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.
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.
(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.”
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/
“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
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
Paul Edward Vincent Wilson, of Winter Park Florida, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Thursday, September 19th, 2019.
Col. Wilson is predeceased by his first love, Catherine Mary Wilson. He is survived by his wife Carmen. Daughters Kathleen and Cricket. Stepson Jim and wife Sue. Grandchildren Jason, Kathrine, Marcie, Vanessa and Jessica. Seven great grandchildren, who were apples of his eye. He was also blessed with two angels to help care for him, Camila and Yves.
Born to Fran and Earl Wilson, on May 19th, 1925, Paul was the youngest of four siblings. Even as a youngster Paul was a gifted athlete, writer and singer. His fondest dream was to wear the uniform of the United States Marine Corp. Not long after graduating from high school he joined the Corps, and wore that title proudly for the rest of his days. He served with honor for 34 years. Among his many commendations , Paul served as the head of the color guard in the wedding of Grace Kelly to the Prince Rainier of Monaco. His time upon the USS Intrepid also held a special place in his heart. Paul served in WWll, the Korean Conflict, and Vietnam. His commendations and awards were abundant, and too numerous to include.
After retiring from the USMC, Paul earned a Master of Arts and a PHD in Education. He went on to become a professor at several universities.
It was during this time that he also completed his novel, “A China Marine”.
Paul championed many causes, both monetarily and through volunteerism. Among them were Veterans rights, senior advocacy, catholic charities, and Saint Jude’s Hospital.
Ever the Renaissance man, Paul was always ready to learn about new ideas in order to broaden his horizons. He always took the time to get to know people from all walks of life, and find out more about them. In turn people were always charmed by his graciousness and easy laugh.
Viewing will be held at 6:30pm-8:00pm Friday September 27 at St Margaret Mary Catholic Church ( Chapel), 526 North Park Ave. Winter Park, Florida 32789
The Wake/ Service will be held at 11:00 am at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church ( Chapel), 526 North Park Ave., Winter Park, Florida, 32789
There will be a reception following the service.
Although he will be sorely missed this is a celebration of a life well lived. Traditional somber attire is not required.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make contributions in Paul’s name to
St. Jude’s Children’s Center. www.stjude.org/donate
or
Hope For Warriors www.hopeforthewarriors.org/about/make-a-donation/
Department Membership Summary (Incorrect, changes pending.)
Post Membership Summary (Incorrect, changes pending.)
It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Department Baseball Chairman, Andrew F. Burkett, of Lehigh Acres, FL on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at the age of 70. Andrew is survived by his wife, Jeanie. There are no details regarding services at this time, but any new information will be communicated to you through email as well as posted on the website.
Andrew was a United States Army Vietnam War Veteran. and a member of Lehigh Acres Post 323.
Andrew joined The American Legion in North Carolina while on active duty in 1970. He served many elected and appointed positions during his impressive career in The American Legion. Andrew served as Post Commander (2013-15 & 2018-19); 13th District Commander (2014-15); Department Americanism Chairman (2016-17); and Southwestern Area Commander (2016-17). On a National level, Andrew, served on the Americanism Council (2013-19).
Please keep his family and friends in your thoughts and prayers in time of grief. If you would like to send your condolences you may do so through his wife, Jeanie, at 1623 Lee Ave., Lehigh Acres, FL 33972.
There will be a Memorial Service for Andy Burkett at 12:00pm on Sunday, October 20, 2019 at Post 323, 1124 Ashlar Ave., Lehigh Acres, FL 33936.
The American Legion is seeking a qualified and committed individual to supervise the Department Veterans Service Division. The American Legion of Washington is a non-profit Veterans Service Organization chartered by the US Congress in 1919. It is committed to serving veterans and their families, our local communities and the United States of America.
Location:
The primary office is located in the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building in Seattle, WA. There are multiple subordinate offices located throughout the state.
Duties:
The Department Service Officer is the Director of The American Legion Service Division responsible for a wide range of professional level work including the supervision and administration of the veterans service program throughout the State of Washington.
Desirable Qualifications:
The successful applicant will possess the knowledge, skills and abilities gained though education and experience to excel in the areas of program administration, personnel supervision, management and budget planning and oversight. Training pertaining to VA case law and VA benefits programs will be provided. The candidate should possess the following attributes.
How to Apply:
Mail, FAX or email resume and letter of interest to The American Legion Department of Washington, PO Box 3917, Lacey, WA 98509-3917; FAX (360) 491-7442 or adjutant@walegion.org.
Final Date to Apply:
Resumes must be received at the Department of Washington office no later than September 20, 2019.
Special Notes:
Selection Process:
The Department Commander has appointed a selection committee to review the résumés, select applicants for interview and conduct the interviews of the candidates. Initial interviews will be conducted in Lacey, WA with subsequent interviews in Seattle, WA, as required.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $45,000- $55,000. Benefits include 401K retirement plan and paid vacation and sick leave. Health, dental and life insurance is available with employee contribution.
Veterans Preference:
Only wartime era veterans eligible for membership in The American Legion can be considered for this position. The American Legion is an equal opportunity employer and actively supports diversity in the workplace. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities and persons over 40 years of age are also encouraged to apply.
The American Legion Constitution and Bylaws has been updated to replace the word “wife” with “spouse,” related to the membership criteria for the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA). To understand more about the legal background, check with an expert like Bob Bratt.
Here are some common questions and answers to what this means going forward:
Question: Why change ALA membership eligibility?
Answer: In 1920, veterans were almost 100 percent male so the ALA was formed as the organization for the spouses of the veteran — those spouses just happened to be women.
Today, an estimated 16 percent of enlisted people and 18 percent of officers are women, who may be married to a non-veteran. To keep the ALA as the organization that supports spouses of the veteran, we need to change the ALA’s definition from wives to spouses, thereby updating the organization to represent the changing makeup of the military.
Q: How can this change help ALA membership?
A: Think about female spouses who are alone as their husband is deployed. They have the ALA to lean on. Who can the male spouse rely on? With this eligibility change, now male spouses who are ALA members can receive the same support while their wives are deployed.
Q: Would this change need to be approved by Congress?
A: No, because the American Legion Auxiliary is not chartered by Congress. The American Legion, which was chartered by Congress, created the ALA. The Legion approved the ALA to operate as a separate corporation; however, The American Legion has always set the eligibility requirements of the ALA in their bylaws.
Q: What about the previous communications issued by former ALA leadership claiming this change could not happen? Why is that information inaccurate?
A: Previously released messaging could have been interpreted by members to mean ALA needs congressional approval for this change to happen. That information is inaccurate. The American Legion Auxiliary is not chartered by Congress.
Q: ALA refers to itself as the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization. How can we allow men to join?
A: Now that the resolution has been adopted by The American Legion, the Auxiliary will no longer call itself the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization.
Q: How would this change affect the American Legion Auxiliary membership application or signing up new members?
A: We anticipate taking applications on Sept. 1.
During The American Legion’s 101st National Convention, delegates approved changes to the Constitution and Bylaws to replace the word “wife” with “spouse,” related to the membership criteria for the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA).
The American Legion, which was chartered by Congress, created the ALA. For that reason, the ALA operates as a separate corporation and does not need congressional approval for an eligibility change. The American Legion’s bylaws have always set the eligibility requirements of the ALA.
“We are happy to welcome eligible male spouses of veterans and servicemembers to the American Legion Family,” ALA National President Nicole Clapp said. “This is consistent with our longstanding legacy of embracing military families and supporting them any way we can.”
The ALA expects to begin taking applications for new potential members Sept. 1.
The change to Article XIII now reads as such:
The American Legion recognizes an auxiliary organization, known as The American Legion Auxiliary.
Membership in The American Legion Auxiliary shall be limited to the:
(1) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion; and
(2) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who served in either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918, and any time after December 7, 1941, who, being a citizen of the United States at the time of their entry therein served on active duty in the Armed Forces of any of the governments associated with the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge;
(3) grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who were in the Armed Forces of the United States during either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918; and any time after December 7, 1941 who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and
(4) to those women who of their own right are eligible for membership in The American Legion.
UPDATE: Funeral Services for Mike Addis, Past Department Sargent at Arms, Past Asst. Department Judge Advocate, Past Central Area Commander,Past District 16 Commander, and Past Post Commander of Post 252, Seminole will be laid to rest at Bay Pines National Cemetery on Thursday, September 12, 2019. Service will commence at 11 am with a celebration of life to follow at American Legion Post 104, Pinellas Park. Mike was not only a staunch supporter of the 4 Pillars of the American Legion but a mentor to many that took positions within the American Legion. Please attend if possible.
It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Past Department Sgt-at-Arms, John Michael “Mike” Addis, of Seminole, FL on Saturday, August 31, 2019 at the age of 75. Mike is survived by his wife, Caron, and a brother, Pat. There are no details regarding services at this time, but any new information will be communicated to you through email as well as posted on the website.
Mike was a U.S. Navy Vietnam War Era Veteran and a member of Pinellas Park Post 104.
Mike joined The American Legion in 1969 in his hometown Galesburg, Illinois. He served many elected and appointed positions during his impressive career in The American Legion. Mike served as Post Commander (2005-08); 16th District Commander (2007-08); Department Americanism Chairman (2008-09); Central Area Commander (2009-10); Department Sgt-at-Arms (2009-11); Department Blood Donor Chairman (2011-12); Department Finance Committee (2018-19). On a National level, Mike, served on the Foreign Relations Council (2009-12); National Security Council (2014-16); Veteran Affairs & Rehab Council (2016-18); Legislative Council (2016-19); and Marketing Commission (2018-19).
If you would like to send your condolences you may do so through his wife, Caron, at 11372 75th Ave., Seminole, FL 33772.
