Badger&“Wisconsin”&“Wisconsin” Official Publications of The

Wisconsin American Legion Family

“For God & Country”

www.wilegion.org

March 17, 2016Vol. 93, No. 3aire

The mission of The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin is to provide service to veterans, their families and their communities.

In an exciting development, the Legionnaire Insurance Trust, which has long supported Depart-ment programs, has conducted a mailing campaign to better serve Wisconsin Legionnaires and sim-plify the process to receive free LegionCare Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D). Enrollment cards have recently been mailed to all current Wisconsin Legion members who reside in eligible states, as well as those Sons of The American Le-gion whose records indicate they are at least 18 years of age.

LegionCare AD&D Insurance is a one-of-a-kind benefit offered ex-clusively through the Legionnaire Insurance Trust. LegionCare pro-vides $5,000 in Accidental Death Coverage for covered accidents that occur if you are traveling on official Legion Family business and $1,000 for all other covered ac-

cidents. This is 24/7 protection that covers Legion Family members at home, at work and while they are travelling away from home. It is available for all Legion Family members in Wisconsin who are at least 18 years of age.

All Legion Family members must confirm their LegionCare protec-tion in order to be covered. This is why the Legionnaire Insurance Trust (LIT) has mailed enrollment cards directly to homes across the state. By mailing the enrollment cards directly to members, the Le-gionnaire Insurance Trust wants to ensure that everyone has an op-portunity to receive coverage. You can also activate coverage by go-ing online at www.theLIT.com or by contacting (800) 235-6943 for assistance.

Another important change has been made to the LegionCare AD&D program which eliminates

the need to re-enroll every 5 years. By utilizing the enrollment cards sent to their home, Legion Family members will remain eligible for coverage as long as they remain members in good standing.

The Legionnaire Insurance Trust has been working hard to provide valuable benefits to the entire Wis-consin American Legion Family since 1984. The purpose of the LIT is to provide the most advanced and least expensive form of insur-ance possible by utilizing the Le-gion’s group purchasing power. The LIT has also provided the Department with a reliable source of revenue. Since the Department joined in 1984, the Department of Wisconsin has received over $2,000,000 in allocations to help support our programs.

In 2016, The Legionnaire In-surance Trust is 50 years old. It strives to bring you and your fam-

Symbols of America – An Activity Book for Kids features artwork from the Milwaukee Art Museum. Inside kids will learn about Americanism found in different forms of art. Coloring pages and activities are included in the book along with photographs of original artwork. Presented by The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation and the Milwaukee Art Museum. Contact headquarters for copies at (608) 745-1090.

(continued on Page 5)

Check your mailbox for your enrollment cards and sign up

today!

Free Legionnaire Insurance Program Delivered to Members

artwork and americanism on the same page Legion Americanism Programs Help Build a Stronger AmericaBadger Boys state

Boys State is a week-long jour-ney through a great many things that make us who we are; leaders, friends, students, athletes, and most of all citizens of our respective cit-ies, towns, and our great state. The journey can be described as the most challenging and most reward-ing (and fun) experience by those who have already participated in the program.

This program is designed to teach young men that the American form of government is stronger and more vital in today’s world of struggle than ever before. It teaches that the American people have no more precious possession than that great document, the Constitution, which

at once safeguards and transmits to posterity those principles of the great American heritage.... justice, freedom and democracy under God.

Approximately 900 young men from every part of Wisconsin will come to Badger Boys State each year. Upon arrival at the Ripon College campus, they are grouped into cities and counties, which will form a “51st state.” For eight days the citizens of the “new state” will carry out all the main functions of city, county, and state government using basic laws and fundamental procedures of the State of Wiscon-sin as their guide.

The young men themselves will elect their own municipal, county

Watch your mailbox for the LegionCare Accidental Death and Dismemberment Enrollment Card

ily a variety of products that help you prepare for the worst. With recent Federal legislation dealing with healthcare issues, supple-mental insurance is becoming more and more of an important issue. The LIT offers many dif-ferent programs, including Medi-care Supplemental insurance,

Long-Term Care, Cancer insur-ance, Hospital Income, Identity Theft Protection and more.

To learn more log on to www.theLIT.com or visit www.wilegion.org and click on the Legionnaire Insurance Trust link. You can also call 1 (800) 235-6943.

SYMBOLS OFAMERICA

Presented by �e American Legion, Department of Wisconsin

An ActivityBook For Kids

Featuring Artwork from the

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District 5

87.31%

District 4

89.49%

District 8

90.45%

District 7

90.64%

District 2

90.71%

District 3

90.86%

District 1

90.91%

District 10

91.34%

District 12

91.98%

District 6

92.15%

District 9

93.06%

District 11

93.74%

2016 Membership Goal: 59,000 • March 10th Total: 54,613 – 92.56%

PAGE 2 THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE MARCH 17, 2016

Publication ScheduleAll articles due to the Editor four weeks before publication date. Send all copy to

info@wilegion.org

“Badger Legionnaire” & “Wisconsin”

The Badger Legionnaire & Wisconsin are the official publications of the Wisconsin

American Legion Family and are published ten times annually, once every five weeks,

by The American Legion, Dept. of Wisconsin2930 American Legion Drive

P.O. Box 388, Portage, WI 53901.Periodicals Postage Paid at Portage, WI

and additional mailing offices.USPS ID Number 010-135

ISSN: 2154-2627Post Master: Send address changes to

Badger Legionnaire and Wisconsin,P.O. Box 388, Portage, WI 53901

“Badger Legionnaire”The American Legion,

Department of Wisconsin2930 American Legion Drive

P.O. Box 388 • Portage, WI 53901Phone: (608) 745-1090

E-mail: info@wilegion.orgDavid A. Kurtz, Executive Editor

2015-2016 Communications CommitteeKendel D. Feilen, ChairmanPhil Ingwell, Vice Chairman

Jim Young, DEC LiaisonGeoff ShieldsHarold RihnRory BurnsDan Osero

Gerald Brown, HistorianLoretta Shellman, Auxiliary LiaisonBonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Liaison

2015-16 Department Officers

CommanderDale H. Oatman

Vice Commanders Dan Seehafer

Jeff PuddyEd Cooper

Jerome KroftaAdjutant

David A. KurtzSergeant-at ArmsJeremy NordieDave WischerService Officer

James FialkowskiNECman

Steve KruegerAlternate NECman

Ken Rynes

District Commanders 1st – Tom Strey 2nd – Jim Lee 3rd – Mary Lloyd 4th – Mark Sandow 5th – Ensley Brown 6th – Todd Braun 7th – Mark Lesko 8th – Jim Young 9th – Laurel Clewell 10th – John Miller 11th – Frank Kostka 12th – Chris Sower

Change of Address & Other Information:Subscribers: To report any upcoming changes of address, please ask your Post Adjutant to fill out a Membership Data Form and forward it to Wisconsin American Legion Headquarters. The change of address form that will be completed by the Post Adjutant should not be confused with the change of address card filled out at the Post Office. Department financial statements are available to Legionnaires in good standing upon written request through their District Commanders.

“Wisconsin”American Legion AuxiliaryDepartment of Wisconsin2930 American Legion Drive

P.O. Box 140 • Portage, WI 53901Bonnie Dorniak, Editor

Laura Calteux, Department PresidentBonnie Dorniak, Exec. Secretary/TreasurerTo change your address: Notify Unit Secretary

Unit Secretary: Notify DepartmentHeadquarters on a Member Data Form

The “Wisconsin” deadline for copy is 4 weeks before publication date.

DEPARTMENT COMMANDERMy wife, Rita,

sent out thank you cards to many who sent sympathy cards with money or flowers upon the death of her mother and I

want to thank everyone for your gracious out-pouring of sympathy as we buried Marie Sanborn next to her husband at the VA National Cemetery on Cape Cod, MA.

My first trip to the Lincoln Pil-grimage was a moving experience that I will never forget. I made myself a promise that I will return to Springfield, IL someday since, with the limited time I had, I could not experience all the history that Springfield offers.

I wish our Department Oratori-cal winner, Saafia Masoom from

Platteville in the 3rd District, great success this month in Indianapolis. She was well deserving of the win and with her experience I would expect a win or high placing at the National competition.

Our National Washington DC Conference trip last month was a success as we presented the Le-gion’s concerns to our Wisconsin Congressional Representatives and Senators. Of special concern are all the veteran complaints with the Veterans Choice Program. I learned at the Tomah VA Town Hall meeting on March 1st that as of that date, the VA started pay-ing private healthcare providers in Veteran’s Choice program within 30 days of receipt of a bill and will continue to do so. Tie Hill, a Veterans’ Choice manager with Healthnet, cautioned those using the Choice program to follow-up

with their provider to insure proper paperwork on their care is submit-ted to the VA since there will now be no incentive for the providers to submit the medical informa-tion in a timely manner. I briefed those who attended the Town Hall meeting that some Congressional Representatives may not support the continuation of the 2-year trial Choice Program and may try to privatize the VA Health Care Sys-tem. The American Legion is not in support of any privatization of the VA Health Care system. I also briefed that some Congressmen do not feel the urgency to provide ad-ditional funds to the Health Care System to allow higher income veterans the opportunity to enroll in VA Health Care. There was also no urgency by some to stop con-current pay deductions of veterans with a disability rating of 40% or

lower who also receive military re-tirement pay. We need to keep the pressure on our elected officials to do what is right for all veterans.

I want to thank National Vice Commander David Gough for his remarks concerning our member-ship drive which has slowed down considerably and we need to pick things up. So I am again asking that we dig deep in the trenches to support David Gough’s position and show our best efforts for our leading candidates Denise Rohan, Diane Duscheck and Mike Lawler for National positions. It is not too late to get with your District Com-mander and request a revitalization. We have half a dozen counties that are close to 100% so keep working the Posts in those counties.

I look forward to seeing many of you at those District Conferences that I will be attending.

As the Wiscon-sin Department of Veterans Af-fairs continues to look at more oppor t un it ies to assist veter-ans with mental health issues,

one program that continues to grow and continues to be a suc-cess is the Veterans Outreach & Recovery Program (VORP).

In the fall of 2014, the depart-ment partnered with the Wiscon-sin Department of Health Servic-es (DHS) and received a $1.2 mil-lion dollar three year SAMHSA Grant to provide mental health

and substance abuse treatment to homeless, chronic homeless or at risk of homeless veterans. An ad-ditional $1.2 million was received in order to expand services for a second and third year.

This funding allowed the de-partment to set up services in seven regions of the state consist-ing of 49 counties. A total of nine staff was hired with six staff pro-viding direct case management services to veterans, one staff member providing assistance for veterans to sign up for Social Se-curity disability, one administra-tive staff member and one DHS staff serving as a clinical coordi-nator who provides diagnosis for

veterans enrolled. Program staff work to locate

veterans who may be homeless or at risk. If after assessment the veteran has mental health and/or substance abuse issues, then the program provides funding to con-nect the veteran to mental health professionals and other related resources. Staff will then address all of the veterans needs and when appropriate connect them with other resources – housing, employment, benefits, etc.

Program eligibility is very sim-ple – the veteran must be home-less or at risk of homeless, have a need for mental health and/or substance abuse services, and

have served in the military, re-gardless of discharge status.

The program is fully staffed as of December 2015 and as of Feb-ruary 15th of this year the staff have made contact with 180 dif-ferent organizations, met and as-sisted 106 veterans resulting in 37 currently enrolled veterans in the VORP Program.

We are proud of all we do to serve America’s best when they return home. Our veterans de-serve the opportunity to achieve their post-military aspirations and we are here to assist them.

Please contact us with any ques-tions at 1-800-WIS-VETS or www.WisVets.com.

WDVA SECRETARY

John A. ScocosWDVA Secretary

Dale OatmanDepartment Commander

Q u e s t i o n s come up from time to time concerning the relationship of the National Organization of The American Legion with the

Department, Districts, Counties and Posts. Here is a review of some important issues for each level of The American Legion.

The National Organization is a United States corporation. Con-gress issued the federal charter creating the National organiza-tion of The American Legion on September 16, 1919 under Title 36 of the United States Code. It is a private corporation and the cor-porate charter is part of United States law.

In accordance with this law, the National organization has the authority to establish state (De-partment), District, County and Post level organizations. These American Legion organizations at the state and local levels are es-tablished when the National orga-nization issues a charter creating

them. While each level runs their own “day to day” affairs, the De-partment has a general oversight responsibility. However, this over-sight is not operational control.

Once created by charter, the Post, County, District or Depart-ment is authorized to conduct business, operate programs and use the name and emblem of The American Legion in accordance with established rules. Informa-tion on the use of The American Legion name and emblem can be found in the current edition of the Officer’s Guide and Manual of Ceremonies.

The vast majority of posts in Wisconsin are incorporated. In-corporating a chartered Ameri-can Legion post is a legal process undertaken to be recognized by the State of Wisconsin as a cor-porate body. This is done so that the people operating the corpora-tion can avoid being held person-ally responsible for the actions of the corporation. Once properly incorporated, if a Post becomes liable for legal damages, it is the corporation that may be held li-able, rather than the Post officers

and members. Federal Tax Regulations require

that every American Legion entity file an Annual IRS Return - Form 990 and have an Employer Identi-fication Number (EIN). Each Post, County, District or Department has a responsibility to determine the extent of its tax liability and should consult a professional tax advisor as needed.

The American Legion is a non-profit organization and is income tax-exempt in accordance with Section 501 c (19) - Title 26 of the United States Code. A Group Ex-emption has been assigned to the National organization and its sub-ordinates. Posts that have lost their tax-exempt status for failing to file the required Annual IRS Return - Form 990 are no longer part of the Group Exemption and can have their tax-exempt status restored in-dividually through an application process.

The IRS allows individuals who make voluntary contributions in support of The American Legion to claim the donations as tax-de-ductible. This provision is found under Section 170 (c) 3 of Title

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT

David KurtzDepartment Adjutant

26 US Code which characterizes The American Legion as a “war-time” veteran’s organization. The war-time designation is dependent upon our membership eligibility dates.

One question that comes up fre-quently is the matter of Sales taxes. As 501 c (19) entities, American Legion posts are not exempt from paying State of Wisconsin Sales tax. While the State of Wisconsin provides a sales tax exemption for 501 c (3) non-profit organizations, this exemption does not apply to American Legion posts. This is largely because as a 501 c (19) entity The American Legion can engage in certain political lobby-ing activity so long as it pertains to our mission, (i.e. National De-fense and Veterans Rehabilitation issues), while 501 c (3) organiza-tions are not permitted to engage in political activity,

If you have questions or need further information on Char-tering, Incorporation or Tax is-sues, feel free to contact De-partment headquarters at (608) 745-1090 or by email at adjutant@wilegion.org.

PAGE 3THE BADGER LEGIONNAIREMARCH 17, 2016

Longstanding Legion Members RecognizedWisconsin Legion FaMiLy in D.c. Two members of the Mad-

elyn LaCanne Post No. 539 in Green Bay were recently rec-ognized for their service to The American Legion. Post No. 539 members are all women veterans.

Pictured here on the left is Anita Powers who was recog-nized for 60 years of continuous membership. On the right is De-lores Mueller who celebrated 65 years with the post.

Delores was part of the first group of women to serve in the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve. Anita served in the WAVES. Post members have the utmost respect for these two women and the example they have set. They feel indebted to them because their trailblazing efforts and honorable service paved the way for the rest of the women who would serve after them.

Anita Powers, served in the WAVES during World War II. She attended boot camp at Hunt-er College in New York in 1944. After boot camp she was sent to Norfolk, Virginia. She served on an inter-service information booth team that helped service personnel figure out train routes

and schedules at the Norfolk and Western Railroad Station. As Mil-itary personnel came in by train or ferry into Norfolk, they could get information on the train sched-ules, the best route home and other details from the information booth team that Anita served on.

Sadly, Delores Mueller passed away January 17, 2016. Post His-torian Susan Zarnoth comment-ed, “Anyone who ever met her knew what a fine lady she was. I’ve been with the post five years and when I first joined, Delores kind of scared me. She took me

Commander Oatman met with US Senators Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson during the Annual American Legion Hill Day on February 23rd in Washington DC. The Commander is seen here with Senator Baldwin.

Anita Powers (left) and Delores Mueller (right) of Post No. 539 in Green Bay

Shown here from left to right are; Auxiliary NEC Teresa Isensee, Aux-iliary President Laura Calteux, Senator Tammy Baldwin, Department Commander Dale H. Oatman and PDC Denise Rohan.

Senator Ron Johnson met with the Wisconsin Legion Family delega-tion on Hill Day. From left to right are; Department Adjutant David Kurtz, Department Commander Dale Oatman, Senator Johnson, Na-tional Vice Commander David L. Gough, Auxiliary President Laura Cal-teux and Auxiliary NEC Teresa Isensee.

to task after one meeting where a rather heated debate had taken place. She said; “How come you never say anything? You’re allowed to have an opinion you know. Speak up!” I was quite impressed with her. She had a voice right up until the end. We will miss her. The two of them have set the bar high. Their hon-orable service to our country, and their many years of faithful service to The American Legion provide a standard to emulate. We can only strive to live up to their example.”

According to Article II, Sec-tion 2, of the Constitution of The American Legion, “The Ameri-can Legion shall be absolutely nonpolitical and shall not be used for the dissemination of partisan principles nor for the promotion of the candidacy of any person seeking public office or prefer-ment.” The National Charter, ap-proved by Congress, also stipu-lates The American Legion as an organization is nonpolitical* which has been interpreted by the National Judge Advocate as “nonpartisan” in modern lingo.

Therefore, The American Legion as an organization is prohibited from contributing, helping or en-dorsing a candidate. However, a member, as a private citizen, and not representing the organiza-tion, can employ whatever legal and ethical means to advance his or her candidate.

The Legion cap is considered the official Legion uniform (see p. 42 of The American Legion Officers Guide and Manual of Ceremonies). It is not an indi-vidual Legion member’s deci-sion on the appropriate usage of

the cap and emblem. If attending a political event, The Ameri-can Legion cap, or any clothing with the emblem visible, should be removed so as not to imply endorsement by The American Legion. The problem is the as-sumption of endorsement by those who see the emblem or name worn at an improper loca-tion, such as a partisan rally.

When using post facilities to host candidates, the post should remove or cover the emblem and Legion flag to avoid any impres-sion of endorsements. Candi-

Wearing the Legion Cap and Using The American Legion Emblem and Facilities for Political Functionsdates for all parties must be pre-sented equal opportunity at the same time to use the facilities on the same terms and conditions as other competing candidates.

If financial contributions are offered by candidates for politi-cal office, campaigns, political action committees or political parties, The American Legion should politely decline. Accept-ing these contributions may be perfectly legal, but The Ameri-can Legion must avoid any per-ception of supporting any candi-date or political party.

The American Legion values its independence and effective-ness on veterans’ issues. This stance is best maintained by neutrality on individual candi-dates or political parties. The American Legion by legal defi-nition is non-partisan and sup-ports only issues which impact our Four Pillars.

* This means “non-partisan” in today’s society. The American Legion is allowed by Congress to lobby for veterans benefits and a strong United States of America. (NJA, October 25, 2012)

PAGE 4 THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE MARCH 17, 2016

Visual Artist Steven Kearney recently presented Wiley Davis Post No. 108 in Clear Lake with a “Patriotism Mural” for display in their meeting room at the Clear Lake Community Center. Over the past forty years Steve has designed and created many murals, all of which have an underlying message associated with the image.

Steve was discharged from the Army for over 20 years before he joined Department of Minne-sota American Legion Post No. 572 back in 1995 after overcom-ing some severe health concerns. He soon became the Post Ser-vice Officer and through his job with the Post, as well as a Social Worker with Catholic Charities in St. Paul, Steve started work-ing with the homeless veterans’ community and was named the 4th District Post Service Officer of the year. He continued to work with homeless veterans in the Twin Cities area even after he moved to Wisconsin in 2006 and during this time he contin-ued to paint and sell his murals. After his move to Wisconsin, Steve joined the Department of Wisconsin Headquarters Hold-ing Post No. 2930 and recently transferred to the Wiley Davis Post No. 108 in Clear Lake.

In 2014 Steve left Catholic Charities and opened his own art studio in the Clear Lake Community Center and soon thereafter met a number of Clear Lake Legion members who were also key volunteers at the Community Center. Steve said he got to know these Le-gionnaires and saw how dedi-cated and committed they are to the service of veterans and the Legion cause. He states this type of selfless dedication was his inspiration for painting and presenting the mural to Post

No. 108 in Clear Lake. Kearney describes it like this,

“After I joined the Post official-ly, and having already known several of the older members for awhile, I decided I want-ed to give the Post something that instilled a feeling of pride, strength and patriotism. These guys do so much for the local community that they deserve to have something in the Post that reflects the sacrifice and strength of character that they

all possess. To me there are no images that more clearly define patriotism than our National Flag and the American Bald Ea-gle. With that in mind, I decided I wanted to paint a large image that incorporated both emblems, the Flag and the Eagle”. Steve also included The American Le-gion emblem in the mural.

Steve spent over 50 hours on this project and the mural was presented to the Post during a ceremony held in January.

AmAzon SmileS on the WiSconSin legion FoundAtion

The Wisconsin American Le-gion Foundation, Inc. is a char-itable foundation formed to support The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin. It is recognized by the Internal Rev-enue as a 501(c) 3 non-profit. This has facilitated public cor-porations and foundations to support veteran programs and issues.

A case in point is Amazon, the popular web-based retailer. The Wisconsin American Le-gion Foundation, Inc. is a par-ticipant in Amazon’s Smile pro-gram. Here is our direct link: h t tp : / /smile .amazon.com/ch/26-1582528

Supporting the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. While many students were enjoying a holiday break from school this winter, Sons of The American Legion member Charles Flask-rud from Squadron No. 550 in Brackett was helping save lives by hosting an American Red Cross blood drive. The Fall Creek High School junior earned a $1,000 scholarship as a result of his efforts.

As part of the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, Flaskrud hosted a blood drive at the George Bever Post No. 550 in Brackett on Dec. 31, 2015. The blood drive ex-ceeded its goal, bringing in 31 blood donations. As a result of the drive’s success, Flaskrud was entered to win a college scholarship and was chosen as a winner. Flaskrud was award-ed his scholarship as well as a $50 gift card from giftcertifi-cates.com.

“I decided to host a blood drive during the school winter break because I wanted to help the Red Cross collect blood

does not interfere with your Amazon transaction, cost any more or inhibit your discounts. Amazon merely designates a small portion of the sale for the charity of your choice. You can support the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation simply by a click of the mouse when you shop on Amazon. As a result, we just received our third check through the Ama-zon Smiles program. Support for the Wisconsin American Legion Foundation supports the programs of the Wisconsin American Legion.

Chuck Roloff, President The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc.

during the holiday season when blood donations typi-cally decline,” said Flaskrud. “I was first inspired to donate blood by my father Brian, who is a longtime blood donor. Since he is the Legion post commander, we decided to host a drive there and continue our tradition of blood dona-tion together.”

Flaskrud carries his message further and encourages oth-ers to roll up a sleeve. “Blood donation isn’t a large commit-ment or a burden,” he said. “My friends and family give blood regularly because it’s an easy way to help make a dif-ference and we know the need is constant.”

“I am amazed and extremely thankful to be awarded this scholarship,” said Flaskrud. “The extra dollars will be very helpful in sending me to col-lege.” Flaskrud plans to fur-ther his education after high school and has his eyes set on going to medical school some-day.

Clear Lake Post No. 108 Unveils Patriotism Mural

Brackett SAL Member Wins American Red Cross Scholarship

Charles Flaskrud

The Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial Advisory Committee and Village of Plo-ver officials are pleased to an-nounce that the 2016 Wiscon-sin Korean War Veterans Me-morial Ceremony and Program will be held on Sunday, June 5th, beginning at 10:45 a.m. This event will be held at the Wisconsin Korean War Veter-ans Memorial in Plover. Kore-an War veterans and their fami-lies, veterans from all branches of service, and the public are invited to attend. Representa-tives from the Korean Consul-ate, Wisconsin National Guard and Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs have been in-vited to speak at the program.

The Wisconsin Korean War Vet-erans Memorial pays tribute to Wisconsinites who fought, died, or are still missing as a result of the Korean War. The memorial features a series of larger-than-life bronze statues as its cen-terpiece. The figures represent various U.S. armed forces that took part in the war. None of the figures carry a weapon, convey-ing that peace is ardent hope of all veterans.

A Memorial Tiles Program has been established for those who wish to honor a loved one who served in the Korean con-flict. For more information on ordering tiles please visit the Wisconsin Korean War Vet-erans Memorial website at:

Korean War Veterans Memorial Ceremony Scheduled for Sunday, June 5th

www.koreanmemorial.org.To get to the Memorial take In-

terstate Highway 39 to County Highway B in Plover. Head west one block to Village Park Drive. Turn left on Village Park Drive and you will be directed to the parking area. The Korean War Veterans Memorial Advisory Committee and Village of Plover officials hope to see you at the program!

PAGE 5THE BADGER LEGIONNAIREMARCH 17, 2016

79th Annual Wisconsin American Legion Oratorical Competition

The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin’s 79th Annual Oratorical Scholarship Contest’s Regional and Finals Competitions were held on Satur-day, February 13th, 2016 at the Rodman Center on the Ripon College Campus. Pictured from left to right are Department Commander Dale Oatman, first place winner Saafia Masoom, second place finisher Noah Lorey, third place finisher John O’Neill, and Americanism Chairman Jerry Lauby.

The 79th Annual Wisconsin American Legion High School Oratorical Contest was held at Ri-pon College on Saturday, February 13th. Twelve high school students from across the state competed for top honors.

Each student appeared on stage twice, the first for an 8 to 10 min-ute Oration on some aspect of the Constitution followed by a 3 to 5 minute dissertation on one of 4 possible randomly drawn Consti-tutional Amendments. The 2016 Wisconsin American Legion Ora-torical Contest winners are:

Saafia Masoom, a senior at Plat-teville High School, prevailed in the competition and will receive a $3,000 scholarship. “Preserve, Pro-tect and Defend the Constitution” was the title of her oration. Repre-senting the 3rd District, Saafia was sponsored by Platteville Post No. 42. She qualified to compete at the National Finals scheduled April 15-17 in Indianapolis, IN where she is eligible for at least an additional $1,500 scholarship. The three na-tional finalists receive $18,000, $16,000 and $14,000 scholarships respectively.

The First Runner-Up is Noah Lo-rey, a senior at Union Grove High School who was sponsored by Post No. 171 and represented the 1st District. “Crisis of Misunderstand-ing” was the title of his oration. He has earned a $2,500 scholarship.

Taking Second Runner-Up hon-ors was John O’Neill. John is a se-nior at St. Lawrence Seminary, was sponsored by the Mt. Calvary Post No. 454 and represented the 6th District. He has earned a $2,000 scholarship. The title of his oration was “Voting – An Obligation and A Right”.

A few weeks ago while attend-ing the Midwinter Conference at Baraboo, I happened upon a booth manned by Mr. Robert Stone, the chairman of the Department Ora-torical Contest. He was recruiting volunteers for the upcoming Ora-torical Competition to be held at Ripon College. He suggested that as the Fond du Lac County Com-mander where the competition would be held, I could volunteer. He needed 60 volunteers in order for the program to run smoothly. I agreed, not certain in what capacity I would be utilized.

The next week I received notice that I would be the Escort for the Third District Contestant during the State Competition. I was nervous. I had to make sure this student was where he/she needed to be, a re-sponsibility I was not taking lightly. I had never been to a State Com-petition before and I was supposed to make sure the student was in the right place? I wasn’t even sure where I was supposed to be.

As the day of competition began I met a petite soft spoken senior from Platteville. She admitted she was nervous. Though I knew noth-ing about her, I tried to assure her she was ready for the competition. We checked out the venue where she was to speak. Her concerns for her safe entry were real, some steep steps, about 8 or so descending into a pit and she was wearing high heels. I told her to hang onto my arm, and as long as I didn’t fall first she should be alright. I think she ap-preciated the humor. We spent the next half hour in the holding room with the other Regional contes-tants. As she went over her speech I began to see her transform. This

Regional Participants:Ashley Hagenow, is a sophomore

at Rio High School. She was spon-sored by Post No. 208 in Rio and represented the 2nd District. She has earned a $600 scholarship.

Issac Hoeschen, a sophomore at Pius XI High School in Milwaukee, earned a $600 scholarship. Isaac was sponsored by Post No. 180 and represented the 4th District.

Stefanie Klaves is Home-schooled in her junior year and was sponsored by the Alonzo Cud-worth Post No. 23. Stefanie rep-resented the 5th District and has earned a $600 scholarship.

Madaline Bires, a junior at the Queen of the Holy Rosary School was sponsored by Necedah Post No. 277 and represented the 7th District. Madaline also earned a $600 scholarship.

Gabrielle Tuma, is a junior at the Shawano Community School and was sponsored by Shawano Post

tiny girl was in fact a very confident young lady. Shortly before we were called, she announced to me that she was ready.

We entered the pit, her clutching my left arm. We approached and saluted the flag, then separated. I was barely seated when I heard a thundering voice addressing the audience. Was this the same girl I had just watched prepare? This was an articulate young lady who knew how to make a presentation. She was engaging, making eye contact with everyone in attendance. Like a lion stalking its prey, she command-ed the audience’s attention. And they, in turn, were helplessly drawn to her every word. Her oration was flawless. My heart was pounding. I was captivated.

As the day progressed I learned more about her. She had 2 sisters and both had competed in the Ora-torical program. Her parents and her best friend were there support-ing her. I had a chance to meet and talk with them. She has sent applications to some very presti-gious Universities and would like to pursue a degree in the sciences. And I suspect that she will do well in whatever career she pursues.

When the competition was over, my allegiances may have been with the Fond du Lac County / Sixth District Competitor, but my heart was definitely with the young lady from Platteville and tears welled in my eyes as I congratulated her. She is the State Oratorical Champion. It was an honor and a privilege to stand by her side along the way.

Steve PaulyAmerican LegionFond du Lac County Commander

No. 117. She represented the 8th District and earned a $600 scholar-ship.

Benjamin Karnitz, a senior at Ke-waunee High School, was spon-sored by Post No. 29 of Kewaunee and represented the 9th District. Benjamin also earned a $600 schol-arship.

Sophia Woychik is a senior at In-dependence High School. Sophia was sponsored by Post No. 186 of Independence and represented the 10th District. Sophia has earned a $600 scholarship.

Callista Wyles, is Home-schooled in her senior year. She was spon-sored by Tomahawk Post No. 93 and represented the 11th District. Callista has earned a $600 scholar-ship.

EmMary Czyscon, a freshman at Bruce High School, was sponsored by Bruce Post No. 268 and repre-sented the 12th District. EmMary also earned a $600 scholarship.

and state officials. As aldermen or county supervisors they will frame, present and pass their own ordi-nances and laws; their own police and sheriffs will enforce them. As attorneys they will prosecute or de-fend, or as judges, hear cases in their own courts. Through this program, these leaders of the future should develop a sense of individual obli-gation to the community, state and nation.Children and Youth

In 1922, just three short years af-ter the organization was established, members of The American Legion realized that problems relating to children and families were aggra-vating and handicapping the reha-bilitation of disabled veterans. Fol-lowing a year of careful study, The American Legion Child Welfare program was outlined and adopted in 1924.

In 1925, The American Legion National Child Welfare Division was established and adopted the “Whole Child” plan. This plan pro-vides that “the child of every vet-eran should have a home, should have health, education, character and opportunity.” The plan is based on three principles:

• Strengthen the family unit against the forces of a more complex soci-ety. The American Legion recogniz-es the most normal environment for children is a home with their own parents. Our efforts have always been directed toward keeping the family together.

• Extend support to sound orga-nizations and facilities that provide services for children and youth. Always acting in a supplementary capacity, rather than duplicating the efforts of existing agencies.

• Maintain a well-rounded pro-gram to meet the needs of today’s young people. This third principle has provided the elasticity to address all matters of child health and child welfare. This confirms the Legion’s comment to all children.American Legion Baseball

The goals of American Legion Baseball are to build the strength, coordination and over-all physical fitness of teen-aged players; to pro-vide a method for proper channeling of the excessive energy contained in any young player; to develop young, healthy, busy American players while combating juvenile delin-quency; and to aid in the develop-ment of good sportsmanship, good

citizenship and a “positive Ameri-canism.”

Fun Facts about American Legion Baseball:• On an average, 55% of Major League Baseball Players played American Legion Baseball as teen-agers: prominent alumni include Paul Molitor, Robin Yount, Reggie Jackson, Rollie Fingers, Johnny Bench, Brooks Robinson, and Yogi Berra• In 2015, over 200 Junior Varsity and Varsity teams played in Wis-consin• Wisconsin American Legion Baseball provides an annual schol-arship award• National American Legion Base-ball also provides an annual schol-arship award• Wisconsin American Legion Base-ball has been in existence since 1925Scholarship Awards

The American Legion, Depart-ment of Wisconsin funds a variety of scholarship awards each year through the John H. Emery Youth, Pageantry and Patriotism Fund. These scholarships include the an-nual Schneider – Emanuel, Ameri-canism and Government Scholar-ship Program, Eagle Scout of the

Year, Governor of Badger Boys State, State and Regional Oratorical Scholarship Competition Scholar-ships, as well as the 1st Place Junior Shooting Sports Program Scholar-ship.

Throughout his life John Emery traveled the world, visiting over 125 different nations. Like any loyal citizen, wandering in a foreign land, no sight was more welcome or more heart-stirring to him than the sight of the “Stars and Stripes”. John Em-ery possessed a profound sense of patriotism and wanted to foster in the youth of America a sense of our country’s history and a commitment to its future. Because of his experi-ences, he realized that the dignified presentation of the American flag can inspire a love of Country. To perpetuate his legacy of respect for the Flag of our Country, John Emery dedicated a portion of his estate to the John H. Emery Youth, Pageantry and Patriotism Fund.

Recipients of scholarships from The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin are each encouraged to find success in their future academic career and are provided with infor-mation on the proper display of the United States Flag. They are also re-

minded to always respect it and the Nation it represents. Americanism and Government Test Program

This program is open to any stu-dent in the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in any public, private or parochial school and home-schooled students within the state of Wisconsin. There are a total of $14,500 scholarship awards made each year by The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin. The test is available on-line April 4th - 15th.Shooting Sports

The American Legion recognizes that firearms are a part of sports and recreation in our society and strives to teach youngsters the proper use of these types of weapons before acci-dents occur. Many local Posts sponsor Junior Shooting Clubs, which provide training in firearms safety and marks-manship for junior shooters.

The Department of Wisconsin con-ducts a “postal” match each year and awards scholarships by category. The National American Legion hosts an annual national air rifle tourna-ment that draws more than 1,200 contestants each year. This tourna-ment begins with postal matches to determine regional champions.

Legion Americanism Programs Help Build a Stronger America (Continued from Page 1)

A VOLUNtEER ExPERIENCE

PAGE 6 THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE SEPTEMBER 25, 2014PAGE 6 THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE MARCH 17, 2016

The LastBugleBugle

1 GermantownMarvin Kath II 11/21/163 AntigoRobert Marvin II 01/29/16Peter Pospichal K 01/06/16Jeffrey Schultz G/L 01/12/164 AthensJames Luetschwager II 02/01/166 Stevens PointRichard Bablitch II 09/06/14William Steward II 10/21/14Wayne Johnson K 03/10/15Leonard Bronk K 03/12/15Franklin Zaske K 08/29/15Florian Wojciehoski II 10/01/15Raymond Pozorski K 04/14/15Arlyn Johnson II 04/18/15Arthur Fahrner II 04/20/15Vernon Jakusz K 04/27/15Stanley Lehman II 06/10/15Chester Brilowski K 06/13/15Leroy Lundgren II 11/24/15Pat Kubisiak II 12/05/15Anthony Gollon K 02/06/15Ernest Helminiak II 02/15/15Herman Glinski II 10/05/15Ralph Meshak II 10/08/15Alex Ambroziak II 01/02/15Stanley Augustinak II 01/16/15Gregory Mrozinski K 10/22/15Raymond Zynda V 11/08/159 Wisconsin RapidsEdward Pawlik II 12/06/15Robert Rude II 02/19/1610 WausauGerald Gappa II 01/27/16William Gongoll G/L 01/25/16Robert Brzezinski K 02/01/16Bud Kaetterhenry K 08/08/1511 Green BayRobert Herlache II 02/12/16John Noack K 02/13/1613 Richland CenterFrancis Bradford II 02/04/1614 IolaDennis Sorenson K 02/17/1623 MilwaukeeMarvin Edmunds II 01/31/16Edmund Gavre II 01/27/16Clarence Sabec II 02/04/16John Moser II 02/02/16Edward Puchalski II 02/13/16Robert Thompson II 07/09/15Leonard Naeser II 02/19/1626 BarabooArlene Jordan II 01/30/16Richard Scully V 02/05/1638 AppletonRobert Huelsbeck II 01/29/16Arvin Wolfgram K 02/18/16Russell Hoover K 02/25/16Leonard Kutz II 02/27/16Roy Rodgers K 03/01/1639 MarinetteWilliam Fort K 12/29/15Ronald Bane K 01/17/16William Olsen II 01/25/16Bernard Boucher K 01/30/1646 MerrillWarren Weckwerth K 02/16/1647 PortageDonald Gritzmacher K 02/22/16William Laing II 02/05/16

51 NorthfieldLyle Jessie K 02/22/1653 Eau ClaireMorris Bakken II 01/16/16Robert Plessel K 08/25/14Arthur Wagner II 08/14/14Dennis Jenson K 01/31/16Ruslyn Schultz II 01/08/1654 MarshfieldDonald Pernsteiner K 01/30/16Raymond Pankratz II 01/31/16John Roherty II 02/10/16Walter Friant K 02/22/16Jerry Barwineck II 02/10/16George Frank II 03/03/16Delton Peterson II 02/23/16Thomas West K 03/01/16John Roherty II 02/10/1659 StoughtonRobert Kreitling K 01/29/16Dwayne Loomis K 05/29/15Seamon Moen II 02/06/1660 KimberlyTheodore Dekleyn K 02/11/1662 ColumbusPhillip Sharrow II 01/27/1663 ClintonvilleMerton Albert II 02/19/1664 LadysmithMaurice Stam II 01/30/1666 Athelstane - Silver CliffGerald Gauthier G/L 01/12/16Richard Miller G/L 12/19/1572 Sturgeon BayRobert VanDuyse K 01/08/16Robert Sperber K 08/21/15Denis Bay K 08/16/1574 OcontoRonald Johnson K 02/27/1677 Chippewa FallsJames Culver V 04/19/1580 New RichmondRichard Peterson V 01/28/1688 ManitowocPaul Bienvenue K 02/08/1689 MinocquaDonald Anderson II 11/03/13Thomas Sedivy K 08/17/1593 TomahawkWendell Dewitt II 01/26/16Eugene Kind K 02/17/16Lawrence Tank V 02/22/1696 WebsterRobert Ramstrom K 02/07/1698 CumberlandPaul Hilton K 01/28/16Ann Bonneville II 01/09/16Thomas Rossbottom II 12/16/15Charles White II 07/31/15103 GalesvilleHarold Hilton II 02/16/16111 SomersetGlen Belisle II 02/21/16118 ThorpJohn Fransway V 01/30/16121 River FallsRichard Vankeuren K 02/11/16125 ChiltonHerbert Bruckner II 04/04/15Clifford Lacrosse II 11/30/15John Schmitz 11/06/15Randolph Theil II 01/23/16134 BoscobelTheodore Freymiller II 02/13/16138 ViroquaFred Nelson II 07/07/16151 MadisonWaldemar Nimmow K 02/06/16Loyd Curkeet II 02/08/16Waldemar Nimmow K 02/08/16163 WautomaErnest Krueger V 02/14/16167 Sauk CityDonald Moen II 02/11/16171 Union GroveLeonard Deden II 01/28/16179 ChetekHerman Bronstad K 02/10/16

Blake Uren II 01/31/16180 MilwaukeeDonald Schlemm II 02/09/16Russell Rybacki II 02/02/16Robert Shaffer V 02/23/16181 DurandBenedict Bauer V 01/22/16Clayton Myers K 02/02/16Ronald Weber V 12/29/15185 GrantsburgWilbur Thoreson II 01/25/16Patrick Johnson V 11/22/15186 IndependenceDaniel Schoenberger K 01/22/16Richard Marsolek V 01/18/16189 WatertownGlen Friedl II 01/28/16Kenneth Beyer K 02/04/16Harold Nelson II 02/06/16Howard Reith K 02/25/16Joseph Thamke II 03/04/16201 TomahNorman Happel II 01/29/16Arnie Erickson V 02/07/16202 ChaseburgHoward Hoffman II 02/03/16203 MilwaukeeDavid Holada V 11/19/15Anthony Vitale II 11/25/15Milton Benishek II 01/03/16205 JanesvilleEugene Loucks II 02/03/16206 WonewocRoland Stanek K 02/28/16215 PardeevilleJames Elphick K 01/31/16216 LodiDonald Hillestad II 02/08/16223 HillsboroStanley Lulkowski P 11/21/15225 Shell LakeRoger Anderson K 02/21/16230 DePereRalph Enderby II 12/04/15238 GreenwoodRichard Thompson K 04/30/15William Stabnow K 02/22/16253 Spring GreenLaverne Sneath II 01/21/16John Johnson K 02/22/16263 New LondonTheodore Dowd II 02/05/16264 GilmantownJerry Gumbert II 02/24/16Arde Bollinger K 02/13/16268 BruceRaymond Gordon II 02/18/16

278 Balsam LakeRichard Heutmaker K 288 CedarburgRodger Rahn K 02/11/16302 Oconto FallsLarry Curran V 03/10/15308 Gays MillsLaverne Swiggum K 03/20/15312 PeshtigoMichael Harper V 10/22/15John Behnke V 01/17/16Omer Fritz II 12/24/15313 Black EarthQuilla Pine V 02/07/16320 HumbirdLaura Jensen II 01/16/16345 HinghamDale Arndt V 02/01/16348 DeForestErnest Klatt K 02/12/16351 MontelloWilliam Carlile V 02/25/16358 UnityGerald Hamus K 02/09/16360 WaunakeeWesley Gillespie K 01/30/16Raymond Becker II 01/12/16363 DenmarkJames Hershman K 02/02/16366 PrincetonWilliam Marshall G/L 01/12/16372 ForestvilleDonald Tlachac K 02/17/16377 ElchoRoy Rocke II 01/27/16385 VeronaWayne Peterson K 02/06/16406 MilwaukeeJohn Beard V 02/06/16George Ptacek II 02/17/16412 BelgiumMelvin Hubing K 02/09/16Floyd Prom K 01/29/16Kenneth Evenson II 02/27/16416 GreendaleDavid Grudowski V 11/30/15426 MilwaukeeRichard Davis II 01/14/16431 Three LakesRobert Karow II 02/19/16435 SuperiorDaniel Kolodzeski II 01/26/16Raymond Meysman V 02/27/16438 NorwalkCharles Kruk V 02/04/16449 BrookfieldDonald Hensch K 02/22/16

452 SpiritGeorge Wordon II 12/22/15457 MequonRichard Dobberfuhl K 01/31/16Robert Lange II 06/17/15Stanley Pipkorn II 02/27/16Joseph Sommers II 02/27/16Anita Zomchek II 02/03/16460 BellevilleRalph Langdok V 02/22/16461 PembineJohn Steele II 01/22/16473 PotosiGalen Kruser V 02/15/16Joseph Stohlmeyer K 02/25/16478 Saint CloudJulian Steffes K 02/26/16480 Presque IsleKenneth Martin II 02/14/16Ronald Barnes K 02/19/16488 New BerlinEdward Nowicki II 02/20/16492 RothschildThomas Dubore V 01/10/16John Rasmusson V 01/19/16494 CaledoniaWayne Emerich K 01/31/16500 West AllisGeorge Halay II 02/06/16501 MadisonFloyd Kleppe II 11/07/15Robert Farrell II 10/08/15503 DaneBernard Treinen V 02/12/16511 RidgelandRonald Martinson K 02/02/16517 DorchesterDavid Leichtman V 02/25/16518 Green BayJoseph Skalecki K 02/06/16521 Fox LakeCharles Boelter V 10/31/15534 McFarlandDonald Natvig V 08/02/15Larry Satterlee V 02/04/16Francis Vacha II 02/07/16Robert Birrenkott K 02/19/16538 CarltonAllen Christman K 01/05/16Anthony Wiles V 02/17/16543 PloverPeter Lutz V 01/21/16553 MadisonGene Carlisle V 02/06/16

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PAGE 7THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

All Legionnaires were recently mailed the 2016 Magnetic Calendar. Don’t forget that in accordance with our Constitution & Bylaws, the Department Rehabilitation Fund, receives all funds raised through the 2016 Magnetic Calendar Campaign and all fundraising efforts. The Rehabilitation Fund makes the programs at Camp American Legion and our Department Service Office possible. Your donations in sup-port of The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin stay right here in the Badger State to support our fellow veterans, their families and our communities.

Please be generous in your donation and sup-port the important work of the Wisconsin Ameri-can Legion. For additional calendars or informa-tion on Department fundraising, contact Depart-ment headquarters at (608) 745-1090.

MARCH 17, 2016

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2016

The American LegionDepartment of Wisconsin

www.wilegion.org • (608) 745-1090

March 15 Legion BirthdayMay 6-7 Spring MeetingsMay 30 Memorial DayJune 11-18 Badger Boys StateJune 14 Flag Day

July 4 Independence DayJuly 14-17 Dept. ConventionAug. 30-Sept. 1 Natl. ConventionOct. 14-15 Fall MeetingsNov. 11 Veterans Day

2016 DATES TO REMEMBER

camo Quilt Project PresentsLap Quilts to Veterans

February 22nd the Camo Quilt Project presented lap quilts to 18 veterans at the Pine Haven Gid-dings facility in Sheboygan Falls. Among them were Harold TenHak-en from Oostburg, Melvin Veldma-nn from Plymouth and Wally Adler from Howards Grove. Many other Legion Family members were in attendance including 2nd District Commander Jim Lee, Sheboygan County Commander DuWayne Wieck and Sheboygan Falls Post No. 149 Commander Ron Goelz.

Also pictured is Legion Auxil-iary member Linda Wieck who

presented the quilts. Linda is the founder of the Camo Quilt Project which has presented more than 550 lap quilts over the past 3 years to veterans in nursing home environments in 5 counties.

Since the start of the proj-ect, over 24,000 military camo quilts have been distributed to deployed troops worldwide. Each one is skillfully crafted by one of over 20 volunteers with a passion for helping vet-erans. Linda can be contacted at linda.camoquilt@gmail.com