WASHINGTON (March 24, 2022) – The head of the nation’s largest veterans organization double-downed on the Secretary of Veterans Affairs’ assurances that proposed Congressional Budget Office cuts to the VA budget will not happen.
“In remarks to the media yesterday, Secretary (Denis) McDonough said of proposed cuts ‘We don’t think that’s a good idea…Nobody inside VA is talking about it, nobody in the executive branch and I haven’t heard anything about it from Congress…We’re not going to do it,’” Vincent “Jim” Troiola, national commander of The American Legion said. “The American Legion agrees with Secretary McDonough. Veterans have sweated, bled and sacrificed for this country. There is absolutely no way The American Legion would allow unelected bureaucrats from the CBO to reverse the hard-fought gains that veterans have made over the last couple of years. The administration and Congress deserve great credit for last year’s passage of the PACT Act. The American Legion is committed to ensuring that the promises made to veterans are promises kept.”
Troiola pointed out that the CBO is not a deliberating body and does not have the authority to cut veterans benefits. “What I can assure veterans and their families is that The American Legion has a strong legislative team that monitors such proposals, and we would use our loud pulpit to ensure that members of Congress know that such suggestions should be considered dead on arrival.”
Leader of Nation’s Largest Veterans Organization Urging Congress
to Oversee Implementation of PACT Act, Address Veteran Suicide
WHEN: Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 10:00 am ET.
WHERE:Room #50, Dirksen Senate Office Building – Capitol Hill
WHO: Vincent “Jim” Troiola, National Commander of The American Legion, will represent the organization’s nearly 1.7 million members when he speaks to lawmakers about the implementation of the promises made by the PACT Act, suicide prevention, health care for veterans and quality of life for military and family members.
WHAT: Commander Troiola’s testimony in a joint session of the House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs, will point out that U.S. Coast Guard members risk going unpaid in the event of a future government shutdown, many military retirees still pay a “disabled veterans tax,” the U.S. Flag Code needs modernization and many other issues of importance for the veteran community. The testimony will be streamed live on www.legion.org
Leader of Nation’s Largest Veterans Organization, National Leaders to Address Public Policy Priorities of American Legion
WHEN: February 28, 2023, at 8 am-12:45 pm
WHERE:International Ballrooms, Concourse Level, Washington Hilton Hotel 1919 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20009
WHO: Vincent “Jim” Troiola, National Commander of The American Legion, will address members of the nation’s largest veterans service organization as they prepare to visit Congress to discuss the organizations top legislative priorities. Commander Troiola will also testify before a joint session the House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs on March 1 at 10 am. Other Speakers at the February 28th “Commander’s Call” include Ukraine Ambassador to the U.S. Oksana Markarova, VA Secretary Denis McDonough, Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont.; Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill.; Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif.; Brig. Gen. Stephen J. Lightfoot (USMC); and other distinguished leaders involving the veterans community.
WHAT: Commander Troiola, the Ukraine ambassador, the VA Secretary and other speakers will address The American Legion’s concerns about the state of VA health care, the U.S. military, national security and other issues of importance to American veterans.
WASHINGTON (February 17, 2023) – The American Legion and Hiring Our Heroes are holding a career event for veterans, transitioning servicemembers, military spouses and caregivers on February 28 at the Washington Hilton. The event is free and will be held from 9 am – 4 pm.
From 9 am to 1 pm, The American Legion will be conducting a series of Career Workshops at the International Ballroom West, Concourse Level The workshops include the:
Military to Civilian Translation Resume Workshop, where participants will recognize how to communicate their military expertise in their job applications and interviews.
Federal Resume Workshop , which will show job seekers how to adapt their resume to fit federal internship and job application requirements.
Financial Literacy Workshop, where participants will gain comprehensive knowledge of budgeting, emergency preparedness, and long-term investing.
Networking Luncheon with Employer Panel, which will connect job seekers with employers so that they can gain valuable information on how to succeed at networking events.
A Career Fair will be held from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm in the Concourse Foyer. The registration page for the hiring fair can be found at: www.legion.org/careers/jobfairs.
INDIANAPOLIS (February 21, 2023) – The American Legion is still accepting entries in its annual Fourth Estate Awards competition for excellence in journalism and its positive impact on society. The deadline for submissions to be received or postmarked is March 1, 2023.
The American Legion presents the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements made in print and broadcast media. Website and podcast submissions are also encouraged to compete in the print or broadcast categories. In addition to the award, the winner in each category will be presented a $2,000 stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to The American Legion National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. The presentation will occur at approximately 9 am on August 31, 2023 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
Submissions are judged on the quality of the work and the impact that it had in producing a positive result for the community. The work must have been published, posted or broadcast in 2022.
All journalists or media outlets who believe their work improved society in a tangible and way are encouraged to submit their entry. There is no entry fee and no single medium is limited to the number of entries.
Past winners include CBS News, CNN, USA Today, The Washington Examiner, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the Jackson Clarion Ledger and Military.com. The complete list can be found at www.legion.org.
“The American Legion is pleased that the White House is bringing needed attention to the tragedy of veterans’ suicide. More than 71,000 veterans have taken their lives since 2010. It’s time we stop focusing on that horrific number and instead focus on the one veteran we can save. As a society, we need to let veterans know that it is OK to not be OK. We ask all Americans to ‘Be the one’ to encourage any veteran in crisis to call 988 (ext. 1) and take the path toward mental wellness. We welcome the Biden administration’s plan to add 350 peer specialists to the Department of Veterans Affairs over the next seven years. The American Legion believes that buddy checks are an effective preventative tool that saves veterans lives. We believe that the veteran friendly initiatives offered by the president tonight will attract wide bipartisan support.” — Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola, National Commander of The American Legion.
INDIANAPOLIS (January 6, 2023) – The American Legion has announced its call for entries in the annual Fourth Estate Awards competition for excellence in journalism and its positive impact on society. The deadline for submissions to be received or postmarked is March 1, 2023.
The American Legion presents the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements made in print and broadcast media. Website and podcast submissions are also encouraged to compete in the print or broadcast categories. In addition to the award, the winner in each category will be presented a $2,000 stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to The American Legion National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.. The presentation will occur at approximately 9 am on August 31, 2023 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
Submissions are judged on the quality of the work and the impact that it had in producing a positive result for the community. The work must have been published, posted or broadcast in 2022.
All journalists or media outlets who believe their work improved society in a tangible and way are encouraged to submit their entry. There is no entry fee and no single medium is limited to the number of entries.
Past winners include CBS News, CNN, USA Today, The Washington Examiner, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the Jackson Clarion Ledger and Military.com. The complete list can be found at www.legion.org.
The PACT Act expands Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances, and it helps VA provide generations of Veterans and their survivors with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.
However, predatory companies are targeting Veterans’ retroactive benefit payments and VA needs your continued support to help us educate Veterans and their survivors about the types of fraud tactics being used against them – especially now that the PACT Act has been passed.
Some predatory companies, not accredited by VA, are targeting Veterans by offering to assist them with their VA benefit claim. These companies charge absurd fees or require those applying to pay a portion of their VA benefits for this ‘help’. VA will never charge Veterans or their family members to apply for the benefits they may be entitled to receive.
Please share the following information with Veterans and their survivors to help them guard against fraud and scams:
Apply directly to VA. You may submit your application securely online via VA.gov or in person at any regional office. You may file your claim directly with VA, and VA will help gather the necessary evidence to support it. There are no costs or hidden fees to apply.
Be suspicious of media advertisements from companies which provide information about the PACT Act and suggest you can only obtain benefits with their help. These companies may not be accredited with VA and may be attempting to charge you illegal fees.
Use the VA Office of General Counsel (OGC) Accreditation Search to confirm and validate the credentials of anyone offering claims assistance. • Be cautious of aggressive law firms or companies expressing a sense of urgency and insisting you must act now.
Be cautious of companies claiming to be contacting you on behalf of VA. Contact VA directly at 1-800-827-1000 if you are unsure about the authenticity of a message you’ve received.
Review all documents thoroughly. Never sign a blank form for someone else to complete later. Always review the fully completed form.
Helpful Resources and Tools
Veterans and their survivors who think they might be eligible should apply for PACT Act benefits right now. Go to www.va.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411 for more information.
To report suspected fraud or predatory companies, please contact VA OIG (OIG) Hotline (va.gov).
Although there’s still a lot of work to be done, we appreciate your partnering with us to help protect Veterans and their survivors against fraudsters and PACT Act scams!
INDIANAPOLIS (January 6, 2023) – The American Legion has announced its call for entries in the annual Fourth Estate Awards competition for excellence in journalism and its positive impact on society. The deadline for submissions to be received or postmarked is March 1, 2023.
The American Legion presents the awards to recognize the outstanding achievements made in print and broadcast media. Website and podcast submissions are also encouraged to compete in the print or broadcast categories. In addition to the award, the winner in each category will be presented a $2,000 stipend to cover travel and lodging expenses to The American Legion National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.. The presentation will occur at approximately 9 am on August 31, 2023 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
WASHINGTON (December 23, 2022) – The head of the nation’s largest veterans organization commended Congress for what The American Legion considers ‘victories for veterans’ in the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal 2023.
Earlier this month, American Legion National Commander Vincent “Jim” Troiola, along with other VSO leaders, sent a letter to congressional leadership urging them to pass a full year funding package and avoid additional stop gap measures that could impact VA’s ability to provide services to veterans.
“We are pleased to see that Congress has not only reached an agreement on the funding measure but also included important provisions that support America’s veterans,” Troiola said. “The American Legion has made the prevention of veteran suicide our top priority and this budget designates an annual ‘Buddy Check’ week, in which peer wellness checks will be emphasized throughout the Department of Veterans Affairs. The American Legion has long believed in buddy checks and the effectiveness of outreach to veterans who may be experiencing a crisis. We recognize that Buddy Check Week alone will not solve veteran suicide but we do believe that it will raise awareness and save lives.”
Troiola pointed to additional provisions in the budget that were part of The American Legion’s legislative agenda. Among them is the expansion of VA health care to all remaining World War II veterans. They will now have access to hospital care, medical services and nursing home care.
“Delegates to our national convention called for this inclusion in a resolution which they passed unanimously in 2017,” Troiola said. “These men and women responded to an existential threat and were deemed the ‘Greatest Generation,’ largely because of their service. The American Legion will always remember their sacrifice and we are pleased that World War II veterans now have access to benefits that they have absolutely earned.”
Also included in the budget is an extension of the Special Immigrant Visa program for our Afghan allies, many of whom are still endangered by the Taliban. Troiola said that The American Legion has been publicly advocating for visas to be awarded to Afghan and Iraqi combat translators since 2018.
“By allocating an additional 4,000 visas, our country sends a message to the world that America does not forget its allies,” Troiola explained. “We simply cannot turn our backs on those who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us in combat. Some translators have saved American lives. They have already been through a strict vetting process but they are targeted by terrorists simply because they cooperated with our mission.”
“With the passage of the historic PACT Act this summer, Congress is closing 2022 with some meaningful victories for veterans,” Troiola said.
(INDIANAPOLIS—December 16, 2022) – – American Legion National Commander Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola today praised the 2023 planned increases in military housing allowances for U.S. troops.
“The Department of Defense just announced that Basic Allowance for Housing rates will increase an average of 12.1 percent next year depending on location,” Troiola said. “Just this month I’ve had the honor of visiting military personnel in Hawaii and overseas. A common concern expressed by troops living off-base is the cost of rent and real estate. The American Legion has long believed that providing a high quality of life for our military personnel is a moral imperative. During a period of high inflation, it is important that the men and women defending this nation have access to safe and affordable housing. Whether a servicemember lives on base or off-base, I want all military families to know that they have no stronger advocate than The American Legion.”
Post 274 in Fort Myers, Fla., after Hurricane Ian.
National ~ In over a decade as the Department of Florida’s disaster preparedness chairman, Bill Hoppner has seen plenty of destructive storms.
“I have never seen devastation and destruction to this degree,” he said in a Facebook post after Hurricane Ian.
More than 100 people died from the storm and damage estimates are in the billions. And there’s still much to do before cleanup and relief efforts can begin in earnest in the state’s hardest hit areas.
“Everyone wants to help which is good,” Hoppner wrote. “But we have to understand the logistics. There are still search and rescue missions going on. Still powerlines down. The gas stations are running out of gas and the stations that do have gas have lines blocks long. I don’t want anybody to come in with supplies and not get out because they have no gas.”
The department’s Disaster Preparedness Committee is scheduled to meet Thursday to assess damage, identify distribution centers, and develop a plan of action. In the meantime, the Department of Florida is collecting donated items at department headquarters, 1912A Lee Road, Orlando, FL 32810.
The department is collecting:
Water, non-perishables (canned food, dried meats, hard candies, granola or power bars), dry goods (crackers, nuts, dried fruit, trail mix), peanut butter, hand can openers, hygiene items (shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, etc.), bug spray, sunscreen, infant supplies (diapers, wipes, food, formula), feminine products, pet food, batteries (all sizes), flashlights, solar lights, battery operated fans, pocket juice battery chargers, camping stoves, propane, charcoal grills, cleaning supplies (disinfectant wipes, dust rags, dust masks), first aid items (Band-Aids, antibacterial ointment, gauze, medical tape, aspirin, rubbing alcohol, etc.), chain or hand saws, utility gloves, packaged undergarments (all sizes).
Donations can be shipped to or dropped off at Department of Florida headquarters during business hours, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., until official distribution sites have been designated.
In the meantime, American Legion posts outside the disaster area have also been collecting supplies.
A team of Legion Riders is scheduled to leave Post 104 in Pinellas Park, Fla., early Oct. 8 to deliver donated items.
Post 382 in Navarre, Fla., is collecting donations of water, non-perishable foods, paper products, tarps and more. Drop-off times are from noon to 7 p.m.
Post 221 in Niceville, Fla., is seeking donations of water, canned goods, non-perishable items, tarps, gloves, generators, diapers, baby food, new clothing, and new blankets and sheets still packaged. Drop-off times are from noon to 6 p.m.
Legion posts are also providing for relief workers.
Post 69 in Avon Park, Fla., provided pizzas, sodas and a break for the National Guard.
Post 103 in Punta Gorda, Fla., is serving as headquarters for Team Rubicon for the next 6-8 weeks as the organization helps demolition and cleanup efforts.
Resources for those impacted by the hurricane and ways to donate to the Department of Florida’s Hurricane Relief Fund are available at floridalegion.org/resources/hurricane-relief/.
The American Legion stands ready to assist eligible Legionnaires, American Legion posts and Sons of The American Legion impacted by these and other natural disasters.
Grants from the National Emergency Fund (NEF) are available — up to $3,000 to Legionnaires and SAL members displaced due to damages to their primary residence from declared natural disasters, and up to $10,000 for Legion posts that have been damaged by a natural disaster and whose programs and activities within the community have been impacted.
For assistance in completing the application, click here for a video presentation. And this video illustrates how disaster relief teams were set up in Illinois following a tornado outbreak.
NEF grants are made possible from the generosity of donations to the fund. Donate here.
In addition to the requirement that an emergency declaration be made for a natural disaster, applicants must be current on their membership prior to the disaster and at the time of application submission, and must provide photos, receipts, insurance paperwork, and FEMA statements if possible.
The Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program is also available to assist American Legion eligible veterans with minor children in the home who need financial help to pay for shelter, food, utilities, and medical expenses.
National ~ As Hurricane Ian struck Florida, the American Legion Department of Florida was mobilizing.“We’re obviously no strangers to hurricanes, and our shared experiences have taught us a few things,” Carrie Kolze, the department’s creative services manager, said via email. “Letting our posts and members know that we’re there for them in these difficult times is a priority to us.”
On Wednesday, Department Adjutant Bruce Comer asked Kolze to get a message out to encourage posts affected by the hurricane to share details with the department headquarters, as well as reiterating to them the availability of grants from the National Emergency Fund (NEF).
Kolze created a form on the department website for posts to check in.
“If they were good, minimal information was required, and if not, the form gave them the ability to include more information and photos of the extent of damage and their needs,” Kolze said. “We then sent out an email to all of our posts and post leadership, encouraging them to check-in and reminding them about National’s NEF program, as well as keeping receipts and documentation that may be required.”
The department also shared the information on its social media platforms.
“Within a couple of hours, we had more than 60 posts respond,” Kolze said. That number had grown to over 100 by Friday morning, three of which reported heavy damage: Post 25 in Lake Placid, which reported its smoking room was destroyed, front overhang was gone, and flashing destroyed; Post 303 in Bonita Springs, whose entire interior was destroyed when the storm surge sent five feet of water into the building; and Post 11 in Arcadia, which was almost completely underwater less than four years after reopening in the aftermath of flooding brought on by Hurricane Irma the year before.
“We expect with power outages and the sheer devastation, it may take time before some of our most affected posts are able to communicate,” Kolze said Friday.
Kolze said the department’s disaster relief committee is scheduled to meet next week to determine how to disseminate assistance from the department’s hurricane relief fund. That fund was created in 2017 to distribute donated funds for disaster-related expenses, such as water, food, paper products and more.
The American Legion stands ready to assist eligible Legionnaires, American Legion posts and Sons of The American Legion impacted by these and other natural disasters.
Grants from the National Emergency Fund (NEF) are available — up to $3,000 to Legionnaires and SAL members displaced due to damages to their primary residence from declared natural disasters, and up to $10,000 for Legion posts that have been damaged by a natural disaster and whose programs and activities within the community have been impacted.
For assistance in completing the application, click here for a video presentation. And this video illustrates how disaster relief teams were set up in Illinois following a tornado outbreak.
NEF grants are made possible from the generosity of donations to the fund. Donate here.
In addition to the requirement that an emergency declaration be made for a natural disaster, applicants must be current on their membership prior to the disaster and at the time of application submission, and must provide photos, receipts, insurance paperwork, and FEMA statements if possible.
The Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program is also available to assist American Legion eligible veterans with minor children in the home who need financial help to pay for shelter, food, utilities, and medical expenses.
Members of Post 237 of the Beverly Hills American Legion celebrated on July 23 winning the “Riders Chapter of the Year” award from the state American Legion. Photo by Margo Wilson/For the Chronicle
By MARGO WILSON For the Chronicle Jul 28, 2022 ~ It’s not the first time, nor the second … but for the fifth year in a row, the over 100 motorcycle riders of Beverly Hills Post 237 of the American Legion have earned the title of “Riders Chapter of the Year,” outpacing the state’s other 138 American Legion Riders’ chapters with a total of 10,000 riders.
“It’s phenomenal,” said rider Bo Boden, who was attending a July 23 celebration at the post. “It’s a lot of hard work by our leader, John (Roby).”
Roby, who’s directed the Beverly Hills riders group since it was founded in 2012, told the partygoers, “It’s not about one individual. It’s about all of you.”
He saluted members who have passed away and dedicated the event to them. He also thanked the veterans’ and other community groups and individuals who support the post and vets.
“In April 2012, there were 20 members,” he said. “We were the little kids on the block.
We had to go out and earn respect,” Roby said.
Since then, the riders have logged over 1 million miles for charitable causes.
“We’ve gone out over and over and over again,” Roby said.
Those rides have earned over $350,000 for veterans’ and community projects and racked up over 1 million hours of community service.
Last year, the riders rode over 300,000 miles, raised $48,425, and tallied about 300,000 hours of community service.
Some of the groups and causes to which they donate include the Race for Fallen Veterans, the Special Olympics, Toys for Tots, Project Vet Relief, Friends of Citrus and the Nature Coast, Veterans for a Cause, Gold Star Families, the VFW, Am Vets, other American Legions, female veterans, and homeless veterans.
They accompany the Vietnam Traveling Wall.
The riders frequently escort, to Bushnell National Cemetery, veterans who’ve passed away. This past year, they placed 5,000 flags at the cemetery.
On “Red Shirt Fridays,” they ride to other American Legions and VFWs to show their support of their fellow veterans.
On Veterans Day, they visit comrades at assisted living sites.
They support veterans’ suicide awareness projects.
Member Alan Oscarson, a Vietnam veteran, said the award and the riders’ group and Post 237 “mean the world to me. When I came home from Vietnam in 1971, I got spit on at the airport. There were protestors outside. … I felt it was a waste of my time being in the service until I came down here.”
Oscarson said after he moved to the area, he was out for a motorcycle ride one day and Post 237 riders cruised past.
“I followed them,” he said.
He pulled up to Ray Roby, who was commander of the post, and asked him what was going on.
“We’re doing a ride for charity,” Roby said. “It’s a veterans’ ride, too.”
“I’m a Vietnam vet,” Oscarson said. Then, Roby reached over, shook Oscarson’s hand, and said, “Thank you for your service and welcome home.”
Oscarson joined the post that same day.
Greg Olynyk, the assistant director of the riders group, said he participates because “I do it for the vets. And I like to ride.”
Danny Elsass, of S&S Electric, donated $500 toward the celebration and has supported the post financially many times, according to John Roby.
Elsass said, “I love this group.”
David Herrington, who met his wife at the post and married her June 27, said, “It’s a nice, small group, a fun group. They do a lot for the community.”
Herrington’s wife, Sgt. Maj. Rose E. Gonzalez-Herrington, who has volunteered with Vets for Vets and other groups in Ocala, not only praised Post 237, but her spouse.
“My husband has a big heart,” she said.
She was not the only spouse singing the praises of his or her significant other.
John Roby praised his wife, Karon, who is treasurer and membership chair of the post’s 210-member Auxiliary. She also designed the cake served at the celebration.
And Karon praised John, as well as the members.
“It’s about dedication and camaraderie,” she said.
Bucky Palmer said winning the award “is a great amount of work for the commander and post. … You’ve got to be good.”
Marie Jones said she would echo what Palmer had said, but added, “It’s the friendliest American Legion. It’s very family-oriented.”
Kathleen Moran, the riders’ secretary, said, “No one supports vets like we do. This post is a family.”
Andrea Bolden, an Auxiliary member, whose father, mother, and brother are veterans, said about the award, “It’s fantastic when you think about our little town, and there is Miami, Jacksonville and Tampa. It’s great.”
Veteran John Ferris said, “The people are so fantastic. I’m very proud to belong.”
Ralph Hanks, who served in the Army in Germany from 1966-69, said he loves riding his motorcycle and supports the causes of the riders’ chapter.
“I wish I could do more,” he said. He mentioned the riders have supported hospice programs. Hanks’ wife died in hospice. He credited John Roby for his leadership and said Roby “is probably one of the biggest reasons” for the riders’ success.
David Fredericks, a Vietnam-era Marine, said the riders and post “do a lot of public service for the community.”
Robin Fredericks said the work the post does is “for God and country. … We’re small but mighty.”
Dee Collins said, “We love our country.”
Her husband, Ron, who served in Germany with the Army, said, “We’ve been doing hard work.”
But in the end, as Director John Roby said, “Awards don’t make us any better. We’re just committed to our mission.”
For information about the post or riders’ group, call 352-897-4776, or stop by the post, 6726 N. Lecanto Highway. The post is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Talk to the bartender, and he or she will put you in touch with Roby.
Florida Legion Riders received the Child Welfare Foundation’s Garland Murphy Jr. Award
During the 103rd National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Florida Legion Riders received the Child Welfare Foundation’s Garland Murphy Jr. Award. Joe Marcheggiani received the award on behalf of the Florida Legion Riders.
The Child Welfare Foundation presents awards annually for significant contributions to the foundation. The American Legion Riders are strong supporters of the Foundation, which grants to nonprofits that contribute to the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual welfare of children.
To qualify for the Garland Murphy Jr. Award, the department must be the most active in the nation, based on actual contributions received during the year. One department from each of the Family organizations is recognized.
Congratulations and a huge “Thank You” to the American Legion Riders for their dedication and never-ending support of our programs. A special mention to Chapter 110, who pushed us over the top for the win.
(INDIANAPOLIS—September 8, 2022) – – American Legion National Commander Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola issued the following statement regarding the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
“The relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom has often been characterized as ‘special.’ The strength, grace and class that Elizabeth II exhibited as a princess during World War II and later as queen, has only deepened the affection that our veterans have for our allies in the United Kingdom. The passing of this legendary queen saddens The American Legion but we will always be inspired by her many decades of service to humanity and her commitment to freedom for all. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Great Britain.”
Rachel West, Tampa Bay Times – Friday ~ TAMPA, Fla. — Marine Corps veteran and Tampa resident Barry Morgan didn’t know how he was going to be able to make it to his soon-to-be 6-year-old granddaughter’s birthday party in New Jersey next weekend.
But now, he’ll not only be able to make the trip, he’ll be arriving in style.
Online car retailer Carvana, IndyCar driver and seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson, as well as the Tampa chapter of the American Legion, teamed up to surprise Morgan Thursday with a much-needed new set of wheels.
He was chosen through the Carvana Cares program to receive an electric blue Honda Civic by members of the American Legion.
“I am truly thankful and grateful for this,” Morgan said. “It’s definitely a blessing.”
Morgan, who thought he was attending a meet-and-greet with Johnson to honor the local veteran community, also received a membership to American Legion U.S.S. Tampa Post 5. Worldwide, the American Legion is made up of almost two million brothers- and sisters-in-arms.
During the presentation at the Carvana Car Vending Machine, the team did a “test run” to show how it works. Morgan was completely caught off guard to learn he was the new owner of the car coming down the machine.
“When I saw my name on the sign — ‘Winner Barry Morgan’ — I was frozen for a second,” he said.
Previously, Morgan didn’t have a reliable vehicle. His old truck had become inoperable and was in need of a new engine, which would have cost him thousands of dollars. Because of a lack of transportation, he hasn’t been able to see his family in months and struggled to find employment.
“To meet Barry, to see how much this means to him, it’s the most incredible thing. It’s really been a cool day,” Johnson said. “Ultimately, good things happen to good people. Barry is that man.”
While taking his new car out for a test drive, with Johnson riding along in the passenger seat, Johnson asked Morgan where he was going to go first. Morgan had a quick and emotional response.
“My granddaughter, Ava, her birthday is next Friday (in New Jersey),” Morgan said. “I was afraid I was going to have to tell them I couldn’t make it, but now it looks like I’m going to be able to make it and visit my granddaughter on her birthday.”
WASHINGTON (August 10, 2022) – The American Legion National Commander Paul E. Dillard praised President Biden and the bipartisan majority of congressional members who supported the most comprehensive veterans’ health-care legislation in decades.
Dillard, who attended the bill-signing ceremony at the White House this morning, pointed to the law’s overwhelming support. “The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act is now the Honoring Our PACT law,” Dillard said. “We thank President Biden for signing this legislation. Millions of veterans and their families can take comfort in knowing that their government truly appreciates their service and sacrifice. This comprehensive health care law is the result of hard work and bipartisanship by patriotic advocates, members of Congress and American Legion Family members worldwide. It was a privilege to represent all of our allies at the White House today. I encourage all veterans who have been exposed to toxic substances while serving in the military to contact their American Legion service officers for free assistance in accessing the benefits that they have earned. The claims process can be complicated, and American Legion service officers are happy to help.”
The PACT Act will provide health care for millions of post-9/11 veterans who were exposed to contaminants emanating from open-air burn pits. It establishes presumptions of service connection for 23 respiratory illnesses and cancers linked to burn pits and other hazards, including Agent Orange and atomic radiation for veterans whose exposure was previously unrecognized for VA health-care services and disability benefits. It will also provide additional resources and staff to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Enactment of the PACT Act was a major legislative priority for The American Legion in this session of Congress.
