The American Legion Department of Colorado Blog

By: Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

Happy New year to all! The new year will hold many new challenges for The American Legion. But, what else is new. For over 93 years our members have faced the challenges with determination and excitement. We will begin this year with the same spirit that has permeated our organization since 1919.

Our first major event for this year will be the mid-year conference in Longmont, CO, January 26-29, 2012. Our Thursday event will focus on finding employment for veterans, teaching veterans about their choices in the market place and helping to navigate the Veterans Administration system. This event will take place from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Thursday January 26 at the Plaza hotel in Longmont. You can find more information on this event in the pages of this Observer publication.

The mid-year is a time for all of our committee’s and leaders to get together to asses our progress and success in all of our programs. It becomes the time to make any course corrections as we complete the Legion year in June of 2012. The Oratorical Committee, Boys State Committee, Baseball Committee and the Service Office will hold sessions to educate our members on those programs. All of this will take place on Saturday January 28. In addition to that there will be an update on the legislative issues that will face us in the future. We expect to get a status report on the new VA hospital scheduled for construction on the Fitzsimons campus in Aurora.

A real important session at the mid-year is the mini-college, which will be held on Saturday at 1:15 pm. The leadership committee will be instructing our members on the basics of the organization to include, structure, resolutions, constitution and by-laws, program and the four pillars. There is something for everyone at this session. Be sure to attend.

Friday evening will be the 4th annual U.S. Army troop induction ceremony. The U S Army Recruiting Command in Denver will induct about 130 brand new troops. Although this is an Army event the American Legion is proud to sponsor and support the event. Be sure to be there and meet these new troops and their parents. This is part of our re-connect effort with our troops. National Vice Commander Merv Gunderson will be a featured speaker.

As the year rolls along the District Conventions will become the focus. This is truly the grass roots level of the organization. At the district conventions the delegates will consider resolutions that can affect our policy, both at the state and national level. And, they will elect new leadership. Check with your district commander and plan on attending your convention.

Then in June, in Grand Junction, the delegates to the department convention will consider those resolutions forwarded by the districts, and they will elect your new state officers and a new Legion year will begin.

So the next 6 months will be busy. Your involvement is important. If you are not attending your local post meetings make it a point to add those dates on your calendar. We can be successful only if we are involved. If you have any questions email our public relations department at theobserver@coloradolegion.org. Should you have a more immediate need for information don’t hesitate to call at 303 366-5201 or toll free at 800 477-1655. Until then may you have a great 2012!

By: C Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

The real estate industry talks about curb appeal when marketing a house for sale. When you pull up in front of the house does it “invite” you in? Does it look like something you would be proud of if you owned it? Is the landscape attractive? Is the front yard free of debris and clutter? Does the house need repairs to the exterior, roof, siding, paint? If everything is attractive from the curb you will then take the next step and enter the house for a preview of your future home.

When you enter your prospective new home is the interior attractive? Is it cluttered and in disarray? Is the paint on the walls horrendous? Are there holes in the wall? Does the kitchen sink still have yesterday’s dishes in it? Does it look like a home? Are there pictures on the wall of family and friends? Does it have that homey atmosphere? Is the furniture inviting, some place you could sit and enjoy time with family? Do you instantly want to live there upon first impression?

Now a good real estate agent will paint you a picture of what the home will look like when you own it. He will ask you to look past any clutter and disarray. He will ask you to envision your furniture in the rooms, your family pictures on the wall, your paint and floor covering choices, the window shades you want, the kitchen appliances that fit your life style. His job is to sell you the house and your job is to make it a home. Once the former occupants move out and all the furniture and clutter is gone you will have a blank slate to design your very own home.

Now that was a long preamble to talk about the image of The American Legion. Everything applies to your post that applies to a prospective buyer for that house. Granted your prospective buyer is not buying the post home, but is possibly a brand new member looking for comradeship with fellow veterans or a current member evaluating the image of the post. I’ll guarantee you that your image will be important to that member.

Take a good objective look at the front area of your post home. Does it have the curb appeal a real estate agent would talk about? Is the American Legion emblem and sign bright and cheerful or is it faded and dull? Is there a flag pole with flags flying proudly? Are the flags in good repair or torn and tattered? Is that new member going to want to walk in the door, or turn and leave? Of course the other question is, are you, as a current member, proud of the look of the exterior?

When you enter take a good look around and what do you see? Do the pictures on the wall reflect the fact that your post is a veteran’s organization? Do your walls tell a story of the history of the post? Is the post charter conspicuously displayed? Is the Legion emblem proudly displayed? If your post has an auxiliary and SAL squadron, are their emblems displayed? Is the flag of our country posted with the proper protocol somewhere in the building?

We have numerous posts with club room operations. So the question here is does the interior look like a honky-tonk bar? Are there beer advertisements all over the place? What is the first sign you see? Is it advertising a drink special; or, is it a sign saying, “Welcome friends and fellow veterans, feel free to make this your home.” Is it family friendly? Is the language at the bar constrained? Is it a place you would be proud to take your mother? Are you proud of the interior? Will you proudly profess to everyone you see that your American Legion Post is the best?

So many questions and who is to answer? The obvious answer is your post membership. They have the final authority over anything that happens under the banner of The American Legion. If they don’t care, then who is going to care?

A New Year will soon be upon us. Why not take the time to appoint an “image” committee to review the image you are portraying to the public and to your members. Is it time to start with that blank slate at your post? Make that New Year’s resolution to clean up the post if it needs it. Make the post home a real “home.” Make it a place where you can invite family, friends, fellow veterans and the community to partake in all the good things we do as an organization. A good image will lead to a more productive American Legion, Auxiliary and SAL. It will lead to a bigger and stronger Legion, with more members to accomplish our important work. Remember, everyone loves a winner. Your image determines if you are a winner or loser. So, get to work.

By: C Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

The real estate industry talks about curb appeal when marketing a house for sale. When you pull up in front of the house does it “invite” you in? Does it look like something you would be proud of if you owned it? Is the landscape attractive? Is the front yard free of debris and clutter? Does the house need repairs to the exterior, roof, siding, paint? If everything is attractive from the curb you will then take the next step and enter the house for a preview of your future home.

When you enter your prospective new home is the interior attractive? Is it cluttered and in disarray? Is the paint on the walls horrendous? Are there holes in the wall? Does the kitchen sink still have yesterday’s dishes in it? Does it look like a home? Are there pictures on the wall of family and friends? Does it have that homey atmosphere? Is the furniture inviting, some place you could sit and enjoy time with family? Do you instantly want to live there upon first impression?

Now a good real estate agent will paint you a picture of what the home will look like when you own it. He will ask you to look past any clutter and disarray. He will ask you to envision your furniture in the rooms, your family pictures on the wall, your paint and floor covering choices, the window shades you want, the kitchen appliances that fit your life style. His job is to sell you the house and your job is to make it a home. Once the former occupants move out and all the furniture and clutter is gone you will have a blank slate to design your very own home.

Now that was a long preamble to talk about the image of The American Legion. Everything applies to your post that applies to a prospective buyer for that house. Granted your prospective buyer is not buying the post home, but is possibly a brand new member looking for comradeship with fellow veterans or a current member evaluating the image of the post. I’ll guarantee you that your image will be important to that member.

Take a good objective look at the front area of your post home. Does it have the curb appeal a real estate agent would talk about? Is the American Legion emblem and sign bright and cheerful or is it faded and dull? Is there a flag pole with flags flying proudly? Are the flags in good repair or torn and tattered? Is that new member going to want to walk in the door, or turn and leave? Of course the other question is, are you, as a current member, proud of the look of the exterior?

When you enter take a good look around and what do you see? Do the pictures on the wall reflect the fact that your post is a veteran’s organization? Do your walls tell a story of the history of the post? Is the post charter conspicuously displayed? Is the Legion emblem proudly displayed? If your post has an auxiliary and SAL squadron, are their emblems displayed? Is the flag of our country posted with the proper protocol somewhere in the building?

We have numerous posts with club room operations. So the question here is does the interior look like a honky-tonk bar? Are there beer advertisements all over the place? What is the first sign you see? Is it advertising a drink special; or, is it a sign saying, “Welcome friends and fellow veterans, feel free to make this your home.” Is it family friendly? Is the language at the bar constrained? Is it a place you would be proud to take your mother? Are you proud of the interior? Will you proudly profess to everyone you see that your American Legion Post is the best?

So many questions and who is to answer? The obvious answer is your post membership. They have the final authority over anything that happens under the banner of The American Legion. If they don’t care, then who is going to care?

A New Year will soon be upon us. Why not take the time to appoint an “image” committee to review the image you are portraying to the public and to your members. Is it time to start with that blank slate at your post? Make that New Year’s resolution to clean up the post if it needs it. Make the post home a real “home.” Make it a place where you can invite family, friends, fellow veterans and the community to partake in all the good things we do as an organization. A good image will lead to a more productive American Legion, Auxiliary and SAL. It will lead to a bigger and stronger Legion, with more members to accomplish our important work. Remember, everyone loves a winner. Your image determines if you are a winner or loser. So, get to work.

By: C. Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

As we enter the holiday season we must remember to give thanks for all of the blessings bestowed upon this great country. I believe that much of our success as a God fearing nation comes from our foundation in faith established by our founders. Our ability to maintain a good moral foundation will determine the fate of this nation in the future. History teaches us that lesson well.

But while we owe our very existence in this country to our God, we owe our freedoms to those who were brave enough to put on the uniform of the country and fight to preserve our rights to worship as we wish. Generations of veterans have gone before us with some paying the ultimate price because they believed. It is because of these special people we exist as an organization. As we approach Thanksgiving and celebrate with our family and friends let us keep in mind that we can celebrate because of our brave young men and women in uniform today.

While our country is facing many economic challenges, our returning veterans are struggling to fit into a different society than they left a few short years ago.

Unemployment for veterans is higher than the general population. Most veterans in uniform today have at least one tour of duty in a war zone, resulting in some level of PTS. Depression and suicide seem to be a common thread among returning vets. Family problems abound, including a high level of divorce.

Many veterans who served in Iraq are suffering some level of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The medical community is struggling to keep up in trying to find cures for TBI. The VA will be busy for years to come treating these OEF/OIF veterans. Alternative treatments must be found to treat TBI, other than massive amounts of pharmaceuticals. That’s why The American Legion is pushing Congress and the VA to fully investigate the Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment (HBOT) for TBI veterans.

So our job is clear. As The American Legion we must maintain the moral foundation established by our founders. As a family ourselves with the Legion, Auxiliary, Sons of the Legion and the Junior Auxiliary members we must lead the way. We must instill in our children and grand children the very principles for which we exist as an organization. Those principles are contained in our Preamble as follows:

To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America;

To maintain law and order;

To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism;

To preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in the Great Wars;

To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation;

To combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;

To make right the master of might;

To promote peace and goodwill on earth;

To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy;

(Auxiliary portion) to participate in and contribute to the accomplishment of the aims and purposes of The American Legion;

To consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.

(SAL portion) To adopt in letter and spirit all of the great principles for which The American stands; and to assist in carrying on for God and Country.

Embodied in those 143 words are who we are as an organization and who we are as a freedom loving, God fearing people. If we just practice what we preach in this preamble, this organization will become bigger, stronger and more influential in educating all Americans about the need for a strong moral society and a strong military to defend the freedom we love so dearly.

While we enjoy the holidays with family and friends let us remember the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who will not be home for the holidays. Keep them in our thoughts and prayers. During this season let us renew our commitment to this organization, for our work will never be done as long as tyranny exists in the world.

By: C. Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

Once upon a time…….. This famous opening line of many a story, real or imagined, has special significance for the American Legion. For once upon a time, March 15, 1919 to be exact, a group of doughboys who had just fought the “war to end all wars” made a decision that would change the course of history. It was on that day the collective mind-set of these WWI heroes came together to form The American Legion. From then on The American Legion has celebrated many, once upon a time days.

For instance, in November of 1919 the NEA and The American Legion decided that many of returning combat veterans were illiterate, and that they needed to highlight the value of education.

I quote from the first paragraph of the NEA website. “Distressed that 25 percent of the country’s World War I draftees were illiterate and 9 percent were physically unfit, representatives of the NEA and the American Legion met in 1919 to seek ways to generate public support for education.”

From that meeting in 1921 The American Legion and the NEA sponsored a resolution that designated a week in November to be called “American Education Week.” This year we will celebrate that event from November 13-19. For over 90 years the American Legion has been concerned about the education of our youth. So our “once upon a time” story here is the beginning of our commitment to education and it continues today.

Once upon a time the WWI veterans were concerned that all of the services they needed as veterans to assist them and their families back to a normal life were scatted among many federal agencies. So in 1930 they fixed that by passing a resolution asking Congress to roll all of the services available to veterans into one agency. From that resolution, and American Legion’s activism in Congress, came the Veterans Administration as we know it today.

Once upon a time this country entered into another war with the bombing of Pearl Harbor. America was drug into a war they did not want and once again America would ask their young men to fight and defend our freedoms. The America Legion was right in the middle of the war with their activism on behalf of these new veterans and imploring Congress to provide the resources to win that war. The WWI veterans running the American Legion at that time soon made the decision that these new veterans needed to belong to The American Legion so they went to Congress and changed our charter to permit these WWII veterans to join their ranks.

Once upon a time in 1946 a single WWI Legionnaire, Harry Comerly, wrote the words on hotel stationery, which would eventually become the Post WWII GI Bill. It has been argued over the years that this single document essentially changed the face of America, It opened up opportunities for the WWII veterans to purchase homes, further their education, and secure good paying jobs and to transform America into a real economic powerhouse. The vision of our WWI veterans was still alive, a better America for all.

Once upon a time America again found itself embroiled in a war in a far off country called Korea. This war is often referred to the “forgotten war” by those who served in it, but the America Legion did not forget. They continued their activism before Congress to be sure that these veterans would not be forgotten nor lost in the system. Once again the leaders of the organization recognized the need to bring these veterans into the fold so that they too could be a part of the solutions to their unique problems.

Once upon a time a “conflict” broke out in a place called “Vietnam.” Once again American boys and girls were asked to fight a war in a far off country. There is still a controversy today about when that war really began. Some say our involvement in Vietnam goes back to 1956 and that should be the start day for veteran’s benefits. Others say the start date should be in 1959 when the first American military advisors were inserted into the country. The American Legion finally settled on February 28, 1961 and asked Congress to make this the official start date for benefits. The first recognized casualty of that war, James T. Davis from Tennessee was killed in hostile action on December 22, 1961. For years this remained the official start date. But no matter what the date, The American Legion was once again in the forefront of advocating for veterans of that war.

Once upon a time continued for veterans of the Panama, Granada/Lebanon, Persian Gulf and all of the veterans serving since August of 1991 as the American Legion welcomed them into our ranks. We have been continuously addressing their unique issues and problems.

Once upon a time continues to this day. It would take a book to tell all of the stories of “Once Upon a Time” for The American Legion. In fact a book and a DVD do exist. Just order it from our National Emblem Sales catalog.

Today, if you are reading this and you are not a member of The American Legion you need to join. It is an organization worth the effort. If you are reading this and you know a veteran who is not a member, take pride in your organization and ask them to join.

There will be many, many more “Once upon a Time” events in the future. Count on it.

By: Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

In the month of August annually, leaders of the American Legion, from around the globe gather at national convention to discuss the pressing issues of the day for our nation’s veterans.

This year Minneapolis is the site of that gathering. This will be the 93rd time Legionnaires have gathered to make decisions on how we feel our Congress and our President should be treating veterans and their families. Congress and the President listen to The American Legion so the events that take place at this convention will shape our future as an organization and our nation. The decisions made will affect the lives of all veterans. The national convention is important, but nothing happens without the input from our 2.5 million members.

That input starts annually in Colorado during our Fall Conference tour. Immediately after the national convention our Department Commander and his officers will begin traveling the state, gathering Legionnaires from all 14 districts. Your officers will inform those in attendance of the current status of all of our programs. They will lay out our objectives for the year. They will also listen to your concerns. This is the important part of the visits to the Districts for here is where the ideas are formed to impact our policies, and our nation’s policies toward veterans. That input takes the form of resolutions. The fall conferences will focus on resolutions and how to take an idea and convert it into a written policy statement for eventual discussion at a national convention.

As we write this article our districts are gathering in their respective Executive Committees to lay out their plans for the year. Primary among those objectives is to set membership goals for the year for their posts. The intent is to set goals that will produce a positive growth. We know that over 400,000 veterans have gathered in Colorado as a residence. Our job is to ask them to join. Our districts have a big job to do; to teach and educate their posts on how to manage the organization at the post level to gather in those 400,000 veterans.

The real work of this organization is at the post level. Monthly our posts gather to discuss their goals and objectives. Their job is important. They are the most important cog in the wheel that turns this organization. They have their own day to day management decisions but it is important for the post members to remember when they gather they have the ability to make the positive changes to this organization. They can make a tremendous impact.

So that is the way it works. We gather to discuss (and cuss), plan and implement all good ideas that will make this a better world for our veterans, their families and our communities. Now, go forth and gather!

By: Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

The 92nd annual Department Convention concluded on Saturday June 25 at the Doubletree Hotel in Colorado Springs with the election of a new Department Commander, James “Jim” Gillis. Jim previously served as our Senior and Junior Vice Commanders.

Jim is a U S Air Force veteran, retiring as an officer after 28 years. Jim is originally from Nova Scotia and while on a visit to the United States got drafted into the service. Instead of taking the draft route he elected to join and spend the next 28 years of his life in service to his new country. Jim is a member of the American Legion Post 1992. He was active at his post level and at the district level before he decided to step up and run for department commander.

Jim and his wife Anne live in Aurora. Jim’s daughter is the new post commander of Aurora Post 1992. She served in the U S Army.

Jim has ambitious plans for the year. Chief among those plans is to increase our membership base. With over 400,000 veterans in Colorado he feels we have an excellent opportunity to convince those veterans to join The American Legion in our quest to maintain the benefits veterans earned and deserve.

Serving with Jim will be Larry Decker as Sr. Vice Commander from Pueblo West; Jr. Vice Commanders Carol Kennedy from Westcliffe, Lee White from Cedaredge, Ken Willard from Grand Junction, Gary Moody from Colorado Springs, Robb Smith from Loveland and Richard Humphrey from Aurora.

Also elected was Historian, Ellie Allen form Denver; Chaplain, Tim Grabin from Canon City; Sgt-At-Arms, Patrick Reinard from Loveland. Bill Woods remains as Finance Officer, Ralph Bozella was re-elected as NEC and Neal Thomas was re-elected as Alternate NEC. Charles Pat Smith remains as the Department Adjutant and Tom Bock as Deputy Adjutant. Darrell Myers was appointed as Department Photographer and Tony Abbott and Dan Diefenderfer were appointed as Assistant Sgt-at-arms.

Longmont was chosen as the site for the 2012 Mid-Winter conference and Grand Junction was chosen for the 2012 Department Convention. The delegates to the convention passed 4 resolutions that will be sent to our national convention. The Department Executive Committee approved a change to the Department by-laws that reorganizes the Legion Riders with a new corporate structure.

By: C. Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

Your state Oratorical Committee just completed the state finals contest for 5 outstanding and impressive students who spoke on the U S Constitution. These 5 students came from throughout the state to Longmont Colorado to compete for $6,000 in scholarship money at the department level and the chance to represent Colorado at the national finals and compete for over $18,000 in scholarship monies. These students are the best and the brightest and will be the guiding hand as American moves forward in the coming years. Their knowledge and understanding of the constitution and its impact on our daily lives brings renewed hope to all of us who have worn the uniform to protect America’s freedom. These youngsters “get it” and thanks to the American Legion they have the opportunity to showcase their skills and tell all of America that they look forward to the challenges of the future.

Coming up in June your American Legion will conduct the 62nd annual Boys State program at the campus of CSU in Pueblo. It is anticipated that over 200 high school juniors will attend this week long event to learn how their government works in a hands on exercise designed to teach these young men the worth and values embedded in our system of government. If past history is any indication these 200 young men will leave the campus at the end of the week with a real sense and understanding of the need to keep this political system intact in the future and, in fact, use their skills and talents to improve the quality of life for all citizens while preserving the freedoms we enjoy today. Concurrently while the Boys State program is running the American Legion Auxiliary is running a similar program in Gunnison at the campus of Western State. They also anticipate over 200 young ladies to participate.

Your American Legion Baseball committee has begun the planning process to host over 2,000 young men in the annual ritual known as “The Boys of Summer.” What an outstanding program to teach young men team work, sportsmanship, and discipline. This year the program anticipates over 110 baseball teams in the A, B, C and newly formed D programs. Young men from the ages of 13 to 19 will compete this year on the baseball fields all over Colorado. Hundreds of parents, teachers, friends and legionnaires will be witness to the maturation of these young men as they learn the important values that cement this great country together. Without the support of our local American Legion posts this great program could not exist. What better way to spend a few hours this summer witnessing the American Legion in action as we prepare our youth for the future. Be sure to get involved.

At our recently concluded Mid-Year conference The American Legion sponsored our third annual U S Army recruiting command’s induction ceremony. This year 136 young men and women were inducted in the Army in the future soldiers program. These young men and women came from several surrounding states to take the oath of enlistment as they prepare to serve our country as the front line of defense for our values and our freedoms. In the three years we have sponsored this program over 350 new soldiers have been exposed to the American Legion and what we stand for. You can bet they will pass along our message as they wear their uniforms proudly during their term of service. Once again the American Legion is looking to the future with this program.

The American Legion is deeply involved in the Boy Scout program. Currently we are number two in the nation in sponsoring scout troops. The history of the connection to the scout program with the American Legion goes back to our founding days. Again this program teaches our strong American values of citizenship, discipline and team work.

Let’s don’t forget about the Jr. Shooting Program. While this program is relatively new, it is one of our growing programs. Mid-August every year 30 young men and women converge on Colorado Springs at the Olympic Center to “shoot off” for the top honors in the nation as a possible future Olympian in the shooting sports program. Literally thousands of boys and girls compete in this program nationwide before the final 30 are chosen. You want to talk about discipline? This program requires discipline to the nth degree. These kids really “get it.”

And did I mention, every one of these fine programs have scholarship opportunities attached. What a better way to ensure the future by teaching strong American values while offering the opportunity to further their education.

Our WWI veterans realized the importance of teaching our youth about Americanism and Patriotism. That is why they founded the organization on four pillars, two of which are educating our youth and teaching Americanism. They were right on target. Connecting the organization to the future, and insure a strong America.

So, in your recruiting efforts when a veteran asks why they should join The American Legion, or when you ask a member to renew and they ask why, just remember to tell them, we are connected to the future with our youth programs. If they can’t see the value in that, then there is no hope, move on to the next prospect, for we are truly “Connected to the Future.”

By: C. Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

The 2011 Mid-Year Conference is over and what a great one it was. Over 250 Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and Legion Riders attended to soak up all of the great information provided by our program committees.

The highlight was the induction of 126 future soldiers into the U S Army. This ceremony was conducted on Friday evening, January 28th before a packed house of Legion members, new soldiers and their families and the Army cadre who conducted the ceremony. The walls of the hall were lined with all 50 of the state flags. And, members of the audience were waving small American flags showing their support of our great country.

The enthusiasm level and excitement in the room was contagious. Major General Steven Best gave the oath of office to the new troopers. Our Department Commander Rick Friend offered advice to the new troopers from his perspective as a former Army troop. He encouraged the new soldiers to seek out The American Legion when they need help or assistance during their tour of duty. Our National Vice Commander Bill Schrier, a retired Army soldier, served with the U S Army Recruiting Command on his last tour of duty, offered the new soldiers a vision of what they can expect. He thanked them for their commitment to their country, and their willingness to serve to help protect the freedoms we enjoy in America.

This was our third year of hosting this event and we sincerely thank the Army Recruiting Command and LTC Dionne Wilson for her support of the American Legion. Thanks to all who made this a great event!

The business of the organization was conducted on Friday afternoon, January 28th, when the Department Executive Committee (DEC) met to discuss and vote on several important items. Two resolutions were submitted to the DEC for their consideration and both were approved.

The first resolution was to study the feasibility of setting up a multi-year dues payment structure to permit our members to pay for 3, 5 or 10 years in advance. The PUFL program exists for our members but it is expensive and not really attractive for those members whose lifespan may be limited. It would also be attractive to those younger members who want to see if the American Legion is really for them without a large investment up front. The committee will report their findings and recommendations at our convention in June.

The second resolution involved improving the American Legion Riders Program. This is an outstanding program and offers our members a way to put their passion of the road on two wheels to good use by promoting the programs of The American Legion with their “rides” and comradeship they develop through this program. The Riders program is growing in numbers and as a result the DEC feels we need to have a more formal structure to manage the program. The DEC gave the Riders permission to form their own Colorado not-for-profit corporation with its own board of directors, and too eventually from an IRS 501 (c) (3) corporation to utilize the fund raising benefits of that type of structure.

This new structure will provide for financially accountability and reporting procedures for the income realized from their activities. This is a positive step for the Riders program and will greatly assist the program as it grows in the future. Congratulations to the Legion Riders for getting the DEC to approve this significant piece of legislation.

Commander Rick Friend took a step forward in appointing a “Technological” committee. This committee will be charged with reviewing the physical electronic assets at the Department Headquarters and making recommendations as to the serviceability of the equipment and recommendations on how to improve the efficiency of the office through the electronic tools we use. The committee will also be looking at ways to improve our communications to our members and prospective members using the Internet and the various tools available through that medium. They will serve as an advisory committee to the Department Officers and staff and will make their recommendation to the DEC at the June meeting.

The opening session on Saturday was chock full of special guests. Our National Vice Command Bill Schrier addressed the audience. Candidate for National Commander Jim Koutz from Indiana brought his vision of the future to the audience. North West Division Vice President for the Auxiliary Lynn Wilde from Nebraska brought greetings from the National President of the Auxiliary and offered her view of the state of the organization and our rosy future. Candidate for National Commander of the SAL Jim Roberts brought greetings from the SAL National Commander. We heard from Bob Ayers from the Legionnaire Insurance Trust and he informed us that the free AD&D insurance policy available to Legion member will expire at the end of August this year unless it is renewed. He brought along a lap top and renewed many members on the spot. To renew you can go online to www.thelit.com or call their 800 number at 1-800-235-6943. Be sure to do this ASAP. It is free.

Dave Kemper of Dignity Memorial told us of the burial benefits available to veterans and encouraged our members to do pre-planning for that eventual event. Heather Ehle of Project Sanctuary explained their excellent program for disabled veterans and their families and how they help integrate those families back into society after their honorable service. You can learn more about this program at http://www.projectsanctuary.us/.

The highlight of the morning session was the presentation of the annual Media Awards. Our PR Committee headed by Darrell Myers presented the TV award to Dave Delozier of Denver Channel 9 News for his story about Reina Salky of Steamboat Springs and her efforts to secure headstones for 11 forgotten veterans in the cemetery in that town. The story was inspirational and well told by Mr. Delozier. He is a one man show when it comes to his TV reporting. He does all of his own writing, production and camera work in preparing his stories. He has produced several other excellent stories about veterans over the last year. Thanks Dave for your commitment in telling the stories of America’s veterans. If you have not seen this award winning video presentation you can go to http://www.9news.com/rss/article.aspx?storyid=140038 and view it.

The second award went to the Steamboat Springs and Today newspaper for a series of article they ran on Veterans Day, Memorial Day and the Reina Salky story. Their editor was unable to make it in for the presentation so the PR committee will travel to Steamboat Springs later this year and make the presentation in person. Thanks to Jim Stanko of Steamboat Post 44 for bringing this newspaper to our attention.

Another highlight during the day on Saturday was the employment fair conducted by our Employment Committee headed by Ken Romero and Darrell Myers. Over 12 local employers showed up looking to hire veterans. What an outstanding event this was. All of the employers were satisfied with the turn out and they expect to hire some of the veterans that showed up for the fair. Thanks to Tim Amthor, Regional Veterans Employment Representative, of the Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Workforce Center form making the arrangements with the employers.

We had several other vendor tables and one of particular interest was the table conducted by Nick Del Calzio. Nick is the professional photographer who has showcased all of the Medal of Honor recipients in his book: “Medal of Honor” – Portraits of Valor – Beyond the Call of Duty.

Nick is officering a very special set of very patriotic and moving veteran related photographs to all of the members of the Legion suitable for framing and hanging in Legion Halls and homes everywhere. We will be featuring these photographs on our web site and will be working with Nick to introduce “America’s Creed” into all of our schools with one of his photographs as the vehicle to feature the creed. Watching for more information that this exciting project.

The rest of the morning session was consumed by reports from our various committees and the progress and successes so far this year. The PR committee conducted a PR training session for the rest of the morning. Duane Mercier of our National Public Relations Division conducted the session and provided outstanding information on how to improve and enhance local public relations efforts. Everyone who attended this session was later heard raving about the positive impact it will have on their PR efforts in the future. Thanks to Darrell for having the insight to conduct this session and thanks to Duane for taking his weekend to come to Colorado and offering his expertise.

During the afternoon a number of breakout sessions were conducted. One of the most popular was Service Officer Training put on by our Service Office Staff, Jeff Hewitt, Chuck Terry and Angie Jones. It was refreshing to see the interest level in this training since in the past it was almost impossible to get anyone to attend. Taking care of veterans is our number one priority and this training will help in advancing that purpose throughout the state. The service office promises more of this in the field as we go through the year. Thanks Jeff, Chuck and Angie. Good job.

The Americanism Programs were highlighted in a breakout session conducted by Americanism Chairman Ken Romero. Boys State, Oratorical, Jr. Shooting and Baseball all had something positive to offer and much information was dispensed. Our youth programs are on track this year and will improve thanks to all of the dedicated volunteers working those programs. Keep up the good work.

The Sons of The American Legion and the Legion Riders both held very productive sessions. Candidate for National SAL Commander Jim Roberts of Florida was on hand to encourage the SAL to learn and grow. They approved their 2011 operating budget and set the course for the rest of the year.

Last year Commander Frank McCurdy appointed a Women’s Issues Committee in response to a recommendation by our national organization to get involved with those unique issues affecting women veterans in the system. This committee held a well attended breakout session and elected Kathy Ford to serve as the interim chairman while they organize their structure and define their aims and purposes. Look for great things from this committee on behalf of women veterans.

Thanks to Carol Kennedy, Boys State Chairman for organizing and conducting a very successful silent auction. The auction was conducted during the day on Saturday with items donated from all over the state. The auction raised over $3,600 for the Boys State program. Thanks Carol. What a Super Effort.

Saturday night was fun night at Post 209. The post served dinner followed by the Auxiliary fund raising fair. Thanks to Chris Harvey for organizing this fun event. Music, games and great comradeship were prevalent. Post 209 rolled out the red carpet in hosting this event. Thanks to Post 209 Commander Jay Bowen and to PDC Neal Thomas for their efforts in this successful event.

The conference concluded on Sunday morning with a very moving and personal memorial service conducted by our Chaplain Richard Humphrey. Richard always puts a lot of thought into his messages and this one was no exception. He sent everyone away from the conference in an upbeat mood and ready to attack the challenges before us. Thanks Richard, God has a special place for you.

Special thanks to the behind the scenes personnel that made this conference a success. Elaine Bock, while attending the birth of her second granddaughter in Alabama, put all of the little details together before she left and thanks to her and her diligent, detailed work the conference went off without a hitch. Thanks to Amy Grubb who filled in for Elaine and to Julie Wooddell for running the registration booth. Thanks also to Tom Bock for managing the vendor booths.

In conclusion, you should have been there. If you missed it put June 23-25, 2011 on you calendar for our Department Convention. Get involved. America needs you and the American Legion needs you.

By: C. Pat Smith, Department Adjutant

Happy New Year! The American Legion begins another year of service. Service to this nation’s veterans, to their families and to our great country and as our slogan says, We Are Still Serving America.

What do we have to look forward to? Our economy is still struggling. Unemployment rate is at about 10% for the nation, and by some estimates over 20% for veterans. Veterans returning from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars are faced with medical problems that seem insurmountable to them. The PTSD rate for these newest veterans is high. In addition they are faced with a new monster called TBI. Combine TBI and PTSD into one veteran and you have an explosion waiting to happen.  Relationships with spouses deteriorate real fast. Children are caught in the middle with no ability to understand what is happening around them. All of this leads to the need for increased service by our medical professions for health care, counseling and family support.

The American Legion cannot provide the essential medical services required by these veterans and their families. But what we can do is see to it that they have the best medical care possible through the Veterans Administration complex of medical facilities. As for the last 92 years the American Legion has been the voice for veterans. That function will not change in the coming year. We need to keep on top of congress and the President to assure our voice is heard. Right here in our own back yard is the proposal by the VA to replace the aging VA Medical Center on Clermont St with a brand new state of the art facility on the Fitzsimons campus. Our battle is not done here. Although Congress has approved the facility they have not approved all of the funds to build it. We must redouble our efforts in the coming year to make sure the facility is built.

Another challenge for the New Year is increasing our membership and our volunteer base. The largest group of veterans in our organization now is the Vietnam era vet. Many are approaching retirement age and will have time on their hands. This is the year for those veterans to step forward one more time and volunteer to become the mentors and supporters of this next generation of veterans. As a Vietnam era veteran you now have the knowledge and skills to help guide these new veterans through life.  You have made mistakes in life; you can relate those life experiences that have not gone well for you to these “youngsters” so they don’t make the same mistakes. An arm around their shoulder telling them you care can go a long way to their recovery. So if you are a Vietnam era veteran and you know another veteran who is not a member make this the year of the Bull. Get bullish on the American Legion, get bullish on service to our veterans and get bullish with our politicians. Don’t let anyone stand in your way when it comes to keeping American strong. To my Vietnam area veterans and friends, you are now in charge, so take charge.

PS, don’t tell the Chinese I made this the Year of the Bull. Rabbits just did not seem to fit into this message.

Have a great year!