Alaska Legionnaire The American Legion ~ Today's Voice for Today's Veterans & Military VOL. 2018 No. 2 Alaska Department of the American Legion March, April 2018 The 10th Last Frontier Honor flight is getting ready for take off. Each flight consist of 25 WWII and/or Korea Veterans plus 25 chaperons. That comes to a total of 250 Vets traveling to our Nation's Capital, where they are met by Alaska's Senators and Congressmen. They are treated to a tour of the War Memorials and The National Mall. A tour bus takes them on a tour or the surrounding area with a dinner hosted by a local Post. The Last Frontier Honor Flight presented with the ENDURANCE AWARD. A honor presented to those who travel the longest distance and lenght of time. Enjoy helping and supporting our Alaska war veterans? We are looking for enthusiastic people to help spread the word and participate in events about The Last Frontier Honor Flight. Become a volunteer, with the potential of becoming a member of Board of Directiors For more information call Donna Poole @ 907-306-6846 The American Legion Department of Alaska 1550 Charter Circle Anchorage, Ak 99508 's Corner By W.E. "Gene" Franks COMMANDER'S CORNER By Kirk Waldhaus As usual this time of year, March and April will be a busy time of the year. The American Legion Birthday, St. Patrick's Day, third and final call for your post election of Officers. Jan Scott will have finished up with our Oratorical contest at the end of February and you should have received your packets for Boys State, being held during the month of June, and don't forget daylight savings time. April this year we will be at Spenard Post 28 for the 99th Annual Department Convention, from April 26 through April 28th. Our National Denise Rohan, National for the Sons of The American Legion, Danny Smith, and the President of The American Legion Auxiliary Diane Duscheck are planning on being in attendance. In addition, Michele Steinmetz from our National Headquarters will be giving informative classes. Your election of officers must be completed by the end of March. You should make every effort to attend the meeting when your elections are held to voice your opinion. Another reminder that should you have an individual in your Post that you feel should be the,, or Legionnaire of the year, you need to submit their name to Department for consideration. In addition, you may even have the "recruiter of the year" that no one took the time to complete the necessary form and submit their name. This year the National Convention is being held in Minneapolis, MN. The election of Delegates and Alternates will be made during the Department Convention. March 14th is the deadline for our 90% membership. It would be nice to see a few more Posts jump on the band wagon to make this percentage!!! At the time of this writing, we only have 5 Post who have made this goal. For those of you who may ask, yes it is nice to be back in the saddle. Yes, I did have a little down time with a little illness, but we're getting the train back on track and it sure beats laying in the hospital. A little extra thanks to Kelly, Jim Pisa, Nate Carter, and Ernest King for holding the fort down, Where did the last year go? It was only yesterday that we were on our way home from Haines, wasn't it? I want to take this small space to extend a special thanks to some fellow Legionnaires that have helped keep me on the right track this past year. I didn't really believe it when I was told "You have a lot to learn and by the time you do, it will all be over." Jim Pisa and Gene Franks thank you, thank you, for your kind council and encouragement. And my Vice s, Nate and Art a very special thanks, you have been there when I was distracted by some unexpected challenges. We still have a little time to make this year a stand out one for the Department of Alaska. All it will take is a few more calls or visits to go those holdouts to renew their membership. Now is the time to get our membership numbers up to and surpass our goal. Our National Denise Rohan will be here for our convention in April. Let's show her what we can do. We will also have at least one member of the national staff with us. The family of Post 28 is promising a great 99th Convention. I really don't have much else to say, except thank you all for giving me a chance to by your commander for 2017-2018. And a special thanks to the Past ALA Department President Sue, the lady that has been kind enough to let me live with her these past 50 years, I love you sweetheart. Thank you Unit 28 for supporting the National Salute to Veteran Patients Week. Ice creme sundaes were served up at the Alaska VA Domiciliary. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SEABEES 5 MARCH 1947
Page 2 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 From The American Legion, Department of Alaska DEPARTMENT SPONSORED INSURANCE PROGRAMS The Legionnaire Insurance Trust has been The Department of Alaska s sponsored member benefits program since 1988 and continues to fulfill our members needs while being the only such program to benefit our Department for 26 years. For more information on the products and services provided by the Legionnaire Insurance Trust, Call: 1-800-235-6943 Or visit our web site at: www.thelit.com THE AMERICAN LEGION DEPARTMENT OF ALASKA DEPARTMENT OFFICERS 2017-2018...Kirk Waldhaus...13125 Cape Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99515 First Vice...Nate Carter... 2250 Sentry Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99507 Second Vice...Art Bell...100 Bunnell Unit 3A Anchorage, Alaska 99508 -Finance Officer...Gene Franks...1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508...Fred Richardson...POB 2934 Palmer, Alaska 99654 Sergeant-At-Arms...Matt Larson...POB 643 Willow, Alaska 99688 Chaplin...Billy Smith...2817 Talkeetna Street, Fairbanks, Alaska 99709 Historian...Ray Hollenbeck..1457 N. Pioneer Peak Drive, Wasilla, AK 99654 Judge Advocate...Ken Jacobus...310 K Street Ste 200, Anchorage, Alaska 99501 Executive Committeeman...Mike Uland...412 Hanes Ave, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701 Executive Committeeman...Kent Winship...POB 257 Dillingham, Alaska 99576 Executive Committeeman...Mark Berg...7913 Arlene Street, Anchorage, Alaska 99502 NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEMEN NEC...Jim Pisa...4043 Hampton Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99504 Alternative Committeeman...Steve Huisman...4700 Rivers Street, North Pole, Alaska 99705 DEPARTMENT COMMANDER AIDES Con Miller Post 30...Jim Scott...1124 Holmes Road, North Pole, Alaska 99705 Susitna Valley Post 35...Dave Webster...8266 W. Hollywood Rd, Wasilla, Alaska 99623 George H. Plumley Memorial Post 20..Tom Schanrock 53235 Thunder Rd, Kenai, AK 99827 Lynn Canal Post 12...John Newton...POB 393 Haines, Alaska 9982 Spenard Post 28...Arnold Heck...3534 Sherrie St., Anchorage, Alaska 99504 SERVICE OFFICE NEWS From Fred's Desk Greetings and Happy New Year from your Department, hope everyone is staying away from the flu bugs going around and the New Year has started our healthy, happy and strong. The New Year for us is off to a busy start with some new programs and initiatives starting and our annual training approaching fairly quickly in Washington DC. The Rapid Appeals Modernization Program (RAMP) is a new program that is in the beginning trail phases of shortening the appeals process. The VA has sent out letters of invitation to use the program, currently we have been courtesy copied for 11 Veterans to use the program in its beginning phases. I have to emphasize that the program is by invitation only from the VA. The goal of this program is to complete the reviews in an average of 125 days. Your appeal must be related to a disability compensation claim pending in one of the following stages at the time of election: Notice of Disagreement has been filed Form 9 has been certified and filed The Form 9 must be certified by the board but not activated and must be on remand from the board The RAMP program does not officially open or start until February 2019 at the earliest. If you choose to not participate in this program you do not have to respond to the letter and your claim will remain in the current appeals process/ status. If there are any questions about the invitation or about the program please feel free to give the office a call 907-257-4802. The American Legion Service Office will be closed February 27th - March 5th; Jamie and I are headed to the Annual training in Washington DC. Should you have any questions or issues please feel free to walk-in to the Veteran Benefits Administration office at the local VA, 2nd floor or contact the Veterans Helpline at 1-800-827-1000. THE ALASKA LEGIONNAIRE (USPS 012-100) OFFICIAL Bi-MONTHLY PUBLICA- TION OF The American Legion, Department of Alaska 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508 Member of The National American Legion Press Association W.E. Gene Franks, Managing Editor The Alaska Legionnaire (USPS 012-100) is published bi-monthly for $3.00 yearly subscription. Office of publication is The American Legion, Department of Alaska, 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508. Periodicals postage paid at Anchorage, Alaska. Printed by Anchorage Printing, a private firm in no way connected with The American Legion, Department of Alaska. This newspaper is an authorized publication for members and families of The American Legion, Department of Alaska, and other approved subscribers. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by The American Legion, The Department of Alaska, or Anchorage Printing, of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. For information on advertising, call (907) 278-8598, fax to (907) 278-0041 or email to: legion@anch.net. SUBSCRIPTION RATES ~ PAY- ABLE IN ADVANCE Members of The American Legion, Department of Alaska subscription included in payment of annual dues. ALL OTHERS: United States and possessions - $5.00 per year; Foreign - $10.00 per year. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Alaska Legionnaire, 1550 Charter Circle, Anchorage, Alaska 99508. "Hey!!! Don't forget to set your clocks forward on March 11th, 2018" Target Membership Dates to Remember November 15, 2017 65% December 13, 2017 75% January 18. 2018 80% March 14, 2018 85% April 11, 2018 95% May 9, 2018 100%
Page 3 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 1st Vice News By Nate Carter Why You Should Belong to The American Legion Each year, American Legion department service officers help thousands of veterans receive VA benefits they earned through service to their country. The Legion conducts, promotes and supports hundreds of career fairs for veterans and transitioning servicemembers, bring employers face to face with job hunters. Through Operation Comfort Warriors, the Legion raises funds to provide comfort items for U.S. troops recovering in military hospitals and transition units worldwide. Legion staff lobbies Congress for better quality of life for U.S. military personnel. Through American Legion Baseball, nearly 100,00 young men get to experience teamwork and competition each year. The Legion provides more than $138,000 in scholarships through The National American Legion High School Oratorical Contest. And Legion Riders, through the annual Legacy Run, have raised more then $2 million for the Legacy Scholarship, helping ensure the children of U.S. service members killed on or after September 11, 2001, have a chance at a college education. None of these facts may be news to active Legionnaires, but chance are most prospective members do not realize all The American Legion does for people of all ages at the local, state and national levels. Now, its much easier to share that information with those prospective members. The Legion's "Why You Should Belong" booklet, available for download under Publications at legion.org. It is a one-stop recruiting tool that provides information on dozens of Legion programs, as well as the impact of those programs. It's a valuable asset for any Legionnaire on the recruiting trail. On the Trail with the ALRA By Director Mark Berg Well, it's that time of year again. Old man winter is getting ready to say goodbye for a while. So dust off the motorcycles, and go through your safety check list. I hope you're ready for a fun and active summer of riding. Starting off this season, don't forget that the ALR convention/elections this year at Post 28 in Anchorage before Department Convention. I hope to see you there. We will be setting the agenda for 2018 ROMP. We have been asked to participate in a lot of community events from Honor flight welcome home, Christmas in July run, Escorting the Wounded Heroes event to Soldotna which this year has ben moved to June and many more. Keep in touch with your Post. Remember folks, YOU asked to become a member of this family. Roll up your sleeves and help out when you see an opportunity. Remember to keep those serving, at home and around the world in our hearts, minds and prayers. You can still find the Spring Ride Checklist on the American Legion Riders Alaska website at; alaskalegionriders.org ~~~Around the State with Oratorical~~~ The Anchorage Level Oratorical Contest Left to Right: Jada Daniels; Juliana Osgood; Kyler Peters; Sara Chen; David Startz and Joan Kim On the left we have our Oratorical from Delta Junction Post 22 And on our right we have our own Jan Scott with Fairbanks Oratorical constant Mackenzie O'Connor and co-chair Richard Cobden (left)
Page 4 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 Oratorical News By Jan Scott I want to thank all the participants and members of the Legion family who donated their time and energy to invest in the future of our country by giving the young people an opportunity to experience The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program "A Constitutional Speech Contest" at the local level. I want to inform my Legion Family that I have been "Put out to Pasture" by our new national oratorical director. I want to reassure each legion family member that I represented Alaska with pride and dignity at all times when working on National staff. I performed all my duties; greeting contestants at the airport, moderating morning and afternoon contest on Saturday, and escorting one of the top three contestants in the final round on Sunday to the high standard expected in Alaska. A new director means new ideas and new people. I respect the fact that he has the freedom and responsibility to choose whom he wants on his staff. I will continue to be the person that accompanies the Department of Alaska Champion to support and encourage our contestant at the National Competition held in Indianapolis, Indiana in April. TAPS GU-01 POST 17 POST 35 John Snook - Vietnam Roy Madssen - Korea Theodore Cremer - Korea POST 3 Jerry Roadsen - Vietnam Gary Kuehn - Vietnam Robert Ford - Panama POST 25 Everett "Ray" Ehrhart - WWII POST 5 Axel Nelson - WWII POST 57 Helen Johnson POST 30 Robert Sours - Vietnam POST16 Rickey Burton - Vietnam Leonard Gross S.A.L NEWS April is Children & Youth Month! Be sure to start planning your Children & Youth activities for your Post, Unit and Squadron. In your plans, don't forget the The American Legion Child and Welfare Foundation week is April 1st - 7th. In addition to your normal activities, remember that April is also Youth Sports Safety Month and National Child Abuse Prevention Month. There are several different activities that you can do, just remember the way to success is through preparation. It is never too early to start organizing your activities. The American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest a Constitutional speech contest will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana April 13th - 15th. The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1983, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation's laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. Fifty Four (54) Department Oratorical Champions will compete for scholarships where 1st place receives $18,000, 2nd $16,000 and 3rd place finalist will receive $14,000 in scholarships. Hopefully you get a chance to attend the National completion and can cheer on your Department Oratorical finalist as they compete in this National competition. The Finals will be streamed live on the National American Legion Website - legion.org, please tune in and watch these wonderful participants. Who knows maybe Alaska will once again be in the final 3. The American Legion Boys State and American Legion Auxiliary Girl State truly is a Week That Changes a Life Time. If you or a member of your family or a friend of the family is just competing your Junior year in High School and you are interested in learning more about the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society like American, then we have a program for you. It is The American Legion Boys State Program and the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Program. These programs are a unique summertime educational program that does not emphasize classroom lectures and textbook learning. Instead, they focus on participation and personal experience in a model state, complete with governing bodies and elected public officials. They are designed to mirror the structure and operations of our Alaska State government. To receive the information packet on how you can attend this 1 - week long Government Study program see your local American Legion Boys State Chairman, American Legion Auxiliary Girl State Chairman at your local American Legion Post. This is a week that everyone enjoys and you will leave with friendships that will stand the test of time. It is time to start making calls and visiting with our membership so that we can achieve our 100% goal by May 1st. Remember that membership is everyone's responsibility! Keep up the great job and lets getter done. Honor our Veteran's Service whom our membership eligibility can under by renewing your dues or if you are eligible to become a member of the Sons of The American Legion and have not joined - join the SONS and honor the service of the veteran who has sacrificed so much to protect this great country. Remember it's Cool to be Dual!!! The three "R's" "Renew", "Recruit" and "Reinstate". Who will be our Top Recruiter for the 2018 Membership Year??? Will it be you??? Again this year we will have a Consolidated Squadron Report Form, it is basically the same as last year and will be coming out soon. Remember to keep track and record everything that you do so it can all be put on the Consolidated Squadron Report Form. Remember to gather all of the information from the appropriate sources such as your membership for hours, returned checks or bank statements for the donations. As you collect the data that will provide the total accomplishments over the past year. These forms are due to National Headquarters by July 15th to be eligible for Detachment and National Awards. The "Consolidated Squadron Report Form" is perhaps the most important document your Squadron can complete. The information that you enter on the form is combined with that of all of the other Squadrons and reported to The American Legion to show what we have done and accomplished throughout the year. The American Legion subsequently sends this on to Congress to show what the American Legion Family has done throughout our Communities, our State and the Nation. All this information of what we do as a Family helps maintain our non-profit status.
Page 5 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 Happenings at your Post Jack Henry Post 1 Monday - Homemade Pizza 5:00-7:30 Tuesday - Cribbage 4:30 Wednesday - Tacos 5:30-7:00 Thursday - Burgers & Brew 5:30-7:00 Friday - Steaks 5:30-7:30 Saturday - LOL Drawing 3:3 Seward Post 5 Taco Tuesday Friday Night Steaks Food Served most nights at Post Wrangell Post 6 MARCH 3/6 & 3/20 - Taco Tuesday 5pm $1 Tacos - $3 Frybread - $5 Indian Tacos Family Games, Pull Tabs, Raffles APRIL 4/3 & 4/17 Taco Tuesday 5pm $1 Tacos - $3 Frybread - $5 Indian Tacos Family Games, Pull Tabs - 50/50 Raffle Matanuska Valley Post 15 Taco Monday Tuesday Pool League Wednesday Dart League/NHL Hockey Friday Steak Night General Buckner Post 16 Family 2nd Saturday Auxiliary Dinner 6 pm Friday Burger & Brew 6-8 pm 1st Friday of the month Special 3rd Friday Steak Night 6 pm George H. Plumley Memorial Post 20 Sunday Breakfast 10am - 1pm Every Friday is Steak Night 6-8 pm with an added Special Dish Every Sunday Breakfast Menu Dishes 10am -1pm Every Friday Aux Unit 20 Sponsors The Friday Night Raffle 12 pm - 8 pm Drawing (sign up once a day to enter) Every Saturday must be present 4 pm Membership drawing (no sign ups) Every Sunday must be present 2 pm Spenard Post 28 Monday, s Night~Burgers & Brew 4-8 pm Tuesday, Taco night 6 pm Wednesday Chicken Wings 6 pm Thursday, Baked potato~all the fixins 6 pm Friday Steak Night with Live band 6-8:30 pm Saturday, Karaoke 8 pm Sunday, Make your own ~ Waffle bar & Bloody Mary s 10-2 pm Muldoon Post 29 Tuesdays, Taco night 6pm - 8:30pm Wednesday Night Dinners 6pm - 8:30pm Catfish, Chicken Wings, Pork chops Friday Night Steak Night 6pm - 8:30pm Chappie James Post 34 s night starting at 6:30pm every Thursday Susitna Valley Post 35 Open Daily @1pm NON-SMOKING Meeting Nights: Legion: 1st and 3rd Tuesday 7:pm Auxiliary: 1st Tuesday 7:pm Sons: 1st and 3rd Monday 7:30 pm Riders: 1st Saturday 6:pm Wednesday: Taco Night 6pm - 8pm Texas Hold em 7pm -? Fridays: Steak Night 6pm - 8:00pm Senior Appreciation Dance: Last Thursday of Every Month 2pm - 4pm C.R. Huber Post 57 Sunday Breakfast 10-2 FOOTBALL & NASCAR Every Sunday Monday night Football Thursday Burger Night 5:30-9 PM From The DogHouse By Jim Pisa, NEC Here we are just about eight weeks from the Department Convention at Spenard Post 28 in Anchorage. This is an important period for the Department of Alaska, it's time to elect new officers for the 2018-2019. It's also the 100th Anniversary of the largest Veterans Organization. If you are running for an office, the first step is to get a letter of endorsement from your post. Second, the office you are running for, you should be aware of the duties you are about to assume. It's more then getting a white department officer cover and writing an article for the bi-monthly Legionnaire. If you have any questions, feel free to contact a post, department or national officer to discuss your options and goals in The American Legion. National Denise Rohan will be attending our Convention as she continues travelling across our great nation and spreading the words and programs of The American Legion. Also attending will be James "Bill" Oxford from North Carolina. Bill is a candidate for National for 2019-2020. This is a good time to meet one of the future leaders of the American Legion. By the time you read this the Washington conference will be over and the delegation will have returned, after attending several meetings on Saturday, Sunday and Monday we attended the 's Call on Tuesday to get briefed on The American Legion Legislative Agenda. We had meetings with Senator's Murkowski and Sullivan and Congressman Young to discuss our agenda on the following topics, Support VA, Suicide prevention efforts, Limit outsourcing, Unify VA programs, Fully fund a superior national defense, Create lifetime electronic health records, Reclassify cannabis for Medical Research, Institute gender-specific health care for Women Veterans, Support those who care for wounded veterans (caregivers), Defend veterans education benefits, Repel unfair offsets that penalize disabled veterans and widows, Provide end of service exams for reservists, Ensure those returning from active duty retain reemployment rights, Continue funding programs to end Veterans Homelessness and finally Protecting the American Flag. Oratorical, Boys State, Baseball, and Scholarships, are one of the busiest times for the post and department. By now our Oratorical winner has been named and gone on to the National contest in Indianapolis. Boys State is just around the corner and all post should have been promoting to all the local high schools, private schools and home school students. If you need information contact our Department Boys State Chairman, Kevin Collier. An American Legion Boys State Communication Toolkit has been developed to help at the post and department level. The toolkit includes instructions, website and social media tips, power point deck sample emails and media alerts. The toolkit is available for download at www.legion.org/boysnation/resources. Email boysnation@legion.org for the password. Finally, MEMBERSHIP, just when you think someone is not going to talk about it, SURPRISE here it is. During the coarse of the year the department's membership numbers have fallen. It is the job of all members to RECRUIT new members, RENEW the members that we already have or who have fallen behind or forgot and RETAIN our present membership numbers. FYI do you realize that since 1993 when the department hit its all time high of 9,320 members to 2017 our goal of 6072 members is a decrease of 3248 members. If the Department is to survive we, as members need to do a better job of; RECRUITING, RETAINING AND RENEWING HAPPY EASTER
Page 6 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION DETACHMENT COMMANDER Dave Dieckgraeff Hope your Holidays were festive! Spring is on the way! Now is the time to plan for the convention at POST 28 from April 26 thru April 28. We need to work at getting our membership up. As of February 16, we were at 68%. That puts Alaska 46th our of 55 departments. So, please go through your squadrons and talk to those who have not paid their membership. Sometimes all it takes is a phone call. Membership gives a good voice in the decisions that need to be made. Thank you to Post 28 for hosting the Steak Feed this year. I'd like to that all the members, not just SAL members, but also the American Legion Family who assisted on the Steak Feed. People from Fairbanks to Homer and everywhere in between came to help that night. It was much appreciated. All funds raised will go straight to Boys and Girls State. Special that you to SAL member John Whitlock who won the 50/50 raffle and donated it back to Boys and Girls State. That raised $300.00 This time of year, your post are getting ready for all summer activities. Please do what you can to help with what needs to be done. Please visit a Vet! News From Boys State and the SAL ~ Kevin Collier This is our 52nd Annual American Legion Alaska Boys State Program and it will be held starting at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday June 10, 2018 through Saturday June 16, 2018. This year's program will be held at Wilderness Lodge at St. Therese's Camp near Wasilla. The Tuition remains $300 per student - which is paid for the sponsoring American Legion Family organization. By now all the Posts should have their Alaska Boys State packets and the information about The American Legion Alaska Boys State program into their local schools. Please remember to get the information to the public schools, faith based schools, the private schools and the local "Home School" organizations. Consult with area high school principals/guidance counselors and ask them to recommend a group of boys as possible candidates. The American Legion Post Committees interview each candidate and select those best qualified. Please note that you can send as many that are qualified, there are no limits. Remember this is an investment in the future of your Community, the state and quite possibly the Nation. We are always looking for volunteers to help by being a counselor. Or if you are not able to volunteer we are also looking for assistance with any donations to help sponsor students from outlying communities where there is no American Legion Post. Or donations of any kind to help support The American Legion Alaska Boys State program. The American Legion Alaska Boy's State Counseling staff is comprised of American Legion members, Sons of the American Legion members, and former American Legion Alaska Boys' State members, many of whom have been with the program for a number of years. Their services have contributed much to the success of this program. WHAT THE AMERICAN LEGION ALASKA BOY STATE IS NOT Despite what you may have heard, Alaska Boys State is NOT a leadership seminar, although delegates have an excellent opportunity to lead during the week. It is NOT a sports camp, but delegates do have the chance to participate athletically with many of Alaska's premier athletes during recreation periods. It is NOT a government course, even though instruction in state and local government is provided. Alaska Boys state is NOT military or religious training, but the subjects of patriotism and faith are an important, integral part of the Alaska Boys State Experience. WHAT THEN IS THE AMERICAN LEGION ALASKA BOYS STATE? It is none of the above because IT IS ALL OF THE ABOVE!! The motto of the sponsoring American Legion Family organization, "For God and Country" serves as a backbone that supports our intensive week long discovery of the essence of civic duty, citizenship and understanding of the American way of life from a participatory perspective. The delegates will not only earn how the American System of government and politics word theoretically, but also in a hand on setting. They will experience all of this as one of Alaska's "Best and Brightest" high school seniors to be. It has been described as and is "The Week that Shapes a Lifetime!!" Throughout the week of Alaska Boys State the delegates will simulate the state and local governments of Alaska. Each delegate will be randomly assigned to either the Frontier or Colonist party and will also be assigned to either the House or the Senate. As the week progresses the delegates will run for office at the city and state level along with running for offices in their assigned party and body of legislature. Regardless of position or election outcome, each delegate plays a role in the simulated government and learns by doing in the process. At the heart of our democracy is representative government and public debate. As such, Boys State puts a great emphasis on our Legislative Simulation. Each delegate will spend time in either the House or Senate learning parliamentary procedure; debating bills and resolutions; and learning the committee system. For this process to work smoothly, each delegate should bring with him at least one piece of legislation to present to his peers during the simulation. Some topics to consider include: Welfare, Drug Policy, Public and Higher Education, Taxation and Budget, Employment, Agriculture, Criminal Justice and Corrections, Transportation and Highways, Environmental Laws, Hunting and Firearms, and other items of general interest. It is our goal that each young man attending The American Legion Alaska Boys State sessions will return to his community a better citizen. Part of our goal is that this experience will have stimulated in him a desire to become an active citizen and leader to make contributions which will help to make his community a better place in which to live. To incite in these young citizens a determination to maintain our form of government. To develop in these young men a full understanding of our American traditions and a belief in the United State of America. Just as a reminder if you have not done so yet - PLEASE get the information into your schools right away and set up interviews as soon as possible! These young men will be setting their plans for the summer soon. Invest in our future leaders of tomorrow, support The American Legion Alaska Boys State Program - Sponsor your local qualified male High School Juniors (those who will be seniors during the 2018-2019 school year.)!! Let me know who you are sending as your delegates as soon as you have finished interviewing them, If you have any questions or need additional information - please do not hesitate to email me or call me. Continues from Page 4 S.A.L NEWS Let's show The American Legion how we "Carry the Legacy Forward" this year in our service for our veterans, our youth and our communities. The challenge is to see how many Detachments can get 100% reporting this year! If you want to preview this three (3) part carbonless form it can be found on the web page www.sa.legion.org. May also brings several events to plan activities for, but remember the way to success is through preparation. It is never to early to start organizing your activity. Remember that Mother's Day is on Sunday May 13th; most of the Post will be doing some sort of brunch. Take the time to tell your Mom, or that special lady in your life, how much she means to you. We should pay tribute to our veterans everyday by celebrating our freedom and the men and women who fought for our country. Always remember that with our the sacrifices of our veterans this country would not be the great Nation that it is. The have given of themselves so that we all may live in peace and enjoy all the rights and privileges we have being an American Citizen. All veterans gave something of themselves; some even gave all to ensure our blessing of life, liberty, freedom and the pursuit of happiness. Take a moment out of your day to say "Thank you!!" to our veterans. I would like to personally thank each and every one of the veterans for their service and sacrifices that they made. God Bless you and God Bless America!
Page 7 Alaska Legion March/April 2018 AUXILIARY NEWS From the desk of President, Barbe Wolkoff "FOCUS ON SERVICE" I cannot believe how quickly my year is passing. There are only two months remaining until Department Convention in Anchorage at Post/Unit 28. We have just returned from Mission Training in beautiful Las Vegas. Attending the training were; myself, Colleen Newman Department Historian, Marge Blankenship Department Chaplin with her daughter and granddaughter. I was delayed leaving Kodiak due to high winds, but arrived at midnight before the training. These attendees are very dedicated to the veterans they serve, as all finance their own trip and expenses. Nicole Clapp, Martha Corriher and Beth McGinn from National did an excellent job planning and executing the training. No time was wasted and managed to cover all of ALA's many programs with adequate and positive encouragement. The idea's exchanged between all these amazing ALA ladies were inspiring and productive. This was my fourth Mission Training and absolutely the most informative and enjoyable yet. High winds and fog delayed my return to Kodiak, but pretty typical for February. Good to get home, although it was 75F in Las Vegas the entire week. Don't forget the Poppy Project. Time is zipping by. My project is Poppy Posters. Must be at least 11" x 14" or larger and contain three poppies one which must have its tag. Make them beautiful ladies as they will be used for ALA advertising. I am looking forward to seeing you all at TAL Kirk Walhaus's Convention at Post #28. We still have time to get our there and work on membership. Remember the 3 R's; RENEW, RECRUIT, AND REINSTATE. We must never forget how important our membership numbers are to this organization. Please "FOCUS ON SERVICE" to our veterans, enlisted and their families. God Bless you and God Bless America. BABY SHOWER AT DEPARTMENT CONVENTION As Department Convention approaches, please remember that in coordination our Department President Barbe Wolkoff, we will be hosting a Baby Shower for a military wife of a deployed servicemember from JBER at the end of Friday's session. This is open to any Unit or individual Legion Family member that would like to present this young family with the gift, whether you're planning on attending Department Convention or not. To help with planning, I can tell you she's having a boy in early-mary. I also have learned of two baby shower registries and am attempting to find out if she has specific colors she might be decoration the nursery with. We are hoping to make this Baby Shower a SURPRISE so I cannot provide a whole lot more details here as she may see (as she is a new ALA member and her husband a new Post and Squadron member - Thank you to the Legion Family at Jack Henry Post, Unit & Squadron 1). Please don't hesitate to contact me directly at williamsonlisad@gmail.com or call/text me at 907-388-3264 for details. The party won't be long and hopefully a nice way to complete our day of convention sessions. There will be cupcakes, and MAYBE a couple easy, quick baby shower games. If anyone has any ideas, please don't hesitate to share them with me. God bless our troops! Yours in Service, Lisa D. Williamson, 2017-2018 Department National Security Chairman On 2/3/18 ALA Dept. President Barbe Wolkoff, ALA Dept. Chaplin Marge Blankenship, and ALA Dept. Historian Colleen Newman attended Mission Training.
Page 8 Alaska Legionnaire March/April 2018 Jack Henry Post 1 Meets 1st Thursday @ 7 PM Art Bell 1st Vice Mark Berg 2nd Vice James R. Grand, Sr. - Michael Downs Finance Officer - Ray Untiet Chaplain - David Mazack Steve Untiet Sergeant At Arms Nicholas Knowles Executive Committeemen Richard Crook A.J.Davies Jim Sartin 272-5242, FAX 272-5792 P.O. Box 91285 Anchorage, AK 99509 JOSEPH T. CRAIG POST 3 Meets every Monday, 7pm Potluck every 3rd Saturday Scott Kline Jim Van Horn Hunter Davis 225-2021, P.O. Box 5121 Ketchikan, AK 99901 www.americanlegionpost3.com SEWARD POST 5 Meets 2 ND Tuesday 7p.m. Bobby Dunno Michael Calhoon Tom Sears Taco Tuesday ~ 4 p.m. Steak night Friday ~ 4 p.m. P.O. Box 306 Seward, AK 99664 907-224-5440 DORMAN H. BAKER POST 11 Walter E. Crary Billy M. Smith Chad Avery Petsch Pull tab sales at the club 452-2228, 129 First Ave. Fairbanks, AK 99701 LYNN CANAL POST 12 - John Newton - Ralph Strong - Terrance Pardee First Vice - William Rostad 766-2530 amerlegion@aptalaska.net MATANUSKA VALLEY POST 15 Edward Jarma Donald Maupin Bill Kennedy Jr. Meets 1st & 3rd Mon., 6 p.m. P.O. Box 1146, Palmer, AK 99646 745-4440 www.akpost15.org General Buckner Post 16 Family Michael Morawitz Bill Shedon SAL Chip Dugan Meetings - 6 PM SAL - 2nd Monday Legion - 3rd Wednesday Aux - 3rd Thursday ROBERT G. BLAIR POST 17 Walter Sargent Pamela Cawley Mike Nichols 318 Center Ave., Kodiak, AK 99615 Office: 486-3258 / Bar: 486-5757 NINILCHIK POST & UNIT 18 Robert E. Self David Behm President Chris Calabrese Sec/Treas Betty Randall Mile 136.5 Sterling Hwy Phone 567-3918 GEORGE H. PLUMLEY MEMORIAL POST 20 Gregory Fite Al Diaz Ron Engebretson 283-3222, 902 Cook St. Kenai, AK 99611 AURORA BOREALIS POST 21 All Female Post - Katherine Andrews -Ayanna Santiago - Elexzanderia Carr Meeting 3rd Saturday @ 2 pm Sept - May P.O. Box 91116 Anchorage, AK 99509 MULDOON POST 29 Meeting 3rd Tuesday @ 6:30 pm Jeffrey M. Read 1st Vice Sharon Cherrette Kenneth Holmes 1467 Muldoon Road Anchorage, AK 99504 907-338-3550 Fax 907-338-0756 muldoon29@gci.net JACK HENRY UNIT 1 President Susan Stepsics Secretary Jill Pawson Meetings: 1st Thursdays @ 7 p.m. Mailing Address: 2208 Romig Place Anchorage, AK 99503 Spenard Post 28 Nathan Carter 1st Vice Trace Henderson 2nd Vice Erik Dufford Arnold Heck Finance Nathan McKay Chaplain Gary Schade Historian Phil Parks Martin Carlton Sgt-At-Arms Victor Shelton Judge Adv. Kenneth Jacobus Exec.Committeemen: Mike Bloom Richard Kazaitis David Coleman Annual Sponsors of Boys & Girls State AL Baseball Service High Boys Scout Troop 214 Cub Scout Pack 214 Dimond High JROTC Post 28 Scholarship Program 7001 Brayton Drive Anchorage, AK 99507 907-344-3841 Con Miller Post 30 Harold Schuster Terry Huisman Canteen Manager Harry Schuster 3614 Old Richardson Highway - Moose Creek 907-490-6830 P O Box 56615 North Pole AK 99705 SUSITNA VALLEY POST 35 - Matt Larson - Ron Travis - Patrick Tilbury Monthly Meetings Legion & Aux - 1st Tues 7pm ALR - 1st Sat 6pm SAL - 1st & 3rd Mon 7:30pm P.O. Box 870370 Wasilla, AK 99687 907-376-3500 Mile 46 Parks Hwy www.facebook.com/post35ak SUPPORT OUR FLAG! GRANDE DU ALASKA GRANDE CHEF DE GARE Dave Webester (907)376-8880 GRANDE CHEF DE TRAIN Bob Myles (907)690-1951 GRANDE CONDUCTEUR Tom Schanrock 907-283-6192 GRANDE CORRESPON- DENT Billy Smith C. RUSSELL HUBER Post 57 Linda Boisseau Ruben Iorga Jimmy L Russell Jr 1st Vice Mark Fraley Sunday Breakfast 10-2 followed by: Football & NASCAR Monday Football Thursday Burger Night 5:30-9 PM C. RUSSELL HUBER SQUADRON 57 Dale Toenies Thomas McClelland Finance Officer Mike Moutoux 1634 S. Cushman St. Fairbanks, AK 99707 Sons of the American Legion 2016-2017 Detachment of Alaska Officers Dave Dieckgraeff 1st Vice Dale Toenis 2nd Vice Rolf Aarseth /Finance Kevin Collier Chaplain Jamie Weeks Sargent-at-Arms Chris Bedel Historian Shane Rupe Exective Committeemen Bill Bolling Nick Kotovick Sterling Estrada NEC Howard Fruhwirth, Jr. Alt. NEC Loren Estrada, Jr. Where great Cooks Shop 701 S. Goose Bay Road Suite H Wasilla, Alaska 907-376-3177 ALERT! ARTICLES DUE (For LEGIONNAIRE) April 15th, 2018 Cannot guarantee placement if you delay Please put your name in the subject line when you email your Keep a good thing going!!! Become a Paid Up For Life PUFL Avoid the effects of inflation by never having to pay a dues increase. And, if you carry American Legion Life Insurance, You'll never risk its lapsing because You forgot to pay your dues one year ALASKA LEGIONNAIRE OPT OUT FORM I would like to view the Legionnaire online http://www.alaskalegion.org instead of receiving it through the mail. Please permanently remove me from the Legionnaire mailing list. This option will not effect any of the Legion mailings. NAME: Membership No: Addre ss: City: State Zip E-mail: Signature: Please mail this form to: