April 2018 pages 1 7

Badger &“Wisconsin”

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APRIL 26, 2018 Vol. 95, No. 4

Official Publications of The Wisconsin American Legion Family

www.wilegion.org

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

Wisconsin Veterans to Benefit from Bills Recently Signed Into Law Governor Walker recently signed three bills which will have a positive impact on Wisconsin Veterans On Wednesday, March 28th, Walker signed Senate Bill 473, the Cody Adams Searchlight Act. This bill enacts a statewide “Green Alert” system to aid law enforcement, the media and citizens to rapidly come to the aid of “at risk” veterans suffering from service related health conditions, such as post traumatic stress disorder, alzheimers or dementia.

State Representative Evan Goyke (19th Assembly District, Milwaukee) and Senator Latonia Johnson (6th Senate District, Milwaukee) were the authors of this bill.

On Tuesday, April 3rd Assembly Bill 402, Sales Tax exemptions for veteranʼs organization(s) was signed by Governor Walker.

This bill has been languishing for two decades. It finally came out of committee due to the efforts of State Representative Andre Jacque, (2nd District, DePere) who solicited the state veteranʼs

2018 Schneider-Emanuel Scholarship Winners Announced The Schneider-Emanuel Scholarship Program consists of three (3) $1000 scholarships presented to high school seniors (or college underclassmen) who have attended at least one American Legion sponsored youth program; are a member of (or are related to someone currently active in) The American Legion, The Sons of The American Legion, or The American Legion Auxiliary; have maintained an academic average of “B” or better for a period of seven (7) semesters; and demonstrate moral character, academic

achievement, and leadership skills in academic and extracurricular activities.

Congratulations to this yearʼs recipients: Jessica Robers, Horicon High School; Miles Saylor, Necedah High School; and Richaela Ludwig, Oconto Falls High School. Honorable Mentions include: Rachel Braaten, Goodman

Armstrong Creek High School; Madeline Diezek, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School; and Brandon Strupp, Hartford High School.

When the first of these scholarships were presented in 1968, it was referred to as The American Legion Scholarship. The name was changed in the 1980ʼs in honor of Frank R Schneider, Department Commander 1965-1966 and William H Emanuel, Department Commander, 1966-1967. Awards have been presented yearly since the scholarship was created.

organizations to contact Senator Fitzgerald to demand it come out of committee for a vote. We responded and the vote was taken, passing 39-1.

In addition, Governor Walker also signed Assembly Bill 422, Hire our Heroes, to help create jobs for veterans transitioning from the military to civilian work, as well as provide credits to companies who hire veterans.

This bill was co-authored by Assemblyman Daniel Riemer (7th District, Milwaukee) and Cody Horlacher (33rd Assembly District, Mukwanago.)

Department Legislative Chairman Paul Fisk, PDC and Legislative Committee Member Wayne Jensen, and Department Adjutant Amber Nikolai attended the April 3rd signings.

Submitted by Wayne Jensen, PDC and Legislative Committee Member

Honor Flight Crew Plaque Presented

First District Service Officer Richard Strehlow recently presented an Honor Flight Crew plaque to 3 of the 36 Post 449 members that have experienced and enjoyed the opportunity to have been a part of the Wisconsin Honor Flight Program. Pictured from left to right is Strehlow, Harvin Abrahamson, Al Adamczak and Monte Lunde.

2018 Membership Goal: 53,500 • April 19th Total: 52,962 • 98.99% 9

6

8

3

11

4

10

2

5

12

1

7

95.42%

93.89%

93.25%

93.22%

92.92%

92.81%

92.29%

92.19%

91.38%

90.77%

89.86%

88.35%

PAGE 2

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

DEPARTMENT COMMANDER

“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 Wisconsin 2930 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: 2154-2627 Post Master: Send address changes to Badger Legionnaire and Wisconsin, P.O. Box 388, Portage, WI 53901

“Badger Legionnaire” The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin 2930 American Legion Drive P.O. Box 388 • Portage, WI 53901 Phone: (608) 745-1090 E-mail: badger@wilegion.org

Happy Spring and Children & Youth Month!

Spring is a beautiful time of year. We are Laurel Clewell Department Commander blessed with new beginnings, fresh air, and warmer weather. But for the American Legion, spring is the beginning to the end of the legion year. We have a few more hurdles to get over and then we can sprint to the Convention. Membership is close to 100% and we need to increase our efforts and plant new seeds in our veterans to show our mission in the American Legion. We need to nourish

Amber L. Nikolai, Executive Editor Dawn Brauner, Co-Editor 2017-2018 Communications Committee Renee Kasuboski, Chairman Rebecca Laumann, Vice Chairman Ray Pasbrig, DEC Liaison Susan Knudson Phil Ingwell Kendel Feilen Jennifer Rumbold Gordy Clewell, Historian Bonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Liaison 2017-18 Department Officers Commander Laurel Clewell Vice Commanders James Lee Todd Braun Mark Sandow Chris Sower Adjutant Amber L. Nikolai Chaplain Milton Duntley Sergeant-at Arms Jeremy Nordie Mark Toll Service Officer James Fialkowski NECman Ken Rynes Alternate NECman Robert Shappell District Commanders 1st – Bill Babb 2nd – Greg Eirich 3rd – Harold Rihn 4th – Ray Pasbrig 5th – Julia Atkinson 6th – Jerry Lauby 7th – Ken Schoolcraft 8th – Ron Fregien 9th – Clarence Davister 10th – Paul Beseler 11th – James Lynn 12th – Don Slattery 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 Auxiliary Department of Wisconsin 2930 American Legion Drive P.O. Box 140 • Portage, WI 53901 Bonnie Dorniak, Editor Bonnie Jakubczyk, Department President Bonnie Dorniak, Exec. Secretary/Treasurer To change your address: Notify Unit Secretary Unit Secretary: Notify Department Headquarters on a Member Data Form The “Wisconsin” deadline for copy is 4 weeks before publication date.

Publication Schedule All articles due to the Editor four weeks before publication date. Send all copy to badger@wilegion.org

APRIL 26, 2018

our efforts so we can GROW. I am excited about the membership rallies and the new veterans that have joined the Wisconsin American Legion. Wisconsin is 2nd in the nation for membership but Julie Muhle is number one in membership and has helped many posts get to 100%. She has the drive and the knowledge to take Wisconsin to 100%. We shine as a state not because of Julie, you, or me but because of the programs and wonderful events that our state continues to execute.

Did you know that the American Legion has celebrated April as Children and Youth Month for 80

years? Check out the publication at www.legion.org/publications.

Did you know that 268 students were awarded academic scholarships at the national level in 2017?

There are many more that were awarded scholarships throughout our state of Wisconsin. Legacy scholarship information is found at www.legion.org/scholarships/ legacy.

Did you know that 1,346 American Legion posts have received the Post Honor Ribbon? Membership awards information is found at www.legion.org/membership/ awards. A new post membership retention award will begin with the

2019 year for the posts with a membership retention rate of 90, 95, or 100%.

Please continue to post and advertise the events in your communities. Remember to submit your events for the best practices book.

And please remember that April is the month to celebrate the children and youth programs.

Thank you to all the districts, counties, or posts that had events to celebrate the Legionʼs 99th Birthday. What a great way to promote the American Legion and start the process for the big celebration of our 100th Birthday.

– For God and Country

CAMP AMERICAN LEGION Welcome to Spring…

Maybe?

The Northwoods winters are beautiful, full of amazing Don Grundy Camp Director visual effects and a feel of peace that can calm the stress away. We have had a wonderful winter season up here, however, winter is very persistent and apparently reluctant to give spring its time to shine. It is April 8th and needless to say, we are looking forward to warmer days and no more snow on the ground.

The process we call “Camp Opening” is scheduled to start April 23 and our first group of campers were scheduled to arrive May 4th. However, before we can open Camp we need the frost to come out of the ground and before we can put docks in we need all the ice off the lakes. Unfortunately, the lakes still have about 30” of ice and as of yesterday we still have over 10” of snow on the ground. Because of this we have had to delay the official opening

of our 2018 Camp season to May 14th. It is our hope and expectation that by then we should be able to turn on the water to the cabins.

Regardless of the weather and typical remodeling setbacks, we continued to push forward with all of our renovation projects. We have made great progress during the offseason and we are excited for our guests to enjoy the use of these spaces. These projects are much more than just physical improvements or property repairs.

If we want to continue the legacy that is Camp American Legion, we are going to have to continue our renovation and rebuilding efforts. Of course none of this can happen without ongoing support from our Legion family.

A few weeks back, State Adjutant Amber Nikolai, Camp Committee Chairman Mike Bert and I were discussing the contributions made by of some of our partnering organizations. We quickly recognized the immense impact this had made towards the operations, sustainment and growth of Camp. These folks are a big part

of our Legion family and without their contributions, Camp would not be what it is today. They are also part of your local Legion posts and communities across the state of Wisconsin. Some of them are Legion members, spouses, sons, daughters and extended family members. I am talking about the Legion Auxiliary, Legion Riders and the Sons of the American Legion.

April 14th will mark one year since I started my transition into the Directorʼs position. In that short time I have witnessed an outpouring of support for Camp and its mission. Our Auxiliary continues to come to the table in ways I did not expect. Last spring they purchased our new commercial dishwashing machine making our operations more efficient while delivering a better service.

In fall, they purchased our very first “accessible" UTV. This vehicle is equipped to transport our disabled guests out to our nature trails allowing them more access to everything Camp has to offer. This winter they decided to underwrite the Main Lodge Liv-

ing Quarters remodeling project.

This space will be much more inviting and functional with spacious bathrooms, beautiful showers, cozy refinished hardwood floors and a better use of the floor space. Then we have our Legion Riders. They continue to support something that has become iconic here at Camp: Chipmunk Crossing. Young and old find peace, friendship, and commonality while feeding peanuts to the squirrels and chipmunks.

Let me assure you, this no small operation – every spring the Legion Riders bring 500 pounds of peanuts to Camp. This supply of peanuts ensures our furry little friends are well fed and ready to engage our Campers. Every year, during the Fall Ride the Legion Riders come to Camp in large numbers and with that, last September they delivered over $13,000 in supplies raised throughout the year. Last but not least we have The Sons of the American Legion. This core of highly energetic family members are always eager to help us in (Continued on Page 3)

WDVA SECRETARY As a veteran, itʼs hard not to be excited about Wisconsinʼs economic future.

State unemDan Zimmerman ployment is at an WDVA Secretary all-time low (2.9 percent overall and 1.4 percent for veterans), labor force participation is at an all-time high, companies continue to invest in Wisconsin — thus increasing employee demand — and upcoming initiatives to expand veterans in the workforce continue to take form.

For example, Foxconn Technology Groupʼs $10 billion plan to build its state-of-the-art manufacturing campus in Racine County — “Wisconn Valley” — is already creating a positive economic ripple effect across the state and region. The Foxconn project alone

will employ up to 13,000 workers, with at least 3,000 being veterans, plus another 10,000 construction jobs and 21,000 ancillary jobs.

Wisconn Valley wonʼt just engage veteran workers, but also veteran-owned businesses. Construction manager, M+WGilbane, has said it wants 10 percent of the projectʼs subcontractors to be female, minority or veteran-owned businesses. Registering as a Wisconsin veteran-owned business through WisVets.com and competing for Foxconn-related contracts through Wisconn Valley. wi.gov are keys to veterans taking advantage of these opportunities.

Foxconn is just one of more than 200 Wisconsin companies statewide that have identified to us at WiscJobsForVets.com their desire to hire even more veterans. I recommend any company looking to

hire veterans or any veteran looking for employment in Wisconsinʼs private or public sectors to visit that website.

With a 1.4 percent veteran unemployment rate, our dilemma is where to find several thousand veterans in Wisconsin who need jobs. Simply put, those veterans are not currently in Wisconsin, so we need to go out around the nation and bring them here.

Governor Walker recently signed a $6.8 million talent attraction bill, with a majority of those dollars targeted toward attracting veterans to Wisconsin. In collaboration with several other state agencies, WDVA will bring those transitioning from active duty, and their families, to Wisconsin and get them and their family members hired BEFORE leaving active duty. And thanks to

successful Veteran Service Organization (VSO) advocacy with the legislature, Wisconsin leads the nation in providing state benefits, making Wisconsin even more attractive for veterans and their families.

While all thatʼs great news for young, working-aged veterans, the question I frequently hear from VSOs is: How does any of this impact us? Why should we care?

This economic boom means more veterans in Wisconsin.

Thatʼs a good thing. More veterans and their families in Wisconsin means more people willing to serve veterans in VSOs. This is a historic opportunity for VSOs to seize upon to secure their futures by expanding their ranks. We at WDVA look forward to collaborating with your state leadership to assist you in that regard!

APRIL 26, 2014

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

CAMP TO RECEIVE WDVA GRANT The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin is pleased to announce that the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) has awarded the Department with a $71,432.00 grant for the operation of Camp American Legion.

These monies will help promote the mission of camp and continue the legacy from years past. Speaking of years past, look at the numbers from the last (2017) Camp American Legion season:

OUR MISSION Helping To Heal - those who served, continue to serve, and their families, through Wisconsin’s Northwood’s Experience OUR VISION Giving Wisconsin Veterans the pathway to quality of life OUR VALUES Honor and Stewardship

•

Number of Reservation Confirmation Letters Mailed: 749

•

Number of Thank You Letters for Donations Received: 675

•

Number of Bus Trips made to Off-Campus Activities: 398 (This number is low, considering additional trips may have been taken had the bus not been out of commission on different occasions last season)

•

Number of Volunteer hours donated by Jim Gable: 282 (Volunteer bus driver)

•

Number of Pontoon Boat Rides provided by volunteer boat captains: 391

•

Number of total man-hours provided by volunteer boat captains: 1692 (including fishing and cruising on Lake Tomahawk, Big Carr and Lake McGrath – this does not include the time spent cleaning the fish that were caught by the campers)

•

Number of times a Runabout Boat was taken out by Campers: 277 (on Lake Tomahawk and Big Carr Lake)

•

Number of Meals provided: 23,833

•

Number of Eggs consumed: 8784

•

Number of Pounds of Strawberries served: 700

•

Gallons of Milk served: 472

•

Number of Pounds of Chicken, Ground Beef, Fish and Pork Loin Cooked: 3,205

CAMP AMERICAN LEGION COLUMN (continued from page 2) any way they can, from grounds maintenance to auto body repair and everything in between. Last summer they donated a state of the art salad bar cooler, a hot plate serving table and now this spring they decided to purchase the reverse osmosis system for our drinking water in the dining hall. On top of all that, the Sons are the sponsor for Cabin 22.

As many of you may be aware, because of mold and rot issues, Cabin 22 is slated to be demolished this spring. The Sons have already started to raise funds to help underwrite the construction of a New Cabin 22. If the fundraising efforts go well, who knows, maybe we can break ground this coming fall.

If we were to measure what these organizations have done by dollar value alone, it, in and of itself, would be very impressive. However, it is much more than the financial impact that is made. It is precisely what defines a family: love, respect, togetherness, support and unity. We are all joined by a common cause and purpose. We share the “why” surrounding what we do and we move forward, knowing we can make an everlasting impact. We are blessed to have these folks as part of our Legion Family. Next time you see one of our Auxiliary members, Legion Riders or Sons (SAL), thank them, let them know we are grateful for their service and that we are proud to call them family.

PAGE 3

Camp American Legion Topic of Discussion at Veterans Weekly Cup-of-Coffee Meeting

Contributed by Mike Heilman, Veterans Cup-of-Coffee Camp American Legion (CAL) Director Don Grundy was recently a guest speaker for a growing group in Rothschild. He was invited to the Veterans Weekly Cup-ofCoffee event, where he talked about Camp and its mission before accepting a $500 gift card from Legionnaire Jim Yenchesky, on behalf of the Marion Post 198.

Grundyʼs presentation was given to a unique audience.

He spoke to the members of The Veterans Weekly Cup-ofCoffee, a group of 345 veterans, active service personnel and auxiliary members.

While group membership continues to grow, an average of 60 members attend the weekly Wednesday morning meetings at Dennyʼs in Rothschild, Wisconsin.

The group was founded in 2012 by Ruth James, past Commander of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Chapter 64 in Wausau, and

a handful of DAV members.

The group is not affiliated with any organization but offers a place for veterans to gather and have a cup of coffee and/ or breakfast and talk with other veterans, providing support and information of interest.

Current members include veterans from The American Legion, VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars); the DAV; Never Forgotten Honor Flight, and the Man of Honor Society. All veterans of any age or era are welcome. The groupʼs motto is “No agenda. No questions.

No affiliations. Just Veterans.

Just grab a chair and say hello.”

While there are other organizations similar to The Veteranʼs Weekly Cup-of-Coffee, few have been able to sustain themselves and grow like the Rothschild group. If you are interested in pulling up a chair and pouring a cup of coffee, contact Mike Heilmann, heʼll happily welcome you to the group. (715-355-5248; mikeheil123@gmail.com)

THIS IS WHO WE ARE!

Legion Riders with supplies for Camp American Legion.

ELL

ANGIE CHAPP

Remodeling and renovation projects continued through the winter months.

My name is Angie Chappell and I am the Administrative Manager for The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin.

I have been with the Department for 8 1/2 years.

I help with overall administrative needs at the office. In addition, I am the primary event planner for all meetings, conferences and conventions for the Department, including the Department Commanderʼs annual Hospital visits. I assist Department officers with their travel and registration for all National meetings and Conventions, in-

cluding organizing the annual Hill Visits during the Washington Conference.

I am married to Dave and we have three kids; Kyle 19, Lacy 16 and Kane 11. In my free time I drive kids all over the Midwest for baseball, softball, football, wrestling and volleyball. I enjoy running, biking and working out at the club. I also work part time as a cosmetologist at a salon in Portage. Thank you all for your service and for allowing me to work on behalf of Wisconsinʼs Veterans, their families and their communities.

PAGE 4

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

FROM THE NATIONAL COMMANDER The beginning of April starts my eighth month as National Commander. I have visited 43 Departments, (to include Puerto Rico, The Virgin Isles, Guatemala, South Korea, Okinawa, and the Philippines.) Some of the bigger events included my testimony before the joint session in Washington, DC and a Sunday morning appearance on C-Span. It has been an amazing adventure.

I was happy to see many of my 3rd District Legion Family members in Elkader (my hometown) during my Iowa visit. And, to see District Commander Julia Atkinson, Robert & Betty Stone at the Oratorical Contest in Indianapolis.

Almost everywhere I go there are people from Wisconsin or who have family living in Wisconsin.

But, it isnʼt the same as seeing the Badger on the front of someoneʼs cap.

One of the Departmentʼs I still have not “officially” visited is the Department of Wisconsin.

And, I look forward to coming

home. My official visit was originally scheduled to be June 16 and 17. Well, in my mind that just isnʼt enough time for me to travel around Wisconsin to thank all of you for your support and hard work. I have been reviewing the open dates on my schedule and with help from leadership we are planning a few stops around Wisconsin. Following is where and when I am planning to be, unless I am called away for business in other parts of the world.

• May 21 Darlington • May 23 Marshfield Post 54 ribbon cutting • June 12 someplace in the 1st District • June 15 Boy State in Ripon • June 16 Oshkosh Post Event • June 28 – 30 National President Dianeʼs Homecoming • August 4 Grafton Looking forward to seeing many of you during my visits.

National Commander Denise

United We Stand, We Will Not Be Divided

LOYALTY DAY 2018

Partially contributed by Ron Ramos, Sr. Vice Commander VFW Post 10818 First observed in 1921, Loyalty Day was initially referred to as Americanization Day. In 1955, Congress and President Eisenhower recognized it as a special day, issuing the first proclamation designation May 1 as Loyalty Day. In 1958, a law was passed making the day an annual holiday. Since becoming a law, every US President has issued a proclamation to mark the day, as such, every year.

So what exactly is Loyalty Day? According to the U.S. Code, “Loyalty Day is a special day for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American Freedom.”

Loyalty Day celebrations often include parades and services honoring American Veterans.

This year, the New Richmond/St. Croix County VFW Post 10818 and the City of New Richmond have been selected to host the Wisconsin Loyalty Day Celebration and Parade. VFW and Legion Posts, businesses and other organizations from across the state will converge in New Richmond for the parade on Saturday, April 28, 2018.

The parade will step-off at 12:30 pm, April 28, starting at High Street and North Knowles Avenue, followed by a celebration at The American Legion Post 80 in New Richmond. Everyone is invited to join in the festivities. For more information, visit www. vfwpost10818.org/loyaltyday. You can also contact the Chairman of Loyalty Day, Dave Green at 651-247-1801 or Co-Chair Ron Ramos, 715-928-3606.

APRIL 26, 2018

Meet and Greet with National Commander Denise Rohan Oshkosh American Legion Post 70 is excited to host a Meet and Greet with National Commander Rohan. The Post is extending an invitation for all to join them on Saturday, June 16th, 2018, beginning at 1:00 pm through 5:00 pm, at 1332 Spruce Street in Oshkosh.

Please stop by, say ʻhiʼ and meet the National Commander.

National Commander to Help Dedicate Patio

Submitted by David LaFontaine Commander, Post 54 The American Legion Post 54, Marshfield, will dedicate their new Merkel Brothers Vietnam Veterans Memorial Patio on May 23, 2018. American Legion National Commander Denise Rohan will participate in the ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for 5:00 pm. The ribbon cutting ceremony is open to all veterans and the public. Rohan is scheduled to visit the Post from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm. She will tour the “Lest We Forget Military Museum,” Fallen Warrior Memorial and the Veterans Banners along Central Avenue between 3:00 and 4:00 pm.

The new patio, an addition to Post 54ʼs current facility, was made possible by the donations of dedicated members, friends

and local businesses, in recognition of our Veterans and the support of the members of Post 54 by the local community.

FLASHBACK (continued from front page) even emotionally moved some people, I reflected on the personal impact its had on me. I remember receiving the letters from children and was moved by how genuine their messages were. Chris Useldingʼs letter said “Dear Soldiers, thank you for what you all are doing for our country. Best wishes and have a Merry Christmas.” He didnʼt know who I was but still wanted to express well wishes for a soldier.

Finding the letter after all of these years and realizing the then fourth grader was now one of my deputies seemed like a pretty neat coincidence, but our lives are full of coincidences. We need to realize what a positive impact we can have on the lives of others. My coincidence also illustrates how small our world really is.

Veterans have all made a difference in the lives of others around the globe, people they may have never met. Veterans have changed the world - sometimes as war fighters and others as peacekeepers. That sense of selfless service lives in each and every one of us.

In my little story, I was lucky I was able to meet that kid that wrote me a letter and he was able to see the impact his act had on someone else.

Iʼm further blessed to be working with the high school students through one of Wisconsinʼs newest programs, the Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy. Through this program we have the ability to make positive impact on young people. As a career law enforce-

ment officer and a veteran volunteering with this program, I can say it is truly a rewarding experience. While we provide training and classes on all aspects of law enforcement, the sense of commitment to service that is instilled in these young people can have a lifelong impact, and not just on them. Last yearʼs attendees were

great teenagers from throughout Wisconsin, all with a desire to be in law enforcement. If these teenagers are a sampling of the future generation, we are in good hands.

Jim Johnson is currently serving as Ozaukee County Sheriff, as County Legion Commander, and a member of the American Legion Riders.

Sheriff Johnson and Deputy Uselding currently work together but their history goes back to when Uselding was in the fourth grade.

Jim Johnson is an active member of the Legion Riders.

APRIL 26, 2018

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 5

WALLECA Session Set for 2018

The second session of the Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy (WALLECA) will be held at the Wisconsin State Patrol Academy located in Ft. McCoy from June 18 – 22, 2018.

Some of the curriculum includes: Computer Crimes, Crimes Against Children, Firearms, Bomb Squad, Crime Scene Investigation, Ethics, and OWI Enforcement. There will be evening sessions conducted by guest speakers representing The Department of Natural Resources, The Department of Corrections, Tribal Police, and local, county, state and federal law enforcement agencies as well. The Thursday evening session will focus on The American Legion with Adjutant Amber Nikolai and Legionnaires from Sparta Post 100 presenting.

The co-directors of the academy are Legionnaires John Wolfe (Wisconsin State Patrol, retired) and Ozaukee County Sheriff Jim Johnson.

The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin would like to thank our sponsors for supporting

our youth who are interested in a career in law enforcement: • The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. • Wisconsin Professional Police Association • Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association • Badger State Sheriffs Association Wisconsin Correctional Association • Milwaukee Police Officers Conservation & Sportsmanʼs Club • Thelen Consulting, LLC Anyone who is interested in sponsoring this program can donate through The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. is organized as the charitable entity of The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin. The Foundation is a 501(c) (3) charitable corporation under the Internal Revenue Service code and was organized as a mechanism to raise funds.

The Foundationʼs mission is to provide financial assistance to promote Americanism, Youth Pro-

HAPPY 99TH BIRTHDAY! Post 146 American Legion Birthday Party

grams, Veterans Rehabilitation and Community Service across Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. accepts cash gifts and securities. Planned gifts such as retirement plans, insurance policies, charitable gift annuities or remainder trusts and bequests are also accepted. The Foundation solicits contributions from individuals, American Legion Posts and members, and other organizations that provide contributions or grants to promote The American Legionʼs programs such as those listed above.

The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. also solicits foundation and corporation grants to assist in completing their mission.

Gifts should be made to The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc., checks can be made out to: The Wisconsin American Legion Foundation, Inc. P. O. Box 388 2930 American Legion Drive Portage, WI 53901 (608) 745-1090

“While I have been involved in law enforcement for over 26 years and the American Legion for over 20 years, this program was an extremely positive experience for me. It confirmed that we have some really great young people in Wisconsin. These young people were respectful, hardworking, inquisitive, and thirsty for knowledge. It was truly a pleasure to have served as their counselor. The staff at the State Patrol Academy, The American Legion and the other law enforcement professionals only added to the atmosphere of success. Great program!”

— Jim Johnson Ozaukee County Sheriff Ozaukee County Commander American Legion The first Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy (June 2017) was a resounding success. The program is open to students between their junior and senior year of high school to give them an insight to the training required and the reality of being a law enforcement officer in Wisconsin. The program was attended by 37 exceptional students who came from all ethnic backgrounds and almost all areas of the state. The quality of the individuals who attended was outstanding. The instructors were exceptional as they provided personal experiences and gave the students an insight into law enforcement. I cannot say enough about the counselors, who made the whole program a resounding success and made my job as the Director of Training so much easier.”

— John Wolfe, Director of Training Wisconsin State Patrol, Retired

Legion Birthday Celebration, Post 347

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Post 347 recently celebrated The Legion’s 99th birthday with a dinner and presentation of membership anniversary awards.

Pictured is the head table during the celebration dinner.

Post 470 Celebrates Legion Birthday

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www.DairylandAsbestos.com Beaver Dam Post 146 recently hosted a birthday party in celebration of the American Legion’s 99th. Pictured from left to right are Post Adjutant Ross O’Brion, Post Commander Del Yaroch, King Veterans Home resident Jim Jolly and Department Adjutant Amber Nikolai, who was the guest speaker at the party.

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Legion Family Members from American Legion Unit/Post 470 Saukville enjoyed fellowship and cake on March 19, 2018, in celebration of The American Legion’s 99th birthday.

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THE WISCONSIN AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS ASSOCIATION ELIGIBILITY: Wartime veterans of any era who are members of The American Legion Family (Legion, Auxiliary or Sons) Any make of motorcycle of 500 cc or greater WHAT WE DO: Provide support to other veterans and veteran programs; Fundraising Rides for the Legacy Scholarship Fund (Scholarships for children whose parents lost their lives while honorably serving on active duty on or after 9/11, or have a VA disability rating of 50% or more); Participate in parades and provide color guard services

PAGE PAGE 66

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

The Last

Bugle

1 Germantown Donald Waugus V Eugene Menghini K 4 Athens Herbert Riehle K 6 Stevens Point Robert Moss II Chester Danczyk V 10 Wausau Douglas Despins 14 Iola Harold Becker K 19 Hartford George Lange II 27 South Milwaukee Arnold Nowinski K Robert Schmidt II 33 Neenah Donald Schommer II 38 Appleton Clifford Radtke II Robert Hall V Norman Burton II 41 Kaukauna Michael Milton II 42 Platteville Gene Digman K Louis Knetter K John Dobson K 48 Beloit John Obermark V 53 Eau Claire Richard Saleck K 54 Marshfield Duane Riemer K 59 Stoughton John Haugen V Clyde Burrington V Daniel Walters V 60 Kimberly Thomas Roovers II Dennis Jansen V Frank Madill II 63 Clintonville Richard Ziereis K 69 Mayville James Dorst K 73 Neillsville Frank Zank II 77 Chippewa Falls Dale Peterson K 81 Mauston Ernest Zuberbuehler K Cyril Laridaen II 82 Port Washington Lyle Quaas V 83 Sheboygan Fred Ecker K 88 Manitowoc Arnold Junk K 89 Minocqua Thomas Heyer V 91 Oconomowoc Robert Harris II 93 Tomahawk Gary Thielman V 98 Cumberland Paul Ricci II 100 Sparta John Zimmerman II

3/7/18 1/21/18 4/6/18 2/19/18 3/21/18 4/3/18 3/21/18 2/18/18 3/18/18 3/30/18 4/5/17 3/26/18 4/5/18 4/14/18 3/12/18 3/1/18 4/9/18 3/14/18 3/14/18 3/15/18 3/10/18 4/4/17 10/9/16 4/6/18 2/11/18 3/8/18 3/3/18 3/16/18 3/18/18 3/14/18 3/23/18 3/1/18 3/28/18 3/28/18 1/13/18 3/23/18 2/1/18 3/6/18 3/15/18 3/7/18 3/18/18

105 Shullsburg Keith Wymore K Charles Symons K 106 Seymour Harold Pingel K 109 Lancaster Roger Latham K 113 Mount Horeb Wayne Grender K 114 Eagle River Ronald Waller V Clarence Sparks II Leonard Pampel K Ronald Waller V Michael Lucas K 120 West Allis Keith Iwen II 121 River Falls Thomas Pitcock II 122 Phillips Russell Kirchmeyer K 124 New Holstein William Doss K Gregory Muzik V 125 Chilton Leon Jensen II 128 Stockbridge Robert Daul II 134 Boscobel Kennard Sletten K Lawrence Haumschild K Ray Quellhorst II Leroy Adams II 137 Turtle Lake Henry Heintz II 146 Beaver Dam Vincent Matusewick K David Budde V 148 Bloomington James Kussmaul K 152 Menasha Leslie Bandt V 154 Mondovi Dennis Werlein V 157 Horicon Harvey Gietzel II 161 King John Holmes V 181 Durand Norman Smith II Stanley Jesse V 182 Park Falls Larry Halter V Wayne Kundinger V 184 Fennimore Keith Kreul K 185 Grantsburg LaVerne Johnson K 189 Watertown Ronald Layton K Edward Wanke K 190 Reeseville Frank Albrecht K 192 Franklin Albert Wilson K Rodney Ginter K 201 Tomahawk Harold Paulson K 205 Janesville Daniel Alt K 208 Rio Dale Strmiska K 210 Waupun Eugene Kastein K 212 Barron Douglas Norelius K 215 Pardeeville Edward Taylor K 217 Bonduel Kenneth Schneider K 218 Hayward Del Capece V 242 La Valle Raymond Mihlbauer K

4/1/18 3/17/18 3/14/18 3/14/18 3/22/18 2/11/18 8/13/15 3/22/18 3/22/18 12/9/17 3/18/18 3/22/18 3/25/18 3/6/18 3/2/18 3/22/18 12/15/16 3/10/18 11/20/16 3/27/18 3/14/18 7/29/17 9/16/17 3/30/18

243 Plymouth Leo Nigh K 258 Little Chute Robert VandeVoort V 263 New London Ronald Sutton V 265 Darboy Robert Starszak K Carl Kessler K 278 Balsam Lake Bennett Bystrom V 283 Suring Hubert Robenhorst K 284 Holmen James Hakala V 288 Cedarburg Robert Langnes K James Frank 298 Spencer Ralph Fitzgerald V 303 Winter Michael Lynch V Shawn Swisher V Thomas Olson K 317 Wautoma Ernest Bojko K Emil Lazich II 318 Lake Tomahawk Gene Huff K 330 Wilson Billy Kuhn II 332 Black Creek Norman Hartwig V 336 Onalaska James Stading V 337 Pulaski Irvin Lewins K 339 Almond Melvin Stolpa K 343 Hancock Raymond Krall K

3/6/18 4/7/18 4/9/18 11/10/17 4/3/18 3/18/18 3/30/18 3/11/18 12/20/17 3/24/18 2/23/18 2/13/18 11/30/17 1/8/18 3/18/18 3/15/18 3/13/18 3/18/18 4/9/18 2/28/18 4/5/18 3/23/18 3/10/18

SEPTEMBER APRIL 25, 26, 2014 2018

354 Ettrick Robert Ofsdahl II 363 Denmark David Knoll V 365 Plum City Archie Seyffer K 375 Mukwonago Charles Weinkauf II Henry Riegel II Michael Franzen V Vernon Pries K William Major V Donald Genzmer II Jerome Dybul V Jack Armstrong K Kenneth Andler K Martin Holzman K Dale Vandenboom V Richard Deist K 382 Menomonee Falls Lester Zirbel II 385 Verona Robert Cromer G/L Alan Freitag K 390 Gresham Lee Owen V Francis Dahse II 391 Fremont Olin Mead II James Taylor V 395 Kingston James Koopman K Richard Kampstra K 406 Milwaukee James Murphy II Cyril Blong II Paul Prekop II 415 Milwaukee Philip Pape II 436 Wrightstown Earl Burr II

4/5/18 3/29/18 2/15/18 12/19/17 12/25/17 7/13/17 12/10/17 3/22/17 12/4/17 9/24/17 2/25/18 12/14/17 7/11/17 1/25/18 2/20/18 3/29/18 3/11/17 8/12/17 1/14/18 3/29/17 3/14/18 3/24/18 2/24/18 12/5/17 3/20/18 3/19/18 1/13/18 2/23/18

Leo Gerrits K Henry Brooks K James Kiley K 449 Brookfield Martin Panning II Gilbert Steffen II Kenneth Bray K Robert Kolsch K Robert Lynch K 451 Boulder Junction Robert Bertch II 457 Mequon-Thiensville Robert Lanza V 481 Madison Werner Stoller II 487 Cable Paul Regorrah II Jack Kramer II 492 Rothschild Edward Mondroski V 494 Caledonia Leland Ulcek V Willmer Guillaume V Aloyse Danoski K 501 Madison Donald Rauls K 507 Mindoro David Kirchner V 508 Wilton Paul Kruse V 521 Fox Lake Robert Jenkins II 534 McFarland Jan Martinson V Joseph Conway K 546 Racine Troy Cobb V 2930 Portage Raymond Pingel V

11/2/17 4/1/18 3/14/18 2/2/18 1/10/18 1/15/18 4/1/18 4/2/18 2/26/18 3/31/18 3/6/18 8/31/17 3/17/17 2/21/18 3/22/08 3/17/18 4/1/18 3/8/18 3/19/18 2/26/18 3/24/18 3/4/18 4/5/18 3/20/18 2/14/17

3/4/18

10/16/17

A WORD ABOUT LEGIONNAIRE INSURANCE TRUST

2/15/18 3/12/18 3/22/18 3/10/18 12/31/17 2/11/18 4/4/18 12/22/17 3/13/18 2/2/18 3/13/18 3/20/18 3/27/18 3/19/18 12/27/17 4/2/18 3/16/18 3/15/18 3/6/18 3/18/18 3/22/18

MORE THAN

50

Years

OF SERVICE TO THE LEGION FAMILY

Over Five Decades of Partnership for a Healthy America The Legionnaire Insurance Trust (LIT) was formed in 1966 with two primary goals: to provide Legion families with lowcost insurance protection, and to provide a source of revenue to participating Legion Departments.

The Trust has been so successful in its over fifty years that today over 500,000 Legionnaires in 50 participating Departments are enrolled in this unique program.

Also, in the same period of time, almost $1 billion dollars in claim benefits have been paid to Legionnaires and their families through the LIT; and over $100 million in allocations have been paid to participating Legion Departments. The first Trust insurance plan to be offered was the Hospital Income Protection plan, a program designed to pay fixed dollar amounts for periods of hospital confinement. Over the years, other insurance coverage offered included: Cancer, Accidental Death, Critical Illness, Disability Income, Emergency Assistance, Long Term Care, Medicare Supplement, Discount Cards, Dental, Whole Life, Auto, Homeowners, Identity Theft, and Home Health Care.

Since its creation, AGIA has worked closely with the Trust to develop insurance programs especially designed for Department members and their families. We are proud to serve you through the Trust and invite your inquiries and suggestions on any aspect of our activities.

3/5/18 43352

3/7/18

©2017 AGIA

APRIL 26, 2018

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 7

100% POST COMMANDERS

Post 447 Adjutant Roger Hooker • Cdr Thomas Simonson

Post 267 Cdr Dan North

Post 212 Cdr Roger Bender

Post 33 Cdr Bob Borszich

Post 506 Cdr Rod Abbas

Post 490 Cdr Angela Russell

Post 395 Cdr Doug Stoll

Post 379 Cdr Robert Galvin

Post 348 Cdr Bill Ridgely

Post 194 Cdr Roland Briggs

Post 219 Cdr Mike Mohr

Post 58 Cdr Ronald Zych

Post 55 Cdr Chuck Mompier

Post 51 Cdr Vern Tranberg

Post 340 Cdr Roger Mekow • Adjutant Bill Drecktrah

Post 109 Cdr Mike Lieurance • Adjutant Andrew Robbins

Post 27 Crd Raymond Grabowski

A Once in a Lifetime Experience…

Is your Post or local business(es) interested in sponsoring a student to attend Badger Boys State (BBS)? We are still looking for about 50 sponsors.

Each year we have students who would like the opportunity to attend BBS, but do not have a sponsor.

If your Legion Post would be willing to sponsor one of these students please contact Sheri Hicks at Department Headquarters, (608) 745-1090.

The cost to sponsor a student is only $300, and it's tax deductible. BBS is an experience that will forever change a young person's life.

Thank you for your support!

“Badger Boys State is by far one of the most self-rewarding things to be a part of as a high school junior. So many lessons are learned through the 8 days of campaigning, group discussions, and most importantly making your own connection within your group.

Badger Boys is a once in a lifetime experience.”

— Dalton 2017 BBS Citizen