Americanism 2017-2018 National Ambassador Diana Rudeen
Americanism is an unfailing love of country; loyalty to its institutions and ideals; eagerness to defend it against all enemies; undivided allegiance to the flag; and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and posterity. This is the definition of Americanism as stated by the Commanders-In-Chiefs of The Grand Army of the Republic, United Spanish War Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, National Commanders of the DAV of the World War at a conference held in 1927.
Patriotic Instructors Teach members the traditions of our Auxiliary Ritual, making sure all members understand the ceremonies of the Auxiliary. Demonstrate the proper salute and reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. Ensure members understand the Federal Flag Code.
Auxiliary Traditions
POW/MIA Recognition Day POW/MIA Recognition Day is traditionally the third Friday in September. It will take place on September 15, 2017. Auxiliary members can bring attention to former Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action by holding ceremonies to both educate their communities and honor these special veterans. One way to do this is by having a Missing Man Table Ceremony. You are encouraged to share this ceremony with youth groups partnering with the Auxiliary.
POW/MIA Recognition Day A sample of the ceremony wording and table set up is available at www.vfwauxiliary.org behind Member Login.
Gold Star Mothers and Families
What is a Gold Star Mother and Family? Mothers and other family members give the supreme sacrifice when our service members lose their lives in the line of duty or died as a result of injuries sustained in such service. A blue star is placed in the window when a family member goes to war and a gold star is placed directly over the blue star when they are killed. The gold star is a symbol of honor and duty rather than a symbol of mourning.
When is Gold Star Mother s and Family s Day? The last Sunday of September is Gold Star Mother s and Family s Day. It will take place on September 24, 2017. Encourage everyone to honor these families on their special day and every day as we display patriotism throughout this great nation.
Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award The VFW annually recognizes the nation s top classroom elementary, junior high and high school teachers who teach citizenship education topics regularly and promote America s history and traditions effectively. While this is a VFW program, it is beneficial for the Auxiliary to assist your Post with this program.
Ideas to Promote the Americanism Program
Travel with a Missing Man Table Ceremony Presentation Kit
Promote and Teach Flag Education Flag Education in the Classroom.
Promote and Teach Flag Education Recognize Outstanding Community Flag Displays.
Promote and Teach Flag Education Teach about and host Flag retirement ceremonies.
Host a Family Freedom Festival
Conference Chairmen We are here to help YOU! Big Ten Eastern Southern Western Penny Hurt Terry McGarr Monica Hogue Chrissy Harlan