August 2013 pages 1 7 by Angie Chappell

Badger

“For God & Country”

&“Wisconsin”

aire Official Publications of The Wisconsin American Legion Family

August 15, 2013 Vol. 90, No. 7

www.wilegion.org

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

Post-Vietnam Era Marine Elected Department Commander Ken Rynes of Richland Center Takes Reins at 95th Annual Department Convention Commander Wayne Jensen dropped the gavel to begin proceedings and the 95th annual Department convention started off on a high note with Menomonee Falls Police Chief Anna Ruzinski performing our National Anthem. Chief Ruzinski had previously opened the 2010 National American Legion Convention in Milwaukee. The Convention kicked off at 9:00AM on Friday, July 19th with Greenfield Post No. 416 posting the Colors. The Adjutant General of the Wisconsin National Guard, MG Donald Dunbar provided the keynote address. Oconomowoc Mayor James Daly brought greetings to the delegates and recounted some of his experiences in Washington DC on September 11, 2001 when he was working as a congressional aide. Newly elected VFW Commander Renee Simpson and DAV Commander Rodney Helgeson addressed the convention as well. Ms. Simpson is a member of the Earl Guilligan Post No. 133 of Camp Douglas, while Commander Helgeson belongs to the Andrew Blackhawk Post No. 129 in Black River Falls. Captain Mathew Sibley of the United States Coast Guard then briefed the delegates on the Coast Guard’s mission in the Lake Michigan Sector. On Friday afternoon, Convention Committees comprised of delegates representing each of the 12 Districts in the Department met to consider and debate important resolutions. A table appears in this edition of the Badger Legionnaire describing the resolutions considered and the actions taken by the convention. Chief among the res-

olutions were proposals to merge various Department Committees, a requirement that participants in Americanism programs be US citizens and potential changes to American Legion Baseball rules. Saturday, July 20th was the second day of sessions. The day began with an address by Wisconsin’s Lieutenant Governor Rebecca Kleefisch who is known for her advocacy on behalf of veterans and spearheaded efforts in 2012’s “Year of the Veteran” across the state. Ms. Kleefisch was followed by National Vice Commander David Hall of West Virginia. Commander Hall has been a frequent visitor to the Department, having previously attended the Midwinter Conference and American Legion Day at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King. Comrade Hall then assisted Department Com-

mander Wayne Jensen in presenting a string of National awards to posts and individual Legionnaires. WDVA Secretary John Scocos, a member of the Severson – Cairns Post No. 501 in Madison, spoke about the programs and benefits provided to Wisconsin’s veterans. Secretary Scocos was instrumental in developing provisions in the state budget which directly benefit Camp American Legion and the Department Service Office at the VA Regional Headquarters in Milwaukee. National Auxiliary President Peggy Thomas of Virginia and Department Auxiliary President Diana Sirovina thanked Legion delegates for their service and commitment. Jean Qualler, Program Support Assistant at Zablocki VAMC’s Low Vision Clinic gave a moving presentation on the value Camp American Legion

has brought to the lives of blind and vision impaired veterans. Saturday’s highpoint came just after noon with an address by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. Governor Walker, who attended Boys State and Boys Nation while in high school, reflected upon how the Americanism programs of The American Legion had inspired him to public service. The afternoon concluded with the election announcements. Kenneth J. Rynes of the Bayard de Hart Post No. 13 in Richland Center was elected by the delegates to the high office of Department Commander. Commander Rynes is the son in law of Past Department Commander Jerry Williams (1981-82). His wife Ann, a 37 year member of the American Legion Auxiliary, has served in a variety of offices, most recently

as the Department Membership chair. The closing session on Sunday was remarkable in as much as Legionnaires were able to witness the installation of the state American Legion Auxiliary officers by Past National President Jan Pulvermacher-Ryan. The Legion Convention then reconvened and the 2013-14 Department officers were installed by Past Department Commander Leo Endres of the William Lansing Post No. 360 of Waunakee. Many other speakers as well as state and national level awards were featured during the course of the three day convention. Most noteworthy were the efforts of volunteers from Edwin L. Jones Post No. 91 of Oconomowoc who worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable event.

★ 2013 ELECTION RESULTS ★ DEPARTMENT COMMANDER Kenneth J. Rynes, Jr. Chuck Roloff

349 145

DEPARTMENT VICE COMMANDER Robert Shappell 453 John Wolfe 361 Dan Rindt 340 Larry Wrycza 337 ASSISTANT DEPARTMENT CHAPLAIN Larry Olson 473

Department Commander Kenneth J. Rynes of the Bayard De Hart Post No. 13 of Richland Center is pictured here with his wife Ann. Ann is the daughter of PDC Jerry Williams (1981-82)

DEPARTMENT SERGEANT-AT ARMS Dave Wischer 352 Charles Roessler 304 Todd Braun 245

The 2013–2014 Department Officers and Executive Committee gathered following the close of the 95th Annual Department Convention in Oconomowoc. The Executive Committee meets in accordance with the Department Constitution and Bylaws at the Convention, Midwinter Conference and the Department Spring and Fall Meetings.

PAGE 2 “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: info@wilegion.org David A. Kurtz, Executive Editor 2013-2014 Communications Committee Kendel Feilen, Chairman Harold Rihn, Vice Chairman Dale Oatman, DEC Liaison Butch Van Rossum, Member Bernie Olson, Member Phil Ingwell, Member Barb McDaniel, Member Cecil Groves, Historian Loretta Shellman, Auxiliary Liaison Bonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Liaison 2013-14 Department Officers Commander Ken Rynes Vice Commanders Robert Shappell John Wolfe Dan Rindt Larry Wrycza Adjutant David A. Kurtz Department Chaplain Greg Simonis Assistant Department Chaplain Larry Olson Sergeant-at Arms Charles Roessler Dave Wischer Service Officer James Fialkowski NECman David L. Gough Alternate NECman Steve Krueger District Commanders 1st – Dave Brisk 2nd – Dan Seehafer 3rd – Rich Ruland 4th – Claire Goodfellow 5th – Ensley Brown 6th – Jeff Puddy 7th – John Thurk 8th – Jerry Krofta 9th – Dale Oatman 10th – Ed Cooper 11th – Frank Kostka 12th – Jim Chapin 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 Diana Sirovina, 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 info@wilegion.org

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

AUGUST 15, 2013

DEPARTMENT COMMANDER Dear Comrades, I must start by reiterating my humble thanks for selecting me as your Commander. It is Ken Rynes an honor and a Department Commander challenge that I will enjoy and make the most of. Thanks to Chuck Roloff and his wife, Donna, for an enjoyable campaign. Chuck is a Legionnaire of the highest caliber. Thanks to all that supported me with donations and volunteering to help out in all ways imaginable. I also want to thank Tom Strey and the Convention Corporation for soldiering through some difficult times. Each convention brings its own challenges and this one was no different. Everything was handled with professionalism and “esprit de corps”. Thank you all that attended. I hope you share at your posts all the good things that you experienced so that next year you can bring a new attendee.

I stated in my acceptance speech that it’s time to start now because as I see it we only have 364 days to accomplish our goals. As I campaigned, I said that I would create incentives and challenges to make membership fun. The first item was approved by the DEC in the post-convention meeting. That is, for every new member you sign up, your name will go in a drawing for $1000.00 to be awarded at Midwinter. The same goes for any member who has been expired for at least 2 years. If you get them to rejoin, your name will go in the same drawing. This is an incentive that should help posts tremendously. Do a post mailing to all your members and ask them to renew. Plus, get one more and they will be eligible. This is a dual purpose tool in the fact that you will get them to renew with less hassle and you will get one more new member. Every time you recruit or renew a member, your name will go in the drawing again. It is unlimited as to the amount of

times your name may go in. If you need help with the letter to send your members, just contact headquarters for a sample that can be reproduced. It is my goal, as all Commanders before me, to be 100% in membership. We will help and provide incentives. You, as the boots on the ground, will have to use the tools provided. I know we can stop the slide in numbers. Two districts last year went over the top by using the 3 P’s of membership. Be positive, be passionate and be persistent. It’s not nagging to ask someone more than once to join or renew. It is a necessity if we are to maintain the services we provide for those that are in need. It is also time to place your bets when it comes to membership. Place a bet with your Auxiliary or SAL. Place a bet with other posts in your county and district. Nothing makes membership more fun than having a wager with others close to you. It can also be between individuals in a post. Have fun doing great things.

I recently spoke at Camp American Legion during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new dock approach that the National Guard had rebuilt. The completed project was beautiful and long overdue. The best part of the story was that, because of the troops emersion into what we do at Camp and our Adjutant handing out the new Wisconsin version of “Why You Should Belong” brochures and comments from yours truly, a soldier from the unit went home that night, sought out her post in Tomahawk and joined The American Legion. When you do great things, great things will happen. With all the highs there must come some lows and that is the passing of PDC Dale Peterson. I attended his funeral recently and the family members spoke of how he was a mentor to them. Those that knew Dale know that he was a mentor of Legionnaires also. God’s blessings to his family and to all of you.

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT It seems a lot cooler this year but the summer is going to heat up as the 201314 membership year gets under David Kurtz Department Adjutant way. The staff at headquarters in Portage is busy processing the necessary reports to begin the new membership year and we want to ensure good communication and smooth operation of the programs at all levels, so please make sure that your post submits updated officer reports as soon as possible. New officers are also taking leadership positions at the County and District levels. Having accurate contact information is vital to establishing and maintaining good communications. Once received at Headquarters, we can reformat the information and make it available for distribution. As we go to press, the National

Membership Workshop is just getting ready to start and Department leadership is rolling out the membership campaign for 201314. The new Department Membership Chairman is Dallas Loesel of Mondovi in the 10th District. Dallas is a Past Department Vice Commander and a two-time 100% District Commander. He brings a great deal of experience and energy to this year’s membership campaign. There have also been some exciting developments at Camp American Legion this summer. The WI Army National Guard has just completed improvements to the Main Boat Landing and installed new traffic quieting devices that make it safer to cross from the Camp over to the boat landing area. The Auxiliary made a significant monetary contribution to make these improvement projects possible and has also funded conceptual plans for the future. We

are grateful for their support. The State budget adopted by the Senate and Assembly and recently signed by Governor Walker contains some important funding initiatives that directly affect The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin. WDVA Secretary John Scocos was instrumental in two key provisions that: • Increase funding to Camp American Legion in order for us to provide free services to Wisconsin veterans and their families. • Increase financial support to our Service Office at the VA Regional Headquarters in Milwaukee. On Sunday, August 18th the Legion Baseball All-star Game will be played at Miller Park in Milwaukee. The game will be played following the Milwaukee Brewers vs. Cincinnati Reds game which starts at 1:00. American Legion All-stars from across the state will compete.

We’re also gearing up for the 95th Annual National Convention. This year the convention is being held in Houston, Texas August 27th through August 29th. Important resolutions dealing with VA & R, National Security, Americanism, Children & Youth and Membership issues will be addressed. One last note - Renew on-line – If you have internet access and a credit card, why not renew your membership for 2014 on-line? It’s easy and fast and will help your post become efficient. Simply go to the Department website – www. wilegion.org – and click on the “renew on-line” icon. Use your membership ID number, it’s contained in your address label appearing on this newspaper, and your credit card. It will only take a minute and you’ll be all set for the 2014 membership year. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!

DEPARTMENT CHAPLAIN “CHATS WITH THE CHAPLAIN” It is with great pleasure that I look forward to serving as your DepartGreg Simonis Department Chaplain ment Chaplain. The preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion begins with the words “For God and Country” and it’s no accident that God is first. Our Nation was founded with a very heavy emphasis on our Creator. The Declaration of In-

dependence calls attention to the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitles each of us. The Declaration also states that “all men are created equal”. The American Legion ceremony for the installation of officers contains a similar statement; “Remember the tolerance that animates us as members; remember there is no rank among us, for we all serve as equals”. This is so important as it allows individuals

the opportunity to express themselves without fear of ridicule or rejection. We are one body, this great organization called “The American Legion”. Because of this, those of us who serve look forward to help wherever we can and to show our respect for each and every person we come into contact with. When we show our respect for others, we allow God to work with, through and in us. Whatever your position, whatever your au-

thority, remember that you would not have it without the Grace of God. Please show your best side, no matter where you are, so people will point with pride and say “that is a member of the Legion Family and we respect who they are and what they do”. Please remember that Prayer is a very powerful tool. Pray often and remember that God supplies our needs, not our wants. God Bless you on the start of our American Legion year.

AUGUST 15, 2013

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 3

A Dream Becomes Reality – New Cabin at Camp American Legion As Camp opened for the season on May 26th, Mike McCormick of Crawford County handed me the keys and history was made. Eyes watered a bit, lumps formed in throats, faces reddened and words were hard to say. All of a sudden, all of us who know each other extremely well felt uncomfortable. Something very special was happening and it was like we did not know how to handle it. Something so extremely special was taking place that words were not enough. Words could not do the moment justice. All we could do was look and see. There it was. Workers bodies were tired, beaten, nicked, scraped, sore and literally spent, but at that moment they all felt like Supermen – Men of Steel. “IT WAS DONE”! The fulfillment of a dream was there; sitting before us. Nothing had to be said. It was a moment of pure feeling. It was a defining moment many years in

the making. A dream became reality and it was GRAND! A new cabin at Camp American Legion. The posts of Crawford County adopted cabin No. 14 in 1996. They were somewhat reluctant since the cabin hadn’t been occupied or maintained in some time. After a few years of pouring good money after bad, it was finally approved to start fundraising to replace the cabin. Fundraising began in 2009 and within a year the Grant County and Richland County Councils offered to cosponsor the new cabin. The three County Councils, which represent a total of 25 American Legion posts and nearly 2,000 members, provided the manpower and financial assistance to make the dream a reality. The original plan was to replace the cabin with a similar size cabin, but with the extra assistance from the two other Counties a larger cabin could be constructed. Cabin No. 14 went from being the smallest cabin to the largest at Camp. It has

two large bedrooms with a total of eight beds, a spacious living room and a large bathroom. It gives Camp the flexibility to house eight individuals or two families at a time. As Director, my thanks go out to many and all involved in making this dream a reality. In addition to the workers on site, I know there were many Legion Family members working behind the scenes making it all possible. I offer my thanks to all of you. I encourage the whole Legion Family to let the folks in the three The New Cabin No. 14 at Camp was constructed by Legionnaires from counties involved know how Crawford, Grant and Richland Counties and was dedicated May 26th. much their efforts are appreciated. To do that contact, any of the following four persons; Mike McCormick and Dave Dombeck of Crawford County, James Hying of Grant County, and Department Commander Ken Rynes of Richland County. I personally thank them all from the bottom of my heart. You have made Camp American Legion a much better place. I proudly salute you! – Kevin Moshea, Director

WDVA SECRETARY THE FORGOTTEN WAR The place in history afforded the Korean conflict, which raged from 1950 to 1953, is unfortunately John A. Scocos WDVA Secretary almost a distant third to World War II and Vietnam. For a couple reasons, Korea has been the “forgotten war.” Global war and stories of heroism and sacrifice of the Second World War, just years before Korea, as well as the social upheaval and politics associated with Vietnam often make the Korean War less important to the history books. It is not, however, less important to history – and certainly not less important to the soldiers who slogged through the mud and snow fighting the North Koreans and Chinese communists in numerous battles. The Korean War was a bloody 3-year battle that claimed the lives of over 33,600 Americans,

more than 700 of which were from Wisconsin. Wisconsin soldiers contributed notably in Korea, just as they did before and after in many other conflicts. Today, the home of the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea is Camp Red Cloud, named after Wisconsin native and Medal of Honor recipient Mitchell Red Cloud of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Red Cloud’s heroics in battle in the Korean War saved the lives of those in his company, at the cost of his own life, and earned him the military’s highest honor for bravery. The armistice, which was signed 60 years ago as a temporary agreement, is still the only truce that exists preventing the war from resuming. All sides have yet to sign a peace treaty making the Korean War Armistice one of the most notable agreements in history. The situation between the two Koreas has at times been tense over the

past 60 years, but generally South Korea has thrived and been a great ally of the United States, while at the same time North Korea is one of the most reclusive nations, as well as one of the most economically depressed and challenged. In Wisconsin, the Korean War is not forgotten; the soldiers that fought in this war are not forgotten. With over 40,000 Korean War veterans alive in Wisconsin today, we honor their service and sacrifice and ensure no soldier from any war is ever forgotten or left behind. As part of honoring our state’s Korea veterans, in September the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs is hosting a ceremony to recognize their service. Veterans from all eras, as well as others who wish to recognize Korean War veterans, are welcome to attend. (John A. Scocos is the Secretary of the WI Department of Veterans Affairs. He is an Iraq War veteran.)

The Old Cabin No. 14 was razed. It predated the founding of Camp American Legion in 1925, which originated as a YWCA facility.

Superior Legion Post Teams with DAR and Students to Retire Flags On June 17th members of the Richard I. Bong American Legion Post No. 435 held a Flag disposal ceremony on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Superior. Assisting in the ceremony were students from the college’s “Upward Bound” program and the Lake Superior Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, (DAR). “We used to just hold a private ceremony in one of our backyards in the community,” said Mary Houk, regent of the local DAR Chapter. The mission of the Daughters of the American Revolution is to promote patriotism and knowledge

of all of what it involves. “They approached us last year and we decided to blend the two ceremonies together and it has worked out very well. It is just something nice we can do together,” commented David Kringle, Past Commander of Post No. 435. Everyone was eager to include students from the school’s Upward Bound Program. Most students had never realized there was a proper way to retire used flags. Following the flag retirement ceremony students went up to the Legionnaires to shake their hands and thank them for their service.

Politics Makes Strange Bedfellows

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Members of the Richard I. Bong Post No. 435 in Superior held a Flag disposal ceremony on June 17th with students from the University of Wisconsin – Superior and the Lake Superior Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The students who took past are participants from the school’s Upward Bound Program.

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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

AUGUST 15, 2013

Vets Roll to Washington 2013 Convention Resolution Results

Pictured left to right are Legionnaires Bob Meganck, Al Reich and Dan Kellett of the Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 with Bill Vanark of Elmbrook Post No. 449.

Legionnaires Dan Kellett, Bob Meganck, Bill Vanark and Al Reich were selected to participate in the 4th Annual 2013 VetsRoll Honor trip. The VetsRoll organization’s primary mission is to provide safe ground transportation and an enjoyable experience for U.S. Military veterans of World War II, the Korean War and “Rosiethe-Riveters” to visit THEIR war memorials and other related sites in and around Washington, D.C. However, the deeper purpose is to provide a long overdue gift of thanks and memories that will fill each veteran’s heart for the incredible sacrifices they made in the name of freedom so many years ago! Dan, Bob and Bill are all combat veterans of the Korean War and served in the Third Infantry Division. They were part of an entourage of 200 veterans and “Rosies” who traveled to Washington along with 120 volunteers and medical staff. They rode in 10 luxurious Badger motor coaches from Beloit, WI to our nation’s capitol. Traveling by bus provided the flexibility of socializing, moving around, playing cards, watching nostalgic videos and enjoying the natural beauty of our great nation. Although everyone was aware of the destination, no one could have expected what would occur during the 4-day bus tour. The camaraderie, the stores of past and present, the incredible restaurants and hotels were all an experience of a lifetime. The emotional interactions with citizens sharing a “thank you for your service” or a hardy handshake were too frequent to count. There were many special moments when student groups, while in Washington, offered their thanks and best wishes to the veterans. Whether or not these youthful gestures of goodwill were a product of teacher prodding or not . . . a lesson was being learned. YES, patriotism is alive and well in these United States of America. This year’s VetsRoll mission consisted of: • Wright-Patterson Air Force Museum with dinner at the base officers’ club

• Arlington National Cemetery and The Tomb of the Unknown Solider • Iwo Jima Marine Memorial • WWII, Korean, Vietnam and Lincoln Memorials • Plus, many surprise events along the way • Welcome home celebration Of special note…during the trip back home, as the group crossed into Ohio from Pennsylvania, they were given a full police escort through the entire state by Ohio’s Highway Patrol. And, as they proceeded westward through Indiana and Illinois, they were welcomed by State Troopers right to the threshold of Wisconsin. A 550mile excursion with no traffic… now, that’s the way all veterans should be able to travel. It was a ride in style and truly a very special gesture indeed! But all the “warm and fuzzys” didn’t stop there. As they rolled into Beloit’s city limits near midnight, the veterans were welcomed by scores of motorcycles, dozens of fire trucks and police squads with their lights flashing, along with throngs of people lining the route through the city – each cheering, waving and even a few individuals saluting from their apartment windows and balconies. As the motorcade reached the final leg of the long journey, they turned down a street lined with 1,200 American flags and an amazing fireworks display. Hundreds of well-wishers personally shook each veteran’s hand, gave a high-five or provided a welcoming hug as they got off of their busses. Emotions got the better of most and a dry eye could not be found in the group. It was an overthe-top welcome home celebration honoring these veterans and was simply spectacular! The VetsRoll.org program’s founder Mark Finnegan closed the evening to encourage people to tell others about this one-of-a-kind program and hoped that other parts of the country would start a similar program that could benefit so many deserving veterans.

NO.

TITLE

1.2013 2.2013 3.2013 4.2013 5.2013 6.2013 7.2013 8.2013 9.2013 10.2013 11.2013 12.2013 13.2013 14.2013 15.2013

Legion Riders on Americanism Committee Combine Americanism with Children & Youth Combine Finance with Fundraising Combine VA & R with Legislation Aeronautics – Federal Funding Citizenship requirement for Americanism programs POW/MIA Remembrance stamp State hiring of Disabled veterans Delegation Secretary Baseball Reentry – Regular season Thank host – Oconomowoc Post No. 91 Thank convention hotel Thank City of Oconomowoc Legion Baseball Rules changes Department SAL Program Chairman

ACTION Approved Disapproved Disapproved Disapproved Approved Disapproved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved Approved

SUBMITTED BY Dept. Commander Strategic Planning Committee Strategic Planning Committee Strategic Planning Committee 9th District Wisconsin Rapids Post No. 9 Dept. Exec Committee Dept. Exec Committee Department Adjutant Seymour Post No. 106 Dept. Exec Committee Dept. Exec Committee Dept. Exec Committee Dept. Exec Committee Dept. Exec Committee

Veteran’s Vocational Training in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest For many of us the summer is quickly spent attending picnics, fishing, camping, or visiting with family and friends. Others use summer as a time to volunteer, or give back. For veterans being active in community and public service is nothing new. But this past summer a group of veterans gave back through public service in a new way. These veterans spent their summer in Wisconsin’s National Forest, the Chequamegon-Nicolet. US Forest Service is sponsoring a pilot program to help veterans develop job skills through service learning. The Forest Service teamed up with HistoriCorps®, a Colorado nonprofit specializing in historic building rehabilitation, the Student Conservation Association and other volunteers to train veterans in historic preservation techniques at historic sites located on three National Forests. The veterans began their summer at Thornburg Farm, a historic property consisting of farm buildings in North Carolina. Then they traveled to the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest in Wisconsin to work at Forest Lodge. They finished their summer on the Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota where they restored a picnic shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the New Deal Era. Wisconsin’s National Forest, the Chequamegon-Nicolet, hosted the program at Forest Lodge in Bayfield County during June and July. Historic Forest Lodge, an 872 acre part of the National Forest, has many structures in need

of historic preservation work. Led by HistoriCorps personnel, the veterans worked on the preservation of a unique building called the “Cow Palace.” The Cow Palace was originally used to house cattle, process milk and cream, and as an apartment for male servants. It was in desperate need of a new cedar shake roof and repairs to its half log siding. The Cow Palace, built in the Rustic Style which uses logs and stone to blend with natural surroundings, posed many challenges. According to Michael Salisbury, the Historicorps project supervisor on site, “This crew of veterans took on a huge task at Forest Lodge. The Cow Palace has a multi-gabled roof that took at least 70 squares of cedar shakes to finish. And once we began repairing water damaged siding we found damage all the way through the structural framing to interior walls in some spots. Because the Cow Palace and other buildings at Forest Lodge are on the National Register of Historic Places, all of our work must be done to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historic Buildings with approval of the State Historic Preservation Officer. The skills learned during this project are fundamental to any type of construction – new, renovation or rehabilitation; what is different is the approach, ethic, and attitude.” One of the veterans participating in the training, North Dakota National Guard Member Sophie Miller commented, “If I had the chance to do this kind of training again, I would!

It was useful to learn to find efficient ways to work with people, to compromise to complete a historic preservation project.” It’s important to note that the skills these veterans are learning are marketable all over the nation. In addition, there may be college credits available for veterans participating in our historic preservation projects. Jason Maloney of Peshtigo American Legion Post No. 312, who led the development team said, “This veterans training program is making dollars work harder. The same dollars that are training veterans are preserving historic buildings that are owned by the public. The work these veterans are doing will provide service to the public for decades”. While visiting the veterans at Forest Lodge, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary John Scocos commented, “Our veterans bring so much to the table for the future of our great state and nation. Giving them these adequate skills so they can get back into the community and be employable is even more of a benefit. Hopefully next year working with the Forest Service, we can come together for a state project to assist our veterans from Wisconsin and veterans from across the nation.” For information about Forest Lodge contact Jason Maloney at (715) 685-9983 and for information on HistoriCorps contact Towny Anderson at (303) 893-4260, Ext. 235.

WDVA Secretary John Scocos visited the Forest Lodge construction site and veterans in training.

AUGUST 15, 2013

THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

PAGE 5

2014 DEPARTMENT CONVENTION

Julie Boucher of the Boucher Automotive Group presents a check for Camp American Legion to Department Commander Ken Rynes and 2012-2013 Vice Commanders Chuck Roloff and Ron Hessil.

Department Membership Coordinator Chris Schmidt was recognized for ten years of loyal service by Commander Wayne Jensen and Adjutant Kurtz.

National Vice Commander David Hall and Commander Jensen presented a charter for a new post in Rome to Raeanne Larson. Her son Ryan Larson of the 25th Infantry was killed in Afghanistan. The post has been named in his honor.

Commander Wayne Jensen and Boy Scout Chairman Terry Woolf presented Mitchell McGlinn of Hales Corners the 2013 Eagle Scout of the Year Award from the Department of Wisconsin.

10th District Commander Ed Cooper participated in the Convention Blood Drive.

PDC Bob Weyenberg and his wife Mary addressed the convention to mark the 25th Anniversary of Bob’s term as Department Commander in 1987–1988.

Commander Jensen presents a gift to Jean Qualler of the Zablocki VAMC Low Vision Clinic following her remarks about the value of Blind and Vision Impaired Veterans Week at Camp American Legion.

3rd District Vice Commander Mary Lloyd received the prestigious Joe Meeks “Gung Ho” Award for her work in support of the Department Americanism programs. She is pictured here with Commander Wayne Jensen and Department Americanism Chairman Don Lechner.

2014 FALL RIDE FOR CAMP AMERICAN LEGION “THE CHAPEL CHASE” SEPTEMBER 14, 12:00 NOON PIG ROAST AND CORN BOIL

American Legion Riders - LETS RIDE - to Camp American Legion to help our ill, injured and disabled veterans who need a hand on the road back to health. All funds raised should be brought to camp on September 14th and will be used to reconstruct the Chapel. Riders can also stay at camp the nights of the ride; September 12, 13, & 14. A donation of $30.00/bed/night is requested. A continental breakfast is included with an overnight stay. Single riders must be Legion members and one member of a group must be a Legion Family member. If you would like to stay at the camp call Director Kevin Moshea at (715) 277-2510 to make a reservation. *This ride is held in conjunction with the Tomahawk Fall Ride for MDA*

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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE

The Last Bugle

3 Antigo Edw Vavruska 4 Athens Stanley Gajewski 8 Waukesha Henry Dunn Kenneth H Krueger Raymond M Stobba 9 Wisconsin Rapids George Lehmann 11 Green Bay James C Hogan Marvin A Pott Joseph R Gervais 13 Richland Center Larry L Severson 14 Iola Thomas Mande Kenneth H Wall 18 Milwaukee John Schlimmer 19 Hartford Robert D McLean 21 Kenosha Donald Christensen John A Zdanowicz 24 Lake Geneva Daniel Ponder 26 Baraboo Frederick W Martin Robert J Fichter 32 Menomonie Lloyd E Eiseth David A Johnson 33 Neenah Daniel K Melzer 38 Appleton Jay J Parish Sr Harold F Mueller Anthony W Czarnik 39 Marinette Loren Hanson 42 Platteville Cecil Block Gene Breihan Edward Hirchert Gregory Johll 44 Wabeno Emmanuel Nachtwey Richard J Delveaux Edward Denz 45 Elkhorn Elmer Bublitz 46 Merrill Roman Radlinger Kurt Bartz 48 Beloit Ralph Babcock Allen Tuftee Tommy S Marzette 51 West Salem Donald F Meinking 53 Eau Claire William Guyton 54 Marshfield Frances Kokaly Arnold E Steines George Bloczynski 59 Stoughton Dale Dybevik 60 Kimberly Martin J Vanheeswyk

06/18/13

07/25/13

II K II

06/26/13 04/07/13 07/31/13

07/19/13

K II

05/03/13 06/24/13 02/13/13

07/03/13

II II

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06/10/13

04/21/13

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06/17/13

II II

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V V

11/04/12 07/08/13

06/15/13

II II V

07/27/13 07/31/13 08/01/13

07/09/13

V K II V

03/30/13 04/19/13 01/14/13 06/25/13

II II K

06/19/13 07/06/13 07/24/13

12/01/12

II K

06/08/13 02/28/13

II II K

04/13/13 06/18/13 12/29/12

05/24/13

12/13/12

II II II

06/28/13 07/15/13 07/17/13

06/28/13

07/12/13

62 Columbus Ronald Steindl II 66 Athelstane-Silvercliff George L Belleau K Harry Reese K 72 Sturgeon Bay Dale H Buschmann II George L Gay II 77 Chippewa Falls James A Bjork II 79 Burlington Leslie W Huff K 80 New Richmond Guy Bibeau K 85 Muscoda James A Hackney V John J Crye K 89 Minocqua Thomas F Cable K Ralph D Sharp II 95 Delavan Francis E Tweed K Alfred Derouin V Henry J Dyken K Leroy H Huhn II Gale M Headley II 97 Dodgeville Ernest W Ruppert K 102 Walworth Donald P Kemmett II Harold M Grabow K Irwin J Bruhn II Albert Hinzpeter II Richard H Burton K 108 Clear Lake Howard A Johnson II 110 New Lisbon Erling Dahl II 111 Somerset Charles Geldon K 118 Thorp Joe Pow II 120 West Allis Wayne D Hendricks K 123 Owen Wayne L Roohr K 134 Boscobel Richard B Hof II 136 Niagara William Gronert K 141 New Glarus Eugene F Stuessy II 142 Blanchardville Edw Johnson K 146 Beaver Dam Harold Reif II 149 Sheboygan Falls Gerald Willadsen II 154 Mondovi Donald E Brenn K 163 Wautoma Robert E Schneider K 164 Jefferson Irl R Shannon II Arthur Skibbe II 170 Mineral Point Bruno Cenite Sr K John J Carey II 175 Loyal Kenneth E Tieman K 179 Chetek Kenneth Pfaff K 180 Milwaukee Charles T Eickhoff II John W Stollenwerk V 182 Park Falls William Berg II Thomas O Lokken V Donald L Weimer K 183 Genoa City John Vanslochteren 189 Watertown Richard A Johns V Roger L Wilkes II Albert Sterwalt K 193 Batavia/Beechwood Lester T Benzschawel K

07/13/13 06/24/13 07/04/05 06/07/13 06/26/13 07/01/13 07/23/13 07/21/13 06/30/13 06/29/13 02/15/13 07/27/13 07/07/13 06/29/13 01/13/13 07/27/13 07/30/13 07/30/13 06/14/13 07/11/13 06/06/13 04/15/13 07/16/13 06/29/13 07/29/13 07/17/13

200 Black River Falls John H Noble 204 Ellsworth Ronald E Miller 205 Janesville Billy L Wilson 207 Elmwood William G Kasten 208 Rio Lester Martinson 210 Waupun Ted Huizenga Robert K Johnson 218 Hayward Richard W Doll Robert S Larsen 224 Alma Duaine A Carothers Daniel F Maier 237 Footville Leonard Surprise Kenneth Goplin Darrell Reeder 238 Greenwood Rudy Slemec Adelbert Bravener Earl Richardson 239 Tigerton Robert D Wilke Ronald Kauffmann 243 Plymouth Donald Kretsch 250 Adams Harold F Miller 258 Little Chute Mark Peeters 263 New London Franklin L Voss 268 Bruce Walter Weinert

06/29/13

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04/09/13

K K

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V V

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V V K

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II II II

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V V

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07/16/13

Robert D Kolek K Robert E Woodmansee II 288 Cedarburg Edward A Rappold II 295 Bloomer Robert D Gehring II 299 Hales Corners Neil C Booker II 304 Palmyra Raymond Wallin II 305 Johnson Creek Wallace A Schuenke II 312 Peshtigo Manfred Eisenheim V 317 Wautoma Kermit W Brey K 318 Lake Tomahawk Glenn Bean K Naaman C Bechtolt K 332 Black Creek Eugene D Stammer K 333 Sun Prairie Joe Conrad II Helen Dye II 338 Cedar Grove Lloyd Schreurs K Donald Veenendaal II Ernest Dietrich II 340 Berlin John J Burns V 358 Unity Charles S Podbelsek K 371 Saxon Curtis Belanger II 372 Forestville Roger Miller II 375 Mukwonago Raymond E Pannemann II 382 Menomonee Falls Walter Gross II Marvin Schneider II

AUGUST 15, 2013 07/11/13 385 Verona 07/10/13 John Newell 386 Cascade 07/30/13 Arnold Pick 406 Milwaukee 07/09/13 Clarence E Plato Sr 410 Fredonia 05/20/13 Howard Himstedt 413 Crivitz 07/01/13 Francis H Duquaine 415 Milwaukee 07/11/13 Vaughn E Schneider Melvin L Wingert 07/02/13 432 Hammond Edw L Riley 03/21/13 435 Superior Robert G Downs 04/24/13 437 Mazomanie 07/23/13 John M Schultz 463 Cobb 07/27/13 Roger L Fingerson 469 Marathon 06/22/13 Wilmer C Braunel 06/06/13 473 Potosi Ben Schmitz 04/20/13 Frank Trofimchuck 04/27/13 486 Jackson 01/14/13 Richard R Steldt 508 Wilton 07/04/05 Wendell D Barnes Ervin J Jacobson 06/18/13 519 Stetsonville Jerome J Cypher 05/03/13 534 McFarland Glenn Anderson 07/01/13 James Newlun 538 Carlton 06/19/13 Charles J Haws 555 Sheboygan 07/23/13 R. A. Ravenscraft 07/26/13

07/31/13

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II II

07/07/13 07/16/13

07/14/13

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06/27/13

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V K

12/25/12 04/26/13

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K V

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06/20/13

V V

12/28/12 11/28/12

06/11/13

08/17/12

06/14/13 07/25/13 07/17/13

Who Will Help You?

03/12/13 06/10/13 07/18/13

Today’s travel can involve unexpected financial risks. But you’re GUARANTEED help in case there’s a medical emergency away from home.

06/16/13 07/10/13 05/15/13 07/19/13 06/05/13 05/10/13 06/30/13 10/02/12 06/08/13

The Legionnaire Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) Program offers you and your family security you need while traveling. EA+ delivers high-value benefits to protect you such as: ☞ Emergency Medical Assistance ☞ Medical Evacuation & Transportation Home ☞ Travel Assistance For You & Your Companion

04/19/13 07/19/13 07/10/13

From Your American Legion Department

07/03/13 07/11/13 04/25/13 05/18/13 07/05/13 07/02/13 06/12/13

To learn more about the benefits and services provided to you by Your American Legion Department, visit us online today at www.theLIT.com/EAP or call 1-888-310-1547. This information is only an overview of the plan’s features. Terms & Conditions apply.

07/23/13

32109

AUGUST 15, 2013

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THOUSAND $ Commander Rynes is announcing an exciting new Membership Recruiting incentive. Simply sign up a new American Legion member and become eligible to win $1,000.00. Sign up a new member, or renew any former member who has not paid dues since the 2011 Membership year, and your name will be entered in a drawing to be held at the 2014 Midwinter

Conference at the Ho-Chunk Casino, Hotel and Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells. There is no limit to the number of times you can enter. For any new member, or any member who has been expired for at least two years, you’ll have a chance to win 1,000.00! Contact Chris Schmidt at (608) 745-1090 or e-mail her at chris@wilegion.org for details.

SWEEPSTAKES WINNERS! $20,000 GRAND PRIZE Tom Strey, Oconomowoc

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PAGE 7

Why You Should Belong Membership Brochure A new “Why You Should Belong” membership recruiting brochure has been developed and is available. The brochure is customized to the Department of Wisconsin. It’s designed to help explain the programs of The American Legion and can help the organization grow. There is a tearoff membership application in the back of the brochure for easy use. To get copies of the new “Why you Should Belong” brochure contact headquarters at (608) 745-1090 or info@wilegion.org. Thanks to the new Wisconsin “Why You Should Belong” brochure, Phil Rausch of Tomahawk Post No. 93 was able to explain The American Legion and its mission to our newest member. Thank you, Phil. Phil said the new pamphlet made explaining the Legion easy.

! NEW The American Legion

WHY YOU SHOULD BELONG

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

Phil Rausch of Tomahawk recruited National Guard SGT Nicole Straveler for the Bronsted-Searl Post No. 93 using the new “Why You Should Belong” brochure.

The officers and members of Bronsted-Searl Post No. 93 in Tomahawk welcome their newest member Nicole Lynn Straveler. Nicole is a member of the 829th Engineer Battalion of Chippewa Falls. She has recently returned

from a deployment in Afghanistan and worked on the new Main Boat Landing project at Camp American Legion. “Welcome Home and welcome to The American Legion, Nicole.” We are proud to have you as a member.

New Boat Landing at Camp American Legion Using gravel, stone, concrete and wood a new main boat landing and strong collaborative relationship was built between Camp American Legion and units of the Wisconsin National Guard. This upgrade will greatly improve the operation and safety to our boating activities. Following an approval process that took almost two years, the project finally was completed and dedicated on July 25th with an open house attended by Wisconsin National Guard leadership including Brigadier General Mark Anderson, Brigadier General Ken Koon, WIANG Acting Chief of Staff and Department Commander Kenneth J. Rynes. CW2 Nick Grob, of the 829th Engineer Co. was the OIC on the project. He had this to say: “This project was very meaningful in many ways. It gave us a chance to not only use our MOS(military occupational skill) skills in a realworld environment, and also to expand on those skills. Some of the NCOs that were on the project also got an opportunity to step into more of a leadership role, such as

CW2 Nick Grob of the Wisconsin National Guard addresses the soldiers and guests who attended the new Main Boat Landing dedication ceremony.

being in charge of certain sections of the project. This vast training opportunity also allowed Soldiers from each of our 3 armory locations the chance to work with each other. That doesn’t happen very much. All this will help the unit prepare for the upcoming deployment to Afghanistan. Hopefully this opens the door for the Guard to continue to help out the Camp American Legion with any future

projects. This was important to us, because the veterans that came before us helped pave the way for us, and what we do today as Soldiers.” The project provided Guard members with a good, challenging, real-world training experience and allowed the Legion to show what a great facility Camp is, and the many ways our “Help to Heal” mission can serve the Guard’s soldiers and families.