August 2016 pages 1 7

Page 1

Badger

“For God & Country”

&“Wisconsin”

aire

August 4, 2016 Vol. 93, No. 7

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.

Rev. Daniel J. Seehafer Elected Department Commander Navy Veteran Takes Reins at 98th Annual Department Convention

The annual Department convention started off on a high note and rolled to an exciting conclusion with the installation of Reverend Daniel J. Seehafer as the Department Commander for 2016-17. Newly installed Commander Seehafer is a 20-year Paid-up for Life member of Post No. 157 in Horicon and served in the U. S. Navy. He is a graduate of The American Legion College and previously served as the National American Legion Chaplain, the 2nd District Commander and as a Department Vice Commander. Elected to serve as Vice Commanders under Seehafer were Tom Strey of Oconomowoc, Frank Kostka of Ashland, Ensley Brown of Milwaukee and Laurel Clewell of Appleton. The Convention kicked off at 9:00AM on Friday, July 15th with the National Anthem performed by Josie Picard, a 9 year old

from Brodhead, Wisconsin. Ms. Picard’s rendition of the Anthem was delivered with poise and dignity worthy of the event. City of Middleton Administrator Mike Davis and Police Chief Charles Foulke brought greetings to the delegates. This was followed by a presentation made to members of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139 in recognition of their efforts in constructing Gary G. Wetzel Way, the new nature trail at Camp American Legion. Their trainers and apprentices, all military veterans, were honored for their contributions. DAV Commander John Polk and VFW Commander Mike Eggleston both addressed the convention and former US Senator Russ Feingold also spoke. Michael Telzrow, a member of Waunakee Post No. 360 and Director of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum in Madison updated the

Past Department Commander Dale Oatman presents Local 139 Business Manager Terry McGowan with a plaque in recognition of the International Union of Operating Engineers efforts to construct the Gary G. Wetzel Way nature trail at Camp American Legion.

delegates on developments at the museum. He received the 2016 Martha Marlow Historian Award from the Wisconsin American Legion Historians Association. 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. Saturday, July 16th, the second day of sessions, began with National Commander Dale Barnett’s “Walk for Veterans” awareness walk. Commander Barnett addressed the delegates and was followed by National Vice Commander David L. Gough of Darlington, Wisconsin. Vice Commander Gough related some of the high-lights of his travels during the past year. A custom video greeting to the Legionnaires from Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker was shown. Governor Walker was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict involving the National Conference of Governors but wanted to convey personal greetings and express his appreciation for the service and programs that Legionnaires provide to veterans, their families and communities across the Badger State. US Senator Ron Johnson appeared to deliver remarks and fielded questions from the audience. The closing session on Sunday featured a presentation by National Sons of The American Legion Vice Commander Dennis (continued on Page 3)

Badger Boys State Celebrates 75 Years

By Chad Plenge From June 11th through the 18th the Wisconsin American Legion Badger Boys State program conducted its 75th session in Ripon, Wisconsin. Badger Boys State has influenced over 67,000 young men during the last 75 sessions. The Department of Wisconsin authorized the creation of the program in 1939 after recognizing the great opportunity to serve the youth and spread the ideals of Americanism. The pilot program was conducted that year under the direction of Val Ove, a WWI veteran and member of the Alonzo Cudworth Post No. 23 of Milwaukee. Badger Boys State has been held every year since then with the exception of three years during World War II. American Legion posts from across the state have supported this ambitious program, providing leadership, financial support and volunteers who help make Badger Boys State a top-notch program. In honor of the program’s commitment to serving the youth of Wisconsin, Governor Scott Walker signed an official proclamation declaring June 11-18, 2016 as “Badger Boys State 75th Anniversary Week.”

The young men selected to attend Badger Boys State, called citizens, represent the best of their communities. The program is only possible because of the generous donations from American Legion posts, community civic organizations, and individuals who sponsor each citizen. This year, 878 young men came from all corners of Wisconsin to form the government of a “51st state.” During the week, citizens also learn about Americanism, leadership, and the values of selfless service. Guest speakers, including Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley and Charles Wiley from the National Press Corps, provide real world experience to the citizens. Badger Boys State was also honored to host American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett of Georgia during the session. The fast-paced week is rewarding for both the citizens and the volunteer staff. Many in attendance describe the program as “one of the most challenging, rewarding, and fun experiences of my life.” To learn more about Badger Boys State visit http://www.badgerboysstate.com.

2017 Membership Goal: 56,739 • July 28th Total: 11,855 – 20.89% District

9

23.92% 1st PLACE

District

6

23.05% 2nd PLACE

District

1

22.82% 3rd PLACE

District

3

District

8

21.50%

19.42%

4th PLACE

5th PLACE

District

5

19.36% 6th PLACE

District

7

District

11

18.94%

18.91%

7th PLACE

8th PLACE

District

2

18.02% 9th PLACE

District

4

17.94%

District

12

17.94%

District

10

14.80%

10th PLACE 11th PLACE 12th PLACE


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