This award is designed to recognize the student for the qualities of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service. The award is presented to a boy and girl upon graduation from elementary school, junior high/middle

school or high school.

The American Legion believes that the citizens of this Country should be dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in the entire realm of intellectual endeavor; that

our people should recognize those persons who have developed their intellectual

abilities to the fullest extent; that teachers should enrich their knowledge, particularly in the field in which they teach and that scholarship assistance to deserving

students should be expanded.

Such an educational program will fulfill the dreams of the past, the aspirations

of the present and the needs of the future. The American Legion supports such a

system of education and believes that the vitality of our democratic way of life is

dependent upon such schools.
339

Americanism Commission

EXECUTIVE SECTION

Ray G. Smith, Benson, North Carolina—Chairman.

Daniel J. O’Connor, New Fairfield, Connecticut—Chairman Emeritus.

Joseph E. Caouette, Rollinsford, New Hampshire—Vice Chairman.

Harold Hall, Anaheim, California—Commander’s Representative.

Earl B. Wright, Severna Park, Maryland—Consultant.

Edward R. Czaja, Jr., Glenview, Illinois—Consultant.

COMMISSION ON CHILDREN & YOUTH

EUGENE V. LINDQUIST, Minnesota, Chairman

MARTY JUSTIS, Maryland, Director

Since our beginning, The American Legion has actively voiced concerns related to the care, welfare, and education of our Nation’s children and youth. As early as November 1919, we were asking local Posts to aid the widows and children of our deceased comrades.

Throughout the decades that followed, The American Legion became a strong ad- vocate for children’s rights and remained at the forefront of the Child Welfare Movement. Our early years were devoted to progressive child care and protection programs. Through the efforts of The American Legion and its affiliated organizations,

many states and communities were urged to improve their own Child Welfare provisions.

This development of new and improved public programs designed to provide eco- nomic security for children, made it possible for our organization to turn its attention to other problem areas affecting young people. To date there exists no area of

child welfare that has gone untouched by the collective hand of The American Legion. The very program of Children & Youth itself is unique from any agency, private or governmental, in its ability to expand into every arena of concern for child

welfare and child health.

The American Legion ‘‘has and will do everything possible to perpetuate ‘A Square Deal For Every Child’.’’ This remains our ultimate goal and the definite challenge

for the years ahead. To attain this goal, The American Legion, in 1925, adopted the ‘‘Whole Child’’ plan which states: ‘‘every child should have a home, health, education, character

and opportunity.’’ Its foundation is based on three guiding principles: 1. To strengthen the family unit against the forces of today’s complex society, recognizing that the most normal environment for children is a home with their

own parents.

2. To extend support to sound organizations and facilities that provide serv- ices for children and youth. Always acting in a supplementary capacity, rather

than duplicating the efforts of existing agencies. 3. To maintain a well-rounded program that meets the physical, intellectual,

emotional and spiritual needs of today’s young people. Stated certainly for future endeavors, this third principle has provided the flexibility to address all

matters of child health and child welfare.

While these principles represent the heart of the ‘‘Whole Child’’ plan, the muscle

depends on our four Guidelines For Action, working together:

1. Prevention—Finding solutions to obstacles before they become long-lasting

problems.

2. Education—Providing information to our members and the general public

on timely issues involving children and youth.

3. Legislation—Maintaining a knowledge of new and existing laws, needed

amendments, and the administration of laws which affect young people at the

national, state and local levels.

4. Material Aid—Providing direct assistance in the form of cash, clothing, food

and time.

During the past seventy-five years, The American Legion’s Children & Youth Program has contributed to significant advancements in the area of Child Welfare.

While our list of achievements is extensive, it is by no means complete nor completed. The American Legion has, and will continue, its deep community-centered

interest in children to find new, and perhaps presently unknown, approaches to

child welfare problems. At present, there is no way of knowing what issues will face

our youth tomorrow. But all of us know that our survival may well depend on the
340

quality of care, education, and training which we, as parents and citizens, provide

for all children today. The American Legion is proud of the Legionnaires, and the members of its affili- ated organizations, and their achievements on behalf of our nation’s youth. Their

efforts in the area of child welfare is a living testament to the ability of an organization of free men and women to adapt itself to evolving needs, while maintaining

high principles and taking on increased responsibilities under those principles.

1993–94 Program

Each year, during the month of May, The American Legion’s Commission on Chil- dren & Youth meets to discuss what programs it wants to emphasize for the coming

program year. The National staff is then directed to research these areas of concern

and publish materials to support our volunteers.

For the program year 1993-94, our Commission voted to focus their efforts on the

following problem areas which directly impact our young people on the National

level:

1. Family Emphasis.

2. Juvenile Delinquency Prevention.

3. Immunization.

Family Emphasis: The family is the cornerstone of American society. But today,

modern society places demands on the family that did not exist in years past—demands that can chip away at family strength and unity. Two-income families are

becoming the norm rather than the exception. Divorced families, step-families, and

single-parent families have reached all-time highs. More teenagers than ever hold

down part-time jobs. Children are placed in day care centers at earlier ages. Instead

of safety in their neighborhoods, adolescents face physical danger; instead of economic security, they face uncertainty; instead of intellectual stimulation, they face

boredom; in place of respect, they are neglected; lacking clear and consistent adult

expectations for them, they feel alienated from mainstream American society.

For many years, the Commission on Children & Youth has, by mandate, advocated the passage of federal legislation designating the week of Thanksgiving as National Family Week. Many organizations have joined us in this quest. It is now our

position to continue to push for legislation, but in the meantime, to conduct our own

observance of this important event.

Many activities have been outlined to help us bring the basic unit in America, the

family, into proper perspective. As an example: SUNDAY—Religion Day—Whatever

your faith, share its importance with our young. MONDAY—Home Day—Focus attention on the responsibility a parent and children have to each other. TUESDAY—

Education Day—Self-discipline, the key to excellence, is essential at all levels of

education. WEDNESDAY—Community Day—Your family’s role in the community.

THURSDAY—Thanksgiving Day—Celebrate this day with your family, friends, and/

or the less fortunate. FRIDAY—Nature Day—Discipline selves to nature’s laws and

beauty. SATURDAY—Recreation Day or Religious Observance Day.

Juvenile Delinquency Prevention: Over the last three decades, violent crime has

increased by more than 500 percent. America leads the industrialized world in rates

of murder, rape and violent crime. Nearly three out of four convicted criminals are

now incarcerated. Fewer than one in ten serious crimes results in imprisonment.

According to a recent Department of Justice report on nationwide crime, a murder

occurs every 24 minutes, a forcible rape every six minutes, a robbery every 55 seconds, an aggravated assault every 33 seconds, and a burglary every 10 seconds.

The American Legion is seriously concerned about the recent high levels of violent

crime committed by juveniles in this nation. While juveniles account for approximately 35 percent of our population, they account for better than 50 percent of serious crimes as reported by the FBI Uniform Crime Reports.

During one typical day in the lives of American children, the FBI reports indicate

2 children younger than age 5 are murdered, 248 children are arrested for drug

abuse, and 427 children are arrested for alcohol abuse or drunk driving. In 1991,

one out of every four Americans arrested was a teenager. In that year, approximately 2.7 million American youth, age 10 to 19, were arrested and a growing number are spending time in jail. The juvenile arrest rate for murder has doubled between 1978 and 1990. For that same period, we have seen juvenile arrests for aggravated assault increase by two-thirds, the juvenile arrest rate for weapons law violations increase by 60 percent, and the juvenile arrest rate for rape increase by almost

40 percent.

Through the urging of The American Legion’s Commission on Children & Youth

during the 1994 Spring meetings, Juvenile Delinquency Prevention was unanimously approved as one of our major areas of concern. We are currently developing
341

support materials to include brochures and project guides to be disseminated to

communities through our volunteer network of Legion members. In addition, we are

in the process of developing a plan for community action in combating the problem

of Juvenile Delinquency.

Immunization: Immunization levels of preschool children have been steadily de- clining during the past few years. According to a national study released in 1992,

the United States ranks behind 16 other nations in the proportion of infants immunized against polio. When the proportion of U.S. nonwhite infants adequately immunized is compared to other nations, the United States ranks 70th in the world.

Key reasons for the U.S. immunization decline have included skyrocketing vaccine costs, rising child and family poverty rates, inadequate access to health care, and

under-funding of public health programs.

Any long-term plan to correct the current situation should address—Service Delivery (assure vaccines are available); Information and Education (increase awareness

and demand); and Assessment (measurement of program performance).

In the Spring of 1992, the Commission on Children & Youth of The American Legion adopted Immunization as one of their current major areas of concern. With the

assistance of the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Commission developed the brochure, ‘‘Don’t Hesitate . . . Vaccinate!’’ In addition, a project guide, completed in 1994, provides a suggested plan of action for

all our members.

But The American Legion’s immunization efforts began in 1944, when we urged

our local Posts and Units to recruit the services of their members in the interest

of early treatment of childhood diseases. In 1955, The American Legion joined with

others in support of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis to the end that

a tremendous breakthrough was accomplished with the development of the Salk

vaccine. Our current position on Immunization was established in 1963, when a formal Resolution was adopted by our National Executive Committee during the National Convention. This position has been continually reaffirmed throughout the

years.

The American Legion continues to play a major role in assisting public health departments in effectively getting the message out. In addition, through their leadership the Legion family is helping to build local support for the resources needed to

enhance the immunization services in their respective communities. Nationally, The

American Legion continues to coordinate their efforts with the Centers for Disease

Control and to network with other youth-serving organizations. We have volunteered to open up our 16,000 local Posts to serve as vaccination centers to insure

that every American child is properly vaccinated by age two. The American Legion

recognizes that children are our greatest natural resource and as such, should therefore be afforded every opportunity to receive the necessary treatment and immunization to protect themselves against all vaccine-preventable diseases.

Continuing Programs

Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA): This is the landmark program of the Commission on Children & Youth. Begun in 1925 as a form of direct aid, the Temporary

Financial Assistance program is still unique in the social work field today and remains a very active program. The past few years have seen a steady increase in

the amounts of assistance required for needy veteran families. In 1993, the program

aided 2,182 children with nearly $400,000 in grants. From its beginning to present,

this fund has assisted veterans’ families with millions of dollars in non-repayable

grants.

The fund is used to assist families in meeting the costs of shelter, food, utilities

and health expense items when the parents are unable to do so; thereby helping

to keep the child, or children, in a more stable home environment.

Through TFA, a Post may call upon the Americanism and Children & Youth Division of The American Legion for cash assistance to help meet the basic needs of veterans’ children. Funds can be granted over a temporary period to eligible children

when it has been determined by investigation that the child is in need and that no

other sources are available, or those that are available are inadequate. It is important to note, while the veteran must have served honorably on active duty during

a designated war period, the veteran does not have to be a member of The American

Legion to receive assistance.

As sure as The American Legion is the largest veterans’ organization in the world,

there are veterans’ families who require help. Possibly the rent is overdue or the

children are hungry because the father is sick or disabled, deceased, or has deserted

the family. Whatever the reason, these children become the concern of The American Legion; and the Temporary Financial Assistance Program is the vital tool
342

which is used to help meet the maintenance and health needs of veterans’ children,

thereby allowing the child to develop in the home. Family Support Network Financial Assistance Program: When American troops

were called to Desert Shield, The American Legion responded immediately to their

families’ needs. Over 30,000 calls poured into the Family Support Network, and

local Legionnaires made home and car repairs, helped with yard work, and hosted

or formed support groups. The Legion also provided financial assistance, often within 48 hours of a request, to families in need or waiting for military pay. Since its

beginning the Family Support Network has given more than $500,000 to aid Persian Gulf veterans.

The Family Support Network (FSN) of The American Legion is a national grass- roots program, the centerpiece of which is a toll-free telephone number that provides

an emergency action line for military families, if assistance is needed. Using state-of-the-art technology, the confidential requests are categorized, prioritized and referred to local Posts and Units for appropriate action by volunteers.

The Financial Assistance Program is an outgrowth of the Family Support Net- work, focusing on the needs of Persian Gulf veterans. It is administered by the

Americanism and Children & Youth Division. Its purpose is to ‘‘assist with meeting

the social, health and welfare, and economic needs of returned service personnel

from the Persian Gulf War and their families.’’ In 1993 alone, the FSN provided almost $100,000 in direct financial assistance to Persian Gulf veterans and their families.

Through this program, a Post of The American Legion can call upon the Family Support Network to lend a hand in providing cash assistance to help meet the basic

needs of Persian Gulf veterans when it has been established there are no other resources available to adequately provide the required assistance. Direct grants are made available to families to sustain housing, utilities, clothing and nourishment requirements until the family has regained the ability to provide

for themselves. In addition, the fund provides medical assistance to family members,

where medical procedures are necessary for the health and welfare of the individual

and the expense is not fully covered by current medical insurance. Through this program, thousands of Legion and Auxiliary volunteers have become ‘‘good neighbors’’ offering a wide range of assistance to Desert Storm military families of regular active duty personnel and those who had been activated in the National Guard and Reserves.

Halloween: The ‘‘Make Halloween a Safe and Fun Night’’ program is now entering its 22nd year of National emphasis. In 1972, the Commission on Children & Youth

realized Halloween was no longer the carefree, happy occasion it had once been for

our nation’s young people. Nationwide attention was focused on our children being

maimed and drugged by ‘‘treats’’ they had gathered from neighbors on Halloween.

In response, the Commission established a community-oriented program on Halloween Safety.

There are many activities that can be planned at the community level to reduce

the risks of children being harmed during this time of the year. A haunted house

maze, carnival activities, costume parades with prizes awarded for the most imaginative and safest costume, or a party for older youngsters with a Halloween theme.

The Commission on Children & Youth of The American Legion publishes a brochure that provides safety tips to aid children and parents in keeping this a fun

and festive occasion. These brochures are available through our state organizations

and all are encouraged to use them to help protect the well-being of our children.

In 1992, the Commission added a project guide. This guide, produced again in

1993, provides suggestions to local Posts on how to prepare for a safe Halloween.

In addition, there are sample press releases, mayoral proclamations, and radio and

TV spot announcements. All are designed to be used in conjunction with the brochure to help ensure that all children ‘‘Make Halloween a Safe and Fun Night.’’

Regional Children & Youth Award Program (V.I.S.I.O.N.): This is a recognition

program for our Legion Posts and Auxiliary Units. Each year, we encourage our

Posts and Units to submit a project they have conducted during the past year that

has benefited the youth of their community. As an incentive, beautiful plaques and

lapel pins dated for the program year are presented to the winners and awarded

in the presence of their peers at their National Leadership Workshop held each fall.

Whether it is a Certificate of Participation, a Certificate of Excellence, or a plaque

and lapel pin, all Posts are winners. But the true winners with such a program such

as this are the children and youth of the various communities throughout the country. They are the ones that ultimately benefit from these efforts.

Child Safety: The American Legion has demonstrated a strong concern for the

safety of this nation’s young people since the early 1920’s. Until recently, child safe-
343

ty had been one of our major areas of concern, continuing on a yearly basis. In 1992,

the Commission on Children & Youth, in a unanimous decision, voted to designate

the Child Safety program as one of our Annual, or Continuing Programs. In the

Spring of 1994, the Commission placed Teenage Suicide Prevention and Substance

Abuse Prevention under Child Safety as a Continuing Program.

Child Safety is defined as any external event which may present a significant

danger to a child or young person. It includes, but is not limited to:

1. Child Abuse and Neglect.

2. Sexual Abuse.

3. Indoor/Outdoor Safety.

4. School Safety.

5. Playground Safety.

6. Missing and Abducted Children.

7. Accidents (automobile, drownings, firearms).

8. Fire Safety.

9. Substance Abuse Prevention.

10. Teenage Suicide Prevention.

According to national estimates, the number of children who disappear each year

ranges from one million to as many as two million. Many of these children are considered runaways, but of the approximately 150,000 children who are abducted each

year, 50,000 are taken by strangers and 100,000 are taken by non-custodial parents

of divorces or separations. This is a problem that not only threatens the family way

of life, but the very existence of children that most often are too young to help themselves.

To combat this growing problem, The American Legion, in a nationwide program,

is emphasizing a program of public information and precautionary steps for parents

to take to avoid the tragedy of missing children. By utilizing resources and volunteers at the local, state and national levels, we have been getting the word out.

Accidents are the leading cause of death and disability among our nation’s youth.

Annually, nearly 25,000 children under the age of 19 will die in automobile crashes,

drownings, fires, and through the improper use of firearms. Even in somewhat environmentally controlled homes, playgrounds and parks, the potential for serious injury is always present.

Our Legion volunteers regularly disseminate information to parents, children and

community leaders regarding the issue of safety. Making children safety conscious,

in the home and outside, is necessary to assure our children have an opportunity

to play and grow into useful adults and citizens.

Alcohol, Marijuana and Cocaine are considered ‘‘gateway drugs’’ for thousands of

young people throughout the United States. The great tragedy of substance abuse,

which continues to infest all levels of our society, is its prevalence in elementary

school age children. Most come in contact with drugs by age seven.

Prevention education is part of the answer, but it must begin early. Children, of

all ages, need to be taught drug awareness, and the physical and mental dangers

involved with the use of all substances, to include the legal drugs of alcohol and

tobacco. The American Legion considers a child’s future to be very important. Our

brochure ‘‘Gateway Drugs’’ is designed to let young people stop and think about

what they may be doing to themselves, and how what they do can affect others. The

key to their future is responsible decision making. Many of our Nation’s youth are

assisting with this problem by forming drug awareness clubs in schools. This generates positive peer pressure and shows our young people they can have just as

much fun by staying sober. As concerned citizens, we must never give up in our battle against drugs. We must strive to increase awareness, and show our children that

we care about both them and their future.

According to statistics, the suicide rate for persons under the age of 21 has tripled

since 1960. Every hour, at least one American teenager or young adult has committed suicide and as many as 40 others have made the attempt.

Research findings from around the country indicate that eight out of ten people

who kill themselves give some warning of their intentions. Because of this, it is imperative for any adult who has daily contact with young people to acquaint themselves with the warning signs of suicide if we are to decrease the numbers in this

tragic area. The American Legion volunteers continue their work to educate parents,

schools and communities on this epidemic killer of our nation’s young people. We,

as parents and concerned citizens, cannot afford to let one of our greatest national

resources go to waste.

Through the combined effort of our volunteers, and the education of our fellow

citizens, we are helping to provide for the security, health and welfare vital for all

our children to grow up safely.
344

National Leadership Workshops

Our Commission on Children & Youth has been very encouraged by the attendance of our volunteers. At the 1993 set of conferences, we again saw an increase

of attendees for both Legion and Auxiliary members. At these workshops, we share

our programs and methods of implementation with the Posts and Units. In 1993,

our workshops were:

Region 1—Portland, Maine—September 17–19.

Region 2—Hampton, Virginia—October 1–3.

Region 3—Mobile, Alabama—October 1–3.

Region 4—Little Rock, Arkansas—October 8–10.

Region 5—Indianapolis, Indiana—October 29–31.

Region 6—Fargo, North Dakota—September 17–19.

Region 7—Las Vegas, Nevada—October 29–31.

Region 8—Spokane, Washington—October 8–10.

We move our Leadership Workshops each year, from city to city within each Region. This gives Posts in each area the opportunity to send representatives at a very

minimal cost. Our major goal is to help children, and our presence at these outreach

workshops is really having a positive impact on our annual program.

Legislative Efforts

The initiation and support of worthwhile Children & Youth legislation is one of

the means by which the Commission on Children & Youth has attempted to accomplish its goal during the 1993–1994 program year. At our National Convention in

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, September 5–9, 1993, the following mandate was introduced for our attention during this Congress:

Amend PL 97–359 to Provide Benefits for Amerasian Children in the Philippines:

Res. 99. The American Legion is aware of the problems that beset children in the

Philippines of Amerasian descent, the great majority of whom are in need of parental care and support. Similarly situated children, born in other Asian countries—

Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia—have been given certain rights and

assistance under federal legislation, U.S. Public Law No. 97–359, enacted in 1982.

The American Legion urges the U.S. Congress to enact, and asks the President

to support, amendatory legislation that will correct a grave injustice to Amerasian

children born in the Philippines by eliminating the discriminatory provision against

them in Public Law No. 97–359, and recognizing their existence and entitlement to

the same rights, privileges, and benefits as the Amerasian children in other Asian

countries, including the right to make a clear choice as to domicile.

These are the highlights of our 1993 Children & Youth legislative program. The

American Legion’s Commission on Children & Youth has constantly urged its Departments to support Children & Youth legislation as it relates to our National objectives. Local Posts are also encouraged to support city ordinances as they deal

with the community’s efforts to improve conditions for children and youth. Our Children & Youth legislation program is a never-ending process, which we eagerly accept for the sake of all children—everywhere.

Children & Youth Expenditures

Annually, as it has for the past 69 years, the National Commission on Children

& Youth records activities from nearly 16,000 Posts of The American Legion; 12,000

Units of the American Legion Auxiliary; and hundreds of Salons of the Eight and

Forty. In addition, the expenditures of Departments and of the National Organization are obtained for the 12 month period of June 1 through May 31, and combined

with these reports.

This year, Posts and Departments of the Legion reported expenditures of

$22,863,602.00. To this amount, we proudly add $5,138,220.00 by the Auxiliary. An

additional $392,326.00 was given to families in need through our Temporary Financial Assistance program. To this we add other contributions to the Child Welfare

Foundation in the amount of $150,849.00. This amounts to a grand total of expenditures and contributions to the total Children & Youth program in 1993–94 of

$28,544,997.00.

Children & Youth Literature

During the 1993–94 program year, tens of thousands of pieces of Children &

Youth literature were distributed by the Americanism and Children & Youth Division as it attempted to further the objectives of our total program.
345

As shown in Table #5, our most popular brochures are related to our major points

of emphasis—Substance Abuse Prevention, Teenage Suicide Prevention, Missing

Children, Child Safety, and Immunization. It is of further interest to note that some

6,489 citations were distributed to Departments in order to recognize Posts for their

contributions to the overall Children & Youth Program.

Appreciation Acknowledged

The Commission on Children & Youth and its Chairman must take this opportunity to thank the volunteers of the Legion and the Auxiliary. Many hours, tremendous amounts of energy and personal sacrifice cannot be repaid. We are indeed

thankful that the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in The American Legion.

Special mention must also go to our National Commander Bruce Thiesen; not because of his rank, but because of his sincere dedication and verbal support for our

program during this past year. Likewise special thanks to National Adjutant Robert

Spanogle for his support and cooperation. The American Legion does an excellent

job with this program, but the record must be clear. Without the assistance of the

American Legion Auxiliary, the Eight and Forty, and the Sons of The American Legion, our National Children & Youth Program would have little chance for success.

COMMISSION ON CHILDREN & YOUTH

Executive Section

Eugene V. Lindquist, Clarissa, Minnesota—Chairman

Elmer Fuhrhop, Hamler, Ohio—Vice-Chairman

Margaret M. Malone, Trenton, New Jersey—National Commander’s Representative

W. Darrell Hansel, Vevay, Indiana—Consultant

Walter F. Baker, Seneca Falls, New York—Consultant

James P. Holley, Center, Texas

Cletus A. Lehne, East Moline, Illinois

Talmage C. Carawan, Rockville, Maryland

Herbert J. Petit, Kenner, Louisiana
346
347
348
349
350

THE AMERICAN LEGION CHILD WELFARE FOUNDATION,

INC.

U.S. ‘‘UDIE’’ GRANT, Kansas, President

TERRY L. WOODBURN, Illinois, Executive Secretary

The American Legion has been concerned about the welfare of children since it

was founded. It has been a leader in youth activities around the country for both

volunteer hours and financial contributions. In 1954 it allowed the separate incorporation of what is called The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation which has

awarded just over four million dollars to nonprofit, youth oriented organizations. A

grant may only be obtained for one of the following two purposes:

1. To contribute to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth through the dissemination of knowledge about new and innovative

organizations and/or their programs designed to benefit youth; and

2. to contribute to the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual welfare of children and youth through the dissemination of knowledge already possessed by well

established organizations, to the end that such information can be more adequately

used by society.

For the past 40 years the Foundation has received its primary support from the

members of The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, Eight and Forty,

and Sons of The American Legion. It became an official part of The American Legion’s Children and Youth Program in 1956 with the belief that it is better to prevent physical and social ills confronting our nation’s youth than to try and correct

the problem after it has occurred.

The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, in its 40th year, has awarded

$264,500.00 to 10 non-profit organizations. These grants were determined during

the annual meeting of the Board of Directors, held at the Ramada Plaza in Indianapolis, on Sunday, May 1, 1994. These grants have been awarded to support worthwhile projects and disseminate information about them to the general public and

specific target groups. The following is a brief summary of the grants awarded this

year:

The Association of Birth Defect Children, of Orlando, Florida was awarded

$36,900.00 for their project entitled ‘‘National Environmental Birth Defects Registry.’’ The grant will be used to produce questionnaires, brochures and newsletters

to determine any patterns of disability in the children of Vietnam veterans and

other environmental exposures which will be reported to the National Academy of

Sciences; the VA; the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and to registry

participants.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was awarded

$16,000.00 for their project entitled ‘‘Tapping the Potential of College Students as

Big Brothers and Big Sisters.’’ The grant will produce recruitment materials and develop a planning guide to promote the development and expansion of college student

volunteer programs by Big Brothers/Big Sisters agencies throughout the United

States.

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America Inc. of New York was awarded

$25,000.00 for their project entitled ‘‘Living With IBD.’’ The grant will produce an

educational book designed to help today’s teenager better understand and cope with

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and be distributed nationwide.

The Friends Network of Santa Barbara, California was awarded $12,000.00 for

their project entitled ‘‘Funletters—For Kids With Cancer.’’ This grant will produce

Funletters, a therapeutic and upbeat resource distributed nationwide for children

and teens fighting cancer.

Key Club International of Indianapolis, Indiana was awarded $55,500.00 for their

project entitled ‘‘Respond to the Need, Education.’’ This grant will supply 1,000

‘‘Teen and Relationships’’ video kits to Key Clubs across the country and to those

students who are in need of ‘‘training’’ in the area of relationship development and

self-esteem.

The National Crime Prevention Council of Washington, District of Columbia was

awarded $16,000.00 for their project entitled ‘‘How Communities Can Raise Youth

Free From Violence.’’ This grant will produce a booklet on ways in which youth-related violence can be prevented. This booklet will be distributed to criminal justice

policy makers around the U.S., local elected and appointed leaders, and community

leaders (through credible national and state organizations).

The National Hemophilia Foundation of New York was awarded $27,600.00 for

their project entitled ‘‘My Parents Have HIV/AIDS: Some Advice From An Eight-
351

Year Old.’’ This grant will produce a book which provides basic information about

HIV/AIDS to children and disseminate copies of the publication through HANDI,

NHF chapters, AIDS Clearinghouse, and pediatric AIDS foundations. The National Marfan Foundation of Port Washington, New York was awarded $19,400.00 for their project entitled ‘‘Celebrating the Differences.’’ This grant will

produce a ten minute video that can be used in schools, support groups, and other

venues to promote understanding, respect and acceptance between children and

their peers who are perceived to be different.

The Sturge-Weber Foundation of Aurora, Colorado was awarded $17,100.00 for their project entitled ‘‘Face to Face With Sturge-Weber Phase II.’’ This grant will

produce an informative and supportive video to enhance the lives of children with

Sturge-Weber Syndrome by educating those adults responsible for their care. The Treacher Collins Foundation of Norwich, Vermont was awarded $39,000.00

for their project entitled ‘‘RARE Should Not Mean Alone.’’ This grant will produce

a 15–20 minute video about Treacher Collins Syndrome and distribute it to parents/

children/families who contact the Treacher Collins Foundation; genetics departments of all U.S. Medical Schools; Craniofacial treatment centers throughout the

U.S. and Canada; and other interested health care providers by request. Since its first award in 1955, The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation has now given over four million dollars in grants to other not for profit organizations

around the country. During the meeting, the following officers were elected: U.S. (Udie) Grant of Kan- sas (President); Eugene V. Lindquist of Minnesota (Vice President); James P. Holley

of Texas (Secretary); and W. Calvitt Bradwell of South Carolina (Treasurer). Administrative personnel that were re-appointed by the Board of Directors were Webber

LaGrange (Assistant Treasurer) and Terry Woodburn (Executive Secretary). Under

the 1969 Tax Reform Act, the Foundation retains its tax exempt status. Gifts, therefore, are deductible for federal income tax purposes to the extent permitted by law,

and bequests to the Foundation are deductible for federal inheritance tax purposes

to the extent permitted by the Federal Tax Act.

CONVENTION COMMISSION

JAMES J. CHARLESTON, Illinois, Chairman

ROBERT P. RADKE, Ohio, Director

The 75th Annual National Convention of The American Legion was held in Pitts- burgh, PA, September 3–9, 1993. The Convention was highly successful and the

attendees enjoyed the hospitality of the host city and the festivities of the Convention. Highlights were the National Contests, the Patriotic Memorial Service and the

Convention Parade. On Labor Day afternoon, the Convention Festival was held at

Station Square. Approximately 10,000 spectators enjoyed the festivities of the day

including the Volunteers—the United States Army Field Band and musical legend—

Lee Greenwood. Convention sessions were conducted by National Commander Roger

A. Munson, Ohio, on September 7 through 9. Local Corporation officers, Committee

Chairmen and members were commended by the Convention Commission for putting on a very fine Convention.

The following uniformed group units emerged as National Champions at the Pittsburgh Convention Contests:

Senior Band Contest—American Legion Band of the Tonawandas, Post 264, Tonawanda, NY.

Color Guard Contest (Military—Closed)—Speedway Post 500 Honor Guard,

Speedway, IN.

Color Guard Contest (Military—Open)—Pure Heaven Color Guard Auxiliary Unit

37, Ames, IA.

Color Guard Contest (Open Class)—Conn-Weissenberger Glass City Guardsmen,

Post 587, Toledo, OH.

Commission Meetings

The Convention Commission held three meetings during the past year. The first

was held during the 75th Annual Convention at Pittsburgh on September 4, 1993.

The second meeting was held at National Headquarters in Indianapolis, IN on October 18–19, 1993. Routine business was conducted at these meetings. The final meeting was held at National Headquarters on May 4–5, 1994. The following recommendations were made and later accepted and approved by the National Executive Committee:
352

1. Approval for the National Commander to sign the contract with the National Convention Corporation of Oregon for the 1995 Convention at Portland,

OR;

2. That San Antonio, TX be withdrawn as the site of the 1996 Convention and

be replaced by Salt Lake City, UT;

3. That Detroit, MI be withdrawn as the site of the 1997 Convention and be

replaced by the city of Orlando, FL;

4. That the city of Anaheim, CA be given the tentative award for the 1999

Convention.

The Convention Commission considered the problem of holding Conventions in

cities where outlying hotels must be used, resulting in shuttle service to transport

attendees to and from hotels to Convention activity locations. It was generally decided that we must more often utilize cities which do not require shuttles, thereby,

not subjecting attendees to the inconvenience of shuttling and also eliminating the

high cost of the shuttle systems.

Future Conventions

1995—Portland, OR—September 1–7, 1995.

1996—Salt Lake City, UT—August 30–September 5, 1996 (T).

1997—Orlando, FL—August 29–September 4, 1997 (T).

1998—New Orleans, LA—September 4–10, 1998 (T).

1999—Anaheim, CA—September 3–9, 1999 (T).

76th National Convention—Minneapolis, MN

The 76th National Convention of The American Legion will be held September 2–

8, 1994, in Minneapolis, MN. Plans are progressing on schedule for the Convention

and the completion of the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of The American Legion. A large turnout of delegates and guests are expected to attend this Convention.

DISTINGUISHED GUEST COMMITTEE

JEFFREY L. OLSON, Minnesota, Chairman

The Distinguished Guest Committee operates under the umbrella of the Convention Commission and is directed to assume the responsibility of coordinating the activities of those persons invited to attend the National Convention as Distinguished

Guests. The committee arranges transportation requirements upon arrival and departure at the Convention city and also provides such services to the various events

which the guest wishes to attend. In the past few years, many of the functions of

this committee have been programmed into a computer, helping to make the operation more efficient and successful. Proper credentials, agendas, itineraries and

other necessary details are all part of this operation. The committee normally operates from the Legion’s headquarters hotel. The facility is the nerve center for all

the committee’s operations and is also maintained as a convenience and central locator for all of the distinguished guests.

ECONOMIC COMMISSION

ALLEN L. TITUS, Indiana, Chairman

JAMES B. HUBBARD, Michigan, Director

This report covers the programs, activities and accomplishments of the National

Economic Commission, its two standing committees (Employment and Veterans

Preference), and the staff from July 1, 1993, through June 30, 1994. Since the commission and the committees always meet concurrently, all future reference to the

commission in this report will automatically indicate the inclusion of the committees.

1993–1994 Meetings

During the period this report covers, the commission met for four regularly scheduled executive sessions. A list of those meetings follows:
353

(1) Members and guests of the National Economic Commission met on Saturday, September 4, 1993, in the Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,

in conjunction with the Seventy-fifth Annual National Convention. A report on that

meeting was made to the National Executive Committee on Monday, Sept. 6, 1993.

The complete text of that report appears in the Proceedings of the National Executive Committee’s Pre- and Post-Convention Meetings. (2) An executive session of the National Economic Commission was held in the

Hilton Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana, on October 18–19, 1993. A complete report

on that meeting appears in the Digest of Proceedings of the National Executive

Committee, October 20–21, 1993.

(3) The National Economic Commission met in conjunction with the Thirty-fourth Annual Washington Conference on Monday, Feb. 14, and Wednesday, Feb. 16, 1994.

Those sessions were held in the Sheraton Washington Hotel in Washington, DC. A

report on the topics covered during those two sessions is contained in the commission’s Advance Report to the NEC. (4) Members of the commission met on May 2–3, 1994, in the Hilton Hotel in Indi- anapolis, Indiana. A complete report on that meeting appears in the Digest of Proceedings of the National Executive Committee, May 4–5, 1994.

Legislative Appearances

A very important part of the work of the National Economic Commission is the preparation and presentation of congressional testimony on issues affecting the economic well-being of America’s veterans. During the period covered by this report,

the commission testified on five separate occasions. A list of those hearings follows: February 23, 1994; Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee; Homeless Veterans’ Programs March 17, 1994; House Appropriations Committee; Veterans’ Employment and Training Service Budget May 25, 1994; House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Education, Training, and Employment; Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Service Members’ Occupational Conversion and Training Act (SMOCTA) June 15, 1994; House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Education,

Training, and Employment; Reemployment Act of 1994 June 30, 1994; House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Housing and Memorial Affairs; Department of Veterans’ Affairs Home Loan Program The economics staff prepared the commission’s portion of the testimony that was presented in September 1993 by the National Commander at a joint session of the

House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs regarding The American Legion’s goals and concerns, as well as the Legion’s February 1994 appearance before

the same committees concerning the administration’s proposed FY 1995 budget for

the VA and veterans’ programs.

Administrative Activities

The commission’s staff of three manage all of its activities and programs on a daily basis. The staff’s major responsibility is to promote employment and training opportuni- ties for veterans at the national level. This is accomplished through the commission’s ongoing work with Congress and the following federal agencies: the Department of Labor, Office of Personnel Management, Small Business Administration,

and the Department of Veterans Affairs. The director and assistant director also

represent The American Legion on the following boards and committees: Executive

Committee of the President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities,

and its Committee on Disabled Veterans; the Secretary of Labor’s Committee on

Veterans’ Employment; the Veterans’ Committee of the Interstate Conference of

Employment Security Agencies; and the veterans’ advisory committees of the Small

Business Administration and the Office of Personnel Management. They also act as

advisors to the Legion’s Veterans Planning and Coordinating Committee. Another staff responsibility is answering the large volume of mail that is received annually from veterans seeking information or assistance on issues which come

under the commission’s jurisdiction. While the staff can neither place individual veterans in jobs nor represent them in labor disputes, the staff does provide information, guidance and, when appropriate, referral. Besides correspondence from individuals, the staff also receives and answers frequent requests and inquiries from government agencies, members of Congress, congressional committees, private organizations, and other groups regarding veterans’ economic issues.

One of the commission’s major programs is its employer awards program, which

is administered by the staff. Through this program The American Legion pays trib-
354

ute to those employers across the country who have established outstanding records

in the employment and retention of veterans, workers with disabilities and older

workers.

This year the commission added a whole new category of awards, to recognize outstanding veteran-dedicated Employment Service staff personnel and local offices.

Publications

As discussed elsewhere in this report, the commission does not place veterans in

jobs, but rather, relies on a network of employment chairmen to assist individual

veterans in finding employment.

In order to assist the employment chairmen to be as effective as possible, the staff

provides them with pertinent information and guidance through the Legion’s biweekly newspaper, The Dispatch. They also provide articles on a routine basis to

The American Legion Magazine.

With the Commission on Children and Youth, the Economic Commission prepared

a pamphlet on writing a re ́sume ́, directed mainly at first-time job seekers. This

pamphlet was printed and distributed nationally during 1993.

Demand continues strong for the National Economic Commission’s resource pamphlet for homeless veterans. Over 30,000 copies have been distributed to date.

Employer of the Year Awards

Each year since 1969, the Legion’s National Economic Commission has sponsored

an Employer of the Year Awards Program. This program seeks to honor those employers across the country that have established an outstanding record in the employment and retention of veterans. Nominations for these awards are submitted by

Posts to their Departments for review. Each Department must then select what it

feels is the most worthy nominee in the large employer category (those companies

with more than 200 employees), one in the medium-size employer category (51–200

employees), and one in the small employer category (50 or fewer employees). These

three nominations are then forwarded to the National Economic Commission prior

to December 15 for final approval and the issuance of plaques. After the plaques

are prepared, they are sent to the Departments for presentation.

Prior to this year’s Washington Conference, the chairman of the National Economic Commission, Allen L. Titus (IN), appointed a five-person subcommittee to review all of the nominations that had been received during 1993 in the Employer of

the Year Awards Program. The purpose of this subcommittee was to select a national winner and a runner-up in each of the employer categories. Those serving on

the subcommittee were James A. McMahon (ME), Chairman; William E.

Christoffersen (UT); Henry J. Field (SC); E. C. Toppin (NC), Leonard E. Shaw (IA),

and Benedict A. Lee (NJ).

The members of the Employer of the Year Subcommittee met on February 14 and

15, 1994, to consider 41 employer nominations from 17 Departments. Of these nominations, 16 were for small, 11 were for medium, and 14 were for large employers.

Six of these nominations (two large, one medium, and three small) were, for one reason or another, ineligible for the national awards.

Prior to the meeting, the staff liaison to the subcommittee mailed copies of all

nominations and supporting data to each subcommittee member. After a thorough

review of this material, the Employer of the Year Subcommittee selected the following winners:

Large Employer: Schneider National, Inc., Eastover, South Carolina.

Medium Size Employer: Morton International, Inc., Seabrook, New Hampshire.

Small Employer: American Classic Charter and Tours Inc., Selma, North

Carolina.

The subcommittee also selected three runners-up in the event that one of the winners is unable to accept the award, or is disqualified because of any labor relations

or OSHA violations that might be pending against them. The three runners-up are

as follows:

Large Employer: Conrail, Altoona, Pennsylvania

Medium Size Employer: SEAIR Transport Services, Inc., Lakehurst, New Jersey.

Small Employer: Lithography by Turner, Inc., Deer Park, New York.

Officials of the three winning companies have agreed to come to the 76th Annual

National Convention in Minneapolis to accept the national awards. Upon their arrival in the convention city, each company will receive a small stipend to help defray

the travel costs of their representatives.
355

LVER and DVOP Awards

Beginning in 1993, three new awards have been presented, to the Local Veterans

Employment Representative of the Year, the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program

Specialist of the Year, and the Employment Service Office of the Year. These

awards are given in cooperation with local Job Service offices across the country,

to recognize truly outstanding veteran-dedicated staff members.

Department winners were selected and submitted to the national commission in

the same manner as employer award winners. Entries were considered by the employer awards subcommittee on Feb. 14–15, 1994. Winners are to receive their

plaques at their respective Department Conventions. National winners are the following:

LVER of the Year: Gary Bjorkquist, Escanaba, Michigan.

DVOP of the Year: Heywood Bell, El Centro, California.

ES Office of the Year: DuBois Jobs Center, DuBois, Pennsylvania.

EMPLOYMENT COMMITTEE

JAMES A. MCMAHON, Maine, Chairman

JAMES B. HUBBARD, Michigan, Director

The mission of the committee is to promote employment and training opportunities for veterans. To accomplish this, the committee works at the national level with

Congress and various federal agencies. The committee does not place veterans in

jobs, but rather, relies on its network of employment chairmen to assist individual

veterans in finding employment. These employment chairmen are appointed by

their Posts and Departments. Occasionally, Departments also appoint them at the

county and District levels.

Cooperative Job Training and Placement Project

The American Legion has undertaken a new job training and placement program

with the Laborers’ International Union of North America. In late March of 1993

American Legion and Laborers’ Union officials interviewed 24 young men recruited

from the Maryland Department of Economic and Employment Development and the

District of Columbia National Guard. These people either had been out of the military for less than six months or were current members of the National Guard seeking full time employment. All who were interviewed were offered 80 hours of training in basic construction skills and employment following the training. This program

is not a job training program, it is, in the words of National Commander Roger

Munson, ′′a job training and placement program.′′

Seventeen of these people completed the training and are now working at construction sites in the Washington, DC, area. Top pay is $13.00 per hour. The lowest

pay starts at $9.00 per hour.

The program operated in Washington was a pilot program. One more pilot was

operated in the Philadelphia area later that summer. On June 30, 1993, the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service awarded a grant worth over $166,000 to The

American Legion to expand the program to Almond, Wisconsin, Des Moines, Iowa,

and Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

On June 30, 1994, the grant was extended for two years in the amount of

$387,000. The project will be going to seven additional sites.

VETERANS PREFERENCE COMMITTEE

HENRY J. FIELD, South Carolina, Chairman

JAMES B. HUBBARD, MICHIGAN, DIRECTOR

This committee is charged with the responsibility of promoting veterans’ employment opportunities in federal government and for ensuring that agencies continue

to observe all veterans’ preference laws.

Federal Veterans’ Economic Programs

The following is a brief overview of the activities of those federal agencies, and

their veterans’ programs, with which the commission works regularly.
356

Department of Labor: Unemployment and underemployment among veterans and

non-veterans has continued to decrease over the past year. However, there are still

some major problems.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, veterans constitute 13–14% of the nation’s labor force. However, over 26% of all dislocated workers are veterans. Many

of these veterans lost their jobs because of automation, robotics or because the employer went out of business for one reason or another.

Unfortunately, it is generally very difficult for the dislocated worker to find new

employment that is suitable. This is because most of these individuals do not have

the financial resources necessary either to obtain job training or to relocate to an

area where employment might be available. The problems of these men and women

are further exacerbated by many employers’ view of them as older workers.

The commission is also concerned about the employment of severely disabled veterans. According to data supplied by the Department of Labor’s Assistant Secretary

for Veterans’ Employment and Training, over two-thirds of all veterans who are 60%

or more compensably disabled have completely dropped out of the labor market.

This has occurred because many employers in both the public and private sectors

have refused to make the necessary accommodations for their employment.

Another major concern of the commission and the Department of Labor is homeless veterans. While there seems to be a vast disparity in the estimates of the number of homeless persons in this country, one thing the experts do agree on is that

a large percentage are veterans. They also believe that many of the homeless veterans served during the Vietnam era. As mentioned earlier, the commission has prepared a pamphlet entitled A Resource Guide for the Homeless Veteran. This publication is intended to help homeless veterans locate resources and benefits that may

be available to them because of their military service.

The American Legion will continue to work with the Department of Labor and

other federal agencies that have the resources necessary to help homeless veterans

to get off the streets and onto payrolls. In the weeks and months ahead, the commission will continue to work with the Labor Department to find solutions to these

and other problems that affect veterans economically.

Department of the Treasury: The Economic Commission continues its active support of U.S. Savings Bonds, which have recently gained a new popularity because

of an added education benefit. Savings bonds can be completely tax free when used

for higher education tuition.

Because of federal budget cuts, the U.S. Treasury Department can no longer afford to send each Legion post promotional material on savings bonds. The Economic

Commission, however, continues to provide Legionnaires with information on the

value of these bonds through articles and public service advertisements in Legion

publications.

Department of Veterans Affairs: The loan guaranty program operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs has guaranteed over 14.2 million loans to veterans

since its inception in 1944. A high percentage of these loans were made with no

down payment, enabling veterans and their families to attain home ownership without accumulating the financial resources required by conventional loans.

During the 1980s the program endured a difficult period. A severe recession in

midwest-Great Lakes region impacting on the steel, automobile, glass, tire, and

farming industries caused foreclosures of guaranteed loans to increase dramatically.

This was followed by the recession in the energy belt (Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma,

Colorado), which also saw sharply higher foreclosures. VA paid more claims to lenders and acquired more properties, which led to higher costs. Consequently appropriations to support the program increased substantially.

Currently the program’s status is much improved. Foreclosures have decreased

every fiscal year since FY 1988. The 29,000 claims paid to lenders in FY 1993 was

44 percent below the 52,059 paid in FY 1988. In March of 1988 VA had title to

25,172 properties. By the end of FY 1993 the inventory of properties had decreased

55 percent to 11,283. Sharply lower interest rates have given veterans better opportunities to purchase homes and thousands of veterans are refinancing their existing

GI loans at lower interest rates. In FY 1992 VA guaranteed 66,190 refinancing

loans. This increased to 161,728 loans in FY 1993 and through June 1994 VA has

guaranteed 228,125 refinancing loans. Lower monthly payments on these mortgage

loans should contribute to reduced foreclosures in the future. Total loans guaranteed

through June of 1994 amount to 406,201.

Office of Personnel Management: The federal government is the largest employer

in the country as well as the largest employer of veterans. The responsibility for

ensuring that veterans receive the preference they have been granted by law is vested in the Office of Personnel Management.
357

The following statistical summary appeared in OPM’s annual report to Congress

on veterans’ employment in federal government. This summary covers veteran hiring and promotion activities for FY ’93.

Veterans hired totaled 41,976;

18,714 of those were Vietnam era veterans;

7,424 were disabled; and

2,984 of those were 30% or more disabled.

Veterans promoted totaled 62,276;

disabled veterans promoted numbered 10,729; and

3,640 of those were 30% or more disabled.

14,008 Veterans Readjustment Appointments were made.

2,984 appointments of 30% or more disabled veterans were made;

1,670 of those were made through the special noncompetitive hiring authority.

Trends in veterans’ employment in the federal service indicate an increase of Vietnam era veterans from 1983 to 1993, but a decline in veterans from other eras. This

decline is due primarily to the retirements of older veterans (approximately 60 percent of all retirements over the last seven years were veterans). In spite of the overall decline in veterans in the federal work force, the 28.7 percent veterans’ representation in the non-Postal federal service continues to be more than double the 14.5

percent in the civilian labor force. Veterans with 30 percent or more disability have

increased since 1984 while those with less than 30 percent have declined.

The Veterans Preference Committee will continue to monitor these trends in the

future. It will also continue to work with OPM to promote employment opportunities

for veterans.

Postal Service: In its Disabled Veterans Affirmative Action Plan report for FY ’92,

the U.S. Postal Service reported that as of September 18, 1992, it had a total of

691,780 career employees. Of that number, 248,200 (35.9%) were veterans, 74,511

(10.8%) were disabled veterans, and 16,960 (2.5%) were 30% or more disabled.

The Veterans Preference Committee will continue to promote employment opportunities for veterans within the Postal Service.

During the past year the committee participated in two award ceremonies whose

purpose was to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of the outstanding disabled employees of both the federal government and the Postal Service. On both occasions the committee presented each nominee with an American flag that had been

flown over the Capitol.

Small Business Administration: During fiscal year 1993, about 42% of all of the

Small Business Administration’s direct loans were made to veterans. This translates

into 260 loans for a total of $21.9 million. During the same period, 13% of the loans

guaranteed by SBA were made to veterans, who received 3,874 loans totalling $826

million. Vietnam era veterans received $529 million, a 12% increase over the guaranteed loan dollars made to veterans over the last year.

The average size of SBA loans to veterans during FY 1993 was $213,240 for guaranty loans, and $84,584 for direct loans. Loans to Vietnam era veterans averaged

$84,216 for direct loans and $202,122 for guaranty loans.

Vietnam era veterans received $19.5 million in direct loans or 96% of all SBA direct lending to veterans. Veterans received 25% of all agency direct lending.

Through SBA’s 8(a) program, 842 contracts were awarded to veteran-owned firms

for a total of $957.7 million, which represents 49% of the dollars and 15% of the

contracts awarded in that program.

Many small business contractors are unable to obtain work because of the unavailability of bonding. During FY 1993, utilizing SBA’s surety bond program, veteran-owned firms obtained contracts totalling more than $196 million, or 26% of the

total dollar amount awarded.

During FY 1993, 57,786 veterans received SBA-sponsored business training and

130,202 received SBA-sponsored counseling. To serve our nation’s veteran businesses better during fiscal years 1994 and 1995, SBA Administrator Erskine Bowles

has entered into contracts with the agency’s 68 District Directors agreeing on specific statewide goals for veteran lending during FY 1994.

Conclusion

The National Economic Commission is fully aware that it would be impossible to

carry out its mandates without the active involvement of Posts, Districts, Counties,

Departments and individual Legionnaires. We deeply appreciate their continued

support and involvement. Chairman Titus also thanks the National Commander,

the National Adjutant, the National Executive Committee, and the staff of both the
358

Washington and Indianapolis offices for the outstanding support and cooperation

they have provided during the past year.

FINANCE COMMISSION

GEORGE W. BOUCEK, Illinois, Chairman

WEBBER LAGRANGE, Indiana, National Treasurer

PAUL M. ALLEN, Minnesota, Director

The primary obligation of the Finance Commission is to prepare a yearly budget

for submission to the National Executive Committee, handle funds under that budget, and exercise reasonable oversight to see that the various divisions and departments of the National Organization operate within their approved appropriations.

The Finance Commission is composed of seven members, with the National Adjutant

as ex-officio secretary, and the National Commander and National Treasurer are exofficio members. Also attending these meetings are the Executive Directors of the

Washington and Indianapolis offices and the Finance Director, as well as our Liaison observers from the National Executive Committee.

The National Organization had an operating deficit of $1,613,864 for the year

1993. In 1993, we received $5.50 dues per member, which is allocated as follows:

$3.00 to the General Fund; and $2.50 to The American Legion Magazine. In September 1993, at the 75th National Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Resolution

No. 1 was adopted which stated effective January 10, 1994 the national per capita

will be $9.00.

The income of the National Organization is derived from annual membership

dues, interest on investments, magazine advertisements, Emblem Sales, contributions, and other approved activities.

A full financial statement is incorporated in the Auditor’s Report, and in addition,

your attention is directed to the Reports of Committees and Trusts which come

under the jurisdiction of this Commission and can be found elsewhere in this publication. These reports include the:

American Legion Child Welfare Foundation, Inc.

American Legion Endowment Fund Corporation.

American Legion Life Insurance and Trust Committee.

American Legion Emblem Committee.

American Legion Overseas Graves Decoration Trust.

EMBLEM COMMITTEE

KEITH GWILLIAM, Utah, Chairman

ALFRED L. LANKENAU, Indiana, General Manager

Meetings

The Emblem Committee has met twice since our last report. The meeting of the

Committee in September, 1993, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was to consider bids,

award contracts for the 1994 requirements and to carefully study operating policy.

The second meeting, in May of 1994, studied general operations and promotional

plans.

Catalog

The 1994 National Emblem catalog combined American Legion, American Legion

Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion merchandise in seventy two (72) pages.

The catalog, with order blanks bound into the book, was shipped using a pre-printed

indicia on the back cover and a simple mailing strip. The catalog was mailed to all

Departments, Posts and Units (approximately 65,000 copies) as soon as it was received from the printer. An additional quantity of approximately 30,000 was distributed to individual members in response to their requests and at department conventions where we have had Emblem Sales displays.
359

Advertising

Advertising in The American Legion Magazine since the last report promoted the 1994 catalog and rings. A four-color flyer promoting 75th Anniversary and 50th Anniversary of World War II merchandise has just been published. We have continued the mailings to Post Commanders and Post Adjutants centered on Memorial and Veterans Day merchandise. Returns on this inexpensive vehicle

continue to justify its use. In addition, it provides an inexpensive method of testing

new and timely items. The Emblem Committee continues to regularly review the advertising program.

Department Convention Exhibits and Display

The exhibit and display of the official emblem merchandise at 12 department con- ventions was conducted during the year of 1993. These exhibits were at the invitation of department officials for the purpose of goodwill and service to individual Legionnaires. We have exhibited at 9 conventions in 1994, also by invitation. Each purchaser benefits by the division’s economical direct sales program and

quantity purchasing power. The net profit derived from sales is paid into the general fund, which is expended under the direct supervision of the Finance Commission to promote the aims and programs of the organization, thereby further benefiting the individual member.

Sales Data

The gross sales, net earnings, etc., for the entire year of 1993 and for the first

six months of 1994, for the Emblem Sales Division are as follows:

January 1, 1993–December 31, 1993 (Twelve Months)

Gross Sales ............................................................................................. $6,266,800

Cost of goods sold ................................................................................... 3,505,170

Overhead ................................................................................................ 1,949,212

Operating profit including discounts taken ......................................... 812,418

The number of individual orders processed during the twelve month period was

63,594.

January 1, 1994–June 30, 1994 (Six Months)

Gross Sales ............................................................................................. $3,544,247

Cost of goods sold ................................................................................... 1,931,999

Overhead ................................................................................................ 1,051,221

Operating profit including discounts taken ......................................... 561,026

THE AMERICAN LEGION LIFE INSURANCE COMMITTEE

JEROME P. DOBEL, JR., Missouri, Chairman

G. PAUL DUNN, Oklahoma, Assistant Director, Membership Services

The American Legion Life Insurance Committee provides oversight for the several

life insurance plans currently offered by The American Legion and is assigned to

the National Finance Commission.

The American Legion Life Insurance Program supports several National programs

which are among the most prominent and visible activities of The American Legion.

The programs are listed below with the corresponding funding for 1994.

American Legion Baseball $660,385, National Oratorical Contest $277,050, Junior

Uniformed Musical Groups, $20,000, for participation at the National Convention,

Boy’s Nation, $144,833, Boy Scout of the Year Scholarship Award, $14,000. An

award of $2,000 per year up to four years, not to exceed $8,000, for pursuit of a

course of study beyond high school. Three second-place awards in the amount of

$2,000 each are also granted.

These requests for grants are approved by The American Legion Life Insurance

Committee, the National Finance Commission and National Executive Committee.

New Product Development

The Life Insurance Committee is pleased to announce that Kirke-Van Orsdel, Inc.,

and Union Fidelity will be working together to expand the Life Insurance Program

in 1994.
360

Several new products will be reviewed to give members a more flexible choice of

life insurance benefits. Tax deferred savings, underwritten whole life and extended

guaranteed term periods are a few of the features that will be studied to be included

in future product offerings.

The Committee and insurance providers are seeking to fill the gaps in present

coverages with an entire spectrum of life insurance products. A ‘‘return-of-premium’’

term product previously offered may again be available by late fall. Supplemental

and conversion coverage for active duty and recently discharged members is also

under study.

Claims

The primary feature of The American Legion Life Insurance Plan is the benefits

paid to beneficiaries of deceased insured Legionnaires. In 36 years, claims have been

paid amounting to more than $89 million in benefits. These benefits were paid at

no cost to the National Organization of The American Legion and no expenses to

the general membership, other than certificate-policyholders. The insurance plan

has proven to be a self-sustaining program. By the end of 1994, the total benefits

paid will be well over $92 million dollars.

THE PLANS

The American Legion is now offering a Level Term Life Plan to members, their

spouses and dependents. This includes Sons of The American Legion members and

spouses. The Legion-approved Level Term Life Plan is underwritten by Hartford

Life Insurance Company. The ITT Hartford lends additional stability to the Legionapproved Life Plan because of that company’s sound operating performance and consistent high ratings from A.M. Best. The Administrator for the plans is Kirke-Van

Orsdel, Inc., located in West Des Moines, Iowa.

In addition to level term, the AdvanceLife Plan from The American Legion is one

of the most unusual and important benefits Legion members and spouses will ever

have the opportunity to acquire.

With AdvanceLife, members and spouses get not only life insurance protection,

but also Nursing Home Benefits and Last Illness Benefits. The Nursing Home and

Last Illness Benefits are automatically built into the Plan.

AdvanceLife provides more peace of mind and financial security than members

ever had before.

The AdvanceLife Plan will pay 100% of the selected Life Benefit (up to a total

of $100,000). Members are eligible to receive Last Illness Benefits if they are certified by a doctor to be terminally ill with a prognosis of 12 months or less to live

. . . and notify the administrator that they want to accept Last Illness Benefits.

The monthly AdvanceLife Nursing Home Benefit is equal to 2% of the Life Insurance Benefit. This benefit can be used to help pay the extremely high cost of nursing

home care, or for whatever is desired. The benefit can begin after living in a qualified nursing home for three consecutive months . . . and will continue for up to 25

months.

Another plan available to members and spouses is Birthday Life underwritten by

Union Fidelity located in Trevose, Pennsylvania. This plan is a guaranteed-issue

combined level whole life and accidental death benefit insurance plan with premiums at entry age which do not increase as the insured grows older. No medical

exam is required.

Guaranteed renewable for life, Legionnaires and spouses age 45 through age 80

are eligible to enroll for this plan which builds cash values and offers a loan provision. The age limit in Washington and New Jersey is lower than age 80. Contact

Union Fidelity for details.

The plan provides a limited death benefit for the first two years for natural causes

and provides full benefits during that period for accidental deaths. Full benefits in

any event are payable after two years.

Requests for information on the insurance plans should be directed to:

The American Legion National Headquarters

Attn: Mr. G. Paul Dunn

P.O. Box 1055

Indianapolis, IN 46206

ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS

Requests for information concerning the status of applications, non receipt of insurance renewal, filing of death claims, status of death claims, amount of premium,
361

inquiries as to whether or not a member is insured, or specific questions pertaining

to the terms of coverage should be directed to:

Decreasing Term

AdvanceLife

Level Term

Kirke-Van Orsdel, Inc.

1776 West Lakes Parkway

Des Moines, IA 50398

1–800–542–5547

Birthday Life

Union Fidelity Life Ins. Co.

4850 Street Road

Trevose, PA 19049

1–800–523–5758
362
363
364
365
366
367
368
369

FOREIGN RELATIONS COMMISSION

JOSEPH J. FRANK, MISSOURI, Chairman

G. MICHAEL SCHLEE, MARYLAND, Director

The following annual report covers the activities of the Foreign Relations Commission and Council of The American Legion for the 1993–1994 program year ending

June 30, 1994.

Overview

The collective thrust of the foreign relations resolutions of The American Legion

is to urge the development of a consistent, viable U.S. foreign policy based upon

worldwide U.S. political, economic, and security interests.

Resolution 217, ‘‘America’s Future,’’ adopted at the 74th National Convention, will

guide The American Legion’s Foreign Relation’s Program as the world moves forward into a new era. The major international goals long sought by The American

Legion—democracy and deterrence of general war—are closer to realization than

ever before. Far-reaching worldwide changes now occurring are altering American’s

perception of the threats to their security and making it imperative for the United

States to adjust its grand strategy in light of new realities and future challenges

as we prepare for the new millennium. Ideas of democracy and market economics

are gaining increasing acceptance around the world, thereby creating new hopes of

peace and prosperity for mankind. Nuclear and regional threats still confront the

Free World and transnational issues such as terrorism and drugs still confront civilization. The collapse of the Soviet Bloc, demands for democracy in Eastern Europe,

expansion of Japanese economic power, movement toward European unity, and

growing international interdependence jointly create a new political situation in the

world. The United States faces serious economic challenges through the relative decline of American economic influence in the world, trade and budget deficits which

threaten to limit future prosperity, and worldwide economic competition. As Americans search for a new definition of America’s world role, they must forge a bipartisan consensus providing focus, continuity, and wise use of limited national resources

for national security-foreign policy.

Resolution 217 resolves that:

We, as a grassroots organization reaching throughout the land, recognize the

unprecedented changes sweeping the world and urge the U.S. Government to

adopt a bipartisan national security-foreign policy of ‘‘Democratic Activism’’ promoting democratic values, maintaining adequate military strength to deter aggression, cooperating with allies, encouraging free and fair trade, and assisting

developing nations.

Over several decades, the adopted foreign relations resolutions generally have reflected these basic principles, which Resolution 201, ‘‘United States Foreign Policy,’’

adopted at the 75th National Convention promulgates:

1. Recognition of U.S. responsibilities as leader of the Free World and of our

heritage and traditions.

2. Dedication to achievement of world peace with freedom, secured by a peace

through strength posture.

3. Active promotion of democracy.

4. Participation in essential collective security alliances, provided our allies

contribute their fair share.

5. Use of national resources in critical world regions to achieve U.S. national

interests.

6. Negotiation of equitable, verifiable arms control agreements which improve

U.S. national security.

7. Opposition to the spread of nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or longrange ballistic missiles to terrorist, communist or aggressor nations.

8. Determined opposition to international terrorism and drug trafficking.

9. Support for responsible international organizations that are consistent with

U.S. sovereignty and serve U.S. national interests.

10. Participation in an increasingly interdependent Free World trading system based on fair and equitable trading practices.

11. Recognition that the world basically operates on a national basis; consequently, U.S. sovereignty must not be abridged unless required by important

U.S. national security interests.
370

12. Recognition that the President must be the chief architect of U.S. foreign policy as envisioned in the U.S. Constitution, while Congress performs important functions of advice and oversight.

General Foreign Policy

Resolution 11—‘‘POW/MIA National Recognition Day’’—We support the designa- tion by the U.S. Government of April 9 as POW/MIA National Recognition Day.

(74th National Convention)

Resolution 15—‘‘National Commission on Prisoner of War Policy’’—We urge legis- lation calling for the President and the Congress to establish a Prisoner of War/

Missing in Action Commission, comprised of individuals to include members of the

nation’s major veterans organizations, for the purpose of ascertaining during any

peace negotiations between the United States and any belligerent powers that

American POW/MIAs are all accounted for, treated properly, and released from captivity at the earliest possible moment. It is also our strong view that no deals should

be negotiated to the detriment of POW/MIAs which will leave even one individual

behind in captivity longer than absolutely necessary to arrange for emergency medical care and transportation out of hostile territory. We believe this Commission

should be a standing entity to allow familiarity and interaction with other members

of any future peace negotiation delegation to include Secretary of State, Secretary

of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. We urge the U.S. Government to seek appropriate changes to international laws and regulations relating to

prisoners of war and missing in action. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 23—‘‘Contraband Drugs’’—We urge maximum efforts to be made to

prevent illegal entry into the United States of any foreign commodity listed as ‘‘contraband’’ with special attention given to contraband drugs. Further, we urge the

U.S. Government to efficiently apply U.S. laws which provide that foreign nations

must reasonably cooperate with U.S. drug control programs if they are to receive

U.S. foreign aid. (Fall NEC Meeting 1989)

Resolution 23—Veterans Employment Preference with the United States Government Overseas—We urge Congress to enact legislation requiring the Department of

State and the Department of Defense to ensure the protection of veterans’ employment benefits in all future treaty negotiations, renegotiations, amendments or adjustments of any nature with foreign nations. (Spring NEC Meeting 1994)

Resolution 50—‘‘Information Activities’’—We urge the U.S. Government to provide

adequate funds to conduct an effective international program to provide other nations with objective news, information about the blessings of democracy and the free

enterprise system, and accurate reporting about suppression of freedom and international aggression. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 57—‘‘Control of Military Technology’’—We urge the Defense, Commerce, and State Departments jointly to develop a coordinated program to stop the

illegal flow of military useful technology to any foreign country. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 60—‘‘World War II, Cold War, and Korean War POW/MIAs’’—We urge

the U.S. Government to make a maximum effort to resolve the fate of unaccounted

Americans from World War II, the Cold War and the Korean War by obtaining the

return of any live prisoners, the repatriation of remains, and the fullest possible accounting for the missing and call on the U.S. Government not to provide normalization or any type of aid to North Korea until it fully cooperates on POW/MIA matters. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 61—‘‘Missing Service Personnel’’—We urge Congress to enact legislation that would disallow passage of time as the sole basis of a death declaration for

missing service personnel and would provide adequate opportunities for comments

from family members. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 121—‘‘Priority POW/MIA Actions’’—We believe the following priority

actions should be taken by the U.S. Government:

Centralize POW/MIA responsibilities in a powerful office reporting directly to

the Secretary of Defense, remove the Defense Intelligence Agency from all

POW/MIA responsibilities and make each military service responsible for its

own POW/MIAs.

Provide necessary resources so field operations can be conducted at a maximum rate of activity with more timely follow-up of live sighting reports.

Declassify all POW/MIA information (except that revealing intelligence

sources or methods) in a form readily available to public review.

Reassign responsibilities for identification of remains from the U.S. Army

Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii to the Smithsonian Institution.

Cancel the ‘‘Road Map.’’
371

Provide adequate personnel and resources so that investigative efforts of World War II, Cold War, and Korean War POW/MIA situations can be broadened and accelerated.

Initiate or strengthen joint commissions with Russia, the People’s Republic of China, and North Korea to increase POW/MIA recovery efforts. Establish a centralized office responsible to keep POW/MIA families informed

on their loved ones.

Establish a joint standing congressional committee on POW/MIA affairs to en- sure continued action by the executive branch in addressing the POW/MIA

issue. Absent such a joint committee, establish a presidential POW/MIA commission comprised of non-governmental officials. Take favorable actions toward Vietnam only after Hanoi provides the fullest possible accounting for POW/MIAs in Vietnam or in areas of Laos and Cambodia it controlled during the Vietnam War, however, maintain a degree of flexibility with respect to a continued U.S. presence in Vietnam and the provision

of humanitarian assistance if such actions are helpful in finally resolving this

issue;

Take favorable actions toward Laos or Cambodia only after those nations pro- vide the fullest possible accounting for POW/MIAs. ‘‘Fullest possible accounting’’ is defined as turning over live prisoners, repa- triating remains of those who were killed in action or died in captivity, or providing a valid, conclusive report why neither is possible. Resolution 122—‘‘The American Legion Policy on Activities Relating to Southeast Asia POWs and MIAs’’—We will assist POW/MIA families and all others by ensuring that the Federal Government gives expeditious and sincere consideration to any

evidence, reports, photographs, or other information relating to their loved ones. We

will provide assistance to POW/MIA families and all others by assuring that the

Federal Government provides all information it possesses on their POW/MIAs.

When it is deemed appropriate, The American Legion will authorize officials to travel to Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, for the purpose of

gathering information relative to the ongoing POW/MIA investigations and the manner in which they are being conducted. (75th National Convention) Resolution 126—‘‘U.S. Employment Overseas’’—We urge the U.S. Government to return to its policy prior to World War II of hiring U.S. citizens and American corporations for all support requirements for all civilian and military overseas operations. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 138—‘‘International Lending Agencies and POW/MIA Cooperation’’— We believe future congressional appropriations to international lending agencies

should be contingent on such agencies’ compliance with strict standards which

would prohibit assistance to nations which give aid and comfort to hostile groups

or which are demonstrably hostile to the United States, including communist and

communist-dominated countries and countries which do not cooperate in our search

for POW/MIAs of past wars. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 139—‘‘OPEC Cartel Practices’’—The U.S. Government should denounce

the current practices of the OPEC Cartel as being detrimental to the well-being and

national security of this nation. The President and the Congress should enact incentives and encourage further development of our oil-producing areas and continue

seeking alternate sources of energy. (71st National Convention)

Resolution 143—‘‘Curtailing U.S. Government Subsidization of Foreign Competition’’—We will monitor activities of the World Bank, the International Monetary

Fund, the Department of State, other federal agencies, and Congress to ensure and

encourage policies and practices by the U.S. Government to eliminate unfair government-subsidized foreign competition. We urge Congress to hold hearings to determine the extent of the impact of unfair government subsidized foreign competition

on our national economy and labor force and to enact legislation curtailing such

practices. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 148—‘‘Overseas Employment for Military Retirees’’—We urge the Administration and Congress to take appropriate action to reopen the discussion with

host nations to change or modify the NATO Status of Forces Agreement and other

pertinent treaties to permit employment of retirees with the U.S. armed forces overseas on an equal employment opportunity basis. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 201—We believe that the objectives of U.S. foreign policy must be to

maintain peace with freedom while preserving and promoting democracy. We also

believe that U.S. foreign policy should embody the following principles:

1. Recognition of U.S. responsibilities as leader of the Free World and of our

heritage and traditions.

2. Dedication to achievement of world peace with freedom, secured by a peace

through strength posture.
372

3. Active promotion of democracy.

4. Participation in essential collective security alliances, provided our allies

contribute their fair share.

5. Use of national resources in critical world regions to achieve U.S. national

interests.

6. Negotiation of equitable, verifiable arms control agreements which improve

U.S. national security.

7. Opposition to the spread of nuclear, chemical or biological weapons or longrange ballistic missiles to terrorist, communist or aggressor nations.

8. Determined opposition to international terrorism and drug trafficking.

9. Support for responsible international organizations that are consistent with

U.S. sovereignty and serve U.S. national interests.

10. Participation in an increasingly interdependent Free World trading system based on fair and equitable trading practice.

11. Recognition that the world basically operates on a national basis; consequently, U.S. sovereignty must not be abridged unless required by important

U.S. national security interests.

12. Recognition that the President must be the chief architect of U.S. foreign

policy as envisioned in the U.S. Constitution, while Congress performs important functions of advice and oversight. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 214—‘‘Nuclear Proliferation’’—We urge the U.S. government to take all

reasonable steps to halt nuclear proliferation. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 215—‘‘Freedom of the Seas’’—We believe the U.S. Government should

exercise U.S. rights to unhindered navigation in international waters whenever necessary to protect U.S. national interests and U.S. international commercial interests

as a great maritime and trading nation. We also believe that in conducting such operations the U.S. Government should use an adequate and effective force fully capable of self-defense; obtain allied cooperation as appropriate; take retaliatory action

against foreign interference; and treat any members of the armed forces killed or

injured in such duty (and their survivors) with the utmost honor, support, and compassion. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 217—‘‘America’s Future’’—The American Legion as a grassroots organization reaching throughout the land, recognizes the unprecedented changes

sweeping the world and urges the U.S. Government to adopt a bipartisan national

security-foreign policy of ‘‘Democratic Activism’’ promoting democratic values, maintaining adequate military strength to deter aggression, cooperating with allies, encouraging free and fair trade, and assisting developing nations. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 221—‘‘Regulation of Lobbying’’—We believe there should be acts requiring (1) complete and accurate disclosure requirements for all foreign and U.S.

lobbyists; (2) reasonable post-employment restrictions for former members of the executive and legislative branches; (3) restrictions on floor privileges in Congress of

former members who become U.S. or foreign lobbyists; (4) measures to help ensure

that U.S. lobbyists in other countries receive equal access; (5) favorable considerations for foreign governments that grant reciprocal privileges to American lobbyists; and (6) a federal government office to administer and enforce the acts. (74th

National Convention)

Resolution 222—‘‘United Nations’’—We urge the Administration to continue seeking effective, equitable, efficient UN operations consistent with the UN Charter’s

stated purposes. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 288—‘‘Support ‘Empty Chair’ Program (POW/MIA)’’—We urge the National Commander to encourage posts, units, districts and departments to implement the Empty Chair Program at all official meetings as a continual physical symbol of the POW/MIAs and that at each chair a POW/MIA flag be displayed. (67th

National Convention)

Resolution 385—‘‘Care of Hostages’’—We urge Congress to enact legislation that

would make individual civilians and/or their employers responsible for all expenses

incurred to extricate such individuals from a hostage situation if they remained in

harm’s way after due warning by the U.S. Government. We believe no veterans’

military facility should be used to treat or house any such civilian hostage or their

families at the expense of the taxpayer. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 532—‘‘Presidential Military Initiatives to Protect U.S. National Interests’’—We support prompt military action by the President to protect U.S. national

interests and recommend that the President expeditiously report such activity to the

Congress and the American people. (68th National Convention)

Resolution 552—‘‘Department POW/MIA Committees’’—We urge all Departments

to appoint POW/MIA Committees. (74th National Convention)
373

European Affairs

Resolution 53—‘‘Canada’’—We believe the U.S. Government should pursue policies

toward Canada which will provide for free trade, continued military cooperation,

and cooperation in all endeavors which benefit both nations. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 55—‘‘North Atlantic Treaty Organization’’—We urge the U.S. Govern- ment to maintain the forward deployment of adequate U.S. troops in NATO and to

encourage our NATO allies to take these actions necessary to meet any threats to

the security and stability of Europe and areas of common interest outside the North

Atlantic Treaty area. (74th National Convention) Resolution 56—‘‘Eastern Europe’’—We support democracy and free enterprise in Eastern Europe and call upon the U.S. Government to provide aid, technical assistance, and moral leadership to encourage development of this important. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 66—‘‘Testing of Anti-Ballistic Missile Components’’—We affirm that testing of anti-ballistic missile components does not violate the terms of the 1972

Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty. (69th National Convention) Resolution 211—‘‘Turkey’’—We support aid for the modernization of Turkish armed forces in conformance with the Defense and Economic Cooperation Agreement, without attachment of restrictions unrelated to Turkey’s membership in

NATO, and urge that this important member of NATO be properly and adequately

supported as a lasting friend of the United States. Resolution 213—‘‘Strategic Nuclear Policy’’—We support: 1. A United States nuclear deterrent force TRIAD at least equivalent to opposing nuclear forces in all respects and capable of credibly deterring nuclear

attack, or if deterrence fails, achieving successful conflict resolution. 2. Continuation of United States underground nuclear testing as necessary to modernize nuclear offensive and defensive forces and to ensure the reliability

of existing nuclear weapons. 3. Verifiable implementation of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty and In- termediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. 4. Significant, mutual, verifiable reductions of strategic nuclear forces by op- posing forces and the United States to equal levels, resulting in stable nuclear

deterrence at lower levels of armaments and with a lessened likelihood of nuclear war.

5. Maximum emphasis on the equality and verifiability of any nuclear arms control measures, including effective, unalterable verification procedures going

beyond national technical means to include on-site inspection by all sides. 6. Full integration of nuclear arms control into national security planning by the United States and its allies to ensure strategic stability and credible deterrence. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 221—‘‘Relations with the Former Soviet Union’’—We urge the U.S. Government to welcome substantive changes that help bring democracy, market economics, and peaceful foreign policies to the former Soviet Union and to extend economic aid and technical assistance to encourage and assist them. We call upon the

U.S. Government to urge the former Soviet Union to increase its cooperation on the

POW/MIA issue. (75th National Convention)

Far Eastern Affairs

Resolution 64—‘‘People’s Republic of China Trade status’’—We call upon the Congress of the United States to reject a ‘‘most-favored-nation trade status’’ for the People’s Republic of China unless it ceases human rights violations against its own people, provides an acceptable accounting of American POW/MIAs from the Korean

War and the Vietnam War, engages in fair trading practices, and cooperates in limiting proliferation of nuclear weapons. (74th National Convention) Resolution 64—‘‘Japanese Compensation to American POWs’’—We believe the

Japanese government should render an official apology for the pain, suffering and

death inflicted on American POWs in World War II. We also believe the Japanese

government should pay the surviving POWs and the families of the non-surviving

POWs an appropriate sum of monetary compensation arrived at by appointed members of the United States and Japanese governments. (75th National Convention) Resolution 65—‘‘Military Sales to Communist China’’—We urge the United States

Government to refrain from the transfer of military and dual-use equipment and

technology to the Chinese communists. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 120—‘‘Trade with Japan’’—We believe the U.S. Government should

make a determined effort to encourage Japan to follow equitable trading practices

between itself and the United States. We urge Congress to cut Japan’s car exporting
374

to the U.S. by 20% each year until Japan has only 16% of the U.S. auto market,

unless Japan eliminates its huge and continuing annual trade surplus with the

United States. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 126—‘‘U.S. Relations with the Republic of China on Taiwan’’—We support the initiation of negotiations between the United States and the Republic of

China for the use of military facilities on Taiwan by the United States armed forces.

We urge the United States Government to immediately approve the sale of frontline combat aircraft (such as F–15, F16C, and F–18) to the Republic of China. We

fully support the establishment of full diplomatic relations between the Republic of

China on Taiwan and the United States of America. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 168—‘‘Support of Republic of Korea’’—We believe the United States

should increase its military aid and assistance to the Republic of Korea by providing

modern state-of-the-art weapons and technology to safeguard her freedom, sustain

her development, and promote Pacific and Asian regions. We also believe the United

States should provide a strong flexible military force in the Republic of Korea to vigorously respond to any military and/or political aggression by North Korea. We also

believe the United States, in concert with its allies, should bring pressure to bear

on North Korea to immediately cease its efforts to develop nuclear weapons and

comply with the safeguard accord of the International Atomic Energy Agency. (75th

National Convention)

Resolution 169—‘‘Reunification of China’’—We support the peaceful reunification

of China under The Three Principles of the People and restoration of the government of the Republic of China, as the sole legal government of all China. We also

support return of the government of the Republic of China to its rightful position

in the United Nations and other international organizations. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 171—‘‘Exporting Alaskan Oil to the Orient’’—We encourage Congress

and the Administration to adopt legislation to allow export of oil and oil products

directly to Oriental destinations. (75th National Convention)

Resolution 255—‘‘Support for Viet-Nam Assistance for the Handicapped’’—We

support the operation of the Viet-Nam Assistance for the Handicapped, so as to help

in providing functional prosthetic appliances to our former ARVN allies who had

limbs amputated during the Vietnam War. (75th National Convention)

Inter-American Affairs

Resolution 20—‘‘North American Free Trade Agreement’’—We support the North

American Free Trade Agreement among Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

(Fall NEC Meeting 1992)

Resolution 58—‘‘Cuban Drug’’—We believe that the Congress and the President

should condemn the role of Cuba in international drug trafficking in all appropriate

international fora. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 63—‘‘Caribbean Basin’’—We believe that the Caribbean Basin Initiative should be fully implemented and expanded to permit duty free access to the

U.S. market for all Caribbean Basin products for a 12-year period, thus encouraging

productive activity to promote economic growth. We urge the United States to provide economic and security assistance as needed to help develop prosperous, democratic societies in the region. We support increased educational exchanges between

the United States and the Caribbean Basin nations at the college and high school

levels and increased support for primary education to promote literacy. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 71—‘‘Reexamination of Panama Canal Treaties’’—We request the

President of the United States to call upon the U.S. Senate to promptly undertake

intensive hearings, with full debate, for the purpose of reexamining the 1977 Treaties with Panama and our rights and commitments thereunder, with an eye to recommending renegotiating or renouncing them after having resolved once and for all

the contradictions presently encumbering said treaties. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 202—‘‘Panama Canal’’—We believe:

1. The United States should take any necessary actions to ensure Panama

will be able to operate the Panama Canal efficiently after Panama assumes control in the year 2000.

2. The United States should take any necessary actions to ensure that the

Panama Canal is operated efficiently and in a manner consistent with U.S. national security interests.

3. Construction of a new canal or major improvements in the existing Panama

Canal should be consistent with U.S. national security interests.
375

4. The United States should seek agreement with Panama to continue stationing U.S. forces in Panama after 2000 to protect the Panama Canal as well

as evolving democratic nations in the region.

5. The United States should encourage democratic evolution in Panama to

help provide stability and a better, freer life for Panamanians. (75th National

Convention)

Resolution 287—‘‘War on Drugs in Latin America’’—We urge the U.S. Government Executive Branch to cooperate fully with Latin American nations to destroy

the international traffic in illegal drugs and to provide appropriate economic assistance to aid in this vital endeavor. We urge the U.S. Congress to provide adequate

funds to support this program. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 288—‘‘Enterprise for the Americas Initiative’’—We support participation by the United States in the Enterprise for The Americas Initiative seeking to

enhance growth and cooperation throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

(74th National Convention)

Resolution 393—‘‘Referendum for Puerto Rico’’—We believe the Congress of the

United States should promptly complete legislation to conduct a referendum in

Puerto Rico concerning the future status of the island. The Referendum is to provide

the following options: (1) complete independence, (2) statehood, or (3) continued commonwealth status. We urge the U.S. Government to act promptly to carry out the

will of the Puerto Rican people that will have been expressed in the referendum.

(74th National Convention)

Resolution 396—‘‘Mexico’’—We urge the U.S. Government to increase its emphasis

on Mexican-U.S. cooperative endeavors both politically and economically to enhance

the prosperity and security of both nations as well as that of the Western Hemisphere. We believe the U.S. Government should provide a greatly expanded number

of scholarships to Mexicans, particularly those lacking funds to attend undergraduate and appropriate vocational-technical programs, provided said students promise

to return to Mexico after completing their education. We also believe a student exchange program between Mexico and the United States be conducted to acquaint the

future leaders of both countries with their neighbors. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 397—‘‘Cuba’’—We urge the U.S. Government to continue and intensify

economic sanctions against Cuba, maintain control of Guantanamo Bay Naval Base,

continue intelligence overflights over Cuba, remain firm in opposition to export of

revolution by Cuba, continue broadcasting true news and information to the Cuban

people and encourage the development of democracy and a free market economy in

Cuba. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 398—‘‘Central America’’—We urge the U.S. Government to continue

economic aid to friendly, democratic Central American nations which are seeking to

develop democratic societies with market economies. We recommend the U.S. Government provide only minimal amounts of military aid while urging nations in the

Central American region to adopt the model of Costa Rica and Panama, disbanding

military forces and relying solely on police forces for internal security, thus freeing

funds for development and contributing to peaceful relations in the region. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 399—‘‘Haiti’’—We urge the U.S. Government to continue applying all

legitimate means in conjunction with the Organization of American States to restore

democracy to Haiti. (74th National Convention)

Middle Eastern and African Affairs

Resolution 68—‘‘South Africa’’—We urge the U.S. Government to:

1. Adopt a policy toward South Africa of supporting moderates who seek

equality and representative democracy.

2. Respect the sovereignty of the Government of South Africa by recognizing

that the problem of South Africa in dismantling apartheid is primarily one that

must be solved by the South Africans themselves.

3. Not use economic sanctions against South Africa because they are counterproductive in promoting democratic changes.

4. Encourage South Africa to adopt a political system that will meet the needs

of all the people of South Africa. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 118—‘‘Iran’’—We urge the U.S. Government to pursue policies preventing aggression or terrorists actions by Iran in the Persian Gulf region or elsewhere.

We also urge the U.S. Government to apply pressure on Iran to stop violations of

human rights and interference with neighboring countries. (75th National Convention)
376

Resolution 164—‘‘Removal of Saddam Hussein’’—We believe Saddam Hussein

should be removed from power by any legal means possible. (73rd National Convention)

Resolution 208—‘‘Middle East’’—We urge the U.S. Government to adopt a comprehensive policy for the Middle East to achieve the following objectives:

1. A secure Israel living within recognized borders determined by negotiations

between Israel and the Arab states.

2. Prevention of regional domination of the Middle East or Persian Gulf by

any power.

3. A free and uninterrupted flow of petroleum from the Persian Gulf States

to Europe, Japan, and the United States.

4. Restoration of full Lebanese sovereignty and withdrawal of all foreign

troops from Lebanon. (74th National Convention)

Resolution 210—‘‘Iraqi War Crimes’’—We urge the President of the United States,

in conjunction with the coalition of United Nations member states, to apprehend

and commit to custody individual members of Iraq’s Revolutionary Council, including Saddam Hussein. We believe such member states should convene a Judicial War

Crimes Tribunal for the purpose of adjudicating allegations of crimes against humanity, crimes against the peace, and the waging of offensive warfare, made against

individual members of Iraq’s Revolutionary Council, including Saddam Hussein. We

also believe, if such allegations are proven, such tribunal should authorize appropriate punishment of the individuals so convicted. (74th National Convention)

POW/MIA Activities

The American Legion continued to implement a very dynamic POW/MIA program

seeking to obtain the fullest possible accounting for American POW/MIAs from

World War II, the Cold War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

In the fall of 1991, implementing a newly adopted resolution, the National Commander appointed a special POW/MIA Committee. It consists of a chairman, four

members and one ex-officio member, the chairman of the Foreign Relations Commission. The POW/MIA Committee has the mission of thoroughly reviewing all available information relating to the issue and investigating all possible avenues of obtaining a full accounting for those who are held prisoner of war or are missing. The

POW/MIA Committee typically meets twice a year and recommends appropriate actions to strengthen The American Legion’s POW/MIA Program. The Executive Director of the Washington Office serves as staff liaison for the POW/MIA Committee.

A variety of methods are used to implement POW/MIA resolutions. For many

years, most Departments have appointed POW/MIA chairmen to devise and implement POW/MIA activities at the local level. Mailings of POW/MIA information are

sent approximately monthly to Department POW/MIA chairmen to provide them the

data they need to conduct effective programs of public awareness and bring the Legion’s POW/MIA to the attention of the President and Congress. When immediate

action at the ‘‘grass roots’’ level is necessary, the Washington Office staff makes telephone calls and sends fax messages to Department Adjutants so that they can mobilize the members of their Departments. To influence Presidential and congressional

actions, the National Commander writes letters to the President, key officials in the

Executive Branch and influential members of Congress. He also frequently meets

with them and makes the Legion’s case in person.

Under Corporate Strategic Goal 3, ‘‘Resolve POW/MIA Issue,’’ The American Legion is in the process of organizing a POW/MIA Ad Hoc Working Group. It will

bring together in a cooperative manner veterans service organizations, family organizations, researchers and activists. They will prepare a national POW/MIA Action

Plan, incorporating all of the many necessary organizational and operational

changes desperately needed, and seek to have it adopted and implemented by the

President.

On a continuing basis, the Washington staff provides a great deal of assistance

to POW/MIA families seeking information about their loved ones or concerned about

the identification of remains. Similar coordination is effected on almost a daily basis

with various POW/MIA researchers and activists. The Executive Director of the

Washington Office visits Vietnam approximately annually as part of a presidential

delegation, congressional delegation or on a Legion trip. During each National Convention and Washington Conference, the POW/MIA Committee conducts a POW/

MIA Update, usually lasting half a day and featuring three speakers. The POW/MIA

Committee, recommended a nonpartisan statement for inclusion in state and national political party platforms be prepared and forwarded to Department level in

order to have it brought to the attention of state political party organizations.
377

Reform of Lobbying Disclosure

As it has done for the past several years, The American Legion continued to sup- port congressional efforts to strengthen lobbying disclosure requirements. While

seeking to preserve First Amendment freedoms which provide the constitutional

basis for lobbying, we have long sought to require meaningful lobbying disclosure

reports, extend post-employment restrictions for high government officials, remove

congressional floor privileges for former members of Congress who become lobbyists,

and encourage reciprocal free access to lobbying for Americans in foreign countries.

The American Legion was very pleased, therefore, when the Senate passed the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1993 which is a good start to meeting our objectives for reform. The Legion also was pleased to note passage of similar legislation in the

House. We were particularly pleased that the legislation received bipartisan support

and full backing from the Administration.

Support by National Commander

The Foreign Relations Commission deeply appreciates the outstanding leadership in the field of foreign relations exercised by National Commander Bruce Thiesen.

He worked extensively to develop bipartisan support for a strong U.S. foreign policy.

He made the Legion’s strong POW/MIA positions known through press releases,

public speeches, and letters to the President. He placed emphasis on foreign relations in his monthly Commander’s Message in The American Legion Magazine,

speeches, press conferences, and press releases. He took advantage of his trips to

the Far East, Mexico and Europe to study key issues of U.S. foreign policy. The National Commander explained the Legion’s positions on foreign affairs in meetings

with Department of State officials and numerous members of Congress.

Commission Meetings

74th National Convention: On September 4, 1993, during a joint meeting of the National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions, Rear Admiral Irve C.

LeMoyne, Deputy Commander in Chief and Chief of Staff, United States Special Operations Command, highlighted the fact that with the collapse of communism in the

former Soviet Union, the likelihood of increased and continued regional conflicts

heightened the role and missions of Special Operations Forces. Assistant Secretary

of Defense (Personnel and Readiness) Edwin Dorn emphasized that, despite the

downsizing of the military, the President and Secretary of Defense are strongly committed to maintaining the readiness posture of Active, National Guard and Reserve

Forces at high levels. Special Assistant to the Ambassador-at-Large and Special Advisor to the Secretary of State William C. Danvers analyzed the future of U.S.-Russian relations. Despite extreme difficulties in transition to market economics and democracy, a great deal of progress has been made in Russia. On September 6, 1994,

the Foreign Relations Commission attended a POW/MIA Update presented by the

Special POW/MIA Committee. Dr. Stephen Morris, noted researcher from Harvard

University, described how he found the Soviet 1205 document in Soviet archives and

explained why he thinks it is a valid document proving that American POWs were

left behind in Vietnam after Operation Homecoming in 1973. Colonel Joseph

Schlatter, Defense POW/MIA Office, explained the U.S. Government’s POW/MIA

program. Major General Bernard Loeffke, USA (Ret.), former Director, Task Force

Russia, recounted the extremely useful research conducted in Russia on American

POW/MIAs prior to the disbandment of the Task Force.

Fall National Executive Committee Meeting: On October 18–19, 1993, the Foreign

Relations Commission met at National Headquarters. In the initial meeting, the

Commission considered one resolution and recommended it be rejected. The Commission also conducted tentative planning for the Washington Conference and received a briefing on the status of implementation of Resolution 221, ‘‘Regulation of

Lobbying.’’ The Commission also discussed developments in Russia, to include an

analysis of possible scenarios of future evolution in that troubled nation. Discussion

of the situation in Somalia and Bosnia focused on identification of American national interests, command of American military forces, the role of the United Nations, and protection of Americans taken captive in peacekeeping or humanitarian

operations. Discussion of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) provided an update of the current status of Congressional consideration of this issue.

The final discussion concerned an update on the current status of the POW/MIA

issue, from World War II through the present. At the final meeting, the Commission

attended a joint session with the National Security Commission to view three very

interesting video tapes. The first tape, ‘‘I’m Glad to See the Army’s in Your Hands,’’

by the U.S. Army, briefly explained the Army’s role in protecting our national secu-
378

rity since colonial times. The second tape, ‘‘From the Sea,’’ by the U.S. Navy, covered naval principles and programs for maintaining control of the high seas in the

future. The final tape, ‘‘Searching for Vietnam POW/MIAs,’’ by the 20/20 television

program, covered the visit last July to Vietnam by Senator Robert Smith, accompanied by former Representative Billy Hendon and Mr. Robert Garwood to check

live sighting reports of American POWs. Washington Conference: The Foreign Relations Commission and National Security Commissions met in joint session on February 14, 1994 in Washington, DC. Dr.

Ellen L. Frost, Counselor in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative spoke on

‘‘International Economics and National Security.’’ Two themes are critically important: trade is good for America, despite the incorrect perception it losses jobs to foreigners, and open trade and investment policies are not a one-way street—other

countries must do their share.

Mr. Larry Napper, Director, Office of Independent States and Commonwealth Af- fairs, Department of State, discussed ‘‘Developments in the Former Soviet Union.’’

If the United States remains engaged and persistent in negotiations, we can accomplish great steps toward a safer world. The revolution that swept aside the Soviet

Union brought real benefits to the United States by ending the Cold War confrontation, saving funds through military reductions and expanding nuclear non-proliferation agreements. The United States seeks a strategic alliance with successor states

for reforms leading to democracy, market economics and moderate foreign policies.

Although the December 1992 elections were a setback to reform parties, they were

positive since they were fairly conducted and brought into being a new constitution

with strong executive powers. The National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions met in joint session on the afternoon of February 14, 1994 to attend the POW/MIA Update presented by

the Special POW/MIA Committee.

Mr. Al Santoli, journalist and author, spoke on ‘‘Honor Before Trade: What Needs to be Done.’’ Lifting the economic embargo against Vietnam has removed all excuses

for the Administration not getting the fullest possible cooperation. Current investigations in Vietnam by Joint Task Force Full Accounting have many problems and

are being conducted by unqualified personnel. The U.S. Government should permit

the American public to have access to the resolution of each POW/MIA case and the

reason for closure, declassify all relevant National Security Agency files, establish

an oversight commission of non-biased experts to review all POW/MIA case files, put

an end to ‘‘stonewalling’’ families and activists, hold U.S. officials personally liable

for keeping faith with POW/MIAs and enact a law providing POW/MIA families the

right to file court appeals to status determinations on the cases of their loved ones.

The American Legion should support such legislation, support establishment of the

oversight commission, continue submitting Freedom of Information Act requests and

work with intelligence experts to refine them and support a congressional probe of

what happened to Senator Smith’s criminal allegations against some U.S. Government officials.

Mr. Kent Wiedemann, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for

Asian Affairs, National Security Council, discussed ‘‘The U.S. Government POW/

MIA Program.’’ We agree with much of what The American Legion has to say on

the POW/MIA issue, but there is some disagreement. All Americans need the truth.

The argument is over how to find the truth. The President is committed to achieving

the truth. He campaigned on that, has worked on that and it is a sacred trust. Lifting the embargo is a step along the way to the fullest possible accounting. Without

the help of Vietnam, we will get nothing done. Therefore, when they provide help

we can feel, touch or count, we must reward them. We did not lift the embargo to

make bucks. Secretary of Commerce Brown was not present at any meetings about

the embargo; it was not an economic issue. We lifted the embargo to be sure that

we could continue to get access in Vietnam.

Dr. George A. Carver, Jr., Senior Fellow, Center for Strategic and International

Studies, addressed the topic ‘‘Did All American POWs Return During Operation

Homecoming?’’ Through defectors and other means, in 1973 we knew Vietnam kept

back about 300 POWs during Operation Homecoming. But, in the anti-war atmosphere of 1973 in Congress and the media, it was impossible to use military force

to go after the POW/MIAs. After Operation Homecoming, the government line became ‘‘They have all come home. Let’s close the door and put it behind us.’’ Other

sources showing Americans were left behind include the Soviet 1205 and 735 reports, which are consistent with two major defectors and communications intercepts.

U.S. searches now in Vietnam are focused on returning remains. Instead, they

should work on the last known alive cases. Regarding the argument that Vietnam

will only cooperate if we lift the embargo, remember they followed the same tactics

during the war of demanding much and giving little. Essentially, Hanoi believes
379

‘‘Why pay a price for something you can get for free?’’ We gave them what they want

for what they did not do. We are witnessing an unseemly rush for illusory profits.

We must remember Vietnam and North Korea are the only Stalinist states left in

the world. Now that we have lifted the embargo, Vietnam has no further incentive

to cooperate. Until we learn the fate of the approximately 300 POWs we left in Vietnam, we cannot put the war behind us.

Spring National Executive Committee Meeting: On May 2–3, 1994, the Foreign Re- lations Commission met at National Headquarters. In the initial meeting, the Commission considered one resolution and recommended it be held for further study.

During the Washington Conference, the Commission had considered one resolution

and recommended it be approved. The Commission discussed plans for the 76th National Convention, including potential speakers. The Commission received an update

report on implementation of Resolution 221, ‘‘Regulation of Lobbying.’’ The preparatory work for the Foreign Relations Commission’s study entitled ‘‘U.S. Participation in the United Nations’’ was reviewed in detail. Concerning the POW/MIA

issue, note was taken of the National Commander’s recent letters to the President

and Congress recommending the creation of a National POW/MIA Commission and

changing international laws to provide full prisoner of war protections under the Geneva Conventions for Americans captured during peacekeeping or humanitarian operations, conducted by the United Nations or otherwise. At the final meeting, the

Commission attended a joint session with the National Security Commission to view

three video tapes. The first tape, ‘‘Army-Count on Us,’’ by the U.S. Army emphasized the important national defense role of the U.S. Army. The second tape, ‘‘National Security Forum-Indianapolis,’’ contained excerpts of the meeting to discuss

key issues of military strategy, budgeting and force structure held earlier in which

The American Legion participated. The final tape, ‘‘United Nations,’’ by the Foreign

Policy Association featured a discussion with the U.S. Permanent Representative to

the United Nations, Ambassador Madeline Albright on the Clinton Administration’s

outlook on the role of the United Nations.

Foreign Relations Commission Staff Activities

The Washington Staff operates in Washington, DC as a combined division serving both the Foreign Relations and National Security Commission, under the overall direction of the Director for National Security-Foreign Relations. Ms. Cheryl L.

Henson provided excellent administrative support.

The Foreign Relations Washington Staff during the past year performed the fol- lowing functions for the commission, the National Commander and the Legion’s 58

Departments and approximately 16,000 Posts: 1. Preparation of policy papers supportive of the Legion’s foreign relations mandates.

2. Preparation of background papers and speeches on foreign policy matters for the National Commander, Foreign Relations commission, and individual Legionnaires.

3. Liaison with U.S. agencies in the executive branch, such as the Departments of State and Defense, and other Federal agencies involved with international relations.

4. Preparation of congressional testimony on international affairs.

5. Staff assistance for major activities, including the National Convention,

National Executive Committee Meetings, and the Washington Conference.

6. Liaison with foreign diplomatic personnel as appropriate in the support of

Legion mandates.

7. Preparation of speeches, articles and interviews as required.

INTERNAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION

HERMAN G. HARRINGTON (New York), Chairman

HUBERT R. DAGLEY II (Indiana), Director

The Internal Affairs Commission was established as a constitutional commission

with a purpose to formulate and recommend policies and to oversee the implementation of adopted policies relating to activities conducted for organizational purposes,

including but not limited to such as do not properly come within the scope of any

other national commission; further review and give guidance to the necessary administrative operations of the National Headquarters.

The Internal Affairs Commission is responsible for policies relating to the internal

structure and operation of The American Legion at all levels.
380

There are four national standing committees that are assigned to the commission

for supervision and coordination . . . they are: Trophies, Awards & Ceremonials,

Resolutions Assignment, Constitution & By-Laws; and Membership and Post Activities.

The Internal Affairs Commission is also the supervisory body for the Sons of The

American Legion program.

Other areas of responsibility include the National Emergency Fund, the Paid-UpFor-Life program, and a special committee to commemorate World War II.

Direct Renewal

One of the measures The American Legion uses to judge the success of the various

programs is through the continuing strength of its membership. Instrumental to the

retention of members in the organization is the Direct Renewal Program, which is

the use of a direct-mail method that invites members to renew. This organized, uniform, and simple method has been a very successful and effective approach and is

funded at NO COST to the Departments or Posts. Members of participating Posts

receive a first renewal letter about July 1, or August 1, depending on the Department. Subsequent renewal notices are mailed to unpaid members about October 1,

or November 1, December 15, or January 11, March 13, and May 1.

Direct Membership Solicitation

Research studies have shown that many veterans would consider joining The

American Legion, but they have never been asked. In an attempt to reach as many

of these veterans as possible and to further support our membership efforts, we solicit new members through various direct marketing media. This innovative membership program is called Direct Membership Solicitation (DMS).

DMS has proven successful, having acquired over 1,500,000 new members for The

American Legion since its inception. Fifty-two (52) Departments participate in the

DMS program.

DMS will continue to support The American Legion’s on-going membership efforts.

National Leadership Workshops

Members of every Post, Squadron, or Unit are encouraged to attend one of the

annual National Leadership Workshops. Each workshop provides professional instruction on Flag Education, American Legion Baseball, National High School Oratorical Program, Junior Shooting Sports, Missing Children, Teen Suicide, Membership (attracting new ones and training current members), Disability Compensation

& Pension, Burial Benefits, Public Relations . . . dealing with the news media, and

much, much more.

One of the very best ways to build and maintain a strong and active American

Legion is to have a membership that is well-informed on issues, goals, and programs

important to the organization . . . the future of the Legion depends on this.

Attending each workshop are new officers, as well as members of long-standing

experience in leadership roles, other members that are aspiring to be elected or appointed to an office or committee position, and finally those members that are just

plain interested in maintaining the strength of this country’s largest veterans organization . . . there are enough topics to satisfy everyone’s interest about the Legion,

the SAL, and the Auxiliary.

Concurrent workshop programs to be covered are Americanism, Auxiliary, Children & Youth, Membership, Public Relations, and Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation.

Member Benefits

The Member Benefits Program was developed to respond to the call for valueadded membership.

An important part of using these benefits is to call the toll-free numbers listed

for information on the benefit and how to use it. Also, make advance reservations

if applicable, such as rental cars and hotel/motel discounts.

We are seeking to expand our benefit offers and one area in particular is a Discount Prescription Program currently being tested in the Department of Indiana

only. The Program provides both mail order and walk-in retail service as well as

significant savings on brand name and generic drugs. Plans are to present the Program to the National Executive Committee for approval of a nationwide rollout. Ac-
381

cess to this benefit will require only an American Legion or Sons of The American

membership card.

We are also seeking to clarify SAL member eligibility for our existing benefits. This will require a review of all contracts and contact with all benefit providers. We

do not foresee any problems but clarification will take time. When finalized, an announcement will be sent to Departments and materials will be updated at next

printing. Finally, a benefit package concept is under study, that would allow the purchase of additional benefits in connection with Paid-Up-For-Life, Insurance and other programs. The benefits include auto purchase and maintenance discounts, travel service, medical emergency data card, and discount shopping to name a few.

Paid-Up-For-Life Membership Program

Paid-Up-For-Life started with the 1976 membership year as a convenience for Le- gionnaires, offering them a method to purchase a membership for life, through a

one-time payment. Since the program’s beginning, nearly 150,000 Legionnaires have taken advantage of the opportunity, and enrolled in the program. During the next twelve months, it’s anticipated that an additional 20-25,000 American Legionnaires will apply for membership into the program . . . you can be in this prestigious group. The average age of a Paid-Up-For-Life member is the mid-60’s, and the average fee paid to enroll is $155–160, which goes into a very carefully controlled trust fund. From the trust, annual per capita monies are rebated to the Posts, the Departments, and to National for each Paid-Up-For-Life member’s dues. The primary promotional strategies are (1) renewal inserts, (2) periodic Magazine ads, (3) brochure/flyer materials shipped to Departments for Post distribution, and

(4) word-of-mouth support at local, state, and national meetings. From experience and observations, it is evident that, as the level of awareness increases, through the education of the membership about the program’s availability,

the number of new applications increases very dramatically. Also, as more Legionnaires become sensitized about the program, the average age of applicants is dropping, which is a clear indication that the ‘‘younger’’ member is

seeing the program as a good investment opportunity. There is no reason to expect that the effect of expanded promotional efforts will

produce anything less than positive results for the Paid-Up-For-Life program. It is

well within reach of The American Legion to have 300-400,000 Legionnaires enrolled in the program by the end of this decade. Fifty-three Departments participate in the National Paid-Up-For-Life membership

program.

Five Departments . . . Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, op- erate their own separate life membership plans for members in their respective

states, and do NOT participate in National’s program.

National Emergency Fund

Since inception in October 1989, the National Emergency Fund has provided fi- nancial assistance to members of the Legion family. This fund serves as a resource

from which a member may receive temporary financial assistance after a natural

disaster has happened.

These violent acts of nature have plagued mankind since the beginning of time and The American Legion National Emergency Fund is but one small area in which

our level of readiness must be maintained. This fund guarantees that our membership has a place to turn for help; in most cases, long before other relief agencies

arrive and with less red tape. The National Emergency Fund was not designed to

replace insurance or other disaster relief services, but a source from which our

members can receive financial help to offset initial expenses, such as food, housing,

clothing, etc. Our long-term goal is to have a minimum of one million dollars available in this fund. At the present time, the National Emergency Fund has $679,564.06 available

to disburse for future disasters.

Fundraising activities are on-going. Articles are published in The American Le- gion Magazine, The Dispatch newspaper, and periodic special mailings are sent out

to departments and posts. The purpose is to heighten awareness and solicit contributions to support the fund.

The National Emergency Fund is provided assistance to Georgia, Alabama, and

Florida after the flooding in July 1994. The flood conditions in Georgia have made

a black mark in the history books of the National Emergency Fund. A Legion family
382

member’s life was lost in flash flooding, marking the first time a member has been

taken from our family during a disaster.

To date, the National Emergency Fund has had contributions in the amount of

$1,537,892.47. A total of 1,205 grants have been disbursed to members and posts

accounting for $834,028.00 in direct financial assistance to our family.

Consolidated Post Reports

The Consolidated Post Report—one of The American Legion’s most valuable internal documents—is our report card to Congress. It outlines a summary of the collective aid and assistance provided to the communities, states, and nation.

For the 1993–94 year, approximately 60 percent of the posts of the organization

filed an annual report, covering activities that include (1) athletic teams sponsored,

(2) volunteer hours performing community service, (3) pints of blood donated, (4)

Boy Scout troops sponsored, (5) scholarships awarded, (6) jobs found for veterans,

(7) contributions, cash and goods, given to programs helping children and veterans,

plus many other areas and projects of involved Legionnaires.

CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS COMMITTEE

FRANCIS L. GIORDANO, New York, Chairman

The National Constitution and By-Laws of The American Legion can only be

amended by the duly elected delegates at a National Convention.

However, the Constitution and By-Laws Committee, established by the authority

of the National Executive Committee in 1939, authorizes this committee to study

and make proper recommendations concerning all of the matters that pertain to the

Constitution and By-Laws, as well as matters that relate to the Uniform Code of

Procedure, which provides rules and regulations for the Revocation, Cancellation, or

Suspension of Department and Post Charters of The American Legion.

RESOLUTIONS ASSIGNMENT COMMITTEE

EVERETT L. MCCONNELL, Colorado, Chairman

This committee meets only at the annual National Convention, and at least three

days before it convenes. The committee has the responsibility to receive, consider,

and transmit all resolutions (with or without recommendation) to the appropriate

convention committee for a report to the convention. During an average year, 3–400

resolutions will be assigned; though, as many as 750 have been received for review

at a past convention.

TROPHIES, AWARDS AND CEREMONIALS COMMITTEE

EARL D. FRANKLIN, JR., Colorado, Chairman

This committee supervises all of the official national awards, and recommends to

the National Executive Committee recipients for the Distinguished Service Medal;

over the years, some of the people awarded the Legion’s highest honor are: General

John J. Pershing, Ignace Jon Paderewski of Poland, Henry Ford, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ernie Pyle, General Dwight David Eisenhower, Bob Hope, Harry Truman,

Babe Ruth, Dr. Jonas E. Salk, Bishop Fulton J. Sheen, John F. Kennedy, the Dead

& Missing of the Vietnam War, Astronauts John Young and Robert Crippen, plus

many other citizens of renown, who have made lasting and significant contributions

during the 20th century.

This committee also makes recommendations on the International Amity Award,

the Canadian Friendship Award, and presents a report to the NEC on miscellaneous

awards that have been made during each year.

They also supervise the contents of the Manual of Ceremonies of The American

Legion.
383

MEMBERSHIP AND POST ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

BETTYLOU EVANS, Delaware, Chairperson

LEE A. HARDY, Minnesota, Director

The 1994 membership year has been one of continued innovation within the organization. It is quite evident, with our membership, we are the largest veterans organization in the Nation.

Membership Statistics

Final 1992 membership ......................................................................... 3,115,340

Final 1993 membership ......................................................................... 3,104,973

1994 membership as of August 11, 1994 ............................................. 3,047,418

Education and Training

31st Annual National Membership Workshop

More than 400 Legionnaires, representing 52 Departments, gathered in Indianapolis July 29–31, to acquire the information and tools necessary for a successful membership year in 1995. The theme for the 1995 year, introduced at the Workshop, put

everyone on the ‘‘1995 Membership Trail’’ leading to the National Convention in

Portland, Oregon. As we travel the road to Oregon, we need to recall the traditional

ways to recruit new members to our organization through face-to-face and neighborto-neighbor personal contact. And, as was typical in the days of the pioneers, members of the wagon train broke off and formed new settlements along the way, just

as we need to do in forming new posts. We currently are losing three posts for each

one we charter and, for the first time since World War II, the organization has on

record just under 15,000 posts world-wide.

Membership Campaign Promotion

The National Membership Awards Program distributes between 65,000–70,000

various awards annually to recognize membership accomplishments at all levels of

the organization. The promotion plan for the National Membership Campaign is formulated during the annual planning session of the M&PA Committee held in Indianapolis in January.

Unofficial Membership Awards

Contained within this extensive program are a wide variety of prizes ranging from

simple certificates and ribbons to valuable gifts and travel. The awards are designed

to reward the membership success of dedicated Legionnaires at all levels of the organization and encourage continued growth.

Early Bird Awards—August 17, 1993

Forty-five Departments qualified for the 30% awards.

Autumn Festival—September 21, 1993

Fifty-three Departments qualified for the 40% awards with 52 of them qualifying

for the 45% bonus awards. Each winner earned a choice of several gifts.

Octoberfest—October 19, 1993

Fifty-three Departments qualified for the 40% awards with 52 of them qualifying

for the 55% bonus awards. Appropriate gifts were awarded for their continuing

membership efforts.

Pearl Harbor—December 14, 1993

Fifty Departments qualified for the 70% awards with 40 of them qualifying for

the 70% bonus. Excellence in membership earned additional gifts and rewards.

Big Twelve Competition—February 23, 1994

Thirty-three Departments qualified for the 90% awards with 8 of them qualifying

for the 95% bonus award.
384

‘‘Big Twelve’’ Competition Winners

Category I—Ohio.

Category II—No Department qualified.

Category III—Kansas.

Category IV—No Department qualified.

Category V—Idaho.

Category VI—Delaware.

The membership efforts of the winning Departments, earned them a $2,000 credit

with National Emblem Sales of The American Legion.

The American Legion birthday—April 12, 1994

Twenty-five Departments qualified for the 95% awards with 2 of them qualifying

for the 100% bonus award. The value of the gifts earned ranged from $25–$150. The

bonus awards ranged in value from $15–$75.

Department commander of the year

Any Department Commander who met or exceeds his/her 100% goal for 1994 by

May 4, 1993, received a plaque recognizing his/her achievement. The plaque was

presented at the National Convention in Minneapolis.

May Day—May 3, 1994

By achieving 100% of the Department’s 94 membership goal, winning Department

Commanders and Membership Chairmen had a choice of several gifts available,

based on the number of targets/bonuses made during the year.

Gold Brigade recruiter award

A Legionnaire who recruits 50 or more NEW members by District Competition

target date, May 4, 1994, qualified for enrollment in the elite GOLD BRIGADE of

the American Legion.

Gold Brigade drawing

All certified members of the Gold Brigade were automatically entered in a drawing with the five winners announced at the 1994 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The five winners of the drawing receive a $1,000.00 Award Certificate.

Diamond recruiter award

A Legionnaire who recruits 75 or more NEW members into The American Legion

by Target Date VII, May 3, 1994 qualified for a 75th Anniversary Diamond Lapel

Pin and Recruiter Cap.

Delegate strength—August 8, 1994

Delegate Strength is determined by membership in the hands of the National

Treasurer 30 days prior to the National Convention. Total number of delegates for

each Department is based on five delegates at large, one delegate for each 1,000

members or major fraction thereof, and the members of the National Executive

Committee.

Post honor ribbons

Post Honor Ribbons were shipped to 2,616 Posts whose 1994 membership as of

December 31, 1993 exceeds the final 1993 membership.

Certificate of meritorious service

These certificates were awarded for 405 Posts for attaining a new All-Time-High

membership for 1994 by December 31, 1993.

Five consecutive years all-time high

These citations were awarded to Posts with five or more consecutive years all-time

high membership.
385

District Commanders ‘‘Race To The Top′′

District Commanders are the lynch pin of The American Legion’s chain of command, serving as the vital link between the National and Department organizations

and all Posts. The local Post is where the ‘‘rubber meets the road’’ and if it doesn’t

happen at the Post level—it doesn’t happen at all. District Commanders are the people charged with insuring that all Posts in their District maintain their vitality.

Consequently, this unique award was created to provide a meaningful incentive

for the District Commanders and reward their successful membership efforts. The

winning District Commander and guest receive:

Reserved tickets to the Indianapolis 500, ‘‘the greatest spectacle in racing’’.

First-class hotel accommodations for four nights at the Ramada Plaza Hotel.

Reserved seating for the Indianapolis 500 parade.

Dinner reservations Friday and Saturday evening at two of Indianapolis’ finest restaurants.

Tour of the National Headquarters of The American Legion.

Previous winners have reported how much they enjoyed their opportunity to participate in this world-renowned racing event and that they have fond memories that

will last a lifetime. 1994 Race To The Top Competition Rules are as follows:

Competition is divided into five categories based on the membership of the District without regard to geographic locations. District Commanders compete in each

of the following categories based on the final 1993 totals, and a top District Commander for the National award is selected from each of the five categories. Second

and Third place awards are also to be presented in each category.

Category I—Districts of 15 to 1,499 members.

Category II—Districts of 1,500 to 2,999 members.

Category III—Districts of 3,000 to 4,999 members.

Category IV—Districts of 5,000 to 7,499 members.

Category V—Districts of 7,500 and above members.

The 500 Trip is to be presented to the Top District Commander in each category

whose District membership for 1994 on March 31, 1994 represents the greatest percentage over the final 1993 membership of the District. Cannot be less than 100%

to qualify. The First Place Award entitles winners to attend the 1994 Indianapolis

500 Race, and first-class hotel accommodations.

Second Place awards are presented to the District Commander in each category

whose District membership for 1994 on March 31, 1994 represents the second highest percentage over the final 1993 membership of that District. Cannot be less than

100% to qualify. Winners receive their choice of several gifts valued at $500.

Third Place awards are presented to the District Commander in each category

whose District membership for 1994 on March 31, 1994 represents the third highest

percentage over the final 1993 membership of that District. Cannot be less than

100% to qualify. Winners receive their choice of several gifts valued at $375.

1994 First Place Winners: Trip to the Indianapolis 500 Race

Category I

Paul Smith, New Mexico, 111.43 percent, Dist 10.

Category II

John B. Dunlap, Oklahoma, 109.62 percent, Dist 1.

Category III

Carl Platner, Delaware, 104.81 percent, Dist 4.

Category IV

Paul Martel, Florida, 102.38 percent, Dist 15.

Category V

Edward J. Dionne, Florida, 103.90 percent, Dist 8.

1993 Second Place Winners: Choice of Several Gifts Valued at $500

Category I

Ken Noack, Idaho, 110.17 percent, Dist 8.

Category II

James Gilmore, Oklahoma, 107.63 percent, Dist 6.

Category III

Robert Schmidt, Florida, 102.62 percent, Dist 3.

Category IV

James Papin, New York, 102.28 percent, Dist 28.

Category V

Herbert G. Hoying, Ohio, 102.56 percent, Dist 2.
386

1994 Third Place Winners: Choice of Several Gifts Valued at $375

Category I

Charles Tonnacliff, North Carolina, 110.08 percent, Dist 6.

Category II

Joseph R. McConomy, New Jersey, 106.18 percent, Dist 8.

Category III

Blanche E. Smith, Wisconsin, 100.24 percent, Dist 2.

Category IV

William H. Johnson, Nebraska, 100.37 percent, Dist 8.

Category V

William C. Willis, Ohio, 101.09 percent, Dist 3.

District Commander New Post Achievement Award

District Commanders who achieve the goal of creating new American Legion Posts

in their respective District and have the new Post’s Temporary Charter Application

on file in National Headquarters by the 7th Target Date ‘‘May Day’’ May 3, 1994,

qualify for a special recognition plaque and a 75th Anniversary Diamond Lapel

Tack.

Department Recruiter Of The Year

Each American Legion Post has the opportunity to submit the name of the ‘‘Top

Recruiter’’ for that Post who has signed up the highest number of new members for

the 1994 membership year by May 4, 1994. Department Adjutants determine the

Top New Member Recruiter for their respective Department and certify their ‘‘Department Recruiter’’ to National Headquarters on or before May 18, 1994.

The ‘‘Department Recruiter’’ properly certified from each Department, is awarded

a State Outline Plaque with his/her accomplishment inscribed thereon.

National Recruiter Of The Year

The individual certified with the highest number of new members recruited from

among all the Departments is declared ‘‘National Recruiter of the Year’’. The winner

of this award receives an expense paid trip to the 1994 National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

1993 Houghton award winners

The Arthur D. Houghton Sons of The American Legion is presented annually to

the Detachment of the Sons of The American Legion which on December 31 of each

year has attained the greatest percentage of increase over the previous year’s total

membership. There are three (3) categories and three (3) awards. The winners are:

CATEGORY I—New Mexico 131.9 percent

CATEGORY II—Colorado 129.7 percent

CATEGORY III—Pennsylvania 114.6 percent

The Sons Of The American Legion

Membership in the Sons of The American Legion for 1993 was 161,376. As of August 10, 1994, the Sons of The American Legion membership has grown to 168,776

members and is expected to grow to 170,000 by December 31, 1994.

The Sons of The American Legion’s main emphasis focuses on two major areas

(1) VA & R Volunteer Support (VAVS) Rehabilitation to Veterans in VA homes and

hospitals and (2) raising funds in support of The American Legion Child Welfare

Foundation.

In the area of VA & R, the Sons of The American Legion provided over 45,000

volunteer hours in VA homes and hospitals and donated over $71,000 in cash and

goods for our nation’s Veterans.

The Sons provided three grants through The American Legion Child Welfare

Foundation to (1) Friends Network (2) The Caring Program for Children and (3) National Marfan Foundation. At the end of the Foundation’s reporting year (May 31,

1994) the Sons of The American Legion donated $78,362.80.

The Sons of The American Legion remains a healthy and vibrant program experiencing continued growth and support to Posts throughout The American Legion.
387

LEGISLATIVE COMMISSION

CHARLES PESSO, New York, Chairman

STEVE ROBERTSON, Louisiana, Director

This report covers the activities of the Legislative Commission from August 1, 1993 through August 10, 1994. During this period, the Commission met five times

to review the legislative program and to make recommendations to the National Executive Committee. Reports of these meetings are contained in the published proceedings of the National Executive Committee.

Purpose, Personnel and Organization

The Legislative Commission represents The American Legion before the Congress of the United States on all legislative matters in which the Legion is officially interested, and it assists the National Executive Committee in formulating an appropriate legislative program for each session of Congress. The Commission consists of

thirty-two members and five National Executive Committee liaisons. To further assist the Commission in its work with Congress, the National Execu- tive Committee in 1975 created the National Legislative Council, composed of Legionnaires whose judgment and advice are respected by their elected representatives. The Council is headed by a National Chairman, who is assisted by a Vice

Chairman in 50 Legion Departments. The Chairman, Vice Chairmen and general

membership of the Council are appointed by the National Commander upon recommendation by the Departments. The professional staff of the Commission (the Legislative Division) concentrates on implementing the legislative mandates of The American Legion which are expressed in resolutions adopted at its annual National Convention and by the National Executive Committee at each of its regularly scheduled meetings. The Legislative Division is located in Washington, DC and consists of the director, two assistant directors, two secretaries, a research analyst and a librarian. The director and

assistant directors are registered lobbyists and submit quarterly reports to Congress. Because the Legion is a federally chartered organization, an annual report

is prepared and submitted to Congress.

103d Congress, First Session

The following section provides a review of significant legislative activity during the last five months of 1993 which impacted on the Legion’s legislative program.

These highlights are organized by subject area.

Americanism/Children & Youth

Flag Protection.—The Legion’s continuing campaign to protect the American flag from physical desecration earned additional victories as 1993 came to a close. At the

Fall NEC meetings in October, National Commander Bruce Thiesen challenged the

17 remaining states to increase their efforts in obtaining a memorial resolution

through their state legislatures. By the end of the First Session, only 15 states had

not achieved this goal. The American Legion will continue its campaign to have all

50 states send memorializing resolutions for a flag protection amendment to Congress.

Resettlement of Iraqi POWs Examined.—Only 2 years after the end of the Persian

Gulf War, the Clinton administration came under fire for allowing former Iraqi nationals being resettled in this country. During FY 1993, nearly 4500 Iraqi refugees

were settled in the U.S. They were chosen from nearly 39,000 Iraqis in Saudi Arabia

who could not return to Iraq after the conflict because of political circumstances.

About 4000 were former soldiers who deserted between the invasion of Kuwait or

were captured by coalition forces at the beginning of the U.S. offensive against Iraq.

Nearly 10,000 were members of ethnic or religious minorities opposed to Saddam

Hussein. Finally, some participated in the failed coup against Hussein in March,

1991 and feared reprisals.

Members of Congress have raised objections to this refugee resettlement program,

and legislation has even been introduced to halt the program’s implementation. In

FY 1993 INS approved 2153 Iraqi refugees from Saudi Arabia for settlement in the

U.S. Of these, 533 were former soldiers. The quota for FY 1994 is 3229, of which

549 were former soldiers. Quotas for FY 1995 could be as high as 6000. Refugees

go through a screening process by federal agencies before they are cleared for resettlement. The vast majority are sponsored by benevolent organizations, who assist
388

in resettlement and employment efforts. The U.S. and 15 other nations are resettling these refugees. The American Legion will continue to monitor this situation

carefully.

OJJDP Funding.—On October 27, President Clinton enacted Public Law 103–121,

the FY 1994 Departments of Commerce, Justice, State and the Judiciary funding

measure. The most important item of concern to the Legion contained in the bill

is the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). Under the

provisions of the legislation, OJJDP received $107 million for the current fiscal year,

a substantial increase over FY 1993’s $77 million.

INS Funding.—Another area of importance to the Legion in PL 103-121 is funding for the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). The law contains $1.05

billion for INS programs, including hiring of new Border Patrol agents, purchasing

new equipment for the Border Patrol and updating the State Department’s overseas

visa processing requirements. A portion of this money will be funded through increases in various immigration user fees.

National Family Week.—In mid-November President Clinton enacted PL 103–153,

which recognized the week of November 21, 1993 and November 20, 1994 (which

include Thanksgiving Day) as ‘‘National Family Week.’’ The American Legion has

taken the lead over the past two decades in promoting this commemorative week,

recognized as a meaningful time to stress the importance of family values.

Childhood Immunization Programs Funded—As contained in PL 103–112, the FY

1994 Departments of Labor, HHS and Education funding bill, a program to protect

this nation’s children against vaccine-preventable diseases by their second birthday

received $528 million.

The authorizing legislation for this childhood immunization program, originally

contained in S. 732, was amended onto a similar bill (H.R. 2659) which passed the

House on October 5 and then the Senate on March 24. The American Legion’s

Americanism/Children & Youth Division is working with HHS and the Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta to work out a cooperation agreement involving the Legion’s resources and volunteer assistance.

Economics

TJTC Reauthorized, Temporarily.—On August 10, President Clinton signed PL

103–66, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 (OBRA 93). Included in the

law was another temporary, thirty month reauthorization for the targeted jobs tax

credit (TJTC). This new reauthorization was made retroactive to June 30, 1992

when TJTC expired. This means that before the end of the 103rd Congress, the Legion and other groups who support TJTC must return to Congress and ask for yet

another extension. In addition, the administration has expressed its desire to eliminate TJTC altogether. The American Legion will continue to seek the permanent reauthorization of TJTC.

ASVET Funding.—President Clinton on October 21 enacted PL 103–112, the Departments of Labor, HHS and Education appropriations bill for FY 1994. The measure contained a total of $186.6 million for programs under the Assistant Secretary

of Labor for Veterans’ Employment and Training (ASVET). The Disabled Veterans

Outreach Program (DVOP) was funded at $84.2 million for the current year, an increase of $2.2 million over FY 1993. The Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) program received $78.2 million, $2.1 million more than FY 1993. Finally, the National Veterans Training Institute (NVTI) received $2.9 million, an increase of $100,000 over the previous year.

VA Home Loan Increase.—On September 21, the House by a voice vote passed

H.R. 949, a measure which would increase the amount that veterans could borrow

under VA’s home loan program. According to this legislation, veterans could borrow

up to $203,000 (the current limit is set at $184,000). The bill would also extend

bridge loans of up to $10,000 to veterans who are facing foreclosure on their home

mortgages because of job loss or underemployment.

Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act.—The Senate on November 8 passed H.R.

995, a measure to simplify the Soldiers and Sailors Civil Relief Act, by substituting

language of S. 843 (its own version of the legislation) for the House-passed version.

Following the Persian Gulf War, many employers and veterans were unsure of their

obligations and rights under the act. H.R. 995 would reaffirm the obligation of all

employers to rehire a veteran who returns from service within five years of leaving

his job. The returning veteran is also entitled to the same or a similar job as well

as any promotions that would have accrued had he not served in the military. The

legislation would also add new provisions requiring servicemembers called to active

duty to give reasonable notice to employers before leaving. Also added was a provi-
389

sion which would guarantee that any pension benefits continue to accrue during the

veteran’s time of service. The bill now goes back to the House for further action.

Foreign Relations

Foreign Aid Appropriations.—On September 30 PL 103–87, the FY 1994 foreign aid bill, was enacted. It contained just under $13 billion in foreign operations funding, $1.4 billion less than was requested by the Clinton administration. Most of the

initial disagreements between the House and Senate were over the Senate’s insistence on certain spending mandates for specific aid accounts, as opposed to the

House’s desire to allow the White House wider latitude in allocating foreign aid. NAFTA Approval.—The President on December 8 enacted P.L. 103–182, which

would implement the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). On November 17, by a 234–200 recorded vote, the House passed the legislation after long and

often heated debate. NAFTA would create the largest free trade area in the world,

to include the U.S., Canada and Mexico. This agreement is intended to break down

most trade, tariff and employment barriers between the three countries, encompassing 358 million consumers and a total market of $6.5 trillion. Post-Cold War Military Matters Examined.—Since the end of the Cold War and

the emergence of the U.S. as the last major superpower, The American Legion has

been concerned with two important factors. First, as the number of peacekeeping,

peacemaking or humanitarian missions occur, that American forces have been

placed under foreign command. In a letter dated October 5, the Legion informed

Congress of its opposition to such actions. In the same letter, the Legion also addressed the possibility that American servicemembers could be taken prisoner by hostile nongovernmental forces in the

course of post-Cold War military actions. This situation became a hot issue late in

1993 as American forces became more involved in peacekeeping activities in Somalia, and a U.S. Army helicopter pilot was captured by irregular forces loyal to a Somali warlord. The Legion urged Congress to examine the current U.S. POW/MIA

policy, and to set up mechanisms to insure that American citizens are treated fairly

and that our government will do everything possible to secure their release, even

the use of force.

Lobbying Restrictions.—The American Legion is officially on record in support of legislation to regulate the activities of individuals who lobby government agencies

on behalf of corporations or foreign governments or interests. In particular, the Legion believes that former high-ranking administration officials and former members

of Congress should be prohibited from lobbying their former colleagues on behalf of

foreign government or interests. Legislation to streamline the lobbyist reporting

process (S. 349) passed the Senate on May 6, 1993 by a 95–2 recorded vote.

Internal Affairs

Revenue Forgone and Nonprofit Rate Reform.—On October 28 P.L. 103–123, the

FY 1994 Treasury-Postal Service funding measure, was signed into law. The revenue forgone account received $91.4 million in funding for the current fiscal year. (In

the previous two fiscal years, nonprofit postal subsidies shrank from $470 million

in FY 1992, to $121 million in FY 1993, to the current year’s total.) A four percent

rate increase on third class nonprofit rates and a two percent increase on second

class nonprofit mailings will go into effect soon, with similar increases taking effect

in each of the next five years thereafter. Also, a 4¢ per piece surcharge on third class flat pieces will continue. The American Legion will continue to seek true reform of the nonprofit mailing rates. World War II Memorial.—In 1992, P.L. 102–414 was enacted, allowing the Treas- ury Department to mint a coin to commemorate the 50th anniversary of U.S. participation in World War II. Funds from sales of the coin would be used to build a

World War II memorial in Washington DC. Unfortunately, legislation to authorize

the actual construction of the memorial expired when the 102nd Congress adjourned. To correct this oversight, a bill to authorize construction of the World War

II memorial was introduced at the outset of the 103rd Congress, quickly passed and

on May 25 President Clinton enacted P.L. 103–32. Memorial Coins Bill Enacted.—On December 14, the President enacted P.L. 103–

186, a bill which authorizes the U.S. Treasury to mint several commemorative coins.

They include: a Prisoner-of-War Commemorative Coin, to memorialize the experiences of Americans who have been POWs; a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Commemorative Coin, to honor the 10th anniversary of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial; and,

the Women in Military Service for America Memorial Commemorative Coin, to

honor the service of women in U.S. armed forces. Funds from the sales of these

coins will be used, respectively, to build a Prisoner-of-War Museum in Andersonville
390

GA, repair and maintain the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and build and maintain

the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. Vietnam Women’s Memorial Coin.—On November 24, the Senate by a voice vote passed S. 469. If this measure is enacted, it will authorize the U.S. Treasury to mint

a commemorative coin to support construction and perpetual care of the Vietnam

Women’s Memorial, which was dedicated on November 11, 1993 in Washington, DC.

National Security

DoD Budget, Appropriations.—The President on November 11 signed P.L. 103– 139, the Department of Defense (DoD) funding bill for FY 1994. It funded DoD at

a level of $240.5 billion, $12.6 billion less than was appropriated for FY 1993. Total

U.S. active-duty forces under P.L. 103–139 will be 1.62 million, a projected reduction of 103,000 personnel.

Some specific highlights of the bill include: $2.64 billion for anti-missile programs

(formerly SDI); $2.64 billion to build three additional Aegis anti-missile destroyers;

$2.09 billion to continue development of the F–22 as a successor to the F–15; $1.94

billion for six more C–17 wide-body cargo jets; and, $1.47 billion to continue development of enlarged models of the Navy’s F/A–18. In addition, P.L. 103–139 includes

$2.49 billion for defense conversion projects intended to cushion defense contractors,

their employees and their communities against the steady decline in Pentagon

spending.

In addition to the active-duty personnel reduction stated above, other reductions

recommended in the DoD authorization measure (P.L. 103–160) include: 60,000

fewer reserve personnel; 2 less Army divisions; 397 naval combat ships (28 less than

currently available); 12 aircraft carriers (a reduction of one carrier); 2 less tactical

fighter wings (2 less than presently on active-duty); 191 long-range bombers (cutting

out 10); and, 667 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), reducing the total by

120.

These reductions reflect a new perspective on U.S. defense policy away from a

Cold War posture to an emphasis on regional security, reduction of weapons of mass

destruction, and a strengthening of U.S. economic security. Pentagon officials claim

that the DoD budget is adequate to meet the new post-Cold War challenges. Despite

certain cuts already announced, House Armed Services Chairman Ron Dellums

claims that more can be cut from the DoD budget and still maintain American military strength. His Senate counterpart, Sam Nunn, has expressed an unwillingness

to cut any further.

The American Legion continues to be concerned with efforts to reduce the U.S.

military. Despite assurances that American armed forces will be able to maintain

up-to-the-minute readiness, the Legion is still anxious over the 9.4 percent cut in

defense spending contained in PL 103–139.

Military Pay Raise Approved.—Also included in PL 103–139 was a 2.2 percent pay

raise for armed services personnel in FY 1994. White House budget plans call for

tight controls on pay raises, hoping to limit pay raises to one percent under inflation

during FY 1994–1997. However, House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee chairman John Murtha (D–PA) insisted on the modest raise in order to keep trained

servicemembers and to keep the services on an up-to-the-minute readiness. Both

chambers of Congress agreed with Murtha.

U.S. Coast Guard.—The President on December 20, enacted P.L. 103–206, the FY

1994 Coast Guard authorization measure. The law authorizes $3.6 billion for the

Coast Guard, including $2.6 billion for operations and $418 million to buy vessels,

aircraft and other equipment. It also includes provisions aimed at improving Coast

Guard resources to respond to oil spills and to increase the number of active-duty

commissioned officers from 6,000 to 6,200. On October 27 the President signed PL

103–122, the FY 1994 Transportation Department funding bill. The Coast Guard received $3.6 billion in funding to continue its various missions, which include air-sea

rescues, drug interdiction, pollution control and illegal alien interception.

Base Closures.—On July 1 the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission sent its final list of base closing recommendations to President Clinton. The list

included 35 major and 95 minor military installations targeted for closure and 27

major bases and 18 minor facilities scheduled for cutbacks of some kind. The President approved the list within 24 hours and sent the list to Congress. On September

20 the Senate voted 83–12 to allow the closures and realignments to proceed. According to law, either chamber of Congress could overturn the entire list but not

remove individual facilities from the list.

Selective Service Saved.—During early consideration of the FY 1994 VA, HUD and

Independent Agencies funding measure (P.L. 103–124), the House made a deep cut

in money for the Selective Service System, effectively restricting the agency to main-
391

tenance of a computer program that contains the registry dates of all individuals

entered thus far into the system. Funded at $28.6 million in FY 1993, Selective

Service would have received only $5 million.

However, the Senate disagreed and appropriated $25 million for the agency in FY

1994. On October 29 the House voted 236–194 to agree to the Senate amount. The

American Legion regards Selective Service as a necessary hedge against the possibility of large-scale international emergencies, and will continue to support this

agency.

Military Families Recognized.—On November 8 PL 103–137 was enacted, which

recognized November 22, 1993 as ‘‘National Military Families Recognition Day.’’

This commemorative day is designed to acknowledge the sacrifices of military families and the hardships they often endure, and to recognize ‘‘their patriotism through

their steadfast support and commitment to the nation.’’

Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation

FY 1994 VA Spending.—On October 28 President Clinton enacted P.L. 103–124,

the FY 1994 VA, HUD and Independent Agencies appropriations bill. The measure

funded VA at $35.9 billion, an increase of $813 million over the previous year’s figures. The medical care account received a funding increase of nearly $1 billion,

while the medical and prosthetic research account was raised by $20 million. An

extra $133 million was appropriated for readjustment benefits, while funding for

major and minor construction projects actually went down by $120 million from FY

1993 to the current year. The American Legion will continue to lobby Congress for

adequate funding for VA, especially much needed health-care reform.

Veterans Provisions in OBRA 93.—PL 103-66 contained provisions which affected

veterans. VA was given authority to continue billing nonservice-connected veterans

for health care until the end of FY 1998. Next, the law allows VA to continue a program to require private insurers to reimburse VA for treatment of veterans for

nonservice-connected disabilities. Other veterans will also continue to pay

copayments for medication received on an outpatient basis.

Other OBRA 93 provisions affecting veterans include: an increase in the VA

home-loan user fee from 1.25 percent to 2 percent; elimination of an FY 1994 costof-living adjustment (COLA) for Montgomery GI Bill participants, and a 50 percent

reduction in a similar COLA for FY 1995; and, FY 1994 COLAs for dependency and

indemnity compensation payments would be tied to increases in Social Security payments, would halve those COLAs and have them rounded down to the nearest dollar

amount.

As The American Legion has said in the past, our nation’s veterans did not create

the current deficit and it is unfair for the federal government to balance the budget

on their backs. The Legion will continue to oppose these ‘‘savings’’ as unfair and

shortsighted.

Future Planning of VA Construction.—P.L. 103–79, signed by the President on

August 13, requires VA to engage in detailed planning before deciding on future

hospital construction projects. The law directs VA to review the mission of each facility within a year of the law’s enactment. It further requires VA to make longterm care and ambulatory care the major priorities when building new hospitals or

expanding existing facilities. This provision reflects the fact that VA will need to

stress this type of care in the future in order to cope with a veteran population that

is getting older.

National Service Program Become Law.—On September 21, President Clinton enacted P.L. 103–82, which codifies his National Service Program. Under the plan, selected individuals would receive educational grants, government-funded health care

and child care, a monthly stipend and other generous benefits in exchange for up

to 1,700 hours of community service or volunteer work. Funding for the new program was included in P.L. 103–124, the FY 1994 VA, HUD and Independent Agencies spending bill. The Legion and its supporters attempted to have this program

included under the Labor, HHS and Education appropriations measure, but was unsuccessful. The program was funded in FY 1994 at $370 million.

The American Legion does not oppose the concept of national or community service and volunteerism. However, our organization feels that this program will be in

direct competition with the armed forces to recruit young people. The program also

offers benefits which, taken as a whole, are superior to those offered by the current

Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB). Congress has limited the educational grants of the National Service Program not to exceed 90% of educational benefits of the MGIB. The

Legion will use National Service Program criteria to urge Congress to either improve MGIB benefits or institute a new GI Bill for Persian Gulf veterans.
392

Veterans, Survivors Comp COLAs.—On November 11, President Clinton signed

P.L. 103–140, which set the FY 1994 COLA for veterans’ disability compensation

and survivors’ benefits at a percentage equal to the COLA for Social Security recipients. That COLA was set at 2.6 percent after inflation figures (as measured by the

Consumer Price Index) were released earlier.

Medal of Honor Pensions Increased.—The President on November 30, signed PL

103–161, legislation which increased the pension paid by the federal government to

living Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Under this law, the pension was

raised from $200 a month to $400 per month.

VA Health Care for Desert Storm Veterans.—On December 20, President Clinton

enacted PL 103–210, a bill which authorizes VA to provide health care for veterans

of the Persian Gulf War. This law goes into effect as thousands of Desert Storm veterans, both active-duty and Reserve personnel, are experiencing a variety of symptoms and ailments which have thus far defied explanation. The American Legion

continues to press Congress to mandate a thorough epidemiological study of Persian

Gulf veterans.

Selected VA Care Expanded.—On November 16, the House gave voice vote approval to H.R. 3313, a measure aimed at making several changes in VA health care.

The bill combines the texts of four measures originally passed by the House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care on October 6. H.R. 3313

aims to enhance treatment for veterans suffering from exposure to Agent Orange

and ionizing radiation. It would also authorize VA to treat Vietnam veterans for

those conditions the National Academy of Sciences has found or will subsequently

find to be related to Agent Orange.

Another provision of the bill would mandate outpatient treatment for conditions

caused by Agent Orange or radiation exposure. The bill would expand existing VA

medical treatment offered to women veterans. In addition, H.R. 3313 would authorize VA to establish nonprofit corporations at its health-care facilities to provide

therapeutic work for chronically mentally ill patients. Finally, the measure would

authorize VA to furnish preventive and other medical care at community-based Vet

Centers.

103rd Congress, Second Session

The Second Session of the 103rd Congress convened on January 25, 1994. On February 7 President Clinton unveiled his Fiscal Year 1995 budget proposal of $1.51

trillion. The House of Representatives on March 11 passed House Concurrent Resolution 218, which generally agreed with the President’s budget request, by a 223–

175 vote. On March 25 the Senate passed an amended version of H. Con. Res. 218

by a 57–40 vote.

The President on February 12 enacted PL 103–211, the first supplemental appropriations measure of FY 1994. The majority of the bill provides $10 billion in emergency aid to victims of the January 17 California earthquake. Some of this emergency aid, $66.6 million, was allocated specifically for repairs to the VA medical center at Sepulveda which was closed due to heavy quake damage. The money, which

remains available until spent, includes $45.6 million for repairs and $21 million to

treat the VAMC’s patients at other veterans hospitals.

The measure also contains $698 million for increased disability payments and

pension benefits, as well as $103.2 million for higher readjustment benefits. Finally,

the law transfers $2.5 million from VA medical care to medical administration, most

of which will be used to avoid layoffs at the Veterans Health Administration headquarters in Washington, DC. The money will cover the cost of a $500,000 contract

awarded to help VA plan for health-care reform.

In April, The American Legion expressed concern with the membership of the Bipartisan Entitlement Task Force, a group formed to examine ways to reduce federal

government entitlements and thereby reduce the deficit. The Legion was most concerned that none of the task force members, mainly drawn from congressional and

private business leaders, directly represented the veterans’ community. This oversight could have a tremendous effect on veterans appropriations over the next several years, and The American Legion requested that this oversight be remedied.

This year is also an election year, and there will be major changes in both the

House and Senate. Nine senators have announced their retirements from Congress,

while 49 representatives have either retired, resigned, are running for another office, or already lost primary elections. The retirement of Senate Majority Leader

George Mitchell (ME), has set off a leadership scramble in the Senate as well as

in the state of Maine. Both current House members which represent Maine have

declared their candidacy for Mitchell’s seat, which now opens both House seats. Fur-
393

ther, Senators Tom Daschle (D-SD) and Jim Sasser (D-TN) have begun lining up

votes for the leadership slot.

The death of Representative William Natcher of Kentucky (who chaired the House

Appropriations Committee), besides opening a seat in the House, resulted in the selection of Representative David Obey (WI) to become the new panel chairman. In

announcing their retirements, some senior House members of both parties will be

setting off major committee realignments of chairmanships and ranking minority

members. The House Veterans Affairs Committee will lose seven members, three of

whom currently serve as subcommittee chairmen.

Americanism/Children & Youth

The American Legion is continuing its campaign to have state legislatures pass

memorializing resolutions urging Congress to adopt a proposed constitutional

amendment. In February, Michigan joined the ranks of flag protectors, followed by

New Mexico, Nebraska, Maryland, New York, Arizona, Minnesota, Oklahoma and

North Carolina to bring the total number of states passing memorializing resolutions to 44. The Legion will continue its campaign to have all 50 states send memorializing resolutions for a flag protection amendment to Congress.

The American Legion has joined forces with the Citizens Flag Alliance, a broadbased, national organization formed to persuade Congress to pass a constitutional

amendment to protect the flag. The Citizens Flag Alliance has targeted the First

Session of the 104th Congress for passage of a narrowly drawn constitutional flag

protection amendment.

The Senate on March 24 passed H.R. 2659, a bill which contains authorizing legislation for a childhood immunization program which has been a major objective of

the White House. The immunization provisions would help insure that all children

in this country are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases by their second

birthday. It would also establish a national immunization tracking system and ensure continued operation of the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.

Both congressional chambers approved nearly identical funding amounts for the program, the House appropriating $463 million and the Senate providing $464 million.

Since the bill is different from the version originally passed by the House, a conference committee will be necessary to reconcile disagreements.

On July 22 the Senate by a voice vote passed H.R. 4603, the FY 1995 Departments of Commerce, Justice, State and the Judiciary funding measure. The Senate’s

version of the measure would provide about $600 million more than the House bill.

The Justice Department would receive a 26.5 percent increase in funding over FY

1994 for a total of $12.1 billion. Some of that money will go towards the hiring of

a projected 100,000 new police officers. The Immigration and Naturalization Service

(INS) will get $1.3 billion, $301 million over current year totals. Much of that funding will be used to hire 700 new Border Patrol agents.

In addition, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)

would receive $146.5 million from the House and $144 million from the Senate. If

signed into law, this would be the second year in a row in which OJJDP would receive substantial funding increases. Spending in FY 1993 totalled $77 million, and

FY 1994 programs were funded at $107 million. The American Legion has supported

the goals of OJJDP since it inception and will continue to support its various programs aimed at keeping this country’s children and youth crime-free.

Economics

On July 20 the Senate Appropriations Committee approved its version of H.R.

4606, the FY 1995 Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education spending measure, sending the bill to the full Senate for further action. The

House on June 29 had passed the measure by a 339–89 recorded vote.

The bill contains funding for the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Labor for

Veterans Employment and Training (ASVET). A total of $185.3 million would be

given to this office under the House version of H.R. 4606, which is $1.4 million less

than was appropriated in the current year. The Senate would appropriate $188 million, an increase of $1.3 million. The Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP)

would receive $83.6 million, nearly $600,000 less than FY 1994 funding. Under the

Senate’s version DVOP would be funded at $85 million, $800,000 more than current

year totals. In addition, the Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER)

program would receive $77.6 million, another $600,000 reduction over current year

amounts. The Senate would provide LVER with $78.8 million, an increase of nearly

$700,000 over FY 1994 amounts. The National Veterans Training Institute (NVTI)

would receive $2.9 million from both chambers, the same amount appropriated for
394

FY 1994. Finally, both chambers would fund Title IV–C of the Job Training Partnership Act at $8.9 million.

On June 27, the Veterans Employment Training Service (VETS) held a ceremony

to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the enactment of the Veterans Preference

Act. During the ceremony, Labor Secretary Robert Reich stated the Clinton Administration’s commitment to preserving veterans preference and VETS.

The American Legion and other veterans’ service organizations put those comments to the test late in July. In early June the Merit Systems Protection Board

(MSPB) ruled that a controversial 1992 restructuring of the U.S. Postal Service was

a reduction in force, or RIF. Under RIF law, seniority and veterans preference determines who can claim remaining jobs and who gets laid off during federal

downsizing. The Clinton Administration appealed that ruling on July 27, exactly

one month after the veterans preference anniversary ceremony.

Almost immediately, the Legion scored the White House for this hypocritical decision. On August 3, however, the Clinton Administration had reconsidered its position and announced it would drop the appeal.

The House on August 1 passed by voice vote two measures to several measures

which will benefit veterans. (These measures passed the House Veterans Affairs

Committee on July 21 by voice votes.) One bill, H.R. 4776, would require businesses

with federal contracts worth $10,000 or more to give preference in hiring and promotion to combat veterans. Federal contractors would also have to inform veterans

of job openings before announcing them to the public through local employment

agencies. The measure also requires that Vietnam veterans and women veterans be

included in the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ biennial survey of unemployment among

veterans.

Further, H.R. 4724 would expand eligibility for VA guaranteed home loans. The

bill would waive a requirement that reservists discharged for service-connected injuries have served at least six years to qualify for a VA loan. Spouses of reservists

killed on active duty would also qualify for loans.

There are over 600,000 homeless persons in America each night, approximately

250,000 of these are veterans. In May, the White House initiated a new program

entitled Priority: Home! This new program will direct the Departments of Health

and Human Services, Labor and Veterans Affairs to work together to provide relief

to the homeless problem. The program will also dramatically increase funding for

the McKinney Act to allow state and local governments and nonprofit groups increased funding to provide housing. On June 17, VA announced a Notice of Funds

Availability (NOFA) for its new Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program.

Under NOFA, $5.5 million will be available through the remainder of FY 1994.

Legislation introduced in this session, S. 2111, would promote increased competition throughout the communications industry, as well as an estimated 500,000 jobs

within the next two years. As part of a public relations campaign to foster support

for S 2111, National Commander Bruce Thiesen lent his support and that of The

American Legion to S. 2111.

FOREIGN RELATIONS

On February 2 President Clinton announced his intention to lift the 19-year economic embargo against Vietnam. The American Legion and other veterans’ organizations had met with the President in the days prior to his action, stating their opposition to his proposal. As there are still over 2,200 MIAs from the Vietnam War

unaccounted for, the President was advised not to lift the embargo against Vietnam

or to normalize relations with Vietnam until Hanoi provides the fullest possible accounting of American POW/MIAs.

There are still many POWs and MIAs from World War II, the Korean War and

the Vietnam War that are unaccounted for that need to be investigated and resolved. Until these long-overdue answers are found, The American Legion believes

the issue requires the continuing national visibility that can only be provided by a

presidential commission or a congressional oversight committee. Legislation has

been introduced in the House to create another select committee on POW/MIA affairs.

On August 4 the House by a 341–85 vote passed H.R. 4426, the FY 1995 foreign

aid funding measure. Final action by the Senate is expected. The bill would provide

$13.8 billion in overseas aid to a variety of programs benefitting many nations. That

figure represents a $250 million reduction from the administration’s request and almost $510 million less than was funded in FY 1994. The measure as passed by the

conferees was relatively free of earmarks, specific spending mandates intended to

funnel money to individual nations.
395

Some specific funding areas include: $220 million in debt relief for Jordan, which late in July ended its 46-year state of war with Israel; $850 million in aid to the

nations of the former Soviet Union; $365 million in loans to Turkey; $255 million

in loans to Greece; $3 billion in aid for Israel; and, $2.1 billion for Egypt. On March 24 the House by a vote of 315–110 passed S 349, legislation aimed at streamlining the lobbying reporting process. The measure would create a new independent agency to monitor lobbyists, require them to report to this agency every six

months, direct persons who lobby executive branch agencies to register, and prohibit

most gifts in excess of $20. Many House members, particularly freshman legislators,

complained that there were still too many loopholes in gift-giving for S 349 to work

effectively. There are many differences in the two versions of the bill, so a conference committee will be required to craft a version acceptable to both chambers.

Internal Affairs

After initial Senate passage in the First Session, S 469 has become stalled in the House of Representatives. The bill would authorize a commemorative coin to support construction and maintenance of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. Despite the

fact that a companion measure, HR 2467, has 222 cosponsors, that legislation is currently stalled in the House Banking Subcommittee on Consumer Credit and Insurance, chaired by Representative Joseph Kennedy (D-MA). It is likely that final action on this measure will occur in the 104th Congress. The Senate on June 22 passed by a 72–27 vote HR 4539, the FY 1995 Treasury- Postal Service funding measure. The House passed its version of the bill on June

15 by a 276–139 tally. The House version of the bill contained $85.7 million for revenue forgone postal subsidies, while the Senate-passed version funded the account at

$102.3 million. While this amount is a modest increase over the House version and

current year amounts (FY 1994 revenue forgone funding totalled $91.4 million), it

is still a far cry from the $470 million set aside for this account a mere two years

ago. Earlier this year, the U.S. Postal Service published new regulations to govern third-class rates for nonprofit mailers. Though PL 103–123 contained guidelines (the

so-called ‘‘Clay compromise’’) for USPS to follow in formulating these rules, the published regulations generally ignored congressional intent as contained in the law.

The Legion will continue to seek major nonprofit postal rate reform.

National Security

On July 29 the Senate Appropriations Committee completed action on HR 4650, the FY 1995 Department of Defense (DoD) funding bill, with spending totalling

$243.8 billion. The House passed its version of the measure on June 29 by a 330–

91 recorded vote. The House version contains a total of $243.6 billion for programs

related to this nation’s military, approximately $3 billion more than was funded in

the current fiscal year. The major provisions of the measure include: an FY 1995 active-duty force of 1.53 million personnel; $389 million to buy 60 additional Blackhawk troop-carrying helicopters; $217 million for the Marine Corps to buy 18 Cobra attack helicopters; $934

million for 24 additional F/A–18 fighters; $2.44 billion for continued development of

the F–22 for the Air Force; $2.45 billion for an additional nuclear-powered aircraft

carrier; $2.61 billion for three Aegis missile destroyers; $497 million to continue development of the V–22 Osprey aircraft for the Marines; $2.3 billion for continued

production and testing of the C–17 wide-body cargo jets; $2.75 billion for anti-missile defenses; and, $3.49 billion for economic conversion programs. Last year, the House attempted to cut the majority of funding proposed for the Selective Service System, but was thwarted by the Senate. On March 3, a report

was released by the Pentagon that stated that peacetime registration could be suspended ‘‘without irreparable damage to national security.’’ The report stopped short,

however, of a recommendation to abolish the system, and President Clinton said in

an accompanying letter that registration should continue pending further review by

the National Security Council. Funding for the Selective Service is included in H.R.

4624, the FY 1995 VA, HUD and Independent Agencies funding measure, totalling

$23 million.

The House by a 363–49 vote on June 16 and the Senate on July 21 by a 91–9 tally passed H.R. 4556, the Department of Transportation funding measure for FY

1995. This bill contains money for the U.S. Coast Guard, which would receive $3.7

billion for its various tasks including air-sea rescue, pollution fighting, drug interdiction and illegal alien interception. One of its missions can be clearly seen in the

Coast Guard’s participation in operations to intercept Haitian refugees. Each chamber gave slightly varying amounts to Coast Guard functions.
396

On June 15 the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee approved for Senate action H.R. 6, a bill to authorize for six years a number of elementary and secondary education programs. The measure was approved by the full House on March

24 by a recorded vote of 289–112. One of the components of H.R. 6 involves impact

aid. This is funding which would compensate localities for costs associated with educating children from families connected to large federal endeavors, such as military

bases. In many cases the demands on civilian facilities and teaching staffs met by

communities are overwhelming because of the added workload created by the dependent children of our nation’s service personnel.

After considerable debate in June and into July, both the House and Senate approved legislation which would shift receipt of military and federal civilian retirement COLAs to April, 1995. In a unique display of unity, federal civilian retirees

and military retirees worked together to avoid providing COLAs to one group of retirees at the expenses of the other. The bill will also add an additional $367 million

to the FY 1995 DoD funding measure for the COLAs. The COLAs will be funded

out of non-readiness accounts. Receipt of COLAs in 1996 and later years are yet to

be decided.

Efforts by the Legion have been consistent in both sessions of Congress to support

changes in legislation to allow military retirees to receive both retirement pay and

disability pay. Senator John McCain (R–AZ) introduced an initiative in the First

Session to allow concurrent receipt for 100 percent disabled veterans. Its implementation was predicated upon the ability of DoD to fund and support the requirement.

Those monies and DoD staff support failed to materialize.

Late in the current session, Senator McCain reintroduced his legislation with the

additional caveat that only 100 percent service-connected, 20-year military retirees

be allowed to receive concurrent receipt. An estimated 3500 individuals would be

affected, costing an estimated $55 million. A similar effort has been on-going in the

House since early 1993 contained in H.R. 65. This bill, however, proposes concurrent

receipt for all retirees. At the time of this writing, the McCain initiative is pending

debate in the Senate.

Budget cutting and deficit reduction activities continued to serve as the catalyst

for consideration of certain programs for cancellation. One of those was the Uniformed Services University of the Health Services (USUHS). This program, which

furnishes about 160 military doctors to the military services each year, costs an estimated $185 million each year. Initial efforts to close the facility began in mid-1993

with the issuance of Vice President Gore’s National Performance Review. Since that

time, several House and Senate measures, budget debates and cost cutting initiatives have been introduced to close USUHS. Thus far, compelling and unique international humanitarian catastrophes have supported retention of the facility.

Concern for budgetary expenditures also carried over into the world of science and

exploration as conducted by NASA. In late February the House Science, Space and

Technology Subcommittee on Space heard testimony in support of a strong national

space program. The Legion spoke in favor of the nation’s investment in exploration,

education, youth indoctrination programs and a dynamic aerospace program that

furthers U.S. national defense and economic security goals, as well as space science.

The Legion noted that if a ‘‘made in space’’ label could make a difference in the U.S.

economy, our organization would support it.

VETERANS AFFAIRS & REHABILITATION

The House on June 29 by a recorded vote of 344–84 passed H.R. 4624, the VA,

HUD and Independent Agencies spending bill for FY 1995. The Senate passed the

measure on August 4 by a vote of 86–9. Funding for VA was set at $37.3 billion

by the House, at $37.4 billion by the Senate. Some of the funding levels in major

accounts:

Account Fiscal year

1994

H.R. 4624

(House proposed)

H.R. 4624

(Senate proposed)

Compensation & pension (billions) ........................................................................ $17.53 $17.63 $17.63

Medical care (billions) ............................................................................................ 15.62 16.23 16.23

Readjustment benefits (billions) ............................................................................ 1.05 1.29 1.29

General operating expenses (millions) ................................................................... 827 888 893

Major/minor construction (millions) ....................................................................... 567 255 362

Prosthetic research (millions) ................................................................................. 252 252 252

National Cemetery System (millions) ..................................................................... 71 73 73
397

On May 4 President Clinton enacted P.L. 103–240, legislation which extends to National Guard and Reserve retirees who served 20 or more years the right to be

buried in national cemeteries. This right also includes dependents of those personnel. It is estimated that some 800-1000 new interments a year will result from the

enactment of this bill.

The President on July 1 enacted P.L. 103–271, which seeks to make the Board of Veterans Appeals more efficient. One of VA’s continuing problems is a huge backlog of pending claims which have increased from 377,000 in 1992 to a current level

of about 550,000. Many veterans going through the appeals process must sometimes

wait years for a decision. The law seeks to change BVA procedures by reducing from

three to one the number of members needed to adjudicate a claim. One of the provisions of H.R. 949 (see Economics section of First Session review above), which was approved by the House on September 21, 1993 and currently

awaits Senate action, would help states pay for establishing, expanding or improving veterans’ cemeteries by increasing the federal matching share in VA grants from

50 percent to 65 percent per plot. Under current regulations, these grants are only

available to wartime veterans. Further, VA would pay each state $150 for each veteran interred in a state veterans’ cemetery who would also have been eligible for

burial in a national cemetery. During the First Session, the House passed a bill, H.R. 3313, which would expand VA health care to veterans suffering from exposure to Agent Orange and ionizing

radiation. It would also expand existing VA medical care for women veterans. On

June 8 of this year, the Senate passed its version of the bill by substituting language of a similar measure (S. 1626) for the House legislation. The bill now goes

back to the House for either its approval or to a conference committee.

The Senate and the House, on March 1 and 17 respectively, defeated proposed leg- islation that would have required the federal government to have a balanced budget

by the year 2001. In the Senate, the vote was 63–37 in favor of Senate Joint Resolution 41; the House tally was 271–153 in favor of House Joint Resolution 103. However, as a two-thirds majority in each chamber was needed to pass the bills (67 in

the Senate and 283 in the House), the measures were defeated.

Passage of the amendment would have required the federal government to make deep, across-the-board cuts in all federal programs, including VA. These cuts would

be in addition to personnel cuts proposed in the Clinton administration’s FY 1995

budget. According to VA Secretary Jesse Brown, VA would have to make do with

approximately $4.2 billion less in the upcoming fiscal year. This would have translated into the loss of nearly 4,000 health care workers and 622 benefits claims personnel, losses which VA cannot afford to absorb. It is ironic that President Clinton’s

health-care reform proposal includes VA in the mix, but that his Office of Management and Budget would take away the funds which would allow VA to be competitive in attracting patients to the VA system.

On March 24 the Senate approved, by a voice vote, two measures to make changes

to veterans’ benefits. The first, S. 1226, would expand the current mandate for VA’s

Vet Centers program, which provides counseling and other services to veterans of

the Vietnam War and post-Vietnam conflicts. Under this bill, these Centers would

be directed to serve all combat veterans, including those of World War II and Korea.

It would also authorize a two-year pilot program to provide limited health-care services, such as blood pressure screening and other medical tests, at Vet Centers. An

amendment was added to S. 1226 to allow family members of former POWs to receive counseling at Vet Centers.

A second measure, S. 1512, would establish a VA pilot program for research into

and treatment of mental health disorders of veterans. It would also establish five

centers for mental health research in appropriate areas throughout the country. The

bill would authorize $3.1 million in FY 1994 for the program, and $6.3 million each

year between FY 1995 through 1997.

On April 14 the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee approved several pieces of

legislation for further action by the full Senate. Among those bills were:

S. 1908, which would ease the rules governing lawsuits by veterans who claim

to be suffering from radiation exposure contracted during military service. It

would also authorize the Administrative Conference of the U.S. to conduct a

study on the effectiveness of VA’s adjudication and appeals system.

S. 1626, which would allow a veteran to apply for a second VA guaranteed

home loan before disposing of a home purchased with a first VA loan. This is

intended to help veterans who, through divorce or job transfer, must buy a new

home before selling their existing residence.

On April 28 by a vote of 282–118, the House approved H.R. 4013, a bill to exempt

VA from personnel reductions planned by the Clinton administration. The administration wants to trim 252,000 full-time positions from the federal work force. Under
398

that plan, VA would have to reduce its staff at the Veterans Health Administration

by 25,000 over the next five years, with almost 4000 positions slated for elimination

in FY 1995.

However, the President’s plan to overhaul America’s health-care system requires

VA to compete with private medical providers for patients. The American Legion

has argued that the personnel reductions directly conflict with VA’s new health-care

mission of offering a wider and better range of services to attract patients.

The bill would also authorize VA to establish pilot programs that will enable the

department to work with up to five states that are revising their health-care systems. These programs would allow VA to restructure its local medical system to fit

within a state’s new health-care structure. Another provision of the bill would require each VA facility participating in the pilot program to form a committee made

up of veterans and others to advise managers on the changes being made.

The Senate on June 8 approved an amended version of H.R. 4013 (substituting

S. 1974 for the original House language) which excludes the VA personnel exemption. The bill must now be reconciled in a conference committee before it can become

law.

The House on August 8 passed by unanimous consent H.R. 4088, a bill which

would provide veterans’ disability compensation and survivors’ benefits recipients

with a cost-of-living adjustment equal to Social Security recipients. The Congressional Budget Office has projected this amount will be 3 percent. The Senate on

May 4 passed by unanimous consent a similar bill, S. 1927.

On May 23 the House by a voice vote passed H.R. 4425. This bill would authorize

major medical construction projects for VA in FY 1995. The measure would authorize $343.8 million for construction and repair of VA medical facilities, with nine

projects receiving specific funding levels. The authorization level contained in this

bill is nearly three times as much as was requested by President Clinton in his

budget. Further, the bill would require VA to establish specific missions for each

health-care facility in order to allow for better use of future resources.

The House passed by a voice vote on June 13 H.R. 3013, a bill to establish a Center for Women Veterans in VA. The center’s director would report directly to the

VA Secretary and be responsible for the adoption and implementation of policies

and programs for women veterans, as well as conducting outreach activities.

On August 8 the House approved by unanimous consent the bill, H.R. 4386. Introduced by panel chairman ‘‘Sonny’’ Montgomery (D–MS), the measure would authorize VA compensation for Desert Storm veterans suffering from disabilities resulting

from service in the Middle East during the war.

This measure was a compromise version of Montgomery’s bill and H.R. 4540, a

bill introduced by Representative Lane Evans (D–IL), which would have given compensation to Gulf War veterans even if the causes for their ills were never discovered. A Senate companion, S. 2178, was introduced in that chamber by Senator Tom

Daschle (D–SD). A competing measure, S 2330, was introduced by Senate Veterans

Affairs Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller (D–WV).

This compensation would be provided in spite of the fact that VA is still unsure

about the exact causes of these veterans’ ailments. These compensation payments

would be available to Gulf War veterans for up to three years after the measure

becomes law. If after three years a cause is not discovered, the compensation payments would be extended for another three years. It would also authorize funds for

a study of the causes of ‘‘Gulf War Syndrome.’’

Also on July 21 the House Veterans Affairs Committee completed final action on

its portion of H.R. 3600, the health care reform package. The bill provides the necessary framework to allow VA to participate under national health care reform.

Under the measure, all veterans would have access to the system by electing to

enroll in a VA health plan. Service-connected and low-income veterans who choose

VA plans would be provided cost-free health care through a guaranteed funding

mechanism. (This provision goes a step beyond the administration’s version, which

does not give these two veteran categories an entitlement to health care.)

In addition, the bill would require the VA Secretary to offer a family plan option

for the dependents of veterans who enroll in VA health plans. The measure also

calls for a substantial investment fund of more than $4 billion over the next three

years to meet existing infrastructure needs and enable VA to better compete against

private insurers in the changing health care environment.

Prior to the committee markup, Chairman Montgomery had introduced separate

legislation, H.R. 3808, which would have given the VA secretary authority to make

changes in VA’s health-care delivery system to better serve this country’s veterans

and their families. The majority of the provisions of H.R. 3808 were included in the

portions of the administration’s bill which impacted upon VA.
399

After the committee markup, Chairman Montgomery said, ‘‘This has been the only

House committee to report health care reform legislation in a bipartisan manner.

We’ve succeeded because we kept sight of our primary objective—doing right by our

Nation’s veterans.’’

On August 1 the House gave voice approval to several measures to benefit veterans. These measures were passed by the House Veterans Affairs Committee on July

21 by a voice vote. One of these bills, H.R. 4768 would make minor changes to veterans’ education programs. One of those changes would allow veterans to receive education aid for courses taken from an institution outside the U.S., if the courses are

approved by the VA secretary.

NATIONAL SECURITY COMMISSION

ANTHONY G. JORDAN, Maine, Chairman

G. MICHAEL SCHLEE, Maryland, Director

As has been its custom since its inception, the National Security Commission has

attempted to remain informed, and to keep the membership of The American Legion

informed on the range of issues related to the defense of the United States in order

to recommend responsible national security policies to the governing bodies of The

American Legion. To accomplish this task, the Commission conducts regular meetings designed to provide members with current information from responsible government officials on timely issues concerning national security. One of these meetings

takes place in conjunction with the National Convention, two in conjunction with

meetings of the National Executive Committee, and the fourth is held during the

Washington Conference of The American Legion.

Mr. William O. Moore, Jr., (Kentucky) was Chairman of the National Security

Commission until October 1993. Mr. Anthony G. Jordan (Maine) was selected as

Commission Chairman at the Fall meetings of the National Executive Committee.

Pre-Convention Meetings

On Saturday, September 4, 1993, the National Security and Foreign Relations

Commissions convened a joint session to hear the scheduled Speaker’s Program.

Rear Admiral Irve C. Lemoyne, United States Navy, the Deputy Commander-inChief and Chief of Staff of the United States Special Operations Command, spoke

on Special Operations Forces. He highlighted the fact that with the collapse of communism in the former Soviet Union, the likelihood of increased and continued regional conflicts heightened the role and missions of Special Operations Forces. His

presentation was complete with videotapes and slide presentations.

The two Commissions then heard the Honorable Edwin Dorn, Assistant Secretary

of Defense (Personnel and Readiness) who emphasized that despite the deep

downsizing of the military, the President and the Secretary of Defense were strongly

committed to maintaining the readiness posture of Active, National Guard and Reserve Forces at high levels. The Bottom-Up-Review was nearly completed and was

to be made public.

Such presentations and other actions are part of The Commission’s Plan referred

to as Defense 2010. During the coming year, the Commission plans to participate

in a series of panel forums to address manpower issues and other issues related to

the Total Force Policy. These forums will be conducted in conjunction with the Association of the United States Army and the National Guard Association of the United

States at different sites throughout the country. The National Security Forums will

be conducted in light of the continued downsizing of the Armed Forces and to further implement American Legion mandates which historically have supported a

strong national defense.

Mr. William Danvers, the Special Assistant to the Ambassador-at-Large and Special Advisor to the Secretary of State for the newly Independent States spoke on

the future of U.S.-Russian relations.

That afternoon, the National Security Commission and its Standing Committees

conducted a comprehensive review of all resolutions assigned to the Convention

Committee on Security.

On September 5, 1993, many members of the National Security Commission attended the POW/MIA Update session and listened to excellent speakers address this

compelling issue.
400

National Executive Committee, October 20–21, 1993

An Executive Session of the National Security Commission met in the Circle Cen- ter Room (Lower Level) of the Hilton Hotel on October 18, 1993 to consider resolutions properly before it and to conduct other business. A total of 47 Commission

members and guests were in attendance. Nine resolutions were considered and five were recommended for adoption. Two

resolutions recommended for adoption, ‘‘The Retention of the Uniformed Services

University of the Health Sciences,’’ and ‘‘Retention of Full Federal Funding for the

United States Merchant Marine Academy,’’ address issues which are contained in

the Government’s Report of the National Performance Review, commonly referred to as ‘‘Reinventing the Government.’’ On October 18, 1993 the National Security Commission met in joint session to view several videotapes to include ‘‘From the Sea’’

and ‘‘Searching for Vietnam POW/MIAs.’’ The Department of Defense publication entitled ‘‘The Bottom-Up Review: Forces

For A New Era,’’ made available to the National Executive Committee, represents

the assessment of the strategy, force structures and funding levels required by the

end of the decade to enable the United States to fight and win two nearly simultaneous major regional conflicts on the order of the Korean and Persian Gulf Wars. Chairman William O. Moore, Jr.’s remarks to the National Executive Committee

follow:

‘‘Congress is nearing completion on the Fiscal Year 1994 Defense Budget, and the House and Senate versions fall somewhat short of the Administration’s proposed

budget of $263 billion. Several noteworthy features include military manpower,

which will be further reduced by 108,000; and, for the first time, the ban on women

serving on Navy warships will be lifted. The Congress also voted a 2.2 percent military pay raise which the Administration had proposed to freeze. After much Congressional debate, military retirees will receive a full but delayed COLA. After the Administration had proposed to lift the DOD ban on homosexuals serving in the Armed Forces, The American Legion vigorously supported the retention

of the ban and urged that it be codified into law. Although the Administration

reached a compromise position, the Congress wrote more restrictive language into

law to include the provision that the Secretary of Defense could reinstate questioning of recruits as to their sexual orientation if deemed necessary. It appears that

the issue will eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

As part of the Defense Budget process, the DOD completed its five-year defense

blueprint, known as ‘‘The Bottom-Up Review.’’ The selected strategy calls for the

military to fight and win two major regional conflicts on the order of the Korean

and Persian Gulf Wars nearly simultaneously. The National Security Commission

has real concerns with this strategy and whether the recommended force levels and

funding will enable the United States to achieve these objectives with reduced forces

and increased missions to include peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance.

Resolution 170, ‘‘Foreign Command of U.S. Forces,’’ was adopted at the 75th National Convention which stated that American lives could be placed in jeopardy unnecessarily if the United Nations, or foreign commanders, pursued policies contrary

to our national interests. With the recent American casualties sustained in Somalia,

including one U.S. soldier detained, National Commander Thiesen, in a letter addressed to the President, the Congress, and the Departments of Defense and State,

expressed the Legion’s view that immediate action must be taken on two vital issues: curtailing foreign command of U.S. military forces unless the Congress grants

specific approval, and providing protection for Americans captured by hostile, nongovernmental forces in undeclared wars. The letter concluded that the DOD has not

gotten the message on protecting American POW/MIAs.

Our service men and women who are captured by hostile forces need to know that

our Government will take whatever measures are necessary to secure their immediate release, including the use of force.

WASHINGTON CONFERENCE

The National Security Commission met in general session during the Washington

Conference on Monday, February 14 and Wednesday, February 16, 1994. The Commission was chaired by Mr. Anthony G. Jordan who had been appointed Chairman

in October 1993. Subjects covered during each session follow.

MORNING SESSION, FEBRUARY 14

The National Security Commission and Foreign Relations Commission met in

joint session. Dr. Ellen L. Frost, Counselor in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, spoke on ‘‘International Economics and National Security.’’ Two themes
401

are critically important: trade is good for America, despite the incorrect perception

that it loses jobs to foreigners, and open trade and investment policies are not a

one-way street—other countries must do their share. Half of America’s economic

growth comes from increasing exports, and seven million Americans work in export

industries. Completion of the Uruguay Round agreements to enhance the General

Agreement on Tariffs and Trade will provide a 37% reduction in tariffs, expand

trade rules to agriculture and services, strengthen protections for intellectual property and retain rights for unilateral U.S. action wherever necessary. Our trade deficit with Japan indicates structural problems and cultural barriers. The United

States will try to accelerate opening Japanese markets. Future trade negotiations

will involve environmental, labor and anti-trust standards.

The Honorable Deborah R. Lee, Assistant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs)

spoke on ‘‘The Future of the Total Force Policy.’’ Despite the ending of the Cold War,

the United States now faces a myriad of new threats which are far more perplexing,

complex and difficult to deal with than that posed by the former Soviet Union.

Under the Administration’s current military assessment, referred to as the BottomUp Review, the roles of the National Guard in their federal and state roles would

be considerably expanded. Under a restructuring agreement, the Army National

Guard and Army Reserves would be reduced by over 100,000 in the years ahead.

The Army National Guard would be composed of about 37 combat brigades, of which

15 would be at enhanced readiness levels to supplement active forces in the event

the United States had to fight a nearly simultaneous second major regional conflict.

The Army Reserves would be comprised mainly of combat support and combat service support units. This would entail transferring some Reserve combat units to the

National Guard. Additionally, the Air Force Reserves would be receiving the B–1

and B–52 bombers, the Navy Reserves would be manning an aircraft carrier, and

the Marine Reserves would have a major reinforcement mission. The Reserve components need to attract recruits of the highest caliber. The Department of Defense

is reviewing the adequacy of the current call-up authority, looking at ways to compensate Reservists who volunteered for peacekeeping missions in Somalia and

Bosnia, examining possible tax incentives for Reservists, and providing more adequate medical care for Reservists who became injured during the first 30 days of

activated service.

Mr. Larry Napper, Director, Office of Independent States and Commonwealth Affairs, Department of State, discussed ‘‘Developments in the Former Soviet Union.’’

If the United States remains engaged and persistent in negotiations, we can accomplish great steps toward a safer world. The revolution that swept aside the Soviet

Union brought real benefits to the United States by ending the Cold War confrontation, saving funds through military reductions and expanding nuclear non-proliferation agreements. The United States seeks a strategic alliance with successor states

for reforms leading to democracy, market economics and moderate foreign policies.

Although the December 1992 elections were a setback to reform parties, they were

positive since they were fairly conducted and brought into being a new constitution

with strong executive powers. Economic reform has made considerable progress and

90% of all goods are free of government controls, 45% of all property has been

privatized and 33% of all workers are in the private sector. The Clinton-Yeltsin

summit was positive in that it included signing an agreement exchanging Russian

recognition of Ukraine for dismantlement of Ukraine’s nuclear weapons. However,

President Clinton informed President Yeltsin that Russia’s integration into the

world community depends on respecting the rights of neighboring states and that

the United States does not recognize any special Russian rights in them. Positive

results have been achieved by the joint POW/MIA commission and further progress

is expected.

AFTERNOON SESSION, FEBRUARY 14

The National Security and Foreign Relations Commissions met in joint session to

attend the POW/MIA Update presented by the POW/MIA Committee and presided

over by Chairman Robert S. Turner of that body.

Mr. Al Santoli, journalist and author, spoke on ‘‘Honor Before Trade: What Needs

to be Done.’’ Lifting the economic embargo against Vietnam has removed all excuses

for the Administration not getting the fullest possible cooperation. Current investigations in Vietnam by Joint Task Force Full Accounting have many problems and

are being conducted by unqualified personnel. The U.S. Government should permit

the American public to have access to the resolution of each POW/MIA case and the

reason for closure, declassify all relevant National Security Agency files, establish

an oversight commission of non-biased experts to review all POW/MIA case files, put

an end to ‘‘stonewalling’’ families and activists, hold U.S. officials personally liable
402

for keeping faith with POW/MIAs and enact a law providing POW/MIA families the

right to file court appeals to status determinations on the cases of their loved ones.

The American Legion should support such legislation, support establishment of the

oversight commission, continue submitting Freedom of Information Act requests and

work with intelligence experts to refine them and support a congressional probe of

what happened to Senator Smith’s criminal allegations against some U.S. Government officials.

Mr. Kent Wiedemann, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for

Asian Affairs, National Security Council, discussed ‘‘The U.S. Government POW/

MIA Program.’’ We agree with much of what The American Legion has to say on

the POW/MIA issue, but there is some disagreement. All Americans need the truth.

The argument is over how to find the truth. The President is committed to achieving

the truth. He campaigned on that, has worked on that and it is a sacred trust. Lifting the embargo is a step along the way to the fullest possible accounting. Without

the help of Vietnam, we will get nothing done. Therefore, when they provide help

we can feel, touch or count, we must reward them. We did not lift the embargo to

make bucks. Secretary of Commerce Brown was not present at any meetings about

the embargo; it was not an economic issue. We lifted the embargo to be sure that

we could continue to get access in Vietnam.

Dr. George A. Carver, Jr., Senior Fellow, Center for Strategic and International

Studies, addressed the topic ‘‘Did All American POWs Return During Operation

Homecoming?’’ Through defectors and other means, in 1973 we knew Vietnam kept

back about 300 POWs during Operation Homecoming. But, in the anti-war atmosphere of 1973 in Congress and the media, it was impossible to use military force

to go after the POW/MIAs. After Operation Homecoming, the government line became ‘‘They have all come home. Let’s close the door and put it behind us.’’ Other

sources showing Americans were left behind include the Soviet 1205 and 735 reports, which are consistent with two major defectors and communications intercepts.

U.S. searches now in Vietnam are focused on returning remains. Instead, they

should work on the last known alive cases. Regarding the argument that Vietnam

will only cooperate if we lift the embargo, remember they followed the same tactics

during the war of demanding much and giving little. Essentially, Hanoi believes

‘‘Why pay a price for something you can get for free?’’ We gave them what they want

for what they did not do. We are witnessing an unseemly rush for illusory profits.

We must remember Vietnam and North Korea are the only Stalinist states left in

the world. Now that we have lifted the embargo, Vietnam has no further incentive

to cooperate. Until we learn the fate of the approximately 300 POWs we left in Vietnam, we cannot put the war behind us.

Mr. Bill Bell, former U.S. Government POW/MIA investigator, spoke on ‘‘U.S.

Government POW/MIA Investigations.’’ Vietnam continually deals in duplicity and

manipulation on the POW/MIA issue. Vietnam has most of the answers we need,

even in Laos where over 90% of our losses were in Vietnamese-controlled areas. At

this date, there are only 21 live sighting reports that remain open and under investigation. Twelve of them pertain to captive-like settings. About 120 formerly active

reports were closed out in 1992–1993, mostly by an individual who was teaching Arabic at the U.S. Air Force Academy and then was transferred to Vietnam to head

the Hanoi Office of Joint Task Force Full Accounting. In terms of remains, we know

with certainty Hanoi has more remains. The mortician who defected in 1978 with

personal knowledge of 400 warehoused remains was telling the truth, as verified by

several follow-up investigations. Regarding documents, of those received only one

percent pertain to American POWs. Furthermore, the photos obtained recently actually had already been obtained at a cost of $1 in 1981 by German journalists. Vietnam still has plenty of documents we need. Live sighting report investigations are

ineffective. We must apply far in advance for permission to proceed. When we arrive

on site, the records for the periods of interest to us are always missing. Investigations are done hastily without access to uncorrelated reports that are necessary if

a good job is to be done. All pilot distress signals have been debunked as being natural phenomena, being manmade or being too irregular. Actually, pilots are trained

to make them irregular so the enemy cannot read them from the ground. Most investigations and closures of discrepancy cases are poorly done. So far, 123 have been

removed from the list, mostly in a ‘‘pending’’ status, i.e., awaiting further information.

MORNING SESSION, FEBRUARY 16

The National Security Commission conducted its business meeting, including consideration of two resolutions which were recommended for adoption at the Spring

meeting of the National Security Commission. The Law and Order Chairman pro-
403

posed that his Committee develop a strong resolution on combating crime in the

United States and Commission members expressed their concurrence. The Commission Chairman mentioned that the staff was making progress in preparation of an

American Legion ‘‘Blue Book’’ on National Security and that plans were being finalized for the conduct of a National Security Forum to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 4, 1994 in conjunction with the Association of the United States and

the National Guard Association of the United States. This was to be the first of several Forums planned in 1994, and its purpose was to inform the American public

on national security issues as contained in the Bottom-Up Review.

National Executive Committee May 4–5, 1994

An Executive Session of the National Security Commission met on May 2, 1994 in the lower level of the Ramada Plaza Hotel to consider resolutions properly before

it and to discuss other business. On May 3, 1994, the Commission met in joint session with the Foreign Relations Commission to review the following videotapes:

‘‘Army—Count on Us;’’ a 30-minute excerpt of the ‘‘National Security Forum—Indianapolis’’ videotape; and an excerpt on the ‘‘United Nations,’’ produced by the Foreign Policy Association. Eight resolutions were considered by the National Security Commission. Four res- olutions were recommended for adoption, including the capstone resolution entitled,

‘‘National Security for the Future.′′ The Commission heard from Law and Order Chairman Dudley Robbins who dis- cussed his proposed resolution on combating crime in America which would be considered at the National Convention. Chairman Robbins also reported on the program status of the Junior Law Cadet program and other Law and Order Committee

items. Commission Chairman Jordan led discussions dealing with future National

Security Forums; the status of the National Security ‘‘Blue Book;’’ Pre-convention

trip planning; and reviewed a Congressional Committee proposal for The American

Legion to consider supporting the Army’s funding of the School of the Americas.

Chairman Anthony G. Jordan’s remarks follow: ‘‘The American Legion appeared before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense on April 14, 1994 to express its concerns about Fiscal Year 1995 Defense

appropriations. The Fiscal Year 1995 Defense Budget represents the first installment of this Administration’s five-year assessment known as the Bottom-Up Review. In response to the current unpredictability of the world situation, The American Legion strongly recommended that the military drawdown be placed on hold

until the Bottom-Up Review had been thoroughly analyzed and America’s true defense needs were more realistically assessed. The American Legion, in conjunction with the Association of the United States Army and the National Guard Association of the United States, held its first National Security Forum in Indianapolis on March 4, 1994. The Forum, entitled ‘‘National Defense in an Uncertain World,’’ featured a panel of retired senior military

officers and heard from Mr. David Ochmank, who defended the Bottom-Up Review

as a reasoned response to an unstable world, as well as Congressman Steve Buyer

from Indiana and others. The consensus of the Forum was that the United States’

national military assessment does not adequately match its proposed strategy for

our military to fight and win two nearly simultaneous major regional conflicts with

its resources, and the result could be counted in American lives lost unnecessarily

in future conflicts.

General John W. Foss, USA (Retired), stated that ‘‘there are too many assump- tions in the Bottom-Up Review and we feel many of these assumptions are flawed.’’

He added that ‘‘the good news is that the United States Army is still the best Army

in the world; the bad news is that it is only the eighth largest in the world.′′ The American Legion’s Policy Coordination and Action Group (PCAG) met on April 12–13, 1994 in Washington, D.C. During that conference, American Legion

Corporate Strategic Goal No. 8, which contains the plan to implement a comprehensive program to support a strong National Defense, was briefed and discussed. As

a result of that conference, your National Security Commission developed the resolution, ‘‘National Security for the Future,’’ which you will consider. This resolution

incorporates our recommended proposals and principles which we in the Commission believe should be incorporated into the Government’s emerging National Military Strategy. I strongly urge its adoption.’’

National Security-Foreign Relations Division

Responsibility for the daily conduct of the extensive work of The American Legion

in defense and foreign policy is assigned to the National Security-Foreign Relations

Division located in the Washington, D.C. office. The staff of the Division consists of:
404

G. Michael Schlee, Director; Harry E.B. Sullivan, Deputy Director; Dennis M.

Duggan, Assistant Director; Denise R. Wilkins, Executive Secretary to the Director;

and Cheryl L. Henson, Secretary. During the year, the combined Division has endeavored to not only fulfill its re- sponsibility to implement the mandates and policies of The American Legion relating to national defense and foreign affairs, but to constantly expand and improve

the ways and means of projecting our interest in these two important areas. The

duties have consisted of answering correspondence and telephone inquiries; maintaining liaison with the Departments of Defense, Energy, State, Army, Navy, Air

Force, Marine Corps, and Transportation (Coast Guard); the Selective Service System, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency,

and the American Red Cross. These contacts related to a variety of matters, some

of which involved members of the armed forces.

Liaison also is maintained with a host of military and quasi-military organiza- tions with whom common goals are shared. Among these are: Reserve Officers Association; Air Force Association; The Retired Officers Association, Association of the

U.S. Army; and the National Guard Association of the United States. Most importantly, the National Security-Foreign Relations Division provides a steady flow of

information on defense matters to members of both commissions and the leadership

at all levels of our organization. Writing and delivering speeches, preparing reports

and testimony, is also a duty of the staff. Additionally, promotional material is prepared and distributed to support the five national programs in the national security

field.

Continual use is made of all American Legion national publications, such as ‘‘The Dispatch’’, ‘‘The American Legion Magazine’’ and the ‘‘American Legion News Service’’, the principal means for distribution of factual information and program support

in the fields of national defense and foreign affairs.

Committee Reports

The following reports, received with grateful appreciation, were prepared under the leadership and guidance of the following Committee and Council Chairmen:

Robert C. Gabrielson—Aerospace; Frank J. D’Amico—Defense Civil Preparedness;

W. Dudley Robbins—Law and Order; Charles F. Moreland—Merchant Marine; Norbert G. Harmeyer—Military Affairs; Wilson R. Timmons—National Security Council; and John J. Wrenn—Naval Affairs.

AEROSPACE COMMITTEE

ROBERT C. GABRIELSON, South Dakota, Chairman

During the past year, the Aerospace Committee continued its efforts to ensure that the United States does not become a second-rate power in modern air power

or advanced aerospace technology. The authority for the Committee’s efforts are the

resolutions adopted at the 74th and 75th National Conventions. The effort to implement these positions required both administrative and legislative activities.

Legislative Activities.—Implementation of these policies necessitates correspondence and testimony to the Armed Services and Appropriations Committees of both

the Senate and House in coordination with our Legislative Division. In addition to

correspondence, principal presentations were before the House and Senate Defense

Appropriations Subcommittees. Testimony and resolutions on aerospace were presented to the Subcommittee in their consideration of Fiscal Year 1995 defense appropriations bills. Of particular emphasis was support of the National Space program and adequate provision for Operations and Maintenance funding, the military

health care system, research and development, strategic airlift, and the new F-22

tactical fighter.

Civil Air Patrol.—Pursuant to Resolution 14, adopted by the Denver National

Convention, appropriate certificates have been prepared for Departments to recognize the outstanding CAP squadrons in their States. All Department Adjutants have

been notified of the availability of the certificates and many requests have been received during this reporting period.

Aerospace Developments.—The Persian Gulf War provided the dramatic illustration that stealth technology, namely, the F–117 works and works well, which reinforces our need for continued production of the B–2 stealth bomber. Although the

airlift fleet of C–41, C–5 and CRAF aircraft performed admirably, the air deployment of troops and cargo could have been enhanced with the employment of C–17

aircraft. The American Legion is highly supportive of continued production of the

B–2 bomber, C–17 transport aircraft and development of the F–22 fighter.
405

DEFENSE CIVIL PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE

FRANK J. D’AMICO, New York, Chairman

The American Legion continues to advocate adequate staffing, adequate budgeting and adequate technical and research support for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In an era when Russian civil defense efforts are far greater

than those of the United States, it becomes imperative that planning for emergencies to include a nuclear exchange be enhanced. Disaster Relief Assistance.—At the Fall 1989 meeting of the National Executive Committee, Resolution 37 was adopted which called for improvements on the part

of FEMA with regard to the Hurricane Hugo and California Earthquake disasters.

Both the Commission and Committee Chairmen presented oral reports and an interim written report to the NEC at the Spring 1990 meeting. Based on these reports, recommendations for improvements in FEMA’s responsiveness to major natural disasters were consolidated into Resolution 18 which was adopted by the NEC

at its October 1990 meetings. The following recommendations were discussed with FEMA authorities and im- provements appear to be progressing: The entire FEMA mission and its capability to coordinate and execute its disaster relief assistance roles should be reviewed by the Executive Branch and appropriate

subcommittees of Congress in order to assure prompt, effective disaster relief. Particular attention should be given to determining whether FEMA’s major priority

should be civil defense or natural disaster relief.

Full manning of FEMA, from its top leadership positions to its field staff should be a high government priority. Statutes and regulatory requirements should be assessed so as not to preclude or reduce the availability of trained and experienced

personnel such as military retirees to assist in disaster relief. FEMA should consider expanding the role of the military in disaster relief with an eye toward its greater participation in on-site assessments, victim registration,

and other areas.

The National Emergency Training Facility should be fully operational and its emergency management curriculum and attendance quotas expanded so as to include greater emphasis on natural disaster assistance FEMA should streamline its registration and application procedures so as to expe- dite assistance to disaster victims. FEMA should also enhance its planning and coordination with state, local and military officials for disaster relief assistance and

conduct realistic, effective disaster relief exercises.

Finally, it was recommended that in coordination with its Departments, The American Legion National Organization should review the capabilities of its Posts

to render assistance in disaster relief as prescribed in its Disaster Relief Understanding Between The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and The

American Red Cross; and the Study Group strongly urges the participation in, and

continuation of, The American Legion National Emergency Fund. Finally, the Defense Civil Preparedness Committee, under direction of the National Security Commission should continue to review and monitor the progress and After-Action Reports of FEMA as well as legislation affecting disaster relief assistance. In 1992–

1993, 1,474 Posts were working with the American Red Cross in disaster relief programs, up from 1,309 in 1990–91. Family Protection Program.—At its 73rd National Convention, The American Legion adopted Resolution 288, which encourages Departments, Posts and Auxiliary

Units to incorporate FEMA’s Family Protection Plans at the family, neighborhood

and community levels. The Family Protection Program is based on the understanding that Americans share responsibility for their own protection, and that no government or private-sector capability can replace the need for an informed and prepared citizenry.

Energy.—War in the Persian Gulf has refocused the attention of The American

Legion on America’s continued reliance on foreign sources of energy. Unquestionably, Iraq’s seizure of Kuwait and the imminent threat to Saudi Arabia endangered

our national security interests and economic well-being.

Energy and conservation issues had been at various times assigned to the Economics or Internal Affairs Commissions of The American Legion. The energy crisis

in 1973 prompted a series of energy-oriented resolutions in the mid-1980s which addressed, primarily, energy recovery and conservation. At its Fall meetings in 1989,

the National Executive Committee mandated that the Chairman of the National Security Commission annually appoint a Subcommittee on the Conservation of Natural Resources, which included energy issues. Over 900 American Legion posts have

appointed Energy Chairmen.
406

The American Legion at its 73rd National Convention adopted a comprehensive

National Energy Strategy resolution which collectively addressed energy conservation and efficiency, energy recovery and development, and alternative sources of energy and included proposed incentives such as individual and corporate tax credits

for energy recovery, conversion, etc. Many of these recommendations were incorporated in the National Energy Act. The American Legion has also been supportive

of opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge area for oil exploration, while remaining sensitive to environmental concerns.

Blood Donor Activities.—The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary

continue to be principal sources of supply for blood. Through our vast network of

Posts and Units organized into Department programs, Legionnaires and Auxiliary

members through a variety of programs continue to supply the blood needs of their

own members, hospitalized veterans and through cooperative agreements, to patients in civilian hospitals. In this past year, the program has continued to grow.

During 1992–93, a total of 108,076 pints of blood were donated by 54,539 American

Legion donors.

National Commander Awards.—To stimulate activities on the part of Departments and Posts, annual awards are made by the National Commander. During the

period from July 1, 1993 through June 15, 1994, many Departments of The American Legion actively participated in the Blood Donor program. The criteria for the

National Commander’s Awards for Post and individual participation was based on

Resolution 14, adopted at the Spring meeting, May 1–9, 1985 of the National Executive Committee. The resolution provides that Departments be placed in categories

based on the size of the Department, using criteria established by the Membership

and Post Activities Committee. The winners for the 1993–94 Blood Donor Program

are:

Category I—(more than 100,000 members)—Post and Individual Participation: Illinois.

Category II—(70,000 to 99,999 members)—Post and Individual participation:

Wisconsin.

Category III—(40,000 to 69,999 members)—Post and Individual participation:

Nebraska.

Category IV—(25,000 to 39,999 members)—Post and Individual participation:

Tennessee.

Category V—(10,000 to 24,999 members)—Post and Individual participation:

Rhode Island.

Category VI—(less than 10,000 members)—Post and Individual participation:

Delaware.

Each winning Department will receive a certificate of recognition signed by National Commander Bruce Thiesen and National Adjutant Robert W. Spanogle.

Holiday Blood Drive.—During the 1994 Holiday Season, American Legionnaires

and members of the Auxiliary will be urged to give a gift of life—blood. For the past

several Christmas seasons, demands for blood were exceptionally high while supplies were so critical that only emergency operations could be performed. Numerous

Departments and Posts have actively publicized the ‘‘Holiday Blood Drive,’’ noting

that this was opportunity to establish closer ties with the community.

Plans are in place to conduct a blood drive at the 76th National Convention of

The American Legion in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The American Blood Commission. During this past year, The American Legion

has continued its participation as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Blood Commission. Established in 1975, the American Blood Commission is

comprised of national organizations whose goal is the implementation of the National Blood Policy.

The American Blood Commission has been particularly valuable in disseminating

information on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). This disease and its

effect on the blood supply will be carefully monitored.

LAW AND ORDER COMMITTEE

W. DUDLEY ROBBINS, North Carolina, Chairman

The Law and Order Committee continued this year to emphasize crime prevention

by promoting the distribution of the Crime Prevention booklet across the nation. Liaison was maintained with the National Crime Prevention Coalition in order to

keep the committee up-to-date on the latest developments in the field of crime prevention.
407

American Legion Departments, Posts and individual citizens have been overwhelmingly responsive to the Legion’s Crime Prevention program. Requests for our

booklet have come from state and local law enforcement officials; from senior citizen

groups; from libraries; and from school children. This program is viable, ongoing and

important to our National interest. The Law and Order Committee will continue to

promote our goals in this area. Over 1,323 Posts had crime resistance programs in

1992–93.

Fire Protection/Prevention.—The National Executive Committee authorized the

beginning of an American Legion Fire Protection and Prevention program. An information booklet on this subject was published in the Spring of 1986, and was the

basis of a slide show production. Over 1,404 Posts had Fire Prevention programs

in 1992–93.

Junior Law Cadet Program. The American Legion, in its efforts to better educate

our young people in regard to laws which govern our society, and the agencies which

enforce those laws, has developed several programs which feature law enforcement

training. Fourteen Departments, in cooperation with state law enforcement agencies, sponsored youth programs designed to acquaint the participants with methods

of basic law enforcement. These high school students actually spend time with state

troopers, at the various police academies, learning about such diverse subjects as

traffic law, police ethics, traffic control, unlawful drugs, court procedures and the

responsibility of citizenship.

Our coloring poster, ‘‘Your Friend—the Policeman,’’ continues to be a successful

program. Well over 40,000 copies have been distributed to elementary school teachers and members of the American Legion Auxiliary.

MERCHANT MARINE COMMITTEE

CHARLES F. MORELAND, Florida, Chairman

Since its founding, The American Legion has realized the importance of a strong

American merchant marine and the indispensable role of this ‘‘fourth arm of defense.’’ Today, the ever increasing dependence of the U.S. economy on raw materials

from Third World countries and overseas areas demand renewed efforts to build up

our merchant fleet.

The privately owned, deep-draft fleet of the U.S. merchant marine totaled 444

vessels with a carrying capacity of about 20 million deadweight tons (dwt) according

to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration. The total comprised 367 ocean-going ships and 77 Great Lakes vessels.

Compared with December 1, 1992 totals, the number of ships in the U.S. oceangoing fleet decreased by 8 vessels and the fleet’s carrying capacity decreased by approximately 1,528,600 deadweight tons.

As of December 1, 1993, there was one new large commercial ship under construction.

Retaining American merchant marine independence in supplying our economy

and the added demands of military sealift, spurred this Committee’s support for expanding our fourth arm of defense during the past year. Our effort to inform our

membership, the general public and the Congress of our views were guided by resolutions which were unanimously adopted by the 74th National Convention.

Maritime Power.—Throughout our history, maritime power has been a key element in the growth and strength of America. Moreover, the new sealift demands of

the United States make the fourth arm of defense even more imperative in our strategic planning. We must rebuild our merchant marine if we are to maintain free

use of the seas in the face of potential challenges presented by regional conflicts.

The changes in National Maritime Policy which were implemented by the Reagan

Administration have been noted. The Merchant Marine Committee intends to monitor these policy changes as they are implemented to ensure that the United States

Merchant Marine is once again pre-eminent on the seas.

In order to satisfy sealift requirements during the Persian Gulf War, the Military

Sealift Command had to employ considerable foreign-flagged ships and activated

some 45 older ships from the Ready Reserve Fleet. The American Legion strongly

advocates the immediate development of both sealift ships and amphibious shipping

so as to enhance the rapid deployment and sustainment of U.S. forces when committed abroad.
408

MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

NORBERT G. HARMEYER, Iowa, Chairman

During the year, your Military Affairs Committee has directed its major efforts toward maintaining a strong and modern United States armed forces, second to

none in the world. We believe the times deserve no less. Our activities have been

guided by the resolutions adopted by the 74th & 75th National Convention and subsequent National Executive Committee action. Wide dissemination was given those

resolutions to Congressional, government, military and industry leaders to inform

them of our mandates for supporting a strong and modern military forces to include

the Reserve Components. Bound volumes of the resolutions were presented to the

President, Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Maintaining a strong national defense was designated as a legislative priority by the National Commander.

Press Conference/Legislative Activities.—The staff has kept up-to-date by attend- ing press conferences on various subjects of interest, including the press conferences

sponsored by the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation (Coast

Guard) and several Congressional press conferences. Through the Legislative Division, correspondence with Members of Congress and Congressional staff was initiated and followed through in other areas as follows: Homosexuals in the Armed Forces; commissaries and military health care; military pay

and allowances; and military quality of life incentives, including career stability and

transitional benefits. Additionally, testimony was presented before the House and

Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense in support of needed weapons systems and continued modernization of the Armed Forces. Emphasis was placed on

maintaining the force structures of the Armed Forces in the face of proposed Congressional reductions.

Based on the drastic reduction of military manpower and our Defense industrial

base, The American Legion adopted resolutions which urge the retention of viable

military manpower levels and the preservation of our Defense industrial base so as

to assure our rapid response capabilities to national emergencies.

Defense Appropriations Testimony, April 14, 1994

Mr. Chairman, The American Legion is pleased to appear before this Subcommittee to express its concerns about FY 1995 defense appropriations. We as a nation

are undergoing the largest military downsizing since World War II and, frankly, it

may take years for a clear picture of the new world to emerge. In the short run

and into the 21st Century, we in The American Legion, the nation’s largest organization of wartime veterans, know only too well what can happen when diplomacy

and deterrence fail. We strongly urge the President and the Congress to uphold

their constitutional responsibilities to provide for the ‘‘common defense’’ of the

American people in a highly uncertain world. As our elected representatives, it is

you who must ultimately decide just how adequate our national defense should be.

The universal threat posed by communism and the Soviet Union no longer exists.

Instead, the United States is faced with a myriad of threats and challenges which

are far more perplexing, complex and difficult to deal with than was the more predictable and unified threat posed by the former Soviet Union. Serious regional

threats loom on the Far Eastern and Eurasian horizons to include that of North

Korea and the People’s Republic of China with their large standing Armies equipped

with missiles and nuclear capabilities. A resurgent nuclear Russia is moving toward

a more aggressive foreign policy; a defiant Iraq and Iran, both of which are within

close proximity to vital oil reserves in the Persian Gulf will continue to be potential

threats which require monitoring. Additionally, the United States faces the non-traditional threats of continuing nuclear proliferation, development of chemical and biological warfare weapons, and the challenges posed by international terrorism, fundamentalist religious and ethnic movements and drug cartels, none of which operate

within the basic rules of international law.

The American Legion has always adhered to the principle that our nation’s armed

forces must be well-manned and equipped, not to pursue war, but to preserve and

protect the hard-earned peace. The American Legion strongly believes that the current military downsizing is based more on budget targets and budget deficit reduction than on current and foreseeable threats to the national security well-being of

the American people and America’s vital interests. To echo your own sentiments,

Mr. Chairman, we are convinced that the United States is rapidly returning to the

days of the ‘‘hollow forces.’’ As wartime veterans, we know that once Army divisions,

Naval carrier battle groups, and Air Force fighter wings are cut from the force
409

structure, they cannot be rapidly reconstituted without the costly expenditures of

time, money, and human lives. We have paid the price of being wrong before in our

past. It is far cheaper in the long run, and far safer, to pay the price that readiness

requires. If we err, it is far better to err on the side of preserving robust forces to

protect America’s interests.

The Fiscal Year 1995 Defense Budget request represents the first installment of this Administration’s five-year Defense assessment known as the Bottom-Up Review. The Bottom-Up Review calls for the armed forces to be able to fight and win

two major regional conflicts on the order of the Persian Gulf War, nearly simultaneously. However, it advocates accomplishing this strategy with significantly reduced manpower levels of 1.4 million and an active force structure of 10 Army divisions, 11 active aircraft carriers and one Reserve carrier, and 13 Air Force fighter

wings. The proposed budgeting levels to support this strategy and force structure

are seriously underfunded. The American Legion believes that this strategy is based

on a number of flawed assumptions, including the availability of improved technology and enhanced military airlift and sealift capabilities which will not enter the

inventory until after the year 2000. The proposed strategy does not match its increased military missions, including operations other than combat, such as peacekeeping and humanitarian operations

and others, with the required resources and the ultimate result may be counted in

American lives lost unnecessarily in future conflicts. We believe that the BottomUp Review provides neither the forces, lift capabilities, nor budgets to fight two

nearly simultaneous major regional conflicts and win. In response to the unpredictability of the world situation, The American Legion strongly recommends that the military drawdown be placed on hold until the Bottom-Up Review has been thoroughly analyzed and America’s true national defense

needs are more realistically assessed. In order to maintain the credibility of the

United States and the challenges it faces, the military must maintain the requisite

capabilities to fight and win two major regional conflicts which, to our way of thinking, represents a reasonable objective. The two-war strategy reflects the concern

that if America were to be drawn into a war with one regional aggressor, another

could be tempted to attack its neighbor—especially if it were convinced that the

United States and its allies were distracted, lacked the will to fight conflicts on two

fronts, or did not possess the military power to deal with more than one major conflict at a time. Sizing U.S. forces for more than one major conflict provides a hedge

against the possibility that a future adversary might mount a larger than expected

threat. It also allows for a credible overseas presence which is essential in dealing

with potential regional dangers and pursuing new opportunities to advance stability

and peace. Such a strategy requires more robust force structures and increased

budgeting than that provided in the Bottom-Up Review. In order to more adequately achieve the ‘‘win-win’’ strategy, The American Legion

recommends that active military end strengths should be maintained at the level

of 1.6 million for FY 1995 and the foreseeable future, and current military force

structures should be retained at FY 1994 force levels, namely, 12 active Army divisions, 12 active Navy aircraft carriers and 13 or more Air Force fighter wings as

the baseline for reconstitution and surge growth in the event of future hostilities

or simultaneous operations involving operations other than war.

We believe that the United States should hold the line on further military manpower, force structure and budget cuts until our defense needs have been more adequately assessed. This is particularly true with regard to the Army which has borne

the brunt of downsizing and is expected to accomplish most of the numerous missions which it will be assigned. To quote General John Foss, USA (Retired), ‘‘The

good news is that the United States Army is still the best Army in the world; the

bad news is that it is the eighth largest in the world,’’ and it is ranked in size behind such communist powers as Red China, Russia, North Korea and Vietnam.

The United States can, and must, afford a stronger national defense. The gap between proposed defense budgets and maintaining these minimally essential forces

must be closed if we are to avoid another ‘‘hollow Army.’’ Peacekeeping and humanitarian operations further detract from our declining combat power. We believe that

funding for peacekeeping and humanitarian operations should be congressionally

approved on a case-by-case basis and separately appropriated by the Congress, rather than funded by the Services from operations and maintenance accounts.

The American people, we believe, expect its civilian and military leadership to develop a reasonable and common sense national military strategy. The American people also expect that when U.S. forces are committed, under this policy, that they

will be committed only when America’s vital interests are threatened, and only as

a last resort after all other reasonable alternatives have been explored and tried.

We also expect that once the decision to commit U.S. forces has been made, our
410

forces—having been trained, equipped and organized to win—will be sent into combat only to win. To achieve this objective, our nation needs a common-sense and consistent na- tional military strategy. With the competing challenges of domestic imperatives and

a desire to reduce our budget deficit, we, the people, must engage in a serious,

thoughtful and wide-ranging debate on how to more adequately provide for the

‘‘common defense.’’

The price of maintaining a strong defense is expensive in terms of tax dollars and human lives. Our national security framework provides the umbrella that allows

Americans to work and prosper without fear. A strong national defense does not inhibit a strong economy, it complements it. The Congress and the military establishment must spend tax dollars prudently and effectively, and not lavishly. The Defense Department must ensure that all aspects of its procurement and manning levels are responsible and disciplined. Undoubtedly, in order to achieve a stronger national defense such as The American Legion has proposed will require tradeoffs. We

believe that our recommended manpower levels and force structures are not lavish

but provide the minimum levels for our national defense.

The advent of smaller active duty forces reinforces the need for fully combat-ready National Guard and Reserve Forces which are completely integrated into the Total

Force. Under the Bottom-Up Review, the Administration has proposed that there be

15 enhanced Army National Guard combat brigades that are to be trained, manned,

equipped and ready to supplement active forces, and deployable within 90 days. We

are all familiar with the National Guard brigades which were unprepared to deploy

in the Persian Gulf War even with a six-month lead-time. The readiness of National

Guard combat units to deploy to a second major regional conflict will also cost in

terms of human lives unless we are completely willing to pay the price for their

readiness.

Maintaining smaller active duty and Reserve component forces with increased operational missions also accentuates the need to retain the Selective Service System and its Registration Program. This cost-effective and highly successful system

ensures that we have an identified manpower tool that could more rapidly augment

our military manpower needs in the event of mobilization or extended warfare. Registration for the Selective Service also places the concept of service to the nation in

its proper perspective with the direct involvement of all Americans. The national defense needs of our country is the business of all Americans, and $23 million to maintain the Selective Service System is a small price to pay for an insurance policy that

protects all Americans.

Just as military manpower levels, force structures and defense budgets need to be stabilized, so must quality of life features for our service members and their families. This includes enhancements to compensations and incentives, to preclude seriously degrading the All-Volunteer Force. The implementation of such personnel

management initiatives to drawdown the active force to include voluntary and involuntary separations, reductions-in-force, and 15-year retirements should gradually be

phased out and the 20 year plus military career should be reinstitutionalized as the

norm. This would stabilize our fighting capabilities, experience levels, and promised

careers. Annual military pay raises and military retirement cost of living allowances

(COLAs) should more closely match actual inflationary levels. Military retirement

COLAs should be paid on the same schedule as federal civilian retirement COLAs

and military retirees should not be unfairly penalized by having their COLAs delayed by 39 months while delaying federal retiree COLAs by only 9 months over

the next five years. The American Legion strongly supported transitional assistance

benefits for the active component, and it supports transition benefits for departing

members of the Guard and Reserve. The budget includes $140 million for these programs which are parallel to the ones offered active duty military members. These

funds will provide for the use of active duty voluntary incentives for full-time duty

Reservists to include temporary early retirement authority, voluntary separation incentives and special separation benefits. Transition programs for part-time members

would include:

Special separation pay for Reservists with 20 or more years of service.

Early qualification for retired pay at age 60 with 15 to 20 years of service.

Separation pay for Reservists with six to 15 years of service.

Commissary and exchange privileges for post-separation use for two years.

Montgomery GI Bill educational assistance for currently eligible members

who are involuntarily separated during the drawdown period.

Priority affiliation for other Guard and Reserve units for those members involuntarily separated short of a full career.

The level of our defense strength is directly proportional to the quality of life and

financial well-being of service members and their families. A strong defense depends
411

on strong people. Although the Administration appears committed to maintaining

a strong defense and readiness posture, the actions of the Administration and the

Congress in dealing with military people issues in 1993 fell far short of considering

people to be the most important part of the defense equation. For instance, both

present, former, and retired service members were faced with threats to pay increases and the uncertainties of voluntary and involuntary separations, commissary

closings and increased commissary surcharges for military retirees, and a reformed

military health care program which held the promise of making retirees and their

dependents pay more for their health care needs. If this nation is truly committed to a strong defense, then it also must be commit- ted to meeting every obligation that accompanies it. Commitments and promises

made to veterans and military retirees must be kept when their military service is

over. This is the price of doing business in the defense market. We are reminded,

for example, that according to the Defense Commissary Agency (DECA), military

members and their families accounted for over $27 million in food stamps and over

$15 million in women’s, infants’ and children’s (WIC) redemptions in 1993. This fact

is a shameful testimony and proves that all is not well in military communities. To The American Legion, the effects of the downsizing appear to be taking a heavy toll. Military life is portrayed as a series of bewildering changes and broken

promises. Service members appear to be straining to manage new missions while

facing the prospects of multiple overseas deployments and experiencing the likelihood of serving under foreign or United Nations commanders at tactical and strategic levels. Combat pilots and Naval aviators are adjusting to living and working

with women in combat units for the first time. Military commanders who once

thought they had the know-how and legal authority to deal with homosexuals in

their units continue to receive conflicting orders from the Pentagon and the federal

courts. It is little wonder that the quantity and quality of recruits are beginning to

show signs of decline. Lest we forget, there is absolutely no guarantee that the AllVolunteer Force will continue to be as successful in the future as it has proven to

be in the past.

As a vital incentive to encourage bright young Americans to enter military serv- ice, The American Legion believes that the Montgomery GI Bill for education needs

to be overhauled to make service life more attractive. Many young adults are now

questioning whether eight years of their life, the rigors of military life, their $1200

contribution, and the likelihood of recurring deployments to hostile environments

are worth the benefits they will likely never use. The Department of Defense’s most

recent survey that samples attitudes of young adults, ages 16-21, confirmed a worrisome downward trend in their propensity to enlist. The American Legion reluctantly

concedes that financial contributions by participants must continue; however, the

compensation levels must be expanded to make that contribution adequate to meet

educational costs. The American Legion, therefore, proposes the following measures

to enhance the GI Bill for education:

A participant’s contribution and monthly benefit should be non-taxable.

The opportunity to make an annual contribution of $1200 for a minimum of

one year and a maximum of four years. Annual contributions would be made

in monthly payments of $100.

The current dollar benefit ratio for a full-time student is 1:12; a three-quarter

time student is 1:9; and a half-time student is 1:6. These ratios are acceptable;

however, these ratios would be adjusted annually concurrent with changes in

the average tuition rates.

Benefits would be received over the same amount of time that the member

contributed.

A member would have ten years to use educational benefits. After ten years,

the veteran may request that the actual amount of unused contribution be refunded without interest through an IRS tax credit.

Members can contribute at anytime during their military career, but benefits

will not begin until three years after their enrollment.

Benefits may be used to pay existing educational loans.

Members can receive health and child care benefits while enrolled in educational programs.

A participant’s contribution will not be refunded nor benefits paid to anyone

receiving a less than honorable discharge.

All members of the armed forces would be entitled to participate. Reservist

and National Guard personnel would be required to make the same annual contributions in order to receive full benefits.

National Guardsmen and Reservists should also be extended National Service

benefits in exchange for service during statewide disasters, riot control or catastrophes. The American Legion believes educational assistance for veterans has
412

consistently proven to be a winning concept. People who are trained and educated make better salaries, pay more in taxes and spend more. This proposed

GI Bill would be a wise investment in America’s future.

Today, there are approximately 9.5 million beneficiaries in the military health care program; and military retirees and their dependents make up more than 50

percent of that number. Access to affordable health care, regardless of age or health

care status, represents the number one concern among military retirees. The sense

of the congressional resolution in the FY 1993 National Defense Authorization Act

reaffirms the basis of health care promised in law and tradition dating back more

than 100 years. Military retirees were always led to believe that they were entitled

to free lifetime health care as a major promise made in exchange for meager pay

received and after having served 20 or more years in the most demanding and dangerous of professions. They are seeing this promise, and others, being broken which

is not only a demoralizing factor, but one which can and will impact on recruiting

and retaining a quality force. Military retirees are the only group of federal ‘‘employees’’ who lose their health care benefits when they become 65 and are no longer eligible for CHAMPUS but

become MEDICARE-eligible. MEDICARE covers much less than CHAMPUS, and

like CHAMPUS, must be supplemented by expensive health care insurance which

many of our military retirees cannot afford. The American Legion has always supported full-funding of the CHAMPUS program, and has believed that MEDICAREeligible military retirees and their dependents should continue to have access to

military treatment facilities on a space-available basis; that MEDICARE should reimburse DOD for health care received in military treatment facilities; and that all

military retirees and their dependents should continue to receive free prescriptions

form military medical centers. Unquestionably, a reformed military health care system that serves to improve ac- cess, quality of care, and comprehensive care is required. The American Legion has

a number of concerns, however, with the proposed DOD TRICARE Health Care System as it affects military retirees, namely, that military retirees and their dependents would be required to pay annual ‘‘registration fees’’ whether they used their

plan or not; and questions remain concerning out-of-pocket expenses and the viability of MEDICARE reimbursement for treatment in DOD facilities. The American Legion believes that, as a minimum, the following guidelines should be incorporated

or retained as part of the TRICARE package or any reform of military health care

for military retirees, their dependents and military survivors: Timely access to uniform, comprehensive and equitable health care benefits covering the full array of services ranging from preventive health care and dental treatment plans to prescription services for all military retirees, their dependents, and military survivors. Preservation of the space-available system in military treatment centers depending on facility capabilities.

DOD military treatment facilities should be reimbursed by the Health Care

Financing Administration for care provided to Medicare-eligible military beneficiaries.

There should be no registration fees or penalties for Medicare-eligible military

beneficiaries who enroll in TRICARE health plans.

Pharmacy networks and mail-order pharmacy programs should be extended

beyond the 40-mile radius of closing military bases and they should operate on

a flat-fee basis rather than one based on percentages of costs.

CHAMPUS-equivalent entitlements as supplemental coverage to Medicare for

100 percent disabled military beneficiaries under age 65 should continue.

TRICARE health care plans should be extended to military beneficiaries residing in overseas areas.

The value of military commissaries in the quality of life equation for junior enlisted families and military retirees and others is indisputable. Military commissary

usage ranks second only to medical health care in the non-pay compensation package according to surveys conducted among active duty and retired beneficiaries, as

commissaries save patrons on the order of 17-25 percent in food costs. The $1 billion

in subsidized congressional appropriations permits commissaries to sell items virtually at cost, and the removal of any portion of this funding could drastically raise

food costs which could cause some commissaries to close. Contrary to popular belief,

military commissaries are not competitive with civilian grocery chain stores as commissary sales represent only 1.7 percent of total U.S. grocery sales.

With the continued downsizing of the military and the on-going assault on military benefits, any effort to reduce or dismantle the integrity of the military commissary system would be seen as a serious breach of faith with a benefit system

that serves as a mainstay for the active and Reserve components, military retirees,
413

military personnel involuntarily discharged or released from active duty, 100 percent service-connected disabled veterans, and others.

The American Legion urges the Congress to preserve full federal funding of the military commissary system and to retain this vital non-pay compensation benefit

which is essential to the morale and readiness of the dedicated men and women who

have served, and continue to serve, the national security interests of the United

States. The American Legion also opposes any efforts to raise commissary surcharges above the five percent level for military retirees or other authorized commissary patrons. The American Legion continues to support legislation to correct the inequity that prevents the concurrent receipt of military retired pay and veterans disability compensation. Unlike military retirees, civil service retirees receiving veterans disability

compensation are not subject to this restriction. The American Legion recommends

full payment of both military retirement pay and veterans disability compensation

for disabled military retirees. In creating involuntary separation pay, Voluntary Separation Incentives (VSI), and Special Separation Bonuses (SSB), Congress included provisions in the law requiring a forfeiture of these payments in an amount equal to any veterans disability

compensation received after discharge. This is a carry-over of the unfair law which

has historically prohibited the concurrent receipt of both pays. VSI, SSB and involuntary separation, or severance pay, are entirely different in scope and purpose

than military retirement pay. They were designed to compensate service members

for lost military career opportunities and to facilitate readjustment to civilian live.

They are totally unrelated to any disability a service member may have incurred

during his service. Those who were disabled in military service will face special

challenges in readjustment during these difficult times. The American Legion urges

the Congress not to add to these challenges by requiring disabled veterans to continue to fund their own disability compensation by an offset from their separation

or military retirement pay. We also believe that the practice of recouping separation

pays before the payment of veterans disability compensation should cease as the

continuation of this practice will serve as a deterrent for service-connected veterans

to even apply for disability compensation. The American Legion supports amending Public Law 99–145 to eliminate the pro- vision that calls for the automatic offset at age 62 of the military Survivor Benefit

Plan (SBP) with Social Security benefits. Military retirees pay into both SBP and

Social Security, and their survivors pay income taxes on both. Military survivors

should be rightfully entitled to receive both forms of benefit without any offset. The

American Legion believes that military survivors should also be entitled to receipt

of full Social Security benefits which they may have earned in their own right. It

is also strongly recommended that, in the future, any SBP premium increases be

assessed on the effective date, or subsequent to increases in cost of living adjustments and certainly not before the increase as was done this year.

Mr. Chairman, the report of the National Performance Review, referred to as

‘‘Reinventing the Government,’’ has recommended that the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences (USUHS) be closed as it provided less than 10 percent

of the Services’ physicians at higher costs than the Health Professionals Scholarship

Program (HPSP). Since the first USUHS graduation in 1980, over 1,800 physicians

continue to pursue careers as physicians in the Army, Navy, Air Force and the U.S.

Public Health Service. The USUHS educational process emphasizes primary care

medicine and also provides special training in military medicine, combat casualty

care, trauma, tropical medicine and combat stress, courses not found in civilian

medical school curricula. USUHS graduates have also proven themselves willing to

accept operational overseas assignments often viewed as less than desirable by civilian medical school graduates.

In the Department of Defense Program Analysis and Evaluation study which became the source of cost data contained in the National Performance Review Report,

the majority of excess costs per year of service for USUHS-trained physicians was

largely attributable to their projected longer service, higher salaries, and retirement

benefits. The American Legion is convinced that the USUHS is an economical source

of career medical leaders who serve our nation during peace, mobilization and war

and provide military health care consistency and stability when compared to other

sources of military physicians. The American Legion urges the Congress to retain

the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences as a continued source of career military physicians for the Army, Navy, Air Force and United States Public

Health Service.

Mr. Chairman, America’s winning technology in the Persian Gulf War, like its victorious All-Volunteer Force, did not develop overnight, but had its genesis in the

decade of the 1980’s. The modernization of the Armed Forces must be a continuing
414

process and should not be delayed nor curtailed. Once a conflict develops, it is too

late to decide whether America’s defense industry has the capability to mass

produce advanced technologies. The American fighting man, put in harm’s way,

must be equipped and armed with state-of-the-art technology. A vibrant defense industrial base will ensure that military production can surge when required. The American Legion supports the Army’s RAH–66 COMANCHE helicopter pro- duction, the retention of an absolute minimum of 12-carrier Navy battle groups, full

funding of the CVN–76 aircraft carrier and DDG–51 Arleigh Burke guided missile

destroyers, and production of the V–22 OSPREY aircraft for the Marine Corps. The

Persian Gulf War highlighted the dire need for the Navy to immediately augment

its sealift and that our Merchant Marine be rebuilt as second to none, and we applaud the planned building of more fast sealift ships. We support the Air Force’s

modernization program for production of the F–22 fighter, continued and accelerated

production of C–17 aircraft, and production of a new military space-launch system

compatible with those of the private sector. The American Legion also recommends

maintaining the current inventory of intercontinental ballistic missiles and sufficient warheads as a hedge against unforseeable threats. Despite the rapid downsizing of the active forces and increased reliance on the Guard and Reserves, the Reserve components continue to require a greater degree

of modernization to improve their combat readiness postures and enhance their

interoperability with active forces. We support, therefore, the upgrading of Air Defense systems of the National Guard and Reserves; upgrading all Air National

Guard F–15 and F–16 aircraft to equivalent United States Air Force standards; upgrading KC–135 aircraft with warning and countermeasures equipment so as to increase wartime survivability; converting all KC–135 air wings from the KC–135E

to the KC–135R so as to be fully compatible with the United States Air Force; and

acceleration of essential National Guard and Reserve military construction programs. These items represent only a few of the required modernization programs

for the Guard and Reserves.

The American Legion also urges the Congress to preserve America’s defense in- dustrial base by continuing to fund research, development and acquisition budgets

so as to retain our technological edge in the 21st Century and to assure our military

production can surge whenever U.S. military power is committed. Some of these capabilities such as tank production and shipbuilding will be retained in this budget,

but far more needs to be done. Key industrial capabilities which preserve more of

our defense base need to be identified. We applaud the ‘‘dual-use’’ partnerships proposed in the FY 1995 budget. The American Legion opposes further termination of essential service moderniza- tion programs, diminution of defense industrial capabilities, and rejects the transfers of critical defense technologies abroad. The American Legion firmly believes that with the continuing threat of nuclear

proliferation, that America should retain its edge in nuclear capabilities as represented by the TRIAD system, and that our highest priority should be the national

missile defense of the United States. Although the development and deployment of

advanced theater missile defenses to protect U.S. forward-deployed forces is imperative, any dismantling of acquisition programs to defend the American people is imprudent. We believe that the United States should focus on developing and deploying an anti-ballistic missile detection and interception system that is capable of providing a highly effective defense of the United States against limited attacks of ballistic missiles. The Brilliant Eyes and Brilliant Pebbles technology for national defense should continue as acquisition programs, not only as part of the Theater High

Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, but as an inherent and essential part of

the anti-ballistic missile defense of the United States.

Finally, as we face continuing action for the foreseeable future on base closures

and declining defense budgets, we urge your continued support for defense conversion programs which we believe should be funded from non-defense appropriations;

use of closing installations for National Guard and Reserve units for readiness purposes; and for continued DOD support of civilian marksmanship programs to inform

and train American youth.

In conclusion, the true measure of whether a defense policy adequately protects

our national security interests is not necessarily how much is spent on defense, but

rather whether the armed forces will have the means to fight and win when conflict

arises. Our national security well-being cannot be separated from our overall national well-being. The American people cannot view themselves from a position of

relative weakness in the world. To lead at home, we must lead in the world arena.

If we shun this role, our own future will be shaped by others. As Sir John Slessor,

Marshall of the Royal Air Force, once wrote during World War II: ‘‘It is customary

in democratic countries to deploy expenditures as armaments as conflicting with the
415

requirements of the social services. There is a tendency to forget that the most important social service that a government can do for its people is to keep them alive

and free.’’

Mr. Chairman, this concludes The American Legion statement.

NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL

WILSON R. TIMMONS, Florida, Chairman

The American Legion over the past year has continued to support the Selective

Service System by applying the following principles:

1. Maintenance of the Selective Service Registration Program as a viable preparedness measure;

2. The continuation of the Selective Service System in compliance with existing law, including Presidential induction authority;

3. Retention of the System supported by active state Selective Service headquarters with a state director who is responsible for the maintenance of military

mobilization plans and operations for the state;

4. Local boards in communities to serve as decision-making bodies with respect to determining availability for service should Congress enact induction authority.

5. Training of Reserve and National Guard personnel in Selective Service

Manpower Mobilization procedures with the capability to rapidly expand forms

by resuming inductions should world conditions require Congress to return to

the draft.

6. The President and Congress provide the necessary directions and budgetary support to the Selective Service System so the mandates of the Military

Selective Service Act are enforced and the Selective Service System is able to

meet the manpower requirements of the Department of Defense when called

upon; and

7. Legislation be enacted requiring proof of selective service registration by

any non-veteran male who applies for federal employment.

Reserve Officers Training Corps Program. The historic support for a strong and

viable Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (ROTC) was reaffirmed by Resolution 367–

76, adopted at our 59th National Convention, Resolution 474 adopted by the 64th

National Convention, and Resolutions 382 and 383 adopted at the 72nd National

Convention. We resolved to staunchly support both collegiate Reserve Officers

Training Corps and high school Junior ROTC programs as exemplifying strong links

in the traditional role of the citizens-soldier in this country and as one of the most

outstanding programs for producing military officers and future leaders of our nation. We also strongly recommend that all college and university students take advantage of the tremendous opportunity for training, leadership and achievement

which the ROTC represents.

Departments having ROTC units supported ROTC programs by either awarding

or encouraging Posts under their jurisdiction to award and participate in The American Legion’s ROTC Medal program. Response to this program has been outstanding. During the period from July 1, 1993 to June 30, 1994, nearly 10,000 medals

were awarded to deserving Senior and Junior level ROTC candidates. Presentations

of medals were made to ROTC units in all 50 States, the District of Columbia, as

well as the Departments of Puerto Rico and France.

Paul H. Griffith ROTC Trophy.—The National Executive Committee at their October 1975 meeting approved Resolution 21, which established the Paul H. Griffith

Trophy for the ROTC program in their States during the year. The trophy honors

the memory of Past National Commander Paul H. Griffith, who served as an Assistant Secretary of Defense, and throughout his lifetime maintained an active interest

and participation in our nation’s defense.

Criterion for judging the winner of the trophy is based on the Department giving

the greatest degree to support to the ROTC programs to include the number of medals presented and Legion participation in award day ceremonies this year. This

year’s winners of the Paul H. Griffith Trophy are the Departments of Alaska, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico,

Tennessee, and Vermont.
416

NAVAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

JOHN J. WRENN, Massachusetts, Chairman

Guided by resolutions adopted at the 74th and 75th National Conventions, the

Naval Affairs Committee has worked to strengthen the U.S. Navy during the past

year. We begin with the premise that sea lanes are the life lines of America, both

in peacetime and war. The United States is no longer hesitant about sending powerful signals to aggressors that we will not stand idly by and watch while they conduct violent takeovers of legitimate governments, particularly when those takeovers

are contrary to the national interests of the United States. This new diplomacy requires a more mobile, more flexible and more capable armed forces; in particular,

a viable and deployable United States Navy. The United States Navy and Coast

Guard performed admirably during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

The Secretary of Defense is faced with the decision on how best to maintain the

strength of the Navy. The American Legion currently advocates the retention of 12-

aircraft carrier groups as the absolute minimum required as well as the need for

continued modernization of Naval Aviation and the development of the Seawolf submarine.

The United States Coast Guard has faced the same decreasing budget trends as

the other services. The problem of funding has become so crucial in the Coast Guard

that this service is barely able to perform its statutory missions and in some cases,

has had to reduce some of its enforcement activities to stay within the funding limitations imposed by Congress. At the 74th National Convention, the delegates adopted a resolution calling for adequate funding support for the Coast Guard.

Adequate funding must be provided to the Navy for the continued development

of its forces on and under the sea, and in the air, so that strong, modern, effective

sea power can be effectively deployed with the forces of other services. The Naval

Affairs Committee will continue to direct its efforts toward this goal.

PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMISSION

THOMAS C. KOUYEAS, District of Columbia, Chairman

LEW WOOD, Indiana, Director

The Public Relations Commission of The American Legion is responsible for positioning The American Legion before the media and the public. As a service element

of the National Organization everything the Public Relations Commission undertakes is ultimately designed to focus media attention on the local level and provide

increased awareness of organizational concerns and dedication.

During the program year this focus realized additional benefit from two efforts:

the 75th Anniversary ‘‘Diamond Jubilee’’ promotion of The American Legion and the

World War II Data Bank.

Diamond Jubilee

A special ‘‘Diamond Jubilee’’ media package was prepared and distributed. The

package included suggested news releases, proclamations, radio public service announcements, speeches and a six-page clip sheet with camera-ready photos and stories highlighting The American Legion’s 75 years of service to God and country. The

result was countless local stories focusing on the Legion’s impact in hometowns

large and small.

A radio public service announcement package of 30 second and 60 second announcements about the accomplishments of the organization throughout the past 75

years was sent to more than 1,400 radio stations for use through September 1994.

World War II Data Bank

The World War II Data Bank reached the peak of media interest to date in advance of the 50th anniversary of D-Day. National and local media turned to The

American Legion to help them find special veterans of that historic invasion. The

Data Bank of Legion members with stories to tell often helped fill the need. The

extensive effort placed stories in USA Today, the Washington Post and Times, on

CNN, C-SPAN and countless other news outlets.
417

Additional Media Focus

Also receiving heightened media attention during the program year were The American Legion positions on the health of Desert Storm veterans and their education needs; the protection of the Flag of the United States of America from physical desecration; the role of women in combat; military involvement in Somalia,

Bosnia and Haiti; and flood relief efforts for the Midwest including media relations

assistance to the Department of Virginia for a special toy collection campaign.

Awards

The 1994 National Commander’s Public Relations Award was presented to Bill

Mauldin, the cartoonist who made ‘‘Willie and Joe’’ World War II heroes.

The 1994 Fourth Estate Award was presented to television station KSNW–TV of

Wichita, Kansas for a special feature program which followed a former Vietnam

nurse from her Kansas hometown to Washington, D.C. and the multitude of events

surrounding the dedication of the Vietnam Women’s Memorial on Veterans Day.

The 1993 Department Media Awards were selected by the Commission for sustained coverage of Legion-interest news and events resulting from an active public

relations role on the local level. Awards went to: KZEE–AM, Weatherford, Texas,

Radio Station of the Year; WJW–TV, Cleveland, Ohio, Television Station of the

Year; Ellwood City Ledger, Ellwood, Pennsylvania, Daily Newspaper of the Year;

and Free Press-Courier, Westfield, Pennsylvania, Weekly Newspaper of the Year.

THE AMERICAN LEGION MAGAZINE COMMISSION

MILFORD A. FORRESTER, South Carolina, Chairman

DANIEL S. WHEELER, Virginia, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Editorial excellence equaled national influence and increasing advertising dollars

in 1993.

With this formula, The American Legion Magazine brought in a record-breaking

$7.53 million in advertising revenue during the 1993 operational year. With eight

years of consecutive growth in advertising dollars, the magazine has outperformed

nearly all of its competitors.

While many in the publishing industry succumbed to the tough economic climate

of the 1990s, the magazine kept attracting multi-million dollar advertisers such as

Buick, Merck Co., and Abbott Laboratories. The magazine also continued its leadership as the nation’s largest direct mail market for shop-at-home items.

Buick, The American Legion and The American Legion Magazine joined in a special program that included: a multipage advertising schedule in the magazine; the

raffling of a Buick motorcar at the National Convention in Pittsburgh, which contributed over $20,000 to the Legion’s National Emergency Fund; a discount sales

promotion for Legionnaires toward the purchase of a new Buick; a matching Buick

contribution to local American Legion youth programs. More than 6,000 cars were

sold in 75 days and Buick contributed $620,000 to these programs.

New advertising accounts, such as the U.S. Postal Service, the U.S. Mint and Nordic Track, were developed in 1993 as a direct result of market research. This research showed that over 77 percent of Legionnaires read every issue of the magazine, the highest figure among 250 leading national magazines. Legionnaires also

spent an average of 55 minutes reading each issue, also one of the highest figures

in the industry.

The magazine has been able to offset some of the postal-rate hikes through sound

management decisions that have saved $1 million in production costs. While postal

costs for the magazine have risen from $200,000 in 1976 to $5 million in 1994, the

magazine has operated in the black since 1981.

Selling this magazine to advertisers was facilitated by the continually improving

quality of its articles and graphic design. Most notable was the March 1993 article,

‘‘POW/MIAs: The Next War,’’ by Managing Editor Miles Z. Epstein. It received the

1993 George Washington Honor Medal for Excellence in Public Communications

from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. Said the Freedoms Foundation: ‘‘No

other article has ever addressed U.S. policy on POW/MIAs looking at how it can be

specifically improved in future wars. America can do a better job of protecting the

men and women who are sent into battle. And the recommendations that appear

in this article may actually save lives in our next war.’’

The American Legion Magazine also was used as a source for Cable News Network for its stories on Desert Storm’s mystery illnesses. The Legion, through its
418

magazine, provided leadership and exclusive coverage of maladies that included extreme fatigue, bleeding gums, hair loss and immunity problems. Some 20,000 Gulf

War servicemen and women have reported such symptoms.

Because of the magazine’s coverage—and the work of the Legion’s Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission—Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals were able to admit these veterans for treatment. While no cure or diagnosis

has been found, Legionnaires can be proud of their magazine’s role in bringing the

Gulf War sickness to the attention of the VA and the American public.

Also during 1993, The American Legion Magazine provided continuing coverage

of the 50th Anniversary of World War II with a special, multi-article section on 1943

in the December issue. In addition, numerous World War II battles were highlighted

in Battle Reports published throughout the year. Most of the July issue was devoted

to a special, multi-article report on the Korean War to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the armistice. A similar series of articles on the 25th anniversary of the

Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War appeared in the February issue.

The magazine also published articles on the threats of ‘‘tribal’’ warfare around the

world; neo-fascism in Europe; the meaning and impact of the U.S. military’s

downsizing; the spread of nuclear weapons technology; the growth of homeschooling

in America; and the dangers of divisive multiculturalism.

The task of informing veterans about their benefits was aided by the magazine’s

exclusive interview in September with Sen. John D. ‘‘Jay’’ Rockefeller, chairman of

the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee; Rep. G.V. ‘‘Sonny’’ Montgomery, chairman

of the House Veterans Affairs Committee; and VA Secretary Jesse Brown. In addition, the monthly Veterans Update column and other investigative reports ensured

that Legionnaires were informed of the news that affects VA and the veterans who

depend on its services.

As the only publication that goes to all 3-million Legionnaires, The American Legion Magazine must continue to keep itself financially sound and journalistically excellent. All aspects of the magazine’s operation are continually scrutinized to ensure

its continued success and growth.

VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION

COMMISSION

Chester F. Stellar, Ohio, Chairman

Carroll Williams, Maryland, Director

The seventy-fifth Annual National Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and

the Fall and Spring meetings of the National Executive Committee approved programs expressed in resolutions submitted to those bodies through the Convention

Committee on Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation and the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission.

The following report covers the activities of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission and its staff during the year ending June 30, 1994. The

first section of the report describes the action taken on all resolutions assigned to

the Commission for consideration, and the status shown as of June 30, 1994, the

date of this report.

Beginning with the 1993 National Convention, the Commission received a total

of 67 resolutions for appropriate action and consideration. There follows a breakdown of these resolutions by source and type:

58 from the 1993 National Convention.

16 Approved or Approved as Amended.

15 Consolidated with Resolutions Approved.

9 Referred to Resolutions Standing Commission.

5 Rejected.

13 Received and Recorded.

9 from the National Executive Committee.

3 from the National Adjutant at the meeting of October 20–21, 1993 (‘‘register

resolutions’’)

6 from the National Adjutant at the meeting of May 5–6, 1994 (‘‘register resolutions’’)

The status of these resolutions upon which action has been taken as of the end

of the reporting period is set forth below, beginning with those covering the 1993

National Convention, followed by those presented and referred by the National Executive Committee.
419

1993 NATIONAL CONVENTION APPROVED RESOLUTIONS POLICY

Resolution No. 2 (ND)—Urge the Administration and Congress to adopt the rec- ommendations of The American Legion Health Care Proposal as a measure to improve and expand the services of the Veterans Health Administration. The Secretary

of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The

American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of

the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 3 (ND)—Urge the Congress to ensure there is a joint DoD program to provide information regarding health issues to all Persian Gulf War veterans and

to provide service connection for any condition found to have been incurred in or

aggravated as a result of Persian Gulf War service. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion

official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of

this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and

House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 5 (ND)—Urge the President and the Congress to reinstate all ben- efits eliminated by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990. The Secretary

of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The

American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of

the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 41 (UT)—Support legislation which extends National Service Plan Benefits to all veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces Reserves and National Guard. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on

September 21, 1993 of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The

National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993,

before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees. Resolution No. 43 (UT)—Urge The American Legion oppose any action by the Congress to require third party payment by service-connected veterans for any condition. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National

Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a

joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 137 (SD)—Oppose any legislative proposal that would tax serviceconnected compensation benefits. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by

the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September

21, 1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 210 (VA)—Reaffirmation of The American Legion Agent Orange

Resolution Nos. 227 and 228 emanating from the 1992 National Convention. The

Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993,

of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander

testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing

of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 216 (VA)—Seek legislation to pay each World War I veteran who

meets the requirements a special pension. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

National Cemeteries

Resolution No. 95 (IL)—Requests site location for national cemetery in Illinois.

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24,

1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint

hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Claims and Ratings

Resolution No. 4 (ND)—Urge the Congress to increase the maximum monthly

educational benefits for Persian Gulf veterans and eliminate the contribution requirement of the current program. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed

by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on

this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on
420

September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and House and Veterans

Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 9 (MA)—Urge the Department of Veterans Affairs to decide all

service-connected claims on sound scientific and medical procedures. The Secretary

of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The

American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of

the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 13 (MA)—Restore special consideration of age in pension claims by

reducing disability requirement to 60 percent at age 55 and 50 percent at age 60.

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director on September 24,

1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21, 1993, before a joint

hearing of the Senate and House Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 14 (MA)—Seek amendment to VA Rating Schedule to include

ototoxicity from medicine known to cause tinnitus. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs

was informed by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution.

Resolution No. 217 (VA)—Support legislation to improve the disability and death

pension program. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed by the Director

on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on this resolution.

The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on September 21,

1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and Veterans Affairs Committees.

Resolution No. 218 (VA)—Support legislation to increase the monthly rates for

disability compensation recipients. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs was informed

by the Director on September 24, 1993, of The American Legion official policy on

this resolution. The National Commander testified in support of this resolution on

September 21, 1993, before a joint hearing of the Senate and Veterans Affairs Committees.

1993 National Convention Referred Resolutions

Resolution No. 7 (CANADA)—Request The American Legion provide necessary

funding for Department of Canada Service Officers to attend annual training seminars for Department Service Officers.

Resolution No. 128 (TX)—Provide legislation to change Korean War dates and

Vietnam Era dates for veterans benefit purposes.

Resolution No. 136 (SD)—Urge the abolishment of the DVA from requiring financial information from service-connected veterans.

Resolution No. 146 (NY)—Urge the Congress to change the date of the beginning

of the Vietnam Era to December 22, 1961 for benefits purposes.

Resolution No. 147 (NY)—Sponsor and support legislation to exempt veterans and

the widows of veterans from additional tax on Social Security.

Resolution No. 149 (NY)—Urge the approval of a cemetery site in Richmond

County, New York.

Resolution No. 182 (KS)—Urge the termination of the expenditure of funds for

Highway 54 at the Wichita VAMC.

Resolution No. 214 (PR)—Authorize the DVA to pay the Medicare deductible for

hospitalization outside of the DVA medical facility.

Resolution No. 241 (FL)—Oppose legislation on any action that would alter current regulations regarding eligibility for treatment at VAMCs.

Rejected Resolutions

Resolution No. 25 (CO)—Oppose any taxation of pensions or Social Security until

the government comes up with the proper spending cuts to reduce the national debt.

Resolution No. 47 (ME)—Urge that Congress enact H.R. 394, to amend title 38,

USC, section 101(29), changing the dates for benefits.

Resolution No. 130 (TX)—Seek a Federal Veterans War Bonus for all veterans.

Resolution No. 175 (AK)—Seek from the Congress and upgrade the cost provisions

made available to veterans equal to the Federal per diem rate for Federal employees

while in travel status.

Resolution No. 220 (MX)—Seeks benefits of Medicare Program be made available

to the citizens of the US living abroad.

Received and Recorded Resolutions

Resolution No. 10 (MA)—PTSD family therapy and counseling at VAMCs.
421

Resolution No. 11 (MA)—Amend title 38, USC to allow housebound benefits for

parents receiving DIC.

Resolution No. 12 (MA)—Restore and increase burial and plot allowance.

Resolution No. 66 (AZ)—Plot allowance for all veterans.

Resolution No. 68 (AZ)—Death benefits for all veterans.

Resolution No. 78 (OH)—Telephone systems in VAMCs.

Resolution No. 93(IL)—American Legion Policy on Philippine veterans benefits.

Resolution No. 96 (PI)—Equalization of Retired Pay for Philippine Army Scouts.

Resolution No. 97 (PI)—Amend title 38, USC to provide VA benefits for Commonwealth Veterans and Philippine Scouts.

Resolution No. 129 (TX)—Ensure health care and benefits for Granada, Lebanon

and Panama veterans.

Resolution No. 178 (WV)—DVA smoking and policy at VAMCs.

Resolution No. 243 (OH)—Increase medical research budget.

Resolution No. 245 (AL)—Support legislation for VA benefits under Immigration

Act of 1990.

National Executive Committee Meeting October 20–21, 1993

The National Executive Committee approved the following resolutions:

Resolution No. 10 (FL)—Suppports the provision of humanitarian care and treatment of non-U.S. citizens in VAMCs only on a reimbursable basis and that no veteran of U.S. Armed Forces be denied care or have care delayed because of treatment

of a non-U.S. citizen.

Resolution No. 11 (KS)—Calls for the payment to VAMC Wichita by the State of

Kansas of fair market value for any property relinquished by the VAMC Wichita

for the purpose of expanding U.S. Highway 54, and that construction of a new patient care facility be financed by the State of Kansas.

Resolution No. 12 (VA&R) Commission)—Expresses Legion’s willingness to join in

an Amicus Curiae brief in the case of IVY v. Diamond Shamrock as the case is prepared for the United States Supreme Court, that all communication concerning this

resolution be signed by the National Commander, attested by the National Adjutant

and signed inter alia by the National Judge Advocate. Also that this activity shall

not create any extra or outside legal fees.

The National Executive Committee approved the following action as indicated:

Resolution No. 7 (CANADA)—Provide funds for inclusion of Canadian Service Officers at DSO Schools—dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).

Resolution No. 128 (TX)—Expand Korean and Vietnam War Era dates for benefit

purposes—dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).

Resolution No. 146 (NY)—Expand Vietnam War Era dates for benefit purposes—

dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).

Resolution No. 149 (NY)—Locate national cemetery in Richmond County, New

York—dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).

Resolution No. 214 (PR)—VA payment of Medicare deductible to non-veteran facilities—dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).

Rejected Resolutions

Resolution No. 48 (MT)—Open a Falconry Program.

Resolution No. 147 (NY)—Exempt veterans and widows of veterans from additional Social Security.

National Executive Committee Meeting May 5–6, 1994

The National Executive Committee approved the following resolutions:

Resolution No. 2 (VA&R Commission)—American Legion proposal to improve the

Veterans Affairs claims and appeals process.

Resolution No. 3 (VA&R Commission)—Department of Veterans Affairs Blue Ribbon Panel on Claims Processing.

Resolution No. 4 (VA&R Commission)—the American Legion Policy on Exposure

to Ionizing Radiation.

The American Legion Executive Committee approved the following action as indicated:

Resolution No. 136 (SD)—Disclosure of financial information by service-connected

veterans—dispose of administratively (with sponsoring Department).
422

VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION

COMMISSION MEETINGS

Members of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission held

three meetings during the period September 7, 1993 through May 5, 1994, as follows:

The VA&R Commission met on September 7, 1993, in Room 6, Level 3, Lawrence

Convention Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A report was subsequently made to

the National Executive Committee relative to the Commission’s meeting.

A 15 member Subcommittee of the Executive Section of the VA&R Commission

met at National Headquarters October 18–19, 1993, for the purpose of considering

those matters of a current nature which had previously been referred for study, and

to discuss a broad range of other matters of a current nature. A report of that meeting was presented to the National Executive Committee on October 20, 1993.

The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission met for the 71st consecutive

year in Washington, DC, on February 16, 1994, in conjunction with the 34th Annual

Washington Conference. The actions taken by the Commission during this meeting

were contained in the Commission’s Advance Report to the National Executive Committee, May 4–5, 1994, and also appear in the proceedings of that meeting.

A five member Subcommittee of the Executive Section of the National Veterans

Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission met on May 2–3, 1994, at National Headquarters. Chairman Chester F. Stellar (OH), chaired the Subcommittee meeting.

National Commander Bruce Thiesen visited with the Subcommittee and encouraged

those present to continue their efforts on behalf of the Nation’s veterans. A report

of this meeting was presented to the National Executive Committee on May 4, 1994.

NATIONAL LEADERSHIP WORKSHOPS

THE AMERICAN LEGION AND AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY

For the fifteenth consecutive year, eight National Leadership Workshops were

conducted throughout the months of September and October 1993. The meetings

were held in the following cities:

Region 1—Portland, ME, September 17–19, Hotel: Holiday Inn By the Bay.

Region 2—Hampton, VA, October 1–3, Hotel: Holiday Inn, Hampton-Coliseum.

Region 3—Mobile, AL, October 1–3, Hotel: Stouffer Riverview Plaza Hotel.

Region 4—Little Rock, AR, October 8–10, Hotel: Camelot Hotel.

Region 5—Indianapolis, IN, October 29–31, Hotel: Holiday Inn North.

Region 6—Fargo, ND, September 17–19, Hotel: Radisson Hotel Fargo.

Region 7—Las Vegas, NV, October 29–31, Hotel: Las Vegas Hilton.

Region 8—Spokane, WA, October 8–10, Hotel: Sheraton-Spokane Hotel.

The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary met jointly at each Saturday morning session to discuss mutual interests. The Chairman and Vice Chairman

of the Commission attended the Conference in their respective regions. The Regional

Chairmen were in attendance at all Conferences.

Staff members of the VA&R Commission were present at each Conference providing those present with overviews of various topics relative to the VA&R program.

Significant changes in VA benefits and services including VA’s program for homeless

veterans, as well as recent legislative mandates adopted at the 1993 National Convention and other issues, were also discussed.

Representatives of VA medical centers attended the Conferences for the purpose

of discussing the impact of funding shortfalls on veterans’ access to medical care.

A significant number of questions were posed concerning veterans’ access to VA

medical care and eligibility reform.

Noteworthy at all Conferences was the high percentage of first time attendees and

larger number of Post Service Officers.

ANNUAL VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION CONFERENCE

The 71st National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Conference was held February 14–16, 1994 at the Sheraton Washington Hotel, Washington, DC. Participants

included members of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, Department Service Officers and Rehabilitation Directors, County and Post Service Officers, members of the American Legion Auxiliary, and various National, Department

and Post officials.
423

Mr. Chester F. Stellar (OH), Chairman of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission and Vollie McCollum (TN), Vice Chairman, presided at the

sessions of the Conference. Addressing the Conference were National Commander

Bruce Thiesen, Mrs. Helen Holcomb, President, American Legion Auxiliary, and The

Honorable Jesse Brown, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

In addition, presentations were made by The Honorable Hershel Gober, Deputy

Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs; The Honorable Charles L. Cragin, Chairman, Board of Veterans Appeals; and John Vogel, Under Secretary for Benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs.

During the Conference panel discussions were conducted that dealt with topics of

vital concern to those in attendance. Questions relating to the operations of the veterans’ benefits programs, medical care, memorial affairs, and other pertinent subjects were entertained.

Prior to the Conference, for the thirteenth year, the Chairman and members of

the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation staff met with Department Service

Officers for the Annual Department Service Officers Seminar. Topics covering the

field of veterans affairs and staff operations were discussed.

CONFERENCE RECOMMENDATIONS

The members of the Recommendations Committee met February 14, 1994, in the

Sheraton Washington Hotel to consider three (2) recommendations received during

the Washington Conference.

Recommendation No. 1

It is recommended that VA make research on Persian Gulf illnesses a top priority

and ensure the 12 survey questions regarding health problems affecting some Persian Gulf veterans developed by the Department of Alabama be included in any

studies or research projects conducted by VA or any other Federal agency. The Committee recommended approval of this recommendation.

Recommendation No. 2

It is recommended that information concerning the annual Washington Conference be sent out to all Departments well in advance and that it indicate whether

Congress will be in session or not. The Committee recommended approval of this

recommendation.

VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION

LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES

Over the past year, the staff of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission has been actively involved with legislative issues affecting veterans’ benefits

and programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Such activities

have included the preparation and presentation of testimony at hearings scheduled

before Congressional Committees, as well as drafting legislation pursuant to the

mandates adopted by the National Convention and the National Executive Committee. In addition, there has been continued liaison with the staff of the Legislative

Commission, officials of the Department of Veterans Affairs, staffs of the Congressional Committees, and various members of Congress.

The following is a brief summary of the Congressional hearings held since July

1, 1993, relative to the deliberation of Congress on matters pertaining to the Legion’s Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission programs.

(1) On July 21, 1993, the Deputy Director for Policy, testified before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S.

House of Representatives, regarding veterans’ access to VA outpatient care.

(2) On August 3, 1993, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified

before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee regarding VA mental health programs and the Readjustment Counseling Service.

(3) On August 4, 1993, the Director testified before the Senate Veterans Affairs

Committee on the Institute of Medicine’s report on the effects of herbicides on Vietnam veterans.

(4) On September 17, 1993, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified before the Congressional Black Caucus, Veterans’ Brain Trust Committee, on

health care services provided to African American veterans by the Department of

Veterans Affairs.
424

(5) On September 21, 1993, the National Commander presented the Legion’s rec- ommendations and concerns on veterans’ related issues to a joint hearing of the

Senate and House Congressional Veterans Affairs Committees. (6) On September 22, 1993, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified before the Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on legislation to improve VA health care

services provided to women veterans and Agent Orange and ionizing radiation matters.

(7) On September 23, 1993, the Chief of Insurance Activities, testified on programs for providing life insurance protection and benefits for veterans and active

duty members of the United States military services and their beneficiaries. (8) On October 13, 1993, the Assistant Director for Information Management, tes- tified before the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on legislation to provide increased compensation benefits for service-connected disabled veterans and their survivors, to improve and clarify certain VA appellate procedures, and to increase the

special pension payable to recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor. (9) On October 27, 1993, the Deputy Director for Policy, testified before the Sub- committee on Oversight and Investigations, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S.

House of Representatives, concerning ambulatory care services in the Department

of Veterans Affairs.

(10) On November 2, 1993, the Deputy Director for Research and Technology As- sessment, testified before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on regulations regarding presumptive service connection based on herbicide exposure and to respond

to the National Academy of Sciences Report—Veterans and Agent Orange, Health

Effects of Herbicides used in Vietnam.

(11) On November 17, 1993, the Assistant Director for Information Management, testified before the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on legislation to provide

certain improvements in the adjudication of veterans’ claims. (12) On November 18, 1993, the Deputy Director for Policy, appeared before the Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S.

House of Representatives, to express the Legion’s views on veterans’ health care reform proposals under Title VIII, Subtitle B of H.R. 3600—the Administration’s

Health Security Act. (13) On February 10, 1994, the Director testified before the Committee on Veter- ans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on the Administration’s proposed budget

for programs and operations of the Department of Veterans Affairs for Fiscal Year

1995.

(14) On February 23, 1994, the Assistant Director for Operations, appeared before the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, regarding the proposed VA budget for

FY 1995 and related Regional Office and Board of Veterans Appeals operations.

(15) On February 23, 1994, the Director of the Economic Division presented

VA&R testimony before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee on programs for

homeless veterans operated by the Federal Government.

(16) On March 8, 1994, the Deputy Director for Policy, presented testimony before

the Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care, Committee on Veterans Affairs,

U.S. House of Representatives, on legislation to preserve VA medical work force

needs and on various state health care reform initiatives.

(17) On March 9, 1994, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified

before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Committee on Veterans

Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on the delivery of women veterans health

care within the Department of Veterans Affairs.

(18) On March 23, 1994, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified before the Subcommittee on Hospitals and Health Care, Committee on Veterans

Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, concerning the present and future direction

of VA construction planning, as it relates to national health care reform.

(19) On March 24, 1994, the Assistant Director for Operations, appeared before

the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee to testify on legislation affecting the Court

of Veterans Appeals and the claims adjudication process.

(20) On April 20, 1994, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified

before the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Committee on Veterans

Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on veterans’ perception of the VA medical

care system.

(21) On April 28, 1994, the Director presented testimony before the Subcommittee

on Compensation, Pension and Insurance, Committee on Veterans Affairs, U.S.

House of Representatives, regarding legislative proposals affecting certain veterans’
425

disability and death benefits and the status of members of the Board of Veterans

Appeals.

(22) On May 4, 1994, the Assistant Director for Information Management, appeared before the Subcommittee on VA, HUD and Independent Agencies, Committee

on Appropriations, U.S. House of Representatives, to present VA&R Fiscal Year

1995 budget recommendations for programs and operations of the Department of

Veterans Affairs.

(23) On May 19, 1994, the Deputy Director for Policy, testified before the Subcommittee on VA, HUD and Independent Agencies, Committee on Appropriations,

United States Senate, to present VA&R Fiscal Year 1995 budget recommendations

for programs and operations of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

(24) On May 24, 1994, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, testified

before the Subcommittee on Housing and Memorial Affairs, Committee on Veterans

Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on the operations of the National Cemetery

System and the State Grants Cemetery Program.

(25) On June 9, 1994, the Assistant Director for Information Management, testified before the Subcommittee on Compensation, Pension and Insurance, Committee

on Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, on the ‘‘Veterans’ Persian Gulf

War Benefits Act’’, H.R. 4386.

(26) On June 20, 1994, the Assistant Director for Resource Development, submitted testimony to the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, Committee on

Veterans Affairs, U.S. House of Representatives, concerning the impact of national

health care reform on the competitiveness and effectiveness of the VA medical care

system.

INFORMATIONAL SERVICES

During the year, through its informational services, the National Veterans Affairs

and Rehabilitation staff endeavors to keep Legion officials and other parties informed of our program activities and functions. Preparation and distribution of various publications consumes considerable time and effort. Publications based on various topics are disseminated routinely.

Publications are sent to Department Service Officers, members of the Commission, and others interested in the Legion’s rehabilitation program. For the Calendar

Year 1993 a total of 53 Bulletins were issued. During the same time frame a total

of 20 Memorandum letters were drafted and distributed. To date, 22 Bulletins and

14 Memorandum letters have been distributed for 1994.

Our booklet entitled ‘‘An American Legion Proposal to Improve Veterans Health

Care’’ has been revised and is still widely distributed. It was sent to the President’s

Task Force on Health Care Reform and distributed to members of Congress and Legionnaires across the nation. This year, ‘‘An American Legion Proposal to Improve

the Department of Veterans Affairs Claims and Appeals Process’’ was developed and

will be distributed nationwide. The publication contains recommendations for improving the claims and appeals process at the service officer level, at the regional

office, at the Board of Veterans Appeals and at the Court of Veterans Appeals. The

publication ‘‘We Want You To Know . . . And Receive’’ was updated and is one of

our most popular and informative requests throughout the Departments. Each week

we also receive individual requests for this publication. Supplies of these and other

VA&R pamphlets are maintained for distribution upon request. Our ‘‘Welcome

Home! The Storm Has Passed’’ pamphlet providing information on VA and Department of Labor benefits and services for Persian Gulf veterans is also available upon

request.

On an annual basis the staff revises The American Legion Post Service Officers

Guide to reflect legislative and program changes. This publication has wide distribution. Sufficient copies are mailed to all Department Headquarters to provide one

copy for each Post within the Department. The PSO Guide is an indispensable research tool for Post Service Officers in providing services to veterans and their dependents.

Additional responsibilities cover the required revision of other publications and include: The American Legion Voluntary Service Handbook and the National Veterans

Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Program.

The National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission and its staff endeavor to provide as much information as possible concerning our program to the

various Divisions of the National Organization, Departments and individual Legionnaires and the general public.
426

REPORT ON THE NATIONAL CEMETERY SYSTEM

The National Cemetery System’s strategic plan through the year 2000, rec- ommends the construction of five new national cemeteries. These are: Chicago, IL;

Seattle, WA; Cleveland, OH; Albany, NY; and Dallas, TX. The Fiscal Year (FY) 1995

budget proposal for VA includes funding to begin construction of a new national

cemetery in the Seattle/Tacoma area. The FY 1995 budget proposal includes funds

to purchase land for the construction of the remaining four priority sites. Beyond

the year 2000, the next four sites recommended by VA for new national cemetery

expansion include: Pittsburgh, PA; Oklahoma City, OK; Detroit, MI; and Miami, FL. The National Cemetery System’s proposed FY 1995 budget includes a much need- ed increase of $2.2 million and 25 full-time employees. The FY 1995 budget request

of $72.5 million for cemetery operations falls short of the $78 million recommended

by The American Legion. The National Cemetery System continues to incur an

equipment deficit of roughly $6 million annually. Annual interments in national cemeteries are projected to reach 70,000 during the current fiscal year, and are expected to rise over the next several years, peaking

to 100,500 in the year 2010. As the demand for service increases, additional resources and burial space will be required. In addition to the utilization of national

cemeteries for veteran and dependent burials, officials of the National Cemetery

System are emphasizing the use of the State Grants Cemetery Program. The U.S.

House of Representatives has passed legislation to increase the Federal portion of

construction funding for state cemeteries from the current 50 percent share to a 65/

35 percent allocation. The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee is expected to consider this legislation during the current legislative session. Passage of H.R. 949, authorizing the increase in the Federal share of state ceme- tery construction is essential to meeting the growing need for veteran burials. Overall, of the 48 state cemeteries, 29 have been established through Federal grants in

18 states and Guam. Five states have grants pending for new cemeteries: New

Hampshire, Wisconsin and Minnesota are in the early planning stages for grants/

state cemeteries. The states of North Carolina and Virginia have approved funding

for veterans cemeteries and area in the process of submitting the appropriate forms

to the National Cemetery System.

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE MEDICAL CONSULTANT

There were no significant changes in the duties and activities of the Medical Con- sultant in the past year. Dr. Nikita Tregubov is the Senior Medical Consultant. The

position of the additional Medical Consultant has not been filled as of this time.

The primary duty assigned to the Medical Consultant is to act as a source of med- ical/technical knowledge to the appeals and claims representatives of The American

Legion at the Board of Veterans Appeals. The case workers refer the case folders

to the Medical Consultant for evaluation and advice as to the appropriate course

to pursue in presenting the case. They may take place in the form of guidance, but

more frequently it will involve a written memorandum to the appeals representative

who refers the case. Certain cases are medically and technically difficult for a nonphysician the present and such cases are presented directly to the Board of Veterans Appeals by the Medical Consultant. In some cases the Medical Consultant is directly contacted by American Legion Service Officers in the field asking specific questions. Department Service Officers

are encouraged to refer difficult cases to the Washington office and to call or discuss

them with the Medical Consultant. This year, again, there was an increase in requests for consultations from the field. It is felt that having more contact with the

representatives in the field, will benefit the veterans as well as the representatives

in the field. The requests were answered within days, usually requesting additional

information and records. In some cases a formal request for a disability rating was

subsequently initiated. The Director of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission uses the

Medical Consultant in an advisory capacity for the work conducted by his office.

This can be in the form of policy with regard to the operations of the Department

of Veterans Affairs’ medical care system, or it might be in an advisory capacity on

legislative proposals and testimony before Congressional Committees. Each consultation is usually on an informal basis and is discussed among several key members of the VA&R division. Occasionally, perceived administrative problems within

VA have been drawn to the attention of the director who calls upon the Medical

Consultant for a solution to these problems. This year more requests from the various sections of VA&R have been received. Some of the requests dealt with the issue

of individual and some were of a general nature. Several of those requests required

additional information not available at the time of the request. Fortunately, the
427

availability of multiple medical libraries in the area facilitates the gathering of required information and presenting it to the requester. These requests are welcome

and provide the opportunity to have input in the decision-making process of the various Departments of The American Legion.

The Medical Consultant represents the Director at the monthly meetings with the

Chief Medical Director, along with other Veterans Service Organization Representatives, to gain information concerning the recent operation and direction of the Veterans Health Administration. These meetings are to express concern over the changes

in the course of treatment being offered by the Veterans Health Administration.

During the past year the medical consultant has screened/evaluated 399 cases referred by staff.

GOVERNMENT LIFE INSURANCE ACTIVITIES

The United States Government, acting through the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), directly administers four life insurance programs for veterans of the

World War I, World War II and Korean War periods, as well as two special on-going

program for veterans in certain service-connected disabled categories. These programs are administered under the title of United States Government Life Insurance

(USGLI) for World War I era veterans, National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) for

World War II era, Korean War era and Service-Disabled veterans, and Veterans

Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) for totally disabled veterans who are approved

grants for specially adapted housing purposes by the DVA. The USGLI and NSLI

programs currently have over 2.94 million policies in force as of the end of May

1994, with a combined life insurance coverage of some $26 billion dollars. Dividend

distributions for participating policies in these programs amount to approximately

$850–$900 million dollars annually. The VMLI program insurers some 4,300 veterans with over $223 million dollars of coverage in force.

In addition to the life insurance programs directly operated by the DVA, the Department also has supervisory authority and responsibility over two other major

government life insurance program issues. These are the Servicemen’s Group Life

Insurance (SGLI) and Veteran’s Group Life Insurance (VGLI) programs. These programs have provided protection, since 1965 and 1970 respectively, to active duty

and reserve military personnel (SGLI), and to separated veterans (VGLI). The SGLI

and VGLI programs are administered by the Prudential Insurance Company at a

center in Newark, NJ, with all administration and other program expenses being

paid by the policyholders from a portion of their premiums, save for the extra hazard mortality experience of wartime periods, when general tax revenues take over.

On March 31, 1994 SGLI provided over 2.95 million active duty and reserve personnel with more than $461 billion dollars in life insurance coverage, while VGLI covered some 343,000 veterans with insurance in excess of $24 billion dollars. No new

major program changes have occurred in the SGLI/VGLI programs since the December 1992 addition of an optional $100,000 of coverage to the basic SGLI coverage

limit of $100,000 (thereby allowing a possible total of $200,000 in life insurance per

policyholder), and the conversion of VGLI coverage to one of a renewable nature,

instead of the single five year period previously in effect.

In the NSLI program thousands of disabled veterans are taking advantage of the

new supplemental Service-Disabled insurance also provided for in the legislative

changes (P.L. 102–568) of late 1992, whereby up to an additional $20,000 of coverage may be purchased by those having a basic NSLI Service-Disabled policy and

who become totally disabled before age 65. In addition, special dividends for those

with Total Disability Income Provisions on their NSLI policies as separate riders

will continue to be paid in 1994 as has been the case for several years.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Insurance Centers continue an on-going effort to provide better service to their veteran policyholders in the USGLI/NSLI programs in the face of continuing personnel budget constraints by the installation of

new computer processing systems utilizing Microsoft Windows programs with new

in-house communications networks. Continuing in this direction, 1994 has seen the

groundbreaking for a new modernized Insurance Center and Regional Office at the

Philadelphia, PA site which should become available for occupancy in late 1995-

early 1996. USGLI/NSLI policyholders will also soon be receiving annual statements

on their policy account for the first time on or about the anniversary date of their

policy, starting with the late Summer-early Fall 1994 period.

VA INSURANCE CENTERS—PHILADELPHIA, PA AND ST. PAUL, MN

The American Legion Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission staff at

Philadelphia consists of a Chief of Insurance Activities, one Insurance Representa-
428

tive and one Secretary/Transcriber. An associated office at the St. Paul Insurance

Center has one Supervisor/Insurance Representative and one Secretary/Transcriber.

The Chief of Insurance Activities and the Insurance Representatives must have

a thorough knowledge of government life insurance laws, regulations and transaction and adjudication procedures, and be able to analyze and apply them correctly

in order to properly represent insured veterans and their beneficiaries. The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Director and other interested personnel are kept informed on policy matters, changes in DVA administrative procedures and all related

areas to include new legislative initiatives. Staff analysis was provided on American

Legion resolutions involving NSLI re-open periods for service-disabled and

nonservice-disabled veterans with increased face value coverages, which continue to

be an American Legion legislative mandate.

Daily operations involve a full range of insurance services to include the representation of insured veterans and their beneficiaries, the review of insurance case files

and supporting evidence and claims files as required, the furnishing of status reports and account assistance to insureds, beneficiaries, accredited field representatives and DVA adjudicative and accounts personnel. We maintain a close liaison

with Department Service Officers and other field personnel to ensure prompt and

complete service, and the input to, review of, and where necessary the correction

of DVA actions and records both on cases involving disability and death claims and

on those involving any of a wide variety of insurance accounting and financial transactions that occur on both active and matured accounts. General insurance information and guidance is provided to field service officers across the United States, along

with assistance in the preparation of insurance appeals and claims submittals. Coordination with DVA executive and program management personnel is conducted on

both individual cases and broad policy/administrative matters.

For the period July 1, 1993 to June 30, 1994 the following activities of The American Legion’s Philadelphia and St. Paul offices were reported:

Letters Received .............................................................................................. 4,428

Letters Written ................................................................................................ 5,845

Disability Insurance Claims ........................................................................... 850

Death Insurance Claims ................................................................................. 3,065

Insurance Folders Reviewed ........................................................................... 6,346

In-Force Policy Accounts Reviewed ................................................................ 6,155

Telephone Contacts ......................................................................................... 3,592

Personal Contacts ............................................................................................ 3,543

Submittal Memorandums and Reports .......................................................... 2,789

DVA Case Responses Mailed .......................................................................... 3,375

Live Claims, Evidence and Other Submittals Presented* ........................... 8,827

*Excludes death claims and includes policy transactions such as dividend, loan and premium

actions, plan conversions, cash surrenders, refunds, beneficiary changes, disability claims with

related medical and legal evidence, Wills, estate documents, check tracers, master record data

changes, disability questionnaires processing and general inquiries.

CLAIMS SERVICE

The National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission provides assistance

and representation, through a staff of 9 appeals representatives who are all Vietnam Era veterans, to veterans, their dependents, and survivors in appeals, discharge upgrade, and correction of military/naval records. An appeals representative

is presenting detailed to a consortium of Veterans Service Organizations whose primary function is to assist the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals (the Court) in a broadbased effort to review appeals to the Court and to recruit lawyers to provide representation on a pro bono basis to the many pro se appellants seeking relief through

the Court.

Within the Table of Organization, the Assistant Director for Operations is responsible for the overall operation of the two units. A supervisor, six appeals representatives, two secretaries and a Senior Medical consultant are assigned to the Board of

Veterans Appeals to provide representation in cases on appeal; and two representatives serve as counsel in cases coming before the Discharge Review Boards and the

Boards for Correction of Military/Naval Records.

Since the D.C. Office of Veterans Affairs discontinued their operations by order

of the Mayor in late December 1993, staff continues to provide assistance and limited services to those veterans and dependents residing in the jurisdiction served by

the Washington, DC VA Regional Office, by advising and referring those claimants

to the perspective State Veterans Service Organizations accredited to handle and

prosecute American Legion claims. In addition, an appeals representative continues
429

to monitor overseas claims that are currently active and still pending proper resolution by the Washington, DC VA Regional Office.

BOARD OF VETERANS APPEALS

This report reflects the activities of The American Legion Board of Appeals Unit

for the period July 1, 1993, through June 30, 1994. During these twelve months,

the Appeals staff reviewed a total of 6,382 cases for presentation before the Board

of Veterans Appeals (BVA or Board). Of these, 166 were scheduled personal hearings and 60 were Court of Veterans Appeals (CVA or Court) remands.

Assisting in the review and presentation of complex medical cases is Dr. Nikita

Tregubov, Senior Medical Consultant. A total of 452 cases were referred to Dr.

Tregubov for advisory opinions.

During this reporting period, the Board rendered a total of 3,563 decisions. These

decisions consisted of 601 approvals (16.9%), 1,524 remands (42.8%), 1,262 denials

(35.4%), and 176 others (4.9%). The last category includes administrative withdrawals, vacated cases and dismissals. The dismissal rate is beginning to increase based

on Court decisions defining what constitutes well-grounded claims.

The Special Claims Service of the Unit reviewed and disposed of 67 cases involving requests by Department Service Officers of The American Legion for advisory

opinions of assistance in obtaining Administrative Review by VA’s Central Office,

Compensation and Pension Service.

ARMED SERVICES REVIEW AND CORRECTION BOARDS

Statutory authority for existence and operation of Discharge Review and the

Boards for Correction of Military and Naval Records is set forth in sections 1552,

1553 and 1554 of title 10, USC.

During the period beginning July 1, 1993 through June 30, 1994, staff representatives of this Commission, assigned to duties before the Department of Defense

Boards, afforded service and representation in applications in the following types of

claims: disability retirement, reserve retirement pay, discharge upgrades and other

corrections of Military, Naval and Air Force service records. Of this number 298 formal hearings were scheduled.

The following is a breakdown of the actions taken by the separate Service Department Boards:

BOARDS FOR CORRECTION OF MILITARY AND NAVAL RECORDS

Presented Pending decisions Allowed

Department of the Air Force ................................................................................... 38 4 10

Department of the Army ......................................................................................... 187 36 55

Department of the Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ..................................................... 100 10 109

Total ........................................................................................................... 325 50 174

MILITARY AND NAVAL DISCHARGE REVIEW BOARDS

Presented Pending decisions Allowed

Department of the Air Force ................................................................................... 68 36 20

Department of the Army ......................................................................................... 93 23 21

Department of the Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ..................................................... 227 22 161

Total ........................................................................................................... 388 81 202

Combined Grand Totals ............................................................................. 713 131 376

STAFF WORKLOAD

Part of the overall activity of the various offices of the National Veterans Affairs

and Rehabilitation Commission is reflected in the annual volume of correspondence.

During this period, approximately 11,720 pieces of original correspondence were received, not including copies of correspondence from VA and Department of Defense

to claimants, applicants and petitioners in cases represented by the Washington, DC

Office and its field offices. Correspondence received by the Insurance Offices in
430

Philadelphia, PA and at St. Paul, MN was in excess of 5,688. In response, the outgoing correspondence to VA, claimants, service officers and others, exceeded 5,845. The following combined workload reported by the offices of the Appeals Unit, DoD, and Insurance Services, exceeded 18,303, which includes cases reviewed and

presented to the Board of Veterans Appeals and the Department of Defense Boards.

DEPARTMENT SERVICE OFFICERS SCHOOL

The National Commander continued to authorize the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission to conduct two separate three and one-half day training programs for Department Service Officers and other accredited representatives of The

American Legion. The purpose of the Department Service Officers School is to provide current technical information on a variety of issues relative to the proper development and presentation of claims to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The program of instruction includes subjects such as the range of veterans benefits, claims processing, disability evaluation, rating procedures, development of appeals and advocacy skills.

Instructional material is extracted from all of VA’s technical literature, manuals and

program guides. The goal of this formal training is to improve proficiency of American Legion Serv- ice Officers in counseling and representing veterans, their dependents and survivors

in application for veterans benefits. Additionally, one sub-goal is to provide

attendees the ability to provide training to other Service Officers in their respective

Departments.

The Department Service Officers School represents a major effort by The Amer- ican Legion to develop the necessary number of trained Service Officers to carry on

the VA&R program. The cooperation and participation of the Departments is highly

visible and well received. The benefits of this effort will be experienced by all those

veterans the Legion is pledged to assist. Each student who successfully completes this course receives a Certificate from The American Legion. All attendees, and staff agree that this effort is extremely

helpful and successful, and will benefit all attendees and their constituencies for

years to come. A thirteenth session of the Department Service Officer School was held in Indianapolis, July 28–July 30, 1993. The classroom sessions were conducted at the Hilton

on the Circle Hotel. This was the seventh session in Indianapolis and was well attended and well received. One hundred twenty attendees participated in the program. The school format remained the same and the basic information was updated

and new areas of interest introduced. This format allows for continuing education

of the more experienced Department Service Officers and allows the new Service Officers the opportunity to gain immediate benefits from the school. The fourteenth session of the Department Service Officers School conducted in

Rosslyn, Virginia, during the period February 9–12, 1994 was followed by the Annual Department Service Officers Seminar and the National Veterans Affairs and

Rehabilitation Conference, held in Washington, DC. Attendees included 116 participants from various Legion Departments and mem- bers of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Division Claims staff. Formal instruction was again provided by Mr. Ron Abrams of the National Veterans Legal

Service Project, Inc., and the staff of the VA&R Division.

FIELD SERVICE

Field Service activities are reported for the period of July 1, 1993 through June

30, 1994.

National Field Representatives are responsible to the Deputy Director for Oper- ations, VA&R with day to day activities directed by the Senior Field Representative.

There are four assigned Field Representative positions, two of which are currently

vacant, and a secretary. Assigning representatives to specific regions, corresponding

to the four VA Veterans Health Administration (VHA) regions, has proven successful in promoting a more consistent working relationship with both the Legion’s Departments and VHA.

Site visits, the Field Service’s primary mission, include visits to VA medical cen- ters, associated satellite outpatient clinics, independent outpatient clinics, and Veterans Outreach centers. For the reporting period, the following number of VA medical centers were visited in each region:

Region 1—Eastern—18.

Region 2—Central—2.

Region 3—Southern—11.

Region 4—Western—11.
431

Total 42.

These visits continue to review the adequacy of each station’s resources including their budget, staffing, construction and equipment needs. Particular attention is

paid to the patient environment, patient satisfaction and the timeliness of services.

Health care reform continues to be a crucial issue. VAMCs are making a con- certed transition towards more primary/managed care and more outpatient treatment. This involves changing the structure of the delivery of care and shifting resources into new approaches. This is being accomplished with varying degrees of

success. Site visit reports containing observations and findings are submitted to VA’s Of- fice of the Under Secretary for Health for action or comment. In general, satisfactory attention has been paid to the issues that have been raised. Several specific

issues will continue to be monitored over the next several months. The foremost involves VA’s efforts and needs within national health care reform.

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS VOLUNTARY SERVICES

The 47th National Advisory Committee Meeting of the Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Services was held in San Diego, California, October 13–16, 1993. One of the highlights of the program was the presentation of the James H. Parke Memorial Youth Scholarship Award, during a luncheon for that purpose. The recipient of the $10,000 scholarship was Corey Reece, whose volunteer efforts were carried out at the American Lake VAMC, Tacoma, Washington. The American Legion representative on the National Advisory Committee is the Director of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission who

served as national VAVS Representative. He was represented by Harry Kelly, Assistant Director for Program Management. At the National Advisory Committee

Meeting he is Vice Chairman of the Resolutions Subcommittee and James H. Parke

Memorial Youth Scholarship Board.

Special workshops were held for those present. The special workshops provided

valuable information about professionalism in volunteering, new and innovative volunteer assignments, youth and disabled volunteers and National VAVS and how it

relates locally. A presentation was made by Ms. Alline Norman, Associate Chief Medical Director for Administration. She indicates that due to budgetary restraints, the need for VA

hospital volunteers is increasing daily to insure that the quality of care is maintained for hospitalized veterans.

The Honorable Jesse Brown, Secretary of Veterans Affairs spoke at the closing session on the dedication of veterans to their country and the need for volunteers

to aid them now.

The National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Chairman, Chester

F. Stellar, continues to view The American Legion Volunteer Program as a priority

issue.

The American Legion, for the ninth consecutive year, has demonstrated substan- tial growth in both numbers of volunteers and hours contributed. A donation of $1,000 was made to the James H. Parke Memorial Youth Scholarship Fund.

ACCREDITED REPRESENTATIVES

In completing VA Form 21–22, Power of Attorney, the claimant appoints The American Legion as their Accredited Representative in a claim for benefits administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is the duty of the organization to

provide assistance, advice, and counsel to veterans, survivors and dependents so as

to ensure their rights are protected and they receive all benefits to which they may

be entitled under the law. The American Legion, as a Congressionally chartered organization, conducts this service program through the National Veterans Affairs

and Rehabilitation Commission. Formal representation in claims is provided by Accredited Representatives of The American Legion. These representatives have been

recommended for accreditation by their respective Departments because of their

knowledge, experience, and expertise in the field of Federal benefits programs, especially those provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. To become an Accredited Representative of The American Legion, a formal appli- cation (VA Form 2–21) must be submitted to the Director of the National Veterans

Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, 1608 K Street, NW, Washington, DC 20006,

with an accompanying endorsement signed by the Department Commander or Department Adjutant. The Director, as the National Certifying Officer, or the Assistant Director for Information Management, as Assistant National Certifying Officer,

review the form and will forward the request to the General Counsel of the Depart-
432

ment of Veterans Affairs for action. This form is never sent directly to the General

Counsel, as accreditation will not be granted unless the request has been certified

by the organization. Upon approval of the application, the individual is recognized

by VA as an Accredited Representative of The American Legion and will receive official notification of this action from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The accreditation will remain in effect until such time as the Director of the National Veterans

Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission receives a written request from the Department Commander or Department Adjutant to cancel the individual’s accreditation

due to death, retirement, or resignation. The Director will then notify the General

Counsel that the accreditation should be canceled.

New accreditations and cancellations are reported monthly on the VA General Counsel’s List of Accredited Representatives—VA Information Bulletin IB 2–51.

During the reporting period 109 requests for accreditation and 82 requests for cancellation were received from the Departments and submitted to VA for necessary action. As of June 30, 1994, there were 1,152 Accredited Representatives of The American Legion. Any questions concerning the proper procedures or regulations pertaining to accreditation of individuals or their activities should be submitted to the Director of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission in the Washington Office.

DISTRIBUTION OF VA RELEASES

To ensure employees and service officers of the National Veterans Affairs and Re- habilitation Commission are kept advised and informed of changes in the laws, regulations, and policies pertaining to VA programs, the Administrative section of the

Director’s office receives and distributes copies of new and revised VA regulations,

manual changes, and other informational publications to all VA&R staff. Special requests from the field for a particular VA publication can be submitted to the Director’s office and an effort will be made to obtain the material from VA. It is, therefore, important that an initial request be made through the Publication Officer at

the local VA facility. If copies of such material are completely unavailable, consideration will be given to attempting to reprint a specific VA item. However, size and

number of pages will, of course, determine whether or not any such reproduction

may be accomplished. Distribution of important VA releases, circulars, and memoranda, as well as information concerning changes in VA law or policy, or other pertinent issues, are regularly transmitted to Department Service Officers and Directors of Rehabilitation,

members of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission, and

other interested parties, through VR&R Bulletins and Memoranda.

PERSONNEL AND ORGANIZATION

The following changes occurred in the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Divi- sion at the Washington Office from July 1, 1993 through June 30, 1994. John Hanson left the position of Director. He was replaced by Mr. Carroll Wil- liams former Assistant Director for Operations. Mr. Williams was replaced by Carol

Rutherford. In addition, Mr. Philip Wilkerson was promoted to the newly created

position of Deputy Director for Operations. Mr. Wilkerson will oversee the staff at

the Board of Veterans Appeals, the Discharge Review and Correction of Military

Records Section and the Hospital Field Staff. Mr. John Naveau left his position as

Field Representative.

Monica Moore and Venson came to the Legion as Secretaries to replace Melvina Metzger and Eva Bowden. Ms. Bowden retired after 22 years with the Legion. Carol

Rames joined the staff as Secretary to Richard Christian. Mr. Leonce Wilson was promoted to Supervisor at the Board of Veterans Appeals

Office. Mr. Tom Holland replaced Mr. Wilson as a case screener at the Court of Veterans Appeals.

The table of organization of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission is as follows as of June 30, 1994:

Director ............................................................................................................. 1

Administrative Assistant ......................................................................... 1

Deputy Director ............................................................................................... 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Deputy Director for Research and Technology .............................................. 1

Nation Coordinator (VVFAP) .................................................................. 1

State Coordinators (VVFAP) ................................................................... 14

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Deputy Director for Operations ...................................................................... 1

Field Representatives ............................................................................... 2
433

Secretary ................................................................................................... 2

Assistant Director for Program Management ............................................... 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Assistant Director for Information Management .......................................... 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Assistant Director for Resource Development ............................................... 1

Supervisor, Veterans and Dependents Claims Unit and Review and Correction Boards .............................................................................................. 1

Review Board Representatives ................................................................ 1

Supervisor, Board of Veterans Appeals Unit ................................................ 1

Appeals Representatives .......................................................................... 5

Case Screener, Court of Veterans Appeals ............................................. 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Stenographer ............................................................................................. 1

Medical Consultant .......................................................................................... 1

Total Personnel—Washington Office ............................................................. 43

Insurance Field Offices:

Philadelphia, PA:

Chief of Insurance Activities .......................................................................... 1

Insurance Representative ........................................................................ 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

St. Paul, MN:

Supervisor of Insurance Activities ................................................................. 1

Secretary ................................................................................................... 1

Total personnel:

Field Offices ................................................................................ 5

Washington Office ...................................................................... 43

VA&R Total ................................................................................ 48

STAFF FIELD ASSIGNMENTS

The VA&R Administrative staff including the director, deputy directors and assistant director attended various Legion functions around the nation such as the

National Convention, Department Conventions, Department Seminars and Service

Officer’s Schools, Conferences and fact-finding trips. Departments visited included:

Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Montana, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. These staff members also participated in

eight National Leadership Workshops.

The Field Service Unit staff performed hospital surveys at Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, District

of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi,

Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania,

Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

The entire Washington staff attended the Mid-Winter Conference in Washington,

DC.

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION

Under authority of May 1958 NEC Resolution, we have continued the program

of awarding a Certificate of Appreciation to officials of the Department of Veterans

Affairs, upon their retirement or resignation, ‘‘for services rendered and cooperation

extended in connection with the American Legion’s rehabilitation program.’’ Under

criteria established in line with the enabling resolution, nominations for the award

are submitted by Department or National officials of The American Legion twice a

year. The nominations are considered by a committee of the National Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission at meetings preceding the National Veterans

Affairs and Rehabilitation Conference, and the National Convention. The Committee

recommends to the Commission the names of those considered deserving of the Certificate.

Ten Certificates of Appreciation have been awarded during the period July 1,

1993 through June 30, 1994, for an overall total of 1,051 since the program was initiated.

CITATIONS FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE

This Citation, authorized by the National Executive Committee in May 1956,

seeks to recognize the long and faithful service of Post Service Officers and others.

Nominations for the Citation are submitted by Department officials to the Veterans
434

Affairs and Rehabilitation Director at any time; the Director, acting for the Chairman and members of the Commission, issues the award.

One hundred and forty-nine Citations ‘‘for meritorious service and loyal cooperation in The American Legion’s Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Program’’ have

been presented during the period July 1, 1993–June 30, 1994. Since this type of recognition and appreciation began, 3,751 Citations for Meritorious Service have been

presented.

VIETNAM VETERANS FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The American Legion’s Vietnam Veterans Family Assistance Program (VVFAP) is

now in its fifth year of operation. The program was initiated July 1, 1989, to develop

a pilot outreach and referral network for assisting families that need family counseling for genetic and other disabling conditions and other forms of medical assistance.

Since 1989, the program has expanded from 4 states to 14 states. The Departments

are Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico,

New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota.

There has been a gradual shift in program objectives since 1989. Initially, the

VVFAP focused on outreach, information, and referral services for genetic and family counseling, and services for children with developmental disabilities. After 2

years, it became apparent that the needs of veterans and families extended beyond

the narrow bounds of counseling. The VVFAP is now confronted with families that

have financial problems, chronic health problems, and drug and alcohol abuse problems. The solution for these problems are long term and require more than information and referral. Most often, veterans have already been referred to services only

to find that services are not responsive to their needs, primarily because state and

community service agencies are not accustomed to dealing with veterans as a group.

To be responsive to the needs of veterans and families, state coordinators began

seeking the cooperation of state health agencies that offer case management services, to ensure that problems are being dealt with in a comprehensive manner. The

emphasis on case management has improved the level of services offered by the

VVFAP and has caused the service agencies to be more willing to work with the

program in helping veterans.

Traditionally, community service agencies did not focus their services to veterans

because it assumed that veterans already had federal and state benefits appropriate

to their needs. With the emphasis on case management, many state agencies began

recognizing that veterans often have needs that are not being met by the federal

and state programs. These programs are beginning to offer their services and accept

responsibility for ensuring that veterans have access to the services they need. Linkages are beginning to develop between the VVFAP and the service agencies to provide additional benefits and assistance to veterans and their families needing medical and social services, especially those not available through the regular veteran

benefit programs.

The VVFAP information and referral program has included the following elements

for every individual or family referred to the program since its inception.

Outreach to identify and encourage veterans and members of their families

to request help when needed.

Objective needs assessments are conducted via telephone, mail, or office/in

person visits.

Prioritize needs by importance and available resources with a written plan of

the organizations referred to and some general information about the problem

referred for services.

Follow-up contact to monitor the usefulness and effectiveness of the information and the referrals provided.

All referrals require the coordinators to perform case management at some level

to ensure that even minimum levels of service are actually provided or delivered to

the family member. The quality and effectiveness of the assistance the VVFAP provided is directly related to the program’s ability to assess an individual’s needs in

the context of the applicable family’s situation and to follow the individual and family long enough to ensure that they receive the services needed and/or requested.

Since the inception of the program, the coordinators have reported a large number

of cases seeking services other than health services. These cases have ranged from

financial assistance to children’s problems within the public school system. Other

cases have involved requests for legal assistance, food, clothing, shelter, and rent

assistance. Most of these referrals have been made to nontraditional veteran service

programs. Many have been made to nonprofit community assistance and local and

state agencies.
435

There have been more than 61,179 referrals since the inception of the program.

More than 12,525 referrals were made during the last year. For all states, veterans

account for approximately 51 percent of all referrals, while children account for 31

percent and spouses account for 18 percent. The percentage of children served has

gradually increased since the program began, primarily because of the emphasis

being placed on services to children and the family.

The sixth year of the program will begin October 1, 1994. Again, there will be

no expansion of the VVFAP to additional Departments this year, because of the limited amount of funds available from the AOCAP. Some states are exploring the possibility of private funding to continue the program after the sixth year. The VVFAP

has touched the lives of many veterans’ families with services that otherwise may

not have been available to them and has provided an effective avenue for the Legion’s efforts as an advocate for the welfare of veterans and their families.

VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION REPORT

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY

MRS. SYBLE D. DESHOTEL, Louisiana, Chairman

The Plan of Work began instructions by stating that ‘‘Volunteers are the key to

success in the VA&R Program this year.’’ While the actual number of volunteers in

every category has not increased in large numbers, the old and new volunteers consistently and untiringly continued the goals for this program. Who benefited? The

veterans did. Our volunteers have worked in couples, shared rides to VA medical

centers and other facilities, made arrangements for community programs to function

and sought out those areas where service could be furnished. We, of the VA&R Committee, take our hats off to you. You made it happen.

48 Department Chairman sent in reports which were coordinated from the Unit

reports they received. It would be wonderful if we could let you read all of them,

however since we cannot, here are some interesting items from our organization:

Maine Units donated hundreds of lap robes this year. Some are so small it takes

four sewed together to make one big enough for a bed. One volunteer accumulated

900 hours in putting those lap robes together for the veterans. The Sharing and

Caring Holiday Meal Program provides a meal for the veteran’s loved ones on a holiday if they are at the hospital to visit. Utah—There was participation at the VAMC

of nine Junior Groups making cookies, tray favors, lap robes and ditty bags for

wheel chairs. Minnesota Auxiliary Units, Legion Posts and SAL provided the monies

for the gifts at VA facilities at Christmas. A total of 1,866 veterans received a total

of 4,001 gifts. 3,013 gifts were given to relatives and 988 veterans took a gift for

themselves as they had no one to give a gift to. South Dakota Home Service had

804 volunteers donate 9,123 hours to sewing, cooking, shopping and making Christmas and other holiday treats, costing the volunteers $10,050. 646 pairs of gloves

and 1,383 hygiene kits were donated to the homeless or taken to shelters for the

homeless. Texas—Though Auxiliary volunteers, there were 56,571 veterans in the

VAMC entertained with 1,340 social events in the hosptials for every holiday including July 4th, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week, Valetine’s Day, Easter, Halloween and Memorial Day. Virginia—This Department has experienced an extremely cold winter, creating hardship for some of their veterans. One Unit in the western part of the state provided

fuel, groceries and transportation to some of their needy veterans. This same Unit

also reported providing one veteran with a car and another with the down payment

for a car. Vermont—This Department made time to think about other states when

they honored their veterans at the gift shops—they sent donations from their own

gift shop to the flood victims in Iowa.

Of great interest is the fact that although there was a decrease in the number

of volunteers in Home Service, as well as the expenditures for Home Service, the

number of service hours increased dramatically to 70,501.

An important fact we must all remember is that in VA&R, we work for the veteran 365 days per year.

The American Legion Auxiliary Units responded well to the plea of our National

President Helen Holcomb to include volunteers in all the activities. This segment

of our program can be increased with just a little more effort.

One lesson we learned during the past year was: continue to inform our members

of the need for volunteers. Let the members know about the types of volunteering

available for everyone. Friends and acquaintances may wish to be non-affiliated volunteers. Never forget the juniors and other high school and college students who
436

can serve as volunteers also. Provide orientation courses when needed, but make

them interesting, informative, motivational and not too long. Recognize and reward

your volunteers, but above all, be willing to let new people in, to ‘‘learn the ropes’’

in order to take over when the need arises.

Read the Dispatch and the National News in order to keep informed on legislative

issues concerning our hospitalized and ailing veterans. Attend the Leadership Workshops in the Fall, share your successes and failures with those attending and have

a positive attitude about our veterans and our service to them. With everyone working together as a team, we did make a difference.

FIELD SERVICE

MRS. GRACE TALBOT, Louisiana, Director

‘‘Cheer baskets,’’ ‘‘Joy Shops,’’ ‘‘Fun Days,’’ and ‘‘Sing-a-longs’’ were some of the

15,332 activities carried out by 30,249 volunteers serving 1,106,785 hours to accommodate 249,499 veterans with expenditures of $939,645.

The Valentine Program was a huge success in all Field Service facilities. The veterans in South Carolina were so impressed that they kept them on their doors all

year. Miss America assisted the volunteers at a soup kitchen for the homeless.

Needless to say, this brought much publicity for the American Legion Auxiliary.

Work at national and state veterans cemeteries continues to grow. Volunteers in

Ohio, Indiana, Mississippi and Minneapolis served as guides, served refreshments,

maintained the graves and raised and lowered flags for holidays.

Volunteers in 43 Departments worked at ‘‘stand-downs,’’ a three day weekend of

helping homeless veterans. California, with five such programs, provided eye glasses

for all in need. Other Departments furnished food, clothing, toilet articles and blankets.

‘‘Nifty Fifties’’ parties were held by the Idaho volunteers with dress of that period,

cheeseburgers, cherry cokes, and ice cream sundaes from an old fashioned soda

fountain.

Filling the food pantry for the homeless, Juniors adopting grandparents at the

nursing homes, and the Sing-a-long group touring the State of Massachusetts kept

the volunteers involved.

In Hawaii, the volunteers provide home cooked meals and visits to the shut-ins

with gifts of fruit, clothing, and toilet articles. They also do home and car repairs,

household chores, run errands, write letters, and pay bills.

The ‘‘Far From Home’’ project was started in Indiana to rehabilitate 10–12 homeless veterans at a time to return them to society as useful citizens. Two more homes

are to open in the near future. Auxiliary volunteers furnish care packages to each

veteran as he enters the program.

In Texas the veterans reminiscence, as tapes, old slides, and home movies are

shared with each other. They enjoy stories of their past experiences. The volunteers

supply crafts, needed supplies, hospital equipment and have recreation and refreshments.

The Wranglers and Gamblers (volunteers) of Maine have round-ups (programs)

with cook-outs and ‘‘bean and doggies’’ suppers. The Trail Master (activity director)

holds hoe-downs, singing, and line dancing while the General Store (Gift Shop)

opens for Christmas shopping with saddle bags full and many happy smiles.

New York maintains a clothing bank where volunteers collect, wash, and mend

clothing for the State Veterans’ Home. They have purchased three wheelchairs and

a dining room table for the Field Service facility. The residents are taken to

ballgames, plays, concerts, boat rides and the Ice Capades.

The women veterans are not forgotten in Oregon. The volunteers hold an annual

luncheon, adopt-a-vet, assist with gas for job hunting and provide necessity items.

During National Volunteer Week, all community volunteers are recognized as well

as the Legion family.

Fun Days are held in the Fall and Spring for the veterans of Florida with booths,

fortune-telling, visits and bingo. The Legion volunteers furnished materials and

built ramps for the disabled veterans at several facilities. Each day the Sunshine

ladies call all veterans who live alone.

In Virginia, the volunteers are recognized at the annual VA&R Field Service Volunteers breakfast at the Department Convention in appreciation for their untiring

work.

Volunteers—Busy! Veterans—Lucky! In all Departments, the veterans in nursing

and state veterans’ homes, hospice, homeless shelters and their own homes were

fed, clothed, and loved. The greatest gift from the Field Service volunteers were
437

their time and interest to show they cared and remembered what veteran stood for

all these years.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS

MRS. BEVERLY HUSTON, Texas, Director

This year 39,761 volunteers, both regularly scheduled and occasional gave 1,198,933 hours at the 181 medical centers, nursing homes and day care centers.

Veterans received comfort items of shampoo, razors, shaving cream, toothbrushes,

toothpaste, and deodorant. Women veterans also received cologne, perfume, soap

and bath powder. Patients were given writing paper, stamps, envelopes, and bus tokens.

Volunteers helped in escort service, filing, information desks, the library, Chapel decorating, and writing letters and being available wherever needed. One hospital received 17 TVs for the wards. Another now has closed circuit TV

for Chapel services to the wards. A 100-gallon aquarium is located in the Recreation

Room at one hospital. Several Departments have a ‘‘Warm Hands—Warm Heart

Program.’’ They collect and give brown cotton gloves to the patients leaving the hospital. Units participated in many outings with the patients. They went to parades,

on fishing trips, barbecues, ballgames, and concerts. In the hospital volunteers gave

bingo parties, Valentine, birthday, ice cream and cookie parties. At Christmas the

wards were decorated and an estimated 115,000 plus volunteers gave many hours

to help the patients at the Gift Shops. Over $2,000,000 was donated for the 71,000

plus veterans shopping for their families. All veterans received bags of fruit or cookies, socks, combs, canteen books during their ward parties. In most hospitals, all

birthdays were remembered with decorations and treats.

As always, recruitment of new volunteers is an important part of the VA&R programs. This year special emphasis was placed on the recruitment of volunteens. 322

regularly scheduled new volunteens gave 11,458 hours and 22,831 hours were given

by new occasional volunteens. One California VAMC instituted a new volunteen program—a nursery staffed with volunteens. They take care of the children who are

too young to visit the patients. In New Mexico, a program has been started that

work with ‘‘at risk’’ youths having them volunteer at least 2 hours per week.

Through this program they have encouraged young people to stay in school.

1,018 new regularly scheduled senior volunteers gave 5,750 hours, and 1,855 new

occasional volunteers gave 15,802 hours to the hospitalized veterans.

Every Unit in one way or another, either with hours, donations of money or goods

are involved in the VA&R program.

To all of you—thank you and to the hospital volunteers—God Bless You! You are

special!

NATIONAL VAVS REPRESENTATIVE

MRS. MARJORIE SHANK, California, Vice Chairman

There’s good news in the VAVS world! All goals announced in the ‘‘Plan of Work’’

have been met, or will be by the time you read this report to the membership.

Quarterly Minutes have been received by this representative from all except 7 of

the 172 facilities where we have representation on their VAVS local committees. We

are meeting the 50% attendance requirement at 158 of these facilities and none are

in danger of our organization being dropped due to default on attendance. About 260

representatives and deputies will achieve 100% attendance awards, even though the

weather in many parts of our country must have made this achievement most difficult.

Annual Joint Reviews were received from all but sixteen of the 172 facilities. Last

year, more than 50 were missing. This representative has every hope that 100% will

be achieved on reviews and quarterly minutes by the time you read this report in

Minneapolis.

A certification audit between the Departments, the National office and the VAVS

records has been completed, and virtually all discrepancies have been cleared. A big

thank you to the cooperation given by Department Secretaries and Lisa Bibler of

the National office. Our new certification form has been a great help, and we still

ask that you discard all the old forms.

Volunteers once again were highlighted with Corey Reese, a 16-year-old who has

volunteered since he was 9 at American Lake VAMC in Washington State, receiving

the James H. Parke Scholarship in the amount of $10,000. This representative
438

again on behalf of the American Legion Auxiliary donated our $1,000 to this worthy

scholarship. Please enter our volunteers in this contest and fulfill my dream that

one of our own will soon win this award. Brochures about this scholarship were sent

to each hospital representative along with their Annual Joint Review response from

me.This representative will serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National Advisory Council’s Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The new

membership requirements for Donor Members and Service Members will go into effect at this the 48th Annual Meeting. Your attendance is encouraged if you are interested in the VAVS program.. The Department of Veterans Affairs latest recap (3/94) shows we volunteer at 184

VA facilities, and have 6,324 regularly scheduled volunteers who served over

337,000 hours in the previous six months. To the giving of canteen books and holding bingos, we have added appreciation picnics, fishing trips, beauty salon services,

movie rentals, unholiday activities, pizza parties and cookies that seem to come

from a bottomless pit! Thank you, all of you, for caring!

FOCUSING ON YOUTH

National President Helen Holcomb

No community in America is immune from problems with drugs, shootings, gangs, thefts and violence in the schools, on the streets and in the home. This is why I

chose ‘‘Investing in Youth, Ensuring the Future’’ as my theme for the 1993–1994

administrative year. With this theme in mind, the Auxiliary targeted the nation’s youth for its 74th year of service. I challenged Auxiliary members to help their communities to create

an alternative to the over-burdened system of justice which exists for young offenders. I introduced ‘‘Teen Court’’ as my special project, which offers a viable alternative to the formal judicial process. Since that introduction, seventeen Teen Courts

were installed around the United States. In addition, sixty-one Teen Court’s are currently in the early stages of development. Teen Court’s low recidivism rate, linked

with its unique approach in solving juvenile crime, has resulted in nation-wide attention. Media coverage even reached the British Broadcasting Corporation.

Americanism

The objectives of the Americanism program, to promote allegiance to the ideals and traditions of the U.S., and to educate citizens about the principles and practices

essential to the American way of life, were realized ‘‘with flying colors’’ this year.

The ‘‘Girl Scout Achievement Award’’ was introduced, awarding a $1,000 scholarship

to an outstanding Girl Scout. Americanism was promoted in the school systems by

distributing more than 100,000 flags. Other community programs included dedications of veterans memorials, get-out-and-vote campaigns, Americanism workshops

and parade participation.

Children and Youth

The American Legion Auxiliary, working with The American Legion, actively voiced concern for the care, welfare and education of our nation’s children and youth

through a number of programs. Specific initiatives addressed include immunization,

missing children, teenage suicide prevention, child safety education and drug abuse

prevention. In all, more than $4 million and 950,000 hours were donated through

the Children and Youth program.

Community Service

Integrating ‘‘Investing in Youth, Ensuring the Future’’ into Community Service programs was not a difficult task. Community Service volunteers continued doing

what they do best—assisting needy areas. The wide range of programs addressed

include the following: aid to homeless shelters, earthquake and fire relief assistance,

toys for children, adult literacy, Habitat for Humanity and Hurricane Andrew reconstruction. As always, Auxiliary members responded generously, donating more than

$2 million and 2 million service hours through community service aid.

Education

The Education program focused on youth by awarding more than two-thousand

scholarships totaling $746,000. In addition, ten ‘‘National President’s Scholarships,’’

five ‘‘Spirit of Youth’’ scholarships, and a $1,000 Savings Bond for the ‘‘VolunTeen
439

of the Year’’ were awarded. ‘‘Better Schools Shape Better Tomorrows’’ was used as

the American Education Week theme. Several thousand Units participated by visiting schools and providing special recognition to school administrators. Units also

took advantage of educational pamphlets such as ‘‘Need A Lift?,’’ and distributed

materials to schools and libraries around the country.

Girls State/Girls Nation

As always, the rich heritage of Girls State left a positive taste of government in

the mouths of 25,000 young women. From all across the country, the girls came together to learn the operations of government. Culminating the year was the gathering of 96 Girls Nation Senators on the campus of Marymount University. Strong

media coverage added to the exhilarating experience. From debates on Federal Legislation, to a private meeting with The President of the United States . . . each moment of Girls Nation fulfilled the Auxiliary’s purpose of ensuring the future.

Poppy

Educate, promote and publicize were the three facets of the 1993–94 Poppy program. Contributions received from poppy distribution are the sole income for veterans assistance efforts. Total income reached $1.6 million. Poppy orders from Departments totaled over 8 million, an increase of 216,230 over last year.

Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation

Old and new volunteers consistently and untiringly continued the goals of the

VA&R program. Who benefited? The veterans did. Volunteers shared rides to VA

medical centers and other facilities, made arrangements for community programs to

function and sought out those areas where service could be furnished.

Reports from Department Chairmen listed some interesting programs from various areas of the nation. In Maine, Units donated hundreds of lap robes. The Sharing and Caring Holiday Meal Program provides a meal for friends and family members visiting veterans at the hospital.

In Utah, nine Junior groups made cookies, tray favors, lap robes and ditty bags

for wheelchairs.

In Minnesota, Units, Legion Posts and SAL groups provided Christmas gifts at

the VA facilities. A total of 1,866 veterans received 4,001 gifts; 3,013 gifts were

given to relatives and 988 veterans were given a gift for themselves.

In South Dakota, 804 Home Service volunteers donated 9,123 hours sewing, cooking, shopping and making Christmas and other holiday treats, at a cost of $10,050.

The homeless were given 646 pairs of gloves and 1,383 hygiene kits.

In Texas, volunteers entertained 56,571 veterans with 1,340 social events in VA

medical centers for every holiday including July 4th, Labor Day, Veterans Day,

Christmas, New Years Eve, Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week, Valentines Day,

Easter, Halloween and Memorial Day.

Vermont thought of other states when they honored their veterans at the gift

shops and sent donations from their own gift shop to the flood victims in Iowa.

Although there was a decrease in the number of volunteers and expenditures in

Home Service, the number of service hours, 70,501, increased dramatically. In

VA&R, Auxiliary volunteers worked for the veteran 365 days a year.

During the past year, the Auxiliary informed its members of the need for volunteers and of the types of volunteer work needed. Friends and acquaintances became

non-affiliated volunteers. Juniors, along with other high school and college students,

also served as volunteers. Orientation courses were offered and volunteers were rewarded.

The Dispatch and the National News informed our members on legislative issues

concerning our hospitalized and ailing veterans. Members attended the Leadership

Workshops in the fall, and shared their successes and failures with those attending.

VA&R—Hospital Volunteers

This year, 39,761 volunteers, both regularly scheduled and occasional, served

1,198,933 hours at 181 VA medical centers, nursing homes, and day care centers.

Veterans received shampoo, razors, shaving cream, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and

deodorant. Women veterans also received cologne, perfumes, soap and bath powder.

Patients were given writing paper, stamps, envelopes, and bus tokens.

One hospital received 17 televisions for the wards, and another has closed-circuit

TV for chapel services. A 100-gallon aquarium was donated to the recreation room

at one hospital. Several Departments have ‘‘Warm Hands, Warm Heart’’ programs.
440

They collect and give brown cotton gloves to the patients leaving the hospital. Units

participated in parades, fishing trips, barbecues, ball games, and concerts. In the

hospital, volunteers hosted bingo parties, Valentine, Birthday, and ice cream and

cookie parties. At Christmas, wards were decorated and an estimated 115,000 volunteers worked over 2,000,000 hours to help 71,000 veterans shop for their families

at the Gift Shops. Veterans received bags of fruit or cookies, socks, combs, and canteen books during ward parties. In most hospitals, birthdays are remembered with

decorations and treats.

Recruitment of new hospital volunteers is an important part of the VA&R program. This year, recruitment of VolunTeens was emphasized. A total of 32 regularly

scheduled VolunTeens gave 11,458 hours and 22,831 hours were given by occasional

VolunTeens. One California VA instituted a new VolunTeen Program, a nursery

staffed with VolunTeens. They care for children who are too young to visit the patients. In New Mexico, a program began for ‘‘at risk’’ youths, allowing them to volunteer at least two hours per week. Through this program, young people are encouraged to stay in school. 1,016 regularly scheduled Senior volunteers worked 5,750 hours, and 1,855 occa- sional volunteers worked 16,802 hours for hospitalized veterans. All Units are involved in the VA&R program.

VA&R—Field Service

Cheer baskets, ‘‘joy’’ shops, fun days, and sing-a-longs were some of the 15,332 activities carried out by 30,249 Field Service volunteers serving 1,106,785 hours to

assist 249,499 veterans at a cost of $939,645.

The Valentine program was a huge success in all VA medical centers. The veter- ans in South Carolina was so impressed that they kept their valentines on their

doors all year. Miss America assisted the volunteers at a soup kitchen operated by

the American Legion Auxiliary for the homeless. Needless to say, this brought much

positive publicly for the kitchen and for our organization. Work at national and state veterans cemeteries continues to grow. Volunteers in Ohio, Indiana, Mississippi and Minnesota acted as guides, served refreshments,

maintained graves and raised and lowered flags on holidays. Volunteers in 43 Departments worked at ‘‘stand downs,’’ a three-day weekend gathering to help homeless veterans, where volunteers furnished food, clothing,

toiletries and blankets. In California, where there are five such programs, eye glasses and other needed items were provided.

Massachusetts volunteers filled food pantries at homeless shelters. Junior volunteers toured nursing homes as a sing-a-long group, and others ‘‘adopted’’ patients

at nursing homes. In Hawaii, volunteers provided home cooked meals and visited shut-ins, bringing them fruit baskets, clothing and toiletries. They also did home and car repairs and

other household chores, ran errands, wrote letters, and paid bills.

The Far From Home project got underway in Indiana. A group home was estab- lished to house 10–12 veterans and help them become useful citizens. Auxiliary

members furnished care packages to each veterans who joined the program. New York maintained a clothing bank where volunteers collected, washed and mended clothing for the state veterans home. They purchased three wheelchairs and

a dining room table for the VA medical center. The residents were taken to ball

games, plays, concerts, boat rides and the Ice Capades. Women veterans are not forgotten by Auxiliary volunteers. They host an annual luncheon, adopt-a-vet, assist with job hunting and help in other significant ways. During National Volunteer Week, all community volunteers and volunteers within the Legion ‘‘family’’ were recognized for their dedicated service. ‘‘Fun Days’’ were conducted the fall and spring for Florida veterans where volun- teers manned fortune-telling booths, conducted bingo games and made individual

visits. Legion volunteers furnished materials and built wheelchair ramps at several

facilities. Each day, the ‘‘Sunshine ladies’’ telephoned veterans who live alone. In all Departments, veterans in nursing homes, state veterans facilities, hospices, homeless shelters and their own homes were fed, clothed and loved. The greatest

gift Field Service volunteers gave was their time and interest and the knowledge

that Auxiliary volunteers did not forget the veterans and their sacrifice.

National VAVS Representative

There’s good news in the VAVS world! All goals announced in the Plan of Work

were met, or will be by the time of the National Convention.

Quarterly minutes were received from all but seven of the 172 facilities where we

have representation on their VAVS local committees. We are meeting the 50% at-
441

tendance requirement at 158 of these facilities and our organization will not be

dropped from any due to default on attendance. Despite severe weather conditions

in many parts of the country, about 260 representatives and deputies will achieve

100% attendance awards.

Annual Joint Reviews were received from all but 16 of the 172 facilities. Last

year, more than 50 were missing. It is expected that 100% will be achieved on reviews and quarterly minutes by the time of National convention in Minneapolis.

A certification audit of records of the Departments, the National office and the

VAVS was completed; and virtually all discrepancies were cleared. A big thank you

for cooperation given by Department Secretaries and Lisa Bibler of the National office! Our new certification form was a great help and we again remind you to discard all the old forms.

VolunTeens once again were spotlighted. Corey Reese, 16, has volunteered since

he was nine years old at American Lake VA Medical Center in Washington State.

He was awarded the $10,000 James H. Parke Scholarship. On behalf of the American Legion Auxiliary, $1,000 was donated to this scholarship fund. I urge all members to enter our VolunTeens in this contest and fulfill my dream that one of our

own will next year win this award. Brochures about this scholarship were sent to

each hospital representative along with their Annual Joint Review response.

I will serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National Advisory

Council’s Annual Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., at Pier 66, October 19–23, 1994.

The new membership requirements for donor members and service members will go

into effect at the 48th Annual Meeting. Your attendance is encouraged if you are

interested in the VAVS program.

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ latest recap as of March, 1994, shows that

we volunteered at 184 VA facilities, had 6,324 regularly scheduled volunteers who

served more than 337,000 hours in the six months preceding the report. In addition

to providing canteen books and holding bingo games, we added appreciation picnics,

fishing trips, beauty salon services, movie rentals, pizza parties and dozens of cookies. Thank you, volunteers, for this outpouring of caring for our veterans.
442
443
444
445
446
447
448
449
450
451
452
453