Badger
“For God & Country”
&“Wisconsin”
aire
September 25, 2014 Vol. 91, No. 8
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.
Excitement Building for Midwinter 2015
2015 Membership Goal al
59,600 59
New Membership Incentives Announced! The 2015 Midwinter Conference will be held at the Ho-Chunk Hotel, Casino and Convention Center in the Wisconsin Dells January 15th – 18th. There’s something for everyone at this year’s Conference. The 2015 Midwinter will feature new training and exhibits along with special guests. The Americanism Programs Resource Center will help you learn how to promote traditional American values in your community through the programs of The American Legion. National American Legion staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide details on how you and your post can become involved. In addition the Midwinter Conference will also feature several exciting training sessions for Legionnaires at all levels of the organization. Briefings will include Care and Maintenance of the M1-
Garand rifle along with Funeral Honors training, membership recruiting and retention tips, sessions on the various Americanism programs and Veterans Benefits. This schedule is subject to change depending on demand. GET ONE BOUNTY DRAWING EXPANDED Legion members who sign up a new member, or renew any former member who has not paid for 2 years (since 2012) can qualify to win a First prize of $1,000 or a Second prize of $500 at the Conference. Simply sign up a new member, or renew any former member and enter your name. The drawing
will take place on Saturday, January 17th at the Ho-Chunk Hotel, Casino and Convention Center in the Wisconsin Dells. There is no limit to the number of times an individual can qualify – recruiters get one chance for every new member they recruit. Mark your calendars and save the dates of January 15 through 18, 2015. Bring your family and enjoy the indoor water parks, attractions and many activities offered in the Wisconsin Dells. Register and reserve your hotel room online at www.wilegion.org beginning October 10th and watch for more details in the next edition of the Badger Legionnaire.
68.43% District 12 1st PLACE
66.84% District 9 2nd PLACE
64.28% District 6 4th PLACE
64.26% District 10 5th PLACE
61.46% District 11 7th PLACE
61.38% District 1 8th PLACE
60.08% District 7 10th PLACE
58.44% District 4 11th PLACE
65.00% District 3 3rd PLACE
63.18% District 2 6th PLACE
61.36% District 8 9th PLACE
55.61% District 5 12th PLACE
September 17th Total: 38,830 65.00%
Past Commanders Club of Wisconsin Attention All Past Commanders IMPORTANT NOTICE Hawaiian Vacation!
$110,0000 $10,000 $20,000 20 20 Vehicle Allowance NEW 2015 VEHICLE OR CASH! from Boucher!
55” BIG Screen TV! New Hunting Rifle!
Check Your Mailbox! Your 2015 Midwinter Sweepstakes tickets are in the mail! Watch for them to arrive soon. The Grand Prize is your choice of $20,000 cash OR a new vehicle*. Second Prize is a $10,000.00 allowance toward any vehicle in the Boucher Automotive Group inventory*. Third Prize is $5,000.00 cash or a Hawaiian Vacation thru
Luxe Travel of Milwaukee*. Fourth Prize is $2,500.00 cash or a Hunting Rifle and equipment from Gander Mountain*. Fifth Prize is $1,000.00 or a Big Screen TV.* Get in on the excitement! The drawing is set to take place at 7PM on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at the Midwinter Conference which will be held
at the Ho-Chunk Hotel, Casino & Convention Center, S3214 County Road BD, Baraboo, WI. Plan on attending the Midwinter Conference and be part of the excitement. *All prizes subject to Federal Tax withholding requirements. See Official Rules at; www.wilegion.org
The annual meeting and dinner of the Past Commanders Club will be held on Saturday, November 1st, 2014 at the Amherst I. Hansen St. Croix Falls Post No. 143, located at 807 Pine Street in St. Croix Falls. The meeting will take place at 3:00PM and the dinner will follow at 5:00PM. Spouses and/or guests are also welcome. The meal will consist of chicken and roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, choice of two vegetables, salad with three dressings, rolls, dessert, coffee and milk. Please send your check for $16.00 per person payable to
the Past Commanders Club to Claire Goodfellow, 4th District Commander – 3916 N 30th St, Milwaukee, WI 53216 by October 25, 2014. There are two hotels less than a mile from the post: The Dallas House, $70.00 per night, (715) 483-3206 and Holiday Inn, $95.00 per night, (715) 483-5775. When making reservations, mention the PAST COMMANDERS CLUB to receive a special room rate. Questions should be directed to Claire Goodfellow (414) 447-5161, Ray Pasbrig (262) 853-4929, or Jim Chapin (715) 483-9386.
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 2014-2015 Communications Committee Kendel D. Feilen, Chairman Jeremy Nordie, Vice Chairman Ensley Brown, DEC Liaison Bernard Olson Phil Ingwell Harold Rihn Tony Tyczynski Cecil Groves, Historian Loretta Shellman, Auxiliary Liaison Bonnie Dorniak, Auxiliary Liaison 2014-15 Department Officers Commander Robert Shappell Vice Commanders Dale Oatman Rich Ruland John Thurk Dave Brisk Adjutant David A. Kurtz Sergeant-at Arms Charles Roessler Dave Wischer Service Officer James Fialkowski NECman David L. Gough Alternate NECman Steve Krueger District Commanders 1st – Tom Strey 2nd – Dan Seehafer 3rd – Mary Lloyd 4th – Claire Goodfellow 5th – Ensley Brown 6th – Jeff Puddy 7th – Mark Lesko 8th – Jerome Krofta 9th – Bob Lemke 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 Teresa Isensee, 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
SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
DEPARTMENT COMMANDER Hero. It’s a word often used, but rarely defined. This excerpt from The 1st Cavalry Division in World War II by Major Bob Shappell B.C Wright disDepartment Commander cusses one small incident during the Luzon campaign in the Philippines. “When the 7th Cavalry approached the hairpin turn in the vicinity of the Kapatalan Sawmill, progress was halted by an enemy stronghold of about 300 Japanese soldiers. After several days, when a patrol ran into an enemy holdout, one trooper was wounded and the others were forced to seek cover behind a rice paddy dike. Rather than take it lying down, three members of the patrol decided to take offensive action and save themselves and their comrades. A Sergeant and two Privates sprang from their cover and charged the enemy who were advancing under the shelter of a river bank. With grenades and rifle fire, they killed five Japanese and drove the rest away. Their wounded com-
rade was saved and the three men won Silver Stars.” The Sergeant answered the call to serve in World War II. He survived the war and returned home. Was he a hero? He certainly didn’t think so. He married, worked a full-time job as well as farming a 100-acre farm, and raised two children. His Silver Star, stored in the top drawer of his dresser, was never displayed -- nor were his cavalry saber or Japanese samurai sword, symbols of a time best forgotten. His small son, curious about his father’s wartime experiences, would sneak into his parents’ bedroom to peek at the Silver Star so carefully stowed in the dresser drawer. He knew it was an important award, but didn’t really relate it to “being a hero.” Surely the heroes of the world were the soldiers he saw on television and in the movies, winning wars single-handedly and killing scores of enemy soldiers. The Sergeant’s daughter and son both left home to serve in the military, finally allowing their parents to do all the things they had always wanted to do – travel and spend the
rest of their lives together enjoying the freedom he had fought for in the Pacific. The Sergeant’s plans, however, changed when his bride of over 40 years was stricken with an all too rapid onslaught of Alzheimer’s disease. Determined to take care of his dear wife, he set up their home, the farm they had lived on since their wedding, as a place of solace and serenity for her. His days were spent doing those things he had rarely done before – cooking, cleaning, laundry, and feeding and caring for his bride. The son returned home for a visit and saw how his father had undertaken the responsibilities for caring for his mother. The vision of his father dedicating all his energy and time to the woman he loved taught the son a vital lesson. He now knew what a hero truly was. Yes, it was at that moment that I truly knew what a hero my father was. He taught me that it is not medals or deeds of bravery that make heroes. Rather, it’s what is inside someone that makes them a hero. It’s the unselfish and unhesitating decision to do the right thing, put-
ting the welfare of others ahead of themselves. That decision may be charging the enemy in battle to save your comrades, sacrificing some pleasures and personal time to raise good, responsible children, or selflessly spending your days caring for your spouse and filling her final days on earth with comfort and love. On Christmas Eve 2007 my father, for the first time ever, spoke in detail of his combat experiences in WWII. He spoke for several hours, as I sat in awe listening to his every word. One month later he suffered a second stroke and heart attack. I was never able to have another conversation with him. To this day I wonder if he knew what was in store for him, and decided that it was finally time to release the demons and haunting memories of a long ago war. He died in February 2009. Rather than speak at his funeral, this article (first written in 2006 for my post newsletter) was read as his eulogy. It was the only way I could say goodbye to a real hero. We all have heroes. Talk to them, love them, and cherish every minute you have together.
CAMP DIRECTOR The United States has been at war longer than any time in our history, and while thousands have been wounded Kevin Moshea in this longCamp Director running conflict, advances in battlefield medicine mean many of our troops survive catastrophic wounds. However, the nature of many of these wounds means that some will require long term care and support. Camp American Legion recognizes this fact and is reaching out to military caregivers who need support and healing. This summer Camp held our first “Caregiver Respite Retreat”. Consider that of the 1.1 million caregivers caring for Post 9/11 veterans, many are younger women with dependent age children. Many are raising children and holding jobs outside the home. They tend to
put their own concerns behind those of the individual they are caring for. And along with typical caregiver responsibilities, military caregivers also act as case managers navigating multiple health systems and have to advocate for new treatments. All the while meeting the financial and legal responsibilities of their patient and themselves. Studies indicate that caregivers in general suffer from physical stain and over all worse health. Military caregivers need our support and help and there are literally hundreds of Wisconsin military caregivers out there, giving of themselves every hour of every day. It is hard, physical and mentally draining work and these special care givers need a helping hand and rest. With our initial Caregiver Respite Retreat, Camp has strategically expanded our healing mission and vision. Here are two letters from caregivers who attended;
“Dear Camp American Legion, I just wanted to thank you for inviting the Caregivers to the Camp American Legion Respite Retreat. I am a mother and Family Caregiver for my son, a Veteran. I had such a wonderful time. It was the “best part of my summer.” The camp was so beautiful and relaxing. I was able to meet such nice people, and have been able to stay in contact with the other caregivers I met. I felt like everyone helped and understood one another. I was also able to take care of myself, enjoy the time, and focus on my needs. It was such an amazing opportunity and I am so happy that I attended. Thanks again! “ “The Director of the VA Caregiver Support Program in Milwaukee had sent me an application to attend a Respite at Camp American Legion. I filled out the application and sent it to them. I was very surprised to hear that I was accepted. I called Kevin, the camp director and explained
the drive was very long when you drive by yourself. I asked if they had someone that I could ride with. About a week went by and Kevin called and happily said that he had found a rider for me. I made arrangements with the rider, Margret. Margret met me in Fond du Lac. We moved all her belongings to my car. We got to Camp American Legion, everyone opened their hearts to us. Awesome welcome to the Camp. All the camp workers treated us like we were royalty, waiting on us hand and foot. The respite came at a great time, the break that I need. I can’t wait until next year. While I was up at Camp I made many friends that I still stay in contact with, priceless.” These personal testimonials and the smiles on the camper’s faces answer any questions we may have had about holding a Caregiver Respite Retreat. This is just another way that we work to provide service to veterans, their families and our communities.
WDVA SECRETARY America has made a commitment to those in uniform in the Armed Forces that no one is left behind. John A. Scocos WDVA Secretary POW-MIA Recognition Day on September 19 each year is a way to keep that in mind and honor the service and sacrifice of those U.S. servicemembers who were taken as prisoners of war or went missing during combat operations. More than 83,000 Americans are missing from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, the Vietnam War and the 1991 Gulf War, according to the Department
of Defense Prisoner of War and Missing Personnel Office, which has a singular mission of finding and returning lost servicemembers. An example of the commitment America makes to those in uniform is Army Sgt. Lee H. Manning who served in the 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean war and was lost Dec. 1, 1950, in North Korea. He was accounted for Aug. 26, 2014. Despite the span of more than six decades, Sgt. Manning will be paid the respect he deserves and buried with full military honors. Other U.S. troops were not missing, but captured by enemy forces and held as prisoners of war. My own father was held prisoner of war after having been shot down
as an air crew member over Nazi Germany during World War II. Many other Wisconsinites, many our friends and neighbors, are former POWs. Darrel Krenz, a native of McFarland, served as an infantryman in the Army in the Korean war and was captured at Taejon in 1950. Until 1953 he was a captive of the brutal North Korean regime. Krenz generously related his story to the Wisconsin Veterans Museum as an oral history in 2005. In his account of what happened to him as a prisoner of war, he details the horrors he endured as a captive and the extreme joy he felt when released after spending 37 months as a POW.
Another former POW, of the Vietnam war, is Col. Don Heiliger, who was shot down during his 44th combat mission in 1967 and spent nearly six years as prisoner of war in North Vietnam. Heiliger, who now lives in Stoughton, flew F105s over Vietnam. Our veterans, especially those like Krenz and Heiliger, are deserving of our respect and recognition of their extreme sacrifice. Days like POW-MIA Recognition Day are a perfect way to remember their sacrifices and remember that many others have not yet come home. Although they may be gone, they are not forgotten, and as long as they are out there, we will work to find them.
SEPTEMBER 25, 2104
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
PAGE 3
Post 9/11 Veterans Week Held at Camp American Legion Post 9/11 Week at Camp is now in its third year and has grown to completely fill the facility. These veterans and their families show that our “help to heal” mission is young and fun. The highlight of this week was having the National Amputee Softball Team here. It was inspiring for all of us, and especially our Iraq/Afghanistan veterans, to interact with these special soldiers. The physical abilities and inspiring personalities of these softball players was special to experience. They engage life with a passion and don’t let their physical disabilities hold them back or dampen their spirits. Being around them was uplifting. The team stayed at Camp and spent some quality personal time with our campers.
On Friday night, they played a big game in Lake Tomahawk and it was the “event” of the whole summer. Our campers were there in reserve seating to take it all in and it was a night to remember. It was a once-in-a-life-time Camp experience. The players indicated that Camp American Legion and the little town of Lake Tomahawk was the best place they had ever been to, despite having toured major cities all across the country! Today we hear a lot about the psychological wounds and the mental trauma of war. We regularly hear about Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), Traumatic Brain/ Blast Injuries (TBI) and Combat Operational Stress. An October 2013 Journalist’s Resource research study states that “As a result of battle injuries in the Iraq War, 991 service members re-
ceived wounds that required amputations; 797 lost a major limb, such as a leg. In Afghanistan, 724 have had to undergo amputation, with 696 losing a major limb”. We know today there are even more. Having the National Amputee Softball Team at Camp helped us all focus on amputee veterans. An amputation is a very visible physical wound. We all have limbs which we use in continuous motion, so for the most part we take them for granted. Think how our lives would be changed if we lost a limb. Post 9/11 Veterans Week at Camp was a celebration of perseverance, determination and courage! The Wisconsin American Legion Family can feel good about our role in supporting it. Kevin Moshea, Camp Director
Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort and Healing to Camp Camp American Legion has teamed up with Therapy Dogs International and their qualified dogs and handlers who attend Camp two days a week. It is a fun program that Camp has now been involved in for two years. The primary objective of the therapy dog and handler is to provide comfort and companionship by sharing the dog with patients. In our case our campers and their families. Regular visits of therapy dogs provide stimulation for conversation and interaction. Therapy dogs can encourage interest in physical and emotional therapy. It has been clinically proven that through petting, touching, and talking to animals, a patient’s overall health is improved. Their blood pressure is lowered, stress is relieved and
depression is eased. This is done in a way that increases emotional well-being and promotes healing. Therapy Dogs International is a volunteer group organized to provide qualified handlers and
Veterans of Operation New Dawn, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom pose with their families in front of the main lodge during Post 9/11 Veterans Week at Camp American Legion.
Commander Visits Camp
dogs for visits to institutions, facilities and in our case - Camp American Legion. The dogs come in all shapes and sizes, real dogs with real personalities and real love to share.
Department Commander Bob Shappell visited Camp on Saturday, September 13th and met with members of the 128th Aerial Refueling Wing of the WI National Guard who are renovating one of the cabins as part of Innovative Readiness Training.
Therapy dog Sam with handler Kathy enjoy time at Camp American Legion with two campers from the Milwaukee VA Spinal Cord Group.
American Legion State Golf Scramble
A tradition continues as golfers from the Wisconsin American Legion Family made their way up to the vibrant northern Wisconsin community of Cable. As a result another successful Legion Golf Scramble is in the history books. American Legion Post No. 487 hosted this year’s event held on beautiful Telemark Golf Course. Golfers who had arrived on Friday were treated to a very good American Legion Fish Fry at Post No. 487. Attendees were welcomed by Commander Doug Hescher and Dewey, George, Barry and Gary of the Post golf committee Golfers were joined on Saturday
by thousands of “Fat Tire Bicycle” off-road bicyclists and fans who came to the area for the annual bicycle race. Although the trees were not in full color the golfers, bikers, and fans made up for what nature lacked. Many of the Legion’s legendary golfers such as Erv “Eagles” VanDyke, Chuck “Big Putter” Cooney, and Ralph “Long Ball” Schulenberg participated in the event. Neillsville wrestled the winning trophy from the Cable Team but they promised to be back next year, and with an eraser. There was the usual talk about bringing in “ringers” and “big stickers” but overall
the competition was very close. The “after glow” on the 19th hole brought out some good old Legion camaraderie and stories of scrambles past. If you missed it don’t make that mistake again, because we missed you. Book the 2015 event at Crystal Springs in Seymour early. Spend your winter nights dreaming about what next year’s event will bring. It’s all about tradition, renewing old friendships and welcoming the new generation of golfers who will be the Erv’s, Chuck’s and Ralph’s of future events. - PNVC Russ Hanseter
Commander Shappell had an opportunity to greet some of the Legion Riders who took part in the annual Fall Ride to Camp.
Riders Support 5th Annual Fall Ride to Camp On September 13th approximately 60 American Legion Riders rode to Camp to deliver their donations for the 5th annual Fall Ride. Commander Bob Shappell was there to greet the wet and cold riders who braved the worst that the north woods can put out for motorcyclists.
The Riders’ enthusiasm to support Camp was not diminished by the weather and a record donation of $13,950.00 was collected. Also participating this year were the Souls of Honor, another motorcycle group dedicated to helping veterans, who presented a check for $1,000.00.
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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
LEGION HONORS 70 YEAR MEMBERS
Post No. 300 in Gillett held their annual membership dinner on September 16th and honored Legionnaire Frank Meunier for his 70 continuous years of membership. Frank is a World War II veteran and joined the Legion while he was home on leave from boot camp. Pictured from left to right are Post Adjutant Jerry Druckrey, Commander Dave Willson and Frank Meunier
Flag Disposal Boxes Dedicated in Oconto Sergeant Dave Cross served his country in the US Marine Corps from June of 1966 to June of 1970 as Crew Chief on 46D and CH340 helicopters in Vietnam. In addition to other numerous awards, David received three Purple Hearts, a Silver Star, and an Air Medal with oak leaf clusters. He also served as the Commander of Post No. 74 in Oconto from June of 2013 until March of 2014 when he passed away. As Post Commander, David initiated a project to bring Post No. 74 together with other veterans service organizations in the local community to create Flag Disposal Boxes for the general public. While David did not live to see the project come to comple-
George Drivas, a WWII Navy veteran and member of Post No. 161 at King was recently presented with a certificate for 70 years of continuous membership by Post Commander Will Pope.
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tion this past August, the boxes were placed at Thompson’s Country Market and Oconto City Hall for the public to dispose of
their tattered flags. Once received, all flags are retired in a respectful ceremony.
Unit No. 74 Auxiliary President Sue Cross, Dave Cross’s widow.
Police Post Honors “Merrill’s Marauders”
The Milwaukee Police Post No. 415 Honor Guard had the pleasure of posting the colors
Fred Zimmel (center) is the last living Charter Member of the Fohl-Martin Post No. 483 in Allenton of the 2nd District. Post Commander Tony Montag (left) & Post Adjutant Fritz Montag (right) presented Fred with a 70 Continuous Year Membership certificate after the Annual Legion/ Auxiliary – Firemen’s Parade and Picnic on Sunday August 17th. The Annual Parade was dedicated to Fred and he rode in an antique fire engine for the parade.
SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
at the recent reunion of “Merrill’s Marauders” in Milwaukee. Governor Scott Walker was the key-
note speaker and is shown here with members of the Honor Guard. Merrill’s Marauders, named after Frank Merrill, was a US Army long range special operations unit that specialized in jungle warfare during WWII. The unit fought in the China-Burma-India Theater and became famous for its deeppenetration missions behind Japanese lines, often engaging Japanese forces superior in number
Post No. 18 Teams with Local Boy Scouts On June 14, 2014, American Legion Post No. 18 and Boy Scouts of America Troop
No. 11 participated in their 12th Annual Flag Retirement Ceremony. Members of the Post
and Troop are (left to right): Post Commander Leslie Morgan; Eagle Scout and SAL member Dylan Antczak; Designated Scouting Representative Jeff Schuld; Logan Rich; SAL member Nathan Antczak; SAL member Ean Antczak; Scout Master and SAL member Ryan Antczak; Assistant Scout Master and Legionnaire Jim Miller; Jordan Best; Eagle Scout and SAL member Mark Miller; Alonzo Perez; and SAL Squadron Commander Wayne Pratis.
Blue Star Banners Presented Post No. 45 in Elkhorn is looking for military families to present them with Blue Star service banners. The banner is a symbol for families who have a loved one in the armed forces. The tradition includes the Gold Star banner, for families who have a loved one who died in service. Elkhorn Post 45 has distributed Blue Star
banners for years, but as more households move away from landline phones, Commander Bill Sigmund says service member families are more difficult to contact. Sigmund encourages community members who have children in the service or know of someone who does to contact their local post for a banner.
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
PAGE 5
Candidates for Wisconsin Governor Election Speak to Legionnaires tees of the Board of Veterans Affairs Wisconsin has a long, proud tradiwere abolished. Most alarmingly, other tion of honoring its men and women legislation has reduced protections for who serve in the military—as well veterans as it relates to as their families. For pay discrimination and many years, the benasbestos exposure. efits we provided to As Governor, I will those who served and stand up for veterans. the grassroots particiI will do everything pation of veterans in in my power to enthe provision of those sure that our veterans benefits were models are getting all the asfor other states. Sadly, sistance they need in that is no longer the gaining a quality educase. cation and meaningful, The veterans’ comfamily-supporting emmunity embodies the ployment. I will look very best of who we MARY BURKE (D) for ways to enable the are and what we stand admission of veterans for in Wisconsin. Evof the Wisconsin National Guard at our ery man and woman who has served veterans’ homes. I will restore grassin uniform is a vital asset to the furoots participation in the governance ture of this state. To honor your serof veterans programs by recreating the vice, we must commit ourselves to CVSO Advisory Council. And I will managing veterans’ programs in fiswork to repeal legislation that reduccally responsible but creative ways es vital legal protections for veterans. that ensure we are not forced to reWisconsin’s veterans and their families duce benefits. And we must commit deserve no less. to taking full advantage of the spirit I have detailed the plan I’ll use as and insight of the people of WisconGovernor to make certain that our men sin by ensuring grassroots input into and women who have served receive the policies of the Wisconsin Departwhat they are due, which is available in ment of Veterans Affairs. full at www.BurkeForWisconsin.com/ In recent years, we have moved Vets/. I know how important our vetbackwards when it comes to those erans are to Wisconsin’s past, and I’m commitments. Grassroots input has committed to honoring their commitdiminished after the County Vetment to serve and protect by ensuring erans Service Officers Advisory they have a strong place in its future. Council and the advisory commit-
EDITOR’S NOTE: Election Day is Tuesday, November 4th and four candidates are running for governor; Mary Burke (D) Robert Burke (Libertarian) Dennis Fehr (People’s Party) Scott Walker (R ) incumbent In the interest of the Wisconsin Legion Family, each candidate that will appear on the 2014 Wisconsin gubernatorial ballot was invited to submit their views on issues important to our members and the veteran’s community. The American Legion is nonpartisan when it comes to elections but nonpartisan does not mean nonparticipation. Voting and participating in the election process based on American Legion values is truly American. Legionnaires are encouraged to participate, but do it smartly. Posts are encouraged to hold candidate forums to help educate their members and the general public about the issues we face on the local, state and national levels. When inviting candidates to speak at a forum sponsored by your Post, County
or District, you MUST give equal opportunity to ALL parties. If you’ve invited all parties to speak and one chooses to, while another declines…..you’ve met your responsibility. As an organization, The American Legion can have individual candidates present their political positions to us so that we may personally determine which candidate best suits our needs. But as an organization, we cannot endorse one candidate or party over another. If you attend political rallies you must never wear American Legion apparel. To do so, you are implying that the organization is backing your preferred candidate. This is totally disrespectful to those Legionnaires who may be backing the opposing candidate. In addition, remember that failing to invite all candidates to a Legion election forum or wearing American Legion garb to a political rally or event could be construed as violations of Article II, Section 2 of The American Legion National Constitution, our Congressional Charter and IRS restrictions regarding 501 c (19) Non-profit organizations.
Claire Condon was a World War I vet- level position; putting the secretary on eran who lived down the block from me. par with all other state agency heads. When I was a kid, he got me and the These changes have had positive reother Scouts to put flags on each of the sults. Our state veterans homes went graves in our cemetery from projected defiand he taught us patricits to surpluses. We otic songs in our church added staff at our vetband. He was active in erans homes, built a the post and just about new one in Chippewa every other group in Falls, and will be town. Like so many of building a new facilour veterans today, he ity at King to improve served his country and upon the outstanding then he came home to care our aging veteran serve his community. heroes receive. Over the years, I’ve So more veterans never forgotten Mr. find jobs, we created Condon. Veterans like a grant program for him inspired me to employers who hire SCOTT WALKER (R) public service. In parveterans and disabled ticular, I was drawn to veterans. We changed do more after attending The American state law so military skills are recogLegion’s Badger Boys State and Boys nized for state credentials and waived Nation program. And I was honored to state licensing fees for veterans. We come back and serve on the staff of both also signed an executive order requirover the years. ing state agencies to set goals for hiring The veterans who put on each of those more veterans. programs not only taught me about govTo help our veterans and their families ernment and politics, they modeled pa- heal from their wounds, both seen and triotism and public service. It was these unseen, we invested in Camp Ameriexperiences that still drive me today. can Legion. In addition, we increased It is with great gratitude that I thank investments in our Veterans’ Service the men and women of The American Organizations so they can serve more of Legion for your service to our country our veterans. We also changed state law through our Armed Forces, for your so nonprofit groups can apply for funds commitment to your fellow veteran, for if they are working to assist our veterans your continued service to your commu- and their families. nities and this state - and for your inspiLooking forward I will continue to lisration to me, and now to my sons (both ten to our Veterans’ Service Organizaof whom attended Badger Boys State). tions. With over 60,000 members, The Thank you and God Bless You. American Legion has been an outstandWithout a doubt, these experiences ing partner in our efforts to improve the motivate me to do even more to honor lives of veterans in Wisconsin. our veterans and their families. When I We will codify hiring goals for veterans took office in 2011, changes in state pol- and disabled veterans in state law. As icies that impact our veterans had taken shown in the past, we will fully fund the a hit. Veterans had taken a back seat to Veterans Trust Fund so our veterans get other state lawmaker interests. The Vet- the benefits they have earned. We will erans Trust Fund was raided and faced a protect the Wisconsin GI Bill and work massive deficit. The Wisconsin GI Bill to ensure veterans seeking employment was scaled back to virtual elimination. have the assistance they have earned. What a difference a few years make. Veterans and their families have earned We returned the raid of the Veterans our nation’s admiration and appreciaTrust Fund and made the largest in- tion. We have turned things around in vestment the state has made to the fund Wisconsin and our veterans are now since 1972 - more than $10 million. We back in the driver’s seat. It is an honor restored and expanded the Wisconsin to serve you and I plan to continue this GI Bill so our returning servicemen and path if you give me the chance to honor women can get the skills they need to you as your “Veteran’s Governor” for find employment. We promoted the sta- four more years. Thank you and may tus of the Department of Veterans Af- God richly bless our veterans, our state fairs by making the secretary a cabinet and our great country!
Legacy Scholarship Sweepstakes Winners On August 10th, the Legion Riders Legacy Scholarship Fund Sweepstakes was concluded at the Stoughton American Legion Post No. 59. Sweepstakes winners are; 1st prize - $1,000 Margaret Ericson of Minong; 2nd prize - $500 Roger Cudnohufsky of Dunbar; 3rd prize - $250 Frank Bottoni of Portage; 4th prize -
$100 Gil Hucek of Green Bay; 5th prize - $50 Thomas Sullivan of Lake Geneva; 6th prize - $50 Rosemarie Pitz of Oshkosh; 7th prize - $50 SAL Squadron 294 of Hartland $3,758.00 was raised for the Legacy Scholarship Fund from the proceeds of the sweepstakes.
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THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
The Last
Bugle
1 Germantown Alton Davidson II Howard Kannenberg II Gene Arnold K 3 Antigo Robert Ducklow V Wayne LaPage V 10 Wausau Mertz Peterson II Armando DiFonso V Jerome Scheibl K Arvid Schwichtenberg II Frank Mueller K 11 Green Bay Dennis Gwidt V Tom Kolarik Warren DeGroot II Raymond Dominick II William Hoell II 13 Richland Center John Higgins II 19 Hartford Ralph Winebrenner V 21 Kenosha John Arnett II 26 Baraboo Frank Parks II 32 Menomonie Irvin Mattison II 36 West Bend John Berst II 38 Appleton Joseph Spitz II WilliamBrinkman II Remi Wolski V William Nack II Thomas Schmidt K Rayburn Kaufman K 39 Marinette Albert Enderby K 41 Kaukauna Arthur Gandt II 47 Portage Donald Kaiser II Chuck Goranson V 51 West Salem Russell Sprain K 55 Hortonville Gene Gitter K Carl Hanamann K 61 Prescott Adolph Hanken II 63 Clintonville Irvin Monnot K 64 Ladysmith Dean Wegener II 70 Oshkosh Roger Messing K 74 Oconto Glenn Garvey II 77 Chippewa Falls George Brist II Ralph Rubenzer K 79 Burlington Edward Osmolak II 80 New Richmond Richard Newman V 84 Monroe William Hale K 103 Galesville Darryl McBride K 106 Seymour Orlin Bishop K
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111 Somerset Lester Martell II 127 Hilbert Willard Schmitting K 131 Colfax Orville Nysted II 133 Camp Douglas Gerald Berndsen K 141 New Glarus Mark Hagensick V Charles Postler II 143 St Croix Falls Dennis Conway V 146 Beaver Dam Larry Neitzel K James Kaiser II 147 Medford George Illmann K William Scharrschmidt II Ervin Buehler II 148 Bloomington Rick Zenz V 152 Menasha Carl Steffin II 153 Pittsville Charles Kosik K 154 Mondovi Leonard Maier II Jerry Paulson K 160 Brooklyn Raymond Bund II Harvey Powers V 161 King David Eisenhauer V 165 Two Rivers John Schnorr K 167 Sauk City Thomas Hankins G/L 168 Glenwood City Walter Waters II 171 Union Grove Edward Magiera II 180 Milwaukee August Selan K 199 Reedsville Reinhard Grimm K Robert Slager II 200 Black River Falls Sheldon Laffe August Paulson II Robert Radcliffe K 205 Janesville Donald Draeger II 210 Waupun Robert Christensen K 230 DePere Thomas Frawley K 238 Greenwood Edward Gosse II 258 Little Chute Ray Johnson V Gilbert Vosters II Richard Eichinger K Edward Hawley K 262 Luxemburg Donald Horkman K 267 New Auburn Malcolm Robey K 269 Cushing Keith Meyers G/L Walter Short II 282 Markesan Charles Krause II 284 Holmen Terry LaFleur V 288 Cedarburg Joseph Herkert II Peter Jach K 291 Augusta Webster Dettmann II 302 Oconto Falls Robert Micoley K 305 Johnson Creek Sylvester Olszewski II 315 Stoddard Erling Helgeson K 318 Lake Tomahawk Peter Bube K
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333 Sun Prairie William Russell II David McNeill V 341 Birnamwood Leonard Opper II 347 Lomira Jack Curry II Norman Grantman II Kenneth Wiese K 360 Waunakee Richard Voss II Louis Ziegler K 375 Mukwonago Peter Hansen II Robert Dahms K Gerald Van Roosenbeek V 382 Menomonee Falls Robert Koepsel II 391 Fremont Ronald Abbott K 393 Edgar Leonard Bauman II 399 Okauchee Justin Kysely K Michael Gazdik II Helmuth Gastreich II
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SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
406 Milwaukee Jack Weimer V 412 Belgium Ervin Moninger PG Henry Thill K Johathan Sprader PG 415 Milwaukee John Karlovich V 422 Highland Virgil Kosharek K Jacob Schmelzer K 431 Three Lakes Frank Schnabl II 437 Mazomanie Jerry Reindl K 446 Steuben Adrian Jelinek K 449 Brookfield Raymond Lenske II Thomas Nardelli V 469 Marathon Kenneth Ringle V Gerald Witberler V 473 Potosi Robert Vondran II Donald Moberg II
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476 Loomis Don Schroeder II 478 St Cloud David Horn K 500 West Allis John Malczewski II 501 Madison David Holtz V 509 Rosholt Dennis Groshek V 518 Green Bay Thomas Boehm K 519 Stetsonville Glen Wesle II Dan Carstensen II 521 Fox Lake Michael Meredith V 522 Hubertus Jerome Hoffmann II 534 McFarland Linus Odegaard II 538 Carlton Daniel Huber K Orville Haszel II 539 Green Bay Dorothy Heinrich II
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How will you pay for expenses that Medicare doesn’t cover? With the high cost of healthcare today, Medicare Supplement insurance is becoming a necessity for more and more Americans. That’s why it’s good to know that you now have a choice of Standardized Medicare Supplement plans at competitive group rates, offered to members like you. And, all plans are underwritten by a company known for it’s prompt, personal, responsive service. Other features include:
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t The freedom of choosing your own doctors and hospitals t Outstanding Customer Service available from courteous representatives ready to answer your questions t Hassle-free claims processing in H Grou ere are about 7 days Sup p Med icar plem t Excellent service from a company espe ent Pl e with an A+ (2nd out of 16 ratings) an cial l y fo s Leg A.M. Best rating for financial Insu ionnair r ranc e stability as of 12/12/13 Mem e Trus t Make sure you can pay for the expenses bers . that Medicare doesn’t cover and help protect your family’s retirement savings. Apply today for the peace of mind you want, at competitive Legionnaire Legionnaire Insurance Trust Members Insurance Trust member rates. Medicare Supplement Reply Card
COMPLETE AND RETURN THE REPLY CARD. OR, CALL 1-800-247-1771
(Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST)
For your FREE information kit on the Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans complete and return this coupon. Name Spouse Name Address City Telephone (
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8/31/14 8/25/14 8/14/14 8/25/14 8/29/14
Underwritten by: Transamerica Life Insurance Company (Cedar Rapids, IA), and Transamerica Financial Life Insurance Company (Harrison, NY)
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26422346 LITMSAD14
SEPTEMBER 25, 2014
THE BADGER LEGIONNAIRE
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR 2014-2015 MEMBERSHIP
Commander Bob Shappell wants you to “Get One” and win $1,000 or $500! Department Commander Bob 5 NEW MEMBERS – Shappell knows that there is BE A Captain Steve Ritchie strength in numbers and is foAward MEMBERSHIP TopMembership cused on growth for 2015. Every pilot ace in Vietnampost’s first goal should be last ACE! 5 victories earns a pin featuryear’s total membership PLUS 1. Each post that achieves growth and becomes eligible for the National Post Excellence Award in 2015 will be recognized in the Badger Legionnaire.
5 VICTORIES
16 VICTORIES
Captain Steve Ritchi Ritchie Membership Ace
Captain Joe McConnell Me Membership Ace
F-4 PHANTOM JET
Individual Membership Awards To grow at the local level, each post needs to rely on their members being active recruiters. For the individual Legionnaire, membership recruiting can lead to a big reward! Legion members can simply sign up a new member, or renew any former member who has not paid for 2 years (since 2012) and their name will be entered in a drawing. Those that qualify have a chance to win a First prize of $1,000 or a Second prize of $500 at the 2015 Midwinter Conference at the Ho-Chunk Hotel, Casino and Convention Center in the Wisconsin Dells. There is no limit to the number of times an individual can qualify – recruiters get one chance for every new member they recruit. Department will also award them the traditional “I Got 1” pin. Recruiters can show their pride by earning the new “I Got 1” pins. The new pins are larger and more visible than ever before. Anyone who recruits a new member qualifies! For Legionnaires who soar to great heights, they can earn new individual membership recruiting awards. Each award is named for the top Air Force pilot ace from the four major conflicts of the 20th Century. Match the number of newly recruited Legionnaires with the Aces total and earn an Ace Award!
26 VICTORIES
40 VICTORIES
Captain Eddie Rickenbacker Membership Ace
Major Richard Bong Membership Ace
SPAD XIII
P-38 LIGHTNING
26 NEW MEMBERS Captain Eddie Rickenbacker Membership Award Top ace in WWI 26 victories earns a Polo shirt featuring the “Hat in the Ring” Spad biplane 40 NEW MEMBERS Major Dick Bong Membership Award Top ace in WWII 40 victories earns a custom fleece jacket featuring the twin tailed P-38 Lightning
These special recognition awards are offered in addition to the Badger Big 10 pin, which can be earned by signing up ten (10) new members to be a part of this exclusive group of Legionnaires. Badger Big 10 recruiters receive a pin and a patch to wear with pride. The National American Legion is also encouraging recruitment with the Silver Brigade (25 new members) and Gold Brigade (50 new members) awards for Legionnaires who recruit 25 and 50 new members respectively. Attention Post Commanders! Reach 100% of your 2015 membership goal by Veterans Day on
Wisconsin Legion Riders Lead the Parade to Veterans Park
ing the legendary F-4 Phantom
16 NEW MEMBERS Captain Joe McConnell Membership Award Top ace in Korea 16 victories earns a cap featuring the classic F-86 Sabre
F-86 SABRE BRE RE JET JE
PAGE 7
November 11th and qualify for a drawing. A customized jacket with the winner’s name and post along with a baseball cap featuring branch of service will be awarded. NEW for County Commanders! All County Commanders who achieve 100% of their 2015 goal or grow their membership over the 2014 total by December 31st will receive a custom County Commander Uniform Shirt embroidered with your name! We can reach new heights in Membership for 2015. Contact Chris Schmidt at chris@wilegion.org or call headquarters at (608) 745-1090 with any questions.
On August 23, 2014 members of The American Legion Riders were honored to lead the Masterpiece Classic Car Rally Parade from the Harley-Davidson Museum to Veterans Park in downtown Milwaukee. The attached picture shows some of the Riders along with motorcycle officers from the Milwaukee Police Department.
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