LEGION REPORTS
Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary
Weekly Reports – November 22, 2019
Weekly Reports – November 14, 2019
LEGION REPORTS
Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary
SAL REPORTS
Detachment Membership Summary (coming soon)
Squadron Membership Summary
MyLegion SAL Report
Children Welfare Foundation Report
November 8, 2019 update: Last year the combined donations to The American Legion Child Welfare Foundation totaled $562,052.59 from The American Legion family. June 1, 2019 started our new awards years and tracking.
Donations for the Awards year end on May 31, 2020. Presently we stand at $177,791.08 in donations for the 2019/20 year.
At the October 2019 Board of Directors meeting we granted $811,282.00 to 22 Children Organizations for the 2020 year.
The following are the present donations from June 1, 2019 to November 8, 2019. Each organization with the highest donation on May 31, 2020 will be awarded the Garland Murphy Shadow Box award.
- Presently the 8/40 Departmental de Arizona is leading in contribution with $576.00.
- The Department of Kentucky Auxiliary is in 1st place with $4,402.00.
- Department of Ohio American Legion is leading in donation with $10,100.00.
- The SAL Detachment of Florida is in 1st place with $16,270.00 in donations.
Below shows 1st to 3rd place in donations:
- 1st place 8 & 40 Aux Legion SAL Arizona, Kentucky, Ohio, Florida
Donations $576.00 $4,402.00 $10,100.00 $16,270.00 - 2nd Place Indiana, Florida, Arizona
Donations $469.00 $3,407.00 $2,768.96 $8,900.00 - 3rd place Texas, New York, Virginia, New York
Donations $295.00 $3,181.94 $2,600.00 $7,503.43
All donations have to be in by May 31, 2020 to qualify for the Garland Murphy and U.S. Udie Grant awards.
Send Checks to:
Child Welfare Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 1055
Indianapolis, IN 46206
A Century of Strengthening Our Nation
The American Legion was founded on four pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. Today, those pillars remain at the Legion’s core as the organization continues its commitment to our Nation’s veterans, its servicemembers, their families, the youth of America, and ordinary citizens. The United States Mint is proud to mark The American Legion’s extraordinary milestone—a century of dedication—with a new ensemble of commemorative coins.
National Americanism Report
Americanism Division
Weekly Report to the National Commander
November 8, 2019
Jill Druskis, Director – (317) 630-1203
The American Legion Legacy Scholarship
Online application for the American Legion Legacy Scholarship opens on November 15th at www.legion.org/scholarships/legacy. The American Legion Legacy Scholarship is a needs-based scholarship designed to fulfill a financial gap remaining after all federal and state educational grants/scholarships available to an eligible applicant have been utilized. Children of U.S. military members who died while serving on active duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001, and children of post-9/11 veterans having been assigned a combined disability rating of 50 percent or greater by the Department of Veterans Affairs qualify. Each needs-based scholarship provides up to $20,000 in aid for undergraduate or post-graduate college. Recipients may reapply for additional annual awards up to six times.
Youth Education and Scholarships
During the month of October a total of 15 national-level scholarships totaling $35,403 were disbursed as two-party checks to youth and their academic institutions.
Dennis Boland
NEC
The American Legion Welcomes President’s Signing of POW/MIA Flag Act
(WASHINGTON, November 8, 2019) — The head of the nation’s largest veterans organization thanked President Trump for signing a bipartisan act which will require certain prominent federal properties to display the POW/MIA Flag every day with the U.S. Flag.
“Yesterday I was humbled to stand with my fellow veterans inside the Oval Office and watch the president of the United States sign this symbolic but important legislation,” said American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford. “It is important that Americans never forget that there are still more than 82,000 men and women who were taken prisoner or never had a full accounting. The American Legion reveres their memory and will continue to honor them at all of our meetings. I plan to visit the headquarters of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency later this month to observe their work firsthand. DPAA does a remarkable job of identifying and repatriating so many heroes who paid the ultimate price for freedom. The American Legion is eager to explore additional ways to lend our support.”
With a current membership of nearly two million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, patriotic youth programs and Americanism. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through nearly 13,000 posts worldwide. From the drafting of the original GI Bill to the creation of the Department of Veterans Affairs, The American Legion is the most influential voice for America’s veterans. The American Legion, www.legion.org, will be celebrating its centennial through Veterans Day.
Weekly Reports – November 8, 2019
LEGION REPORTS
Department Membership Summary
Post Membership Summary
SAL REPORTS
Detachment Membership Summary
Squadron Membership Summary
MyLegion SAL Report
MIAMI SEAQUARIUM CELEBRATES VETERANS DAY WITH SALUTE TO HEROES MONTH
Free Admission for First Responders, Power & Utility Workers, and Military this November
MIAMI – Oct. 10, 2019 – In recognition of their service to our country and community, Salute to Heroes Month offers all veterans, police, fire, law enforcement, EMT personnel, military personnel, power and utility workers free admission to Miami Seaquarium, Nov. 1 – 30. All accompanying family members – up to four guests – will receive 50 percent off admission. Military and first responder guests will be honored during one of the Park’s show presentations! In addition, the Park will be offering 50 percent off on all animal encounter programs to military and first responders.
A valid military, first responder or power and utility worker photo I.D. is required and must be presented at the ticket counter to receive the complimentary admission or animal encounter discount. Miami Seaquarium will admit first responders, including sworn officers, civilian employees and support staff from all city and county fire and law enforcement organizations, plus the following: Florida Highway Patrol; Broward County Sheriff Office; District Attorney; correctional facilities (prisons); U.S. Marshals; ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms); the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); International Border Patrol; Immigration Naturalization Service (INS); Homeland Security which includes: International Border Patrol, Citizenship & Immigration, Immigration Customs Enforcement, Secret Service, FEMA,TSA; ambulance company EMTs; and reserve or volunteer fire, Florida Power & Light (FPL) and law enforcement members with valid ID.
To book an animal encounter program, please call (305) 365-2501. For more information, visit miamiseaquarium.com.
Weekly Reports – October 31, 2019
Weekly Reports – October 25, 2019
LegionQuest: Puzzle Scramble
Join in the fun and give LegionQuest – Puzzle Scramble Edition a try, during this year’s Fall Conference! It’s FREE to play and fun to win cool prizes.
Complete your mission and get your choice of one of two Legion Quest prizes, and a chance to win a $50 SHOPPING SPREE in the Florida Flag & Emblem Sales store!
This year’s Puzzle Scramble edition will require you to gather intel from each of our Legion vendors, during The American Legion, Department of Florida Fall Conference. Each vendor you meet will provide you with the missing pieces. Collect all the pieces to solve the puzzle. Your mission will begin at the Neptune Society booth!
Upon completion, report to Department Headquarters HQ. We will evaluate your work upon completion, and reward you accordingly.
Renaissance SeaWorld says balconies will be locked
ATTENTION SMOKERS AND BALCONY LOVERS:
If you are attending the Department Fall Conference November 1-3, the Renaissance SeaWorld would like you to know that all balconies will be LOCKED.
The hotel is currently working on a project to re-seal the windows and balcony doors. The doors that lead to the balconies are locked, and guests will not be able to access them.
They apologize for the inconvenience.
Weekly Reports – October 18, 2019
American Legion National Commander remembers Rep. Cummings
INDIANAPOLIS (October 17, 2019)—The head of the nation’s largest veterans service organization extended its condolences over today’s passing of Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of this distinguished leader in Congress,” said The American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford. “He was a lifelong passionate champion of civil rights. He strived every day to make his country a better place and his voice will continue to resonate in congressional halls for decades to come. He will be missed by many.”
With a current membership of nearly two million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, patriotic youth programs and Americanism. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through nearly 13,000 posts worldwide. From the drafting of the original GI Bill to the creation of the Department of Veterans Affairs, The American Legion is the most influential voice for America’s veterans. The American Legion, www.legion.org, will be celebrating its centennial through Veteran Day.
Joseph A.R. Thibault
It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Past Southern Area Commander, Joseph A.R. Thibault, of West Palm Beach, FL on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the age of 76. Funeral Services will be held Friday, October 11, 2019 at Lake Wales Cemetery, use lane 3, 630 US-27, Lake Wales, FL at 2:00 pm
Joseph was a United States Army Vietnam War Veteran and a member of Memorial Post 141, with 33 years of continuous membership.
Joseph served many elected and appointed positions during his impressive career in The American Legion. He served as Post Commander (1997-2003 & 2005-07 & 2013-14); 11th District Commander (2000-01); Southern Area Commander (2003-04), and Department Blood Donor Chairman (2004-05).
Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers in time of grief.
American Legion National Commander: ‘We lost more than a national treasurer’
(INDIANAPOLIS, October 8, 2019) — American Legion National Commander James W. “Bill” Oxford issued the following statement regarding the passing of the organization’s national treasurer, George A. Buskirk:
“The American Legion lost more than a national treasurer today. We lost a treasure. George A. Buskirk was the kindest of gentlemen. We will certainly miss his sound financial leadership, but we will mostly miss our time with this affable, decent and smart man. He served his country during the Vietnam War and rose through the ranks of the Indiana National Guard to become its adjutant general. His intellect was without question. A senior executive in the banking industry, we were fortunate to have this great Legionnaire as our national treasurer for 21 years. We were more fortunate to have known him. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are extended to the Buskirk family. We shall miss him.”
Complimentary Veterans Show Tickets – Pig Floyd
Former paratrooper, John Conrath, invites you their show coming to Lauderhill Performing Arts Center this Saturday. Veterans receive free tickets to Pig Floyd’s shows, asking absolutely nothing in return. Please help them spread the word.
“PIG FLOYD” has a dedicated passion to honor all veterans… those in active service, those of you who protected us by your service & sadly, those who unfortunately did not make it home.
In doing so, Pig Floyd proudly gives the veterans tickets at absolutely NO CHARGE! Hoping they will attend and have a great time!!
Pig Floyd is performing at 7:30pm this Saturday, October 5th, 2019 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center.
Pig Floyd consists of 8 multitalented INCREDIBLE musicians & vocalists & are known for their remarkable performances.
Thank you very much & above all, on behalf of all of “Pig Floyd”, we thank you for your service.
FOR YOUR FREE VETERANS TICKETS PLEASE CLICK HERE:
https://www.pigfloydinc.com/warriors
For general tickets and concert information, please click here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/2472444352807288/
Weekly Reports – October 3, 2019
Rep. Mike La Rosa Applauds Kathryn “Kat” Gates-Skipper on her upcoming Florida Veteran’s Hall of Fame Induction
“It was my honor and privilege to have had the opportunity to nominate Kathryn “Kat” Gates-Skipper for consideration to the Florida Veteran’s Hall of Fame. When I heard the news that “Kat” was chosen for induction into the Veteran’s Hall of Fame, I was very happy for her and her family and I know all her many friends in Florida and around America were glad to hear of this event as well!
“Kat” was a pioneer during her service with the U.S. Marine Corps. She was among the first to serve as a woman in combat training. She served with valor and chose to become the first woman to enlist in Combat Operations and helped train Kuwaiti Women Soldiers during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Simply put, “Kat” helped pave the way for other women to serve our nation through her outstanding example of bravery, leadership and dedication.
During her U.S. Marine Corps career, “Kat” earned various awards including: Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, SW Asia Service Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Overseas Service Military Ribbon, The Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Marine Corps League Distinguished Service Award, State of Florida Governor’s Veteran Award, American Legion Veteran of the Year Award, and many other Awards and Letters of Appreciation.
After a productive career with the U.S. Marine Corps “Kat” dedicated her life to assisting national and state level issues that affect our Veteran population. Starting as a volunteer for the Concerned Veterans of America, she eventually rose to become their Central Florida Field Service Director. As a result of her leadership “Kat” was able to participate at forums held in Washington, DC which helped pave the way for passage of the VA Accountability Act of 2014. As a Veterans Advocate, Kat continues to develop Veterans Clubs in her community and does what is necessary to support local Veterans.
Her induction is a well-deserved reward for a lifetime of work dedicated to protecting America and assisting Veterans and her Community. Her role in protecting and promoting the interests of Florida Veterans is remarkable. Thank you “Kat” for all you do, we appreciate your hard work and countless hours of dedicated service. Enjoy your reward; it is great to see the State of Florida recognize you with this honor.”
September 30, 2019
Rocky Haag
407-891-2555
Rocky.Haag@myfloridahouse.gov
Letter from National Commander
To my fellow Legionnaires in Florida,
This is an exciting time for our American Legion. This year, we passed a milestone that very few organizations ever get to accomplish: a centennial. Although we have a truly remarkable history that no organization can match, I like to remember the title of an old song, “You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet!”
Our first century demonstrated the power that a large group of veterans can have in shaping national policy and communities from coast-to-coast and even regions overseas. In the early years, these endeavors succeeded without the use of widespread air travel, universal telephones or even national highways.
As we enter our second century, think of what we can accomplish through the use of social media, telecommunications and technologies in store for us that we cannot even begin to fathom. The theme for my year is a foundation for the future. And the main ingredient in the foundation is our membership.
We fought for passage of the LEGION Act not as a membership tool but because of the millions of veterans who served honorably during periods not recognized by Congress. Approximately 1,600 brave men and women were killed or wounded during hostile operations that occurred during those periods from the end of World War II to the beginning of the Gulf War. They too earned the right to be called “Legionnaires.” We would be foolish not to welcome the estimated 4.2 million living veterans from those periods into our ranks. When you consider all of their relatives, our American Legion Family can grow exponentially.
Even as we build a foundation for the future, our founding pillars and values remain the same. In my own shorthand, I like to refer to these pillars as V-DAY – that’s Veterans, Defense, Americanism and Youth.
V-DAY is what you all do every day when members of your department volunteer at the local VA, advocate for the needs of our military, retire an unserviceable American flag, or sponsor a teenager in one of our great youth programs.
I know that your department will continue to explore ways in which The American Legion will continue to serve America by combining our traditional values with a foundation for the future. Have a great conference.
For God & Country,
James W. “Bill” Oxford
National Commander