June, 2017

Volume XCIV Number 4

Page 2 MailboxPage 2 Happenings Around the StatePage 4 Department Convention SchedulePage 5 CalendarCenter pages The Auxiliary StarPage 7 TAPSPage 8 PicturesTh

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Jacob Sykora, 17, of Papil-lion has been selected as the 2017 Eagle Scout of the Year by the Nebraska American Legion and has received a $500 cash award. As the Ne-braska winner, Jacob is now eligible for a scholarship of $10,000 in The American Le-gion’s National Eagle Scout of the Year competition.

A junior at Papillion La-Vista South and member of Troop 60, Jacob achieved his Eagle Scout in December of 2014. He is a member of Dis-tributive Education Clubs of America (DECA), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and is president of the student council. He participates in soccer and cross country and has participated in over 11 charity runs. Jacob has held many Scout positions and is currently the Junior Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 60. Jacob plans to attend UNL

Papillion Eagle Scout Named “Nebraska Eagle Scout of The Year”

From the Desk of the National Judge Advocate:

Why Can’t Every Veteran Join The American Legion?

Our Department Judge Advocate, Robert Black, sent a letter to the National Judge Advocate, Phil Onderdonk, Jr., inquir-ing why can’t any veteran join The American Legion? Here is a paraphrase of what the National Judge Advocate had to say.

First, Congress and our founders established The American Legion as a “war-time” veteran’s organization. Therefore, you must have served one day of active duty during a des-ignated war-time period, as designated by Congress, to be eligible for membership.

Second, We remain under the IRS Code as a 501(c)19 chari-table war-time organization. As such, donations made to The American Legion are tax deductible by the donor. If we open up eligibility to non-war-time veterans then we can no longer accept tax deductible donations.

This proposed resolution to open up the eligibility to every veteran would destroy our war-time status and have a com-pletely adverse effect on The American Legion, its depart-ments and posts.

Department Adjutant Dave would remind you that not every veteran is eligible for membership in the VFW, DAV, PVA, etc. Each veteran service organizations has its own criteria as to who can be part of their organization. The American Legion is no different.

Respectfully, David W. SalakDepartment AdjutantNebraska American Legion402-464-6338

On Saturday, August 19th at the 99th Annual American Legion National Convention in Reno, Nevada, the Department of Nebraska will be recog-nized for its outstanding efforts towards ending veteran home-lessness in the Omaha metro area with the Michael Guty Homeless Veterans Outreach Award. Receiving the award on behalf of the Department will be Senior Vice Commander Jim Costello of Bellevue.

“Winning this prestigious award would not have been possible without the tireless work of Bellevue Post 339 Le-gionnaires Don Kiviniemi and Jim Costello,” said Department Adjutant Dave Salak. “Their devotion to helping veterans at the Victory Apartments in Omaha has truly been an inspi-ration.” Victory Apartments, located at 10th and Dorcas Street, provides safe, affordable housing for formerly homeless and low income veterans in the form of 65 one-bedroom units and 25 studio units.

Since 2013, Kiviniemi and Costello have supported resi-dents of Victory Apartments by securing furniture and other household goods, bus passes and refurbished bicycles for vets to get to jobs and medical appointments, and computer tablets for continuing educa-tion. In addition to building

outdoor recreation areas and taking residents to local sport-ing events, Kiviniemi and Costello, with help from DJs Dugout and other community members, host special events on Veterans Day, Thanksgiving,

and Christmas. They also hold bingo events in which food is given as prizes and run a pantry stocked with food donated on a monthly basis by HyVee, the Offutt Air Force Base Com-missary, Outlook Nebraska, Inc., Rotella’s Bakery and the Tri-City Food Pantry.

The Michael Guty Home-less Veterans Outreach Award

The American Legion Department of Nebraska to Receive the Michael Guty Homeless Veterans

Outreach Award

recognizes those American Legion Departments who show outstanding support for home-less veteran initiatives. Michael Guty, a World War II veteran, iron worker and Legionnaire from Canterbury, Connecticut,

donated $800,000 in 2012 to Legion Post 15 in Jewett City to help fund rent free apart-ments for homeless veterans through Connecticut’s Ameri-can Legion Veterans Housing Program. Upon Guty’s death in 2014 at the age of 92, he bequeathed an additional $1 million to Jewett City’s Ameri-can Legion Housing Complex.

The American Legion’s Veterans Memorial Identifi-cation Project (www.legion.org/memorials), released in November, has reached 700 entries. It stood at 440 in early March, showing the sharpness of the growth curve. Entries come from 45 states and six foreign countries. More than 100 entries are from North Carolina alone.

Memorial Database hits 700 EntriesThe project encourages American Legion Family members to locate, document, photograph and upload infor-mation about veterans memo-rials and monuments in their local areas. Sites from any war era are welcome, right up to today’s ongoing conflicts. The page is designed to easily upload photos and informa-tion via smartphones, even while at the site. This makes

it easier to do multiple submissions at one time, as Legion Family and associ-ated community groups comb an area for sites. Entries will be made public soon after review.One goal of the database is to help defend against challenges to memorials that have religious lan-guage or symbolism. To do that, it needs to be as complete as possible. Be sure to look up the memo-rials already listed in your state before you start.

As the season of picnics, parades and motorcycle runs begins, a goal of 1,000 entries by the start of the 99th National Convention in Reno, Nev., in late August is cer-tainly attainable.

(Memorial Cont. right)

(Memorial Cont.)

to study Engineering and Architecture. He is the son of Randall and Karen Sykora.

Selected for Second Place and a $300 cash award was John Kanel of Dawson. Third Place and a $200 cash award was Tysen McDowell of Minden.

The selection of the national American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year will be announced at the Spring meetings of The American Legion.

Department Commander

Official Publication of The American Legion Department of Nebraska. Published monthly except for January/February; April/ May; July/Au-

gust and October/November which are combined into one issue.Subscription included in annual membership dues. For non-members $8.00 for a years subscription.

John E. Thompson .........................................................EditorDave Salak ...................................Publisher’s RepresentativePUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE: Lyle Bartels,Tobias, John Wray, Bellevue, Paul A. Evans, Bayard and Julie Schnitzler, Kenesaw.EDITORIAL OFFICE: Editor, The Nebraska Legionnaire, 5600 P St., P.O. Box 5205, Lincoln, NE 68505. Phone (402) 464-6338. Send correspondence, articles and photo submissions to above address prior to monthly submission deadline. The Nebraska Legionnaire assumes no responsibility for material submitted.

ADVERTISING: Rates available upon request to Editorial Office. The Nebraska Legionnaire reserves the right to refuse any advertisement. Advertising published on behalf of an individual or organization does not constitute endorsement or reflect the policy of the Nebraska American Legion.

NON-MEMBER SUBSCRIPTION: $8.00 per year, payable in advance. Send change of address and subscription order to Editorial Office.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Members send old mailing label and complete new address to: The American Legion, Department of Nebraska, P.O. Box 5205, Lincoln, NE 68505-0205. Nebraska’s mailing labels are now produced internally, and are maintained on a separate list from the labels for the National Magazine. Address changes should be reflected within 2-3 weeks after receipt.

Periodical Postage Paid at Lincoln, Nebraska and at additional mailing offices.Postmaster: Send Form 3579 to P.O. Box 5205, Lincoln, NE 68505-0205

The Cornhusker State

Page 2-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

NEBRASKA AMERICAN LEGIONDepartment Headquarters Office

Physical Location: 5600 P Street, Lincoln, NE 68505 Phone Numbers: Adjutant & Staff - (402) 464-6338 FAX - (402) 464-6330, 24-hour access Business Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Central), Mon-Fri Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5205, Lincoln, NE 68505-0205 Web site: http://www.nebraskalegion.net E-Mail Address: dwsalak@windstream.net Editor comdirlegion@windstream.net

Dist. 1.............Terry Cogdill, Chadron Dist. 2..............Ken Meyer, CreightonDist. 3.............Ken Hanel, West PointDist. 4.......Larry McCracken, AllianceDist. 5..........Marv Donnelly, HersheyDist. 6.........William Berney, SpaldingDist. 7...............Joe Osthoff, Weston

District Commanders

Beth Linn

Commander’sCorner

Dist. 8.................Bob Sadil, OmahaDist. 9...............Tyre Nelson, CurtisDist. 10........Jesse Green, HastingsDist. 11............Rodney Rose, RocaDist. 12.Norm Vanderkuur, TalmageDist. 13Kevin McKinney, TecumsehDist. 15............Wade Graft, Lincoln

Commander ....................................................................Beth Linn, ScottsbluffSenior Vice Commander.................................................Jim Costello, BellevueArea A Vice Commander..................................................Geri Thomas, OmahaArea B Vice Commander .................................................Doug Frahm, AmeliaArea C Vice Commander .................................................Gary Wooten, WilberArea D Vice Commander................................................Dick Bennett, ElwoodAdjutant ..............................................................................Dave Salak, OmahaActivities Director......................................................Brent Hagel-Pitt, LincolnPublic Relations Officer..........................................John E. Thompson, LincolnChaplain...........................................................Dr. Willian Jackson Jr., LincolnHistorian.........................................................................Jennifer Salak, Omaha Judge Advocate .............................................................Robert Black, BellevueFinance Officer ...............................................................Mark Novak, DawsonSergeant-At-Arms.........................................................James Linn, ScottsbluffAsst. Sergeant-At-Arms...........................................................................VacantService Officer .........................................................Steven A. Burger, Lincoln National Executive Committeeman…..…........................Bill Crosier, KearneyAlternate NECman...........................................................Fred Craigie, Lincoln

HAPPENINGSActivities From

Around the State

The contacts are: •ENVH – Taryn Struthers, (402) 591-4864, taryn.struthers@nebraska.gov

•NVH – Colleen Benson, (402) 370-3469, colleen.benson@nebraska.gov

•GIVH – Pam Deal, (308) 385-6252, ext. 372, pam.deal@nebraska.gov

•WNVH – Crystal Edmonds, (308) 632-0317, crystal.edmonds@nebraska.gov

The Nebraska Veteran Homes are

Seeking RN’s, LPN,s, and CNA,s.

NNCCSAL FUNDRAISERSupporting Danny Smith

Nebraska's Candidate for Na-tional Commander-

Sons of The American LegionSilent Auction & Raffle

Early item inspection and bidding

June 24 and 25 in conference center lobby

Join us in the Jasmine Room Saturday from 6-8pm

Meet and Greet Candidate/ Raffle Drawings and Silent

Auction

To Cornhusker Boy’s State Administrators;

It is several years since our son attended Boy’s State, but the impression lingers in his life to this day. When he told us he wanted to be a counsel-or for Boy’s State as well, it was a surprise but heartwarm-ing. After being a Husker on the track team and graduation from UNL he surprised us once again and became an officer in the Army and proud to earn a Ranger tab. He continues to be a successful in civilian life, but proud to be an American and have served his country.

What he learned in his one week of Boy’s State made a positive indelible impression about the important freedoms our American government up holds. All your hard work is appreciated!!

Julie Wasem

Greetings my fellow Legionnaires!My how time has flown! The end of my term as State Com-

mander is rapidly approaching. It has been a challenging year, but we have managed to reach most of our goals.

Bob Sadil, District 8 Commander, represented Nebraska at the Truman Pilgrimage in Missouri. Terry Cogdill from Dis-trict 1 had won but was unable to attend. Looking forward to Bob’s report on his trip.

Memorial Day is around the corner. I know many of you are participating in events over the weekend. Please get your pictures into John Thompson, Jennifer Salak and Vicki Cybo-ron to be included in the Legionnaire, website and FB page. Let the world know who we are and what we do. Remember, Memorial Day is not about those living, it is about those who have paid the final price for our freedoms and rights.

On Thursday, April 27th, Senior Vice Costello, NEC Crosier, the membership team, Area Commanders and District Com-manders and I had a conference call with NVC Boldt. Of the 29 individuals who were supposed to be on the call, we had 20 and a few extras. We were honored to have National Com-mander Schmidt join us briefly. He reminded us that he has asked ALL Legionnaires to recruit “Just 1” new member. I will type up a report on the meeting and present it at the DEC meeting at Convention.

Speaking of Convention: It is rapidly approaching. I am looking forward to seeing many of you in Columbus at the end of June. Get your rooms now. It is an exciting time for me but I am sad to be ending my “reign of terror”. I appreciate all the support that you have given me over the last year.

Just a reminder that Commander Schmidt’s programs for the year are Service Officer Training and Temporary Financial Assistance. My programs are Soldier’s Wish and Operation Comfort Warrior. I have asked for .75 per member for 4 very worthwhile projects. I know that Nebraska will step up to the plate with these projects.

National Convention is in Reno in August. This is an excit-ing year for Nebraska as our very own Danny Smith is slated to be the next SAL National Commander. There will be a change up on our caucus at National. I am working with Adju-tant Salak on that. I would like all of the Nebraska Delegation to be in the SAL Convention when Danny is elected and/or sworn in. Details to be forthcoming as information comes in.

Nebraska lost another leader this year. Bob “Corndog” Swanson passed away due to injuries received in an accident. Bob lead efforts in getting our Legion Riders started. He was instrumental in getting the signs placed at all the rest areas along I-80 honoring our veterans, he served food to our veter-ans and was a volunteer at the Omaha PD. Bob did so much for our veterans and is greatly missed.

Now to that dreaded word: MEMBERSHIP! As of May 14th, Nebraska had dropped to #13 with 93.98% towards our goal. That is 1,955 short of 100%. We have 1 District that has not reached 90% yet but he is still working. Remember, even though National has mailed out the 2018 card, does not mean you stopped working 2017 membership year. Keep recruit-ing and turn them in. DO NOT HOLD any new members for the 2018 year. Get them in for the 2017 year. National is at 92.6% of goal. That is 139,269 short of 2 million members. Our dates have been open since 1990. Our veterans that served between Viet Nam and 9-11 are not being utilized. Do not get stuck on any one group of veterans for membership.

Junior Law Cadets Programs, Boys State and the State Romp are all coming up in June. With Department Convention, that fills the month up real quick. Support these programs and volunteer to help when you can.

Again, I look forward to seeing many of you at State Con-vention in Columbus. Safe travels and have a good summer.

BETH L. LINNSTATE COMMANDER

“DON’T GIVE UP – WE’VE GOT THIS”

This year’s ROMP is be-ing hosted by Chadron Post 12 ALR, with joint efforts from Gordon Post 34 ALR, Hemingford Post 9 ALR and Gering Post 36 ALR. Chuck James, Mitch Gallant, Jac-Lynn Swanson and Marty Case (respectively) are all working together, with their chapter members, to make the 2017 ROMP a great time for all! Please block off these dates and let’s really promote the ROMP this year for a large turnout of riders to show our

support for the chapters way out West! Casey Walton (Western NE Assistance ALR Liaison, waltoncasey@hotmail.com) is on point for getting things organized and all the details worked out. As I mentioned, more to come. Once all the specifics are know, we will send out another email and also post the info on our state ALR website.Questions? Email the ALR Liaison, Brian Mann, at 402.980.8918 or twitch37.bm@gmail.com

NOTICE: 2017 STATE ALR ROMP LOCATION: Chadron, NEDATES: June 9th, 10th and 11th

(USPS 376-180) (ISSN 0028-1875)

E

StraightTalkDepartment Service OfficerSteve Burger

It’s HistoryBy Department Historian Jennifer Salak

Page 3-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

These Nebraska Centennial Coins are only $10.00.$12.00 if mailed.

There are only a limited number so call Headquarters to get yours now.

Seventeen years before Resolution 59 was passed at the 1985 National American Legion Convention in New Orleans, the Department of Nebraska had a vision to create a program that would allow high school students the opportunity to explore and experience the various aspects of law enforcement training. Thanks to a partnership with the Nebraska State Patrol, The American Legion Department of Nebraska made this vision a reality and started the first Junior Law Cadet Program in the Nation in 1968.

From 1968 to 1981, Nebraska’s Junior Law Cadet Program was open to young men com-pleting their junior year of high school. Nearly 550 students completed the program during that time, with many going on to pursue law enforcement as a career at the state and national levels. Alumni included police officers in the cities of Lincoln, Omaha, Kearney, Norfolk, and counties of Lancaster, Polk and Phelps. Other early program alumni worked for the Nebraska Department of Corrections, the Women’s Correctional Facility in York and as military police for the Nebraska National Guard and the U.S. Army. In 1981, a separate program was added for young women.

This Nebraska-born American Legion program was so successful that in 1985 it was adopted as a National Program under Resolution 59 to “stimulate respect for law enforcement and patriotic and responsible citizenship.” The program, now called the Youth Cadet Law Enforce-ment Program at National Headquarters, was initially categorized under the Americanism Commission. It was then moved to the National Security Commission in 1990; however, in 2011 under Resolution 37, the program was moved back to the Americanism Commission so that it would be managed with other prominent Americanism youth programs like Boys State, the Oratorical Contest, Junior Shooting Sports and Legion Baseball.

As of 2017 there were 21 American Legion Departments that actively conduct a week-long Youth Cadet Law Enforcement Program in partnership with their state police or highway patrol academy. In Nebraska, boys and girls each spend one week at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Facility in Grand Island, Nebraska during the summer before their senior year, expe-riencing what amounts to a mini-boot camp.

Just like in boot camp, students are expected to wake up early, participate in calisthenics, keep their bunks made and barracks clean and follow orders from drill instructors. In addition, students participate in many hands-on activities including firearms training, fingerprinting, K-9 handling, accident/crime/drug investigation techniques, working lie detector equipment, self-defense and operating a tactical vehicle. They also learn how different offices function within the criminal justice system. Upon graduation from the boys and girls sessions, awards are given for the best patrol car driver, marksmanship ability, and overall outstanding law cadet. At the end of each week-long program, students are often more disciplined and have a new found respect for law enforcement.

Considering the challenges faced by our law enforcement today, we as Legionnaires must continue to promote this extremely important program to our young people. This year’s Girls’ Session will be held June 12-16 and the Boys’ Session will be held June 19-23. For more in-formation about the program, visit www.nebraskalegion.net/Programs/JRLaw.html.

Veterans of Operations Des-ert Shield and Desert Storm will soon have their own me-morial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., thanks to legislation signed today by the president.

President Trump signed Senate Joint Resolution 1, “A joint resolution approving the location of a memorial to commemorate and honor the members of the Armed Forces who served on active duty in support of Operation Desert Storm or Operation Desert Shield.” The resolution was sponsored by Indiana Sen. Joe Donnelly and Arkansas Sen. John Boozman and designates the location of the memorial on the National Mall.

A Phase 1 rendering of the National Desert Storm War Memorial.

The legislation was intro-duced and passed by Congress this month and signed in the White House by the president. “I appreciate the commitment of my colleagues in the House of Representatives to swiftly approve this resolution so

our Gulf War Veterans are ap-propriately honored for their service and sacrifice in our na-tion’s capital,” Sen. Boozman said.

“This resolution is the final step in Congress to create a memorial in our nation’s capi-tal that loved ones and future generations can visit to hon-or the men and women who fought and died for our coun-try in the First Gulf War,” Sen. Donnelly added.

The National Desert Storm War Memorial will honor those Veterans who served in the Gulf War in 1990 and 1991. Now that legislation to create the memorial has been ap-proved, the memorial’s spon-sors will begin the process of fundraising and working with the National Capital Planning Commission to select a loca-tion on the National Mall and a final design.

Funds for the construction of the memorial will be raised privately by the National Des-ert Storm War Memorial Asso-ciation.

Veterans of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm to get Memorial

VA Earns Top Honors for Environmental Sustainability in Health Care

WASHINGTON — Nine Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Medical Centers were recognized for their efforts in en-vironmental sustainability in health care at an award ceremony May 18 in Minneapolis.

Sponsored by Practice Greenhealth, a nonprofit focused on environmental stewardship in the health-care industry, the awards honored the top 25 health-care facilities that exemplify the best in environmental excellence and the highest standards for environmental practices in health care.

“We are proud of these accomplishments that recognize VHA’s efforts to embrace sustainable practices in providing the best environment of care for our Veterans,” said Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Acting Under Secretary for Health Dr. Poonam Alaigh.

“Being recognized for identifying and installing energy-effi-cient equipment, reducing waste and using less toxic chemicals to lower operational costs is a significant milestone as we make the best use of taxpayer funds,” said Richard Hofman, VA’s Green Environmental Management Systems program manager for policy and oversight.

In addition to the Top Awards, VHA earned more than 180 other sustainability honors for efforts ranging from energy re-duction to green building design, as well as long-term commit-ments to healthier environments.

VHA employs more than 305,000 health-care professionals and support staff at more than 1,000 sites of care to provide health care to more than 9 million enrolled Veterans. This includes hospitals; community-based outpatient clinics; nursing homes; and 300 Vet Centers. VA is the nation’s largest provider of graduate medical education and a major contributor to medi-cal and scientific research.

Page 4-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

The headline of this article may interest some of you and then for some of you ...maybe not so much. The Finance Committee (FC) meets twice a year: every fourth week of May and the third week of De-cember. In May, among many other topics, we develop the budget for the next fiscal year (August 1 to July 31). In De-cember, we meet to digest the first part of the fiscal year, to evaluate the status of Depart-ment finances, and to prepare for the Mid- Winter Confer-ence. According to the by-laws a major role of the FC is to make recommendations to the DEC either at Mid-Winter Conference in January or at Department Convention in June. The FC met May 24th to review and discuss matters from the previous year and to fine-tune the budget for our upcoming fiscal year. A bud-get is so vitally important for individuals, businesses, gov-ernment, and even a vacation because it provides a guide for spending our dollars.

So, what is a budget really? Simply said, estimating and matching expenses to income. It’s that simple...on paper. It is essential because it helps to determine whether there will be enough money to fund the operations/ programs that are vital to the goals of the orga-nization.

There are basically three ways our Department gener-ates income. The first and most important is Department mem-bership dues; second, by Reve-nue Enhancements, i.e. mailing labels, Legion Insurance Trust (LIT), Lottery, etc.; and three, investment income. Revenue is a very subjective number be-cause there is no way to know the amount of revenue until it is actually received - looking through the rearview mirror, so to speak. The FC estimates income of $486,650 in the fol-lowing manner: Department dues, 26,951 members times $11.25 = $303,199 (62% of Revenue); Enhancement Rev-enue, $148,000 (30%), Invest-ment Income from dividends, $20,000 (4%) and Miscella-neous Income $15,600 (3%).

On the expense side it goes like this: Executive Expense,

$62,000 (10% of expenses); Dept. Headquarters Office Ex-pense, $77,400 (13%); Dept. Headquarters Other, $56,500 (9%); Dept. Committee Ex-pense, $131,350 (21%), and Payroll, $286,500 (47%). The total budgeted annual expens-es are $613,750.

In recent years, Department has operated on an approxi-mate deficit budget of -$90,000 to -$130,000, depending on expenses (new Department vehicles every two years for example). The deficit budget is reconciled by liquidating principal from the Investment General Fund to fill the income gap. So far this fiscal year, ap-proximately $69,000 of prin-cipal has been used to supple-ment income. Dividends from investments will most likely continue to decline as principal is depleted.

Sandy Steinkamp, the Exec-utive Assistant does an excel-lent job of preparing monthly financial reports for the FC to review actual income and ex-penses. The FC believes that, in the last 10 years, we have streamlined the budget to a point where there is little more to prune from our spending.

The FC believes it is im-perative for our DEC to take affirmative action on two is-sues: 1) increase annual dues by passing Resolution No. 1 at the Department Convention in June; 2) set aside the Stoldorf bequest for a period of five years and then only spend in-terest/dividends for budgeted expenses. The proposed dues increase of $5.25 per mem-ber could generate another $141,492, which would help to eliminate a deficit, at least for a while.

At the Department Conven-tion, June 22 – 25 in Colum-bus the FC will be presenting to the Department Executive Committee (DEC) the pro-posed budget for the ensuing fiscal year for approval. In the spirit of transparency which the FC adopted two years ago, we will also be presenting an enlightening view of Depart-ment finances.

For God and Country,Daniel StramelFinance Committee Chairmen

Basic Budget 101

Dear Commander Beth Linn; I would like to show my ap-

preciation for the Edgar J. Boschult scholarship; the op-portunity to be considered and ultimately recognized for earning the scholarship means a lot to my family and myself. The money will be put towards furthering my education at the University of Nebraska-Lin-coln. My time in NROTC has taught me a lot and with this scholarship I will be able to re-duce the stress of financial bur-dens for books and other ne-cessities and focus more on the advancement of my education. Again, I would like to express my appreciation for the honor to have been chosen for the Edgar J. Boschult scholarship. With the most sincere thanks,

Logan M. Williams

To the American Legion; I am writing to thank you for

your generous $500 Edgar J. Boschult Scholarship. I am very happy and grateful that you selected me to receive this award. This scholarship will be very beneficial to fur-thering my education. I would also like to thank you for your support of the ROTC program. Your support has helped my-self and many midshipman in their journey to becoming an officer for the United States Military. Thank you again for your generosity and support. Respectfully,

MIDN 4/C Aaron M. Jacober

Dear American Legion Department of Nebraska; I am honored to be one of

the recipients of the Edgar J. Boschult Scholarship. Thank you for your generous support to the ROTC programs here at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am an out-of-state student and this scholarship will help me greatly. It has al-ways been my dream to serve in the world's greatest Navy. This scholarship will help me get one step closer to achiev-ing that goal.

Very Respectfully, MIDN 4/C Brandon Le

(Mailbox cont. right)

(Mailbox continued)

The American Legion Your continued support

for the Naval Reserve Offi-cers Training Corps program through your generous schol-arship is greatly appreciated. Your gift directly contributes to the success and motivation

of our midshipmen as they work towards earning their commissions as officers in the United States Navy and Marine Corps. On behalf of the staff and students in the NROTC program at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, I offer my heartfelt thanks.

Sincerely, Richard E. Thomas

Captain, USN Professor of Naval Science

Dear American Legion, Department of Nebraska;I’d like to thank you for

your involvement in ROTC programs at UNL and for the $500.00 Scholarship I re-ceived from you. It will help very much in getting my de-gree and pursuing a Naval Of-ficer career. Very Respectfully, MIDN 4/C Chandler Walsh

(Mailbox cont. }

Page 5-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

Events Calendar

June 4-10 Cornhusker Boy’s State 12-16 Junior Law Cadet Program (Female) 14 Flag Day 18 Father’s Day 19-23 Junior Law Cadet Program (Male) 22 Department DEC Meeting 23-25 Department Convention-Columbus July 4 Independence Day 18-22 Junior Shooting Sports-Air Rifle Championships-Colorado Springs, CO 21-29 Boys and Girls Nation, Washington, DC 27-29 National Membership Workshop August 2-6 American Legion Baseball Regional Championships 7 Purple Heart Day 10-15 American Legion Baseball World Series, Shelby, NC 12-17 American Legion Legacy Run 18-24 National Convention, Reno, NV

Special Note: For information pertaining to American Legion Baseball go to: www.nelegionbaseball.net

DON NELSEN POW/MIA LAISON

POW/MIA National Meeting

Seventy-two years ago, the headlines in papers and over the radio was information on the battles of the Allied Forces and our hopes and prayers for our servicemen and women.

Many communities here in Nebraska were trying to ad-just to the POW camps near to their towns or residences. In April 1945, the total num-ber of prisoners taken on the Western Front was 1,500,000 and in the four months up to the end of April, over 800,000 German soldiers surrendered on the Eastern Front.

We now do not seem to have a sense of what went on and happened during World War II. We just take it for granted that we somehow have been given the rights we have and do not have to work very hard for anything because someone will take care of us. If history has taught us nothing else, it has shown us that it repeats itself!

We are so indebted to our military and civilian personnel here at home, but it seems to me that we just take them for granted. Please just take a few minutes and thank those few remaining from WWII and tell them how much you appreci-ate all they have done to make this a better world in which to live!!!

Major parts of this article have come from info over the internet and printed articles and deal with the Nebraska POW camps during WWII.

POW camps had never had been located on American soil, before the decision to bring WWII prisoners to the US, including sites in Nebraska. The village of Atlanta, Ne-braska located five miles SW

of Holdrege, in 1940 had a population of 173 would have a POW camp nearby housing nearly 4,000 mainly German POW's. One can only imagine the uproar when this decision was made. Some of the other Nebraska camps were near Scottsbluff with near 3300 POW’s; several thousand were held at Fort Robinson near Crawford. Fort Crook in Sarpy County was where near 1,000 Italian POW's were held, and other camps in Nebraska were near the communities of Grand Island, Hastings, Hebron, Lex-ington, and Ogallala.

This is an entirely different situation than has been writ-ten about with the American POW's held in Vietnam; such as Ted Gostas and so many others who were held for years in small cages and treated so severely. Almost all the Amer-ican held prisoners had ex-pressed a willingness to work in constructing and maintain-ing the camps. "As the war-time labor shortage intensified across rural America, farm-ers turned to an unexpected source for replacement farm-hands,” a brief summary on the Living History Farm Web site states. Many of the POW's were available for farm work and pleased to have physical activity.

The German prisoners who fought on the battlefield were largely inclined to accept their POW status while riding out the war. The only organized incident on the part of POW’s occurred at the Atlanta NE camp when they ran out of beer, according to a richly de-tailed history of the camp writ-ten by Glenn Thompson. The prisoners were allowed to pur-

chase 3.2 alcohol content beer with canteen script, earned by performing work. When the beer ran out one time and a new shipment was delayed, the POW's banged on pots and pans day and night, Thompson wrote. The Germans were not too thrilled with the low-alco-hol 3.2 beer in the first place and referred to it as American water beer.

The last POW left Camp At-lanta in March 1946, about 10 months after Germany surren-dered, completing the lengthy task of sending the prisoners home.

In January 1947, Bob El-dridge, who had been civilian chief in charge of the camp's fire department, received a letter from Cologne Germa-ny from former POW Hans Engeln who wrote the follow-ing: "I can never forget your country, with one word you are gentlemen. Yes, dear Bob, we are a beaten people through the shabby fellows like Hitler, Goering, Goebbels and so on. They looked for war, and now it is us who must pay, not only with our work, but with our health. Many of my comrades from the Atlanta camp wish we were over there. Many have received care packages from farms where they worked."

There is something about Americans, they can be the fiercest fighters in the world and then also become the kindest people in the world. One just has to ask so many unanswered questions over our short history; because this writer believes we have had much help from above!

The Legion families in this Department are very fortunate to be part of something that has been around over half a century – the Legionnaire Insurance Trust (LIT). The Department joined with the other forty-nine (49) Departments that make-up the LIT. The LIT is this Department’s sponsored insurance pro-gram. Make no mistake, the broad range of insurance products and services found under the LIT umbrella are your products and services. These products and services are not available to just anyone – other veterans included – but only to members of this Department’s Legion family.

The LIT’s products and services are continually reviewed and updated (plus new programs added) so that you have ac-cess to the best selection possible. The oversight of the LIT is done by a Board of Directors – with one Trust Director from each participating Department.

This helps make sure you are getting the best possible cover-age from the Legionnaire Insurance Trust program.

Through the LIT, your Department sponsors a broad range of insurance products and services ranging from the “no-cost” AD&D to HOSPITAL HELP to CANCER CARE to

Emergency Assistance + (EA+) to Medicare Supplement and more - so one or more will likely fill a need in your family’s insurance portfolio.

The best way to buy insurance is to shop, compare, and then purchase the coverage from a source you trust. We invite you to compare this Department’s endorsed products with any on the market. Then you can buy with the confidence of over fifty (50) years of continuous service

to Legion families behind the LIT. Buying through the LIT also helps support your Department’s programs and services.

To learn more about your Department’s insurance products and services please call the LIT’s administrator at (800) 235-6943 or check-out the programs at www.theLIT.com. Either

way, there will be no hard-sell or obligation to buy when you do.

LIT Products and Services Exclusively for Legion Families

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Dr. David J. Shulkin is issuing the following statement in support of the Senate Ac-countability Bill:

“I’m pleased to see the Sen-ate Veterans’ Affairs Commit-tee moving forward tomor-row on our much-needed accountability bill, and hope the senators pass it promptly without delay.

Another example from this

Statement by VA Secretary Shulkin in Support of Senate Accountability Bill

month underscores the need for accountability at VA: An employee who was convicted no fewer than three times for driving under the influence of alcohol, and who just served a 60-day jail sentence, is now returning to work at a VA facility.

No other hospital system or business would have to put up with this, and the Senate bill is a solid first step on account-ability. More to come.”

Department ChaplainDr. William Jackson, Jr.

S.A.L.NotesDetachment Commander

Bobby Baker

Dr. William Jackson, Jr. Department Chaplain

Chaplain’s Corner

Sons of The American Legion Golf Tournament

CROOKED CREEK, CLAY CENTER, NEBRASKA • Two Person Scramble

• July 8th Shotgun Start at 1:00 p.m. • Limited to first 36 Teams (72 total golfers) • $60 Donation· per person (includes supper) • Cash Payout for Top 3 Teams & Pin Prizes

Benefit for Danny Smith, SAL member of 43 years & Leading Candidate for National Commander

*Limited Carts Available* Call (719)-433-8935 to sign up!

As a teacher and often leader it has become second nature to recognize when my message is falling on deaf ears. Two years ago, as a newly elected District Vice I was charged with get-ting everyone signed up for LIT (Legion Insurance Trust).

LIT is an automatic benefit of your membership. It costs noth-ing, but you must sign up. Bet-ter yet, once you are signed up, you never must do it again. This was an improvement worth ev-eryone taking advantage. The best part is everyone in the Legion Family is now eligible. Legion, Auxiliary amd SAL.

When I realized the impor-tance of this change, the urgen-cy of the mission became even clearer. The Legion Families of the District were depending on me to make sure they were properly signed up.

LIT pays $1,000 in the event of an accidental death and $5,000 if that death occurs while on Legion Family busi-ness. If I didn’t get everyone signed up and one of our own was accidently killed, I would feel some degree of responsi-bility.

Now, back to falling on deaf ears. The information was in the District Newsletter, on the District Facebook page, every-where I went I took my mes-sage and Department published the change in the Legionnaire. Two years later, there were still people that had that look of a deer in the headlights when I mentioned LIT.

Then it happened, it was a nightmare. One of our stron-gest leaders was killed in an accident. Was he covered? Had he listened or had my message one again fallen on deaf ears?

This week I got my answer. His wife contacted me. She told me that providing the prop-er documentation was a chore. She told me she had received her $1,000 check in the mail.

I breathed a sigh of relief. They had listened. Are you?

You can sign up using:* Your phone by calling (800)

325-6943.or Going to LIT’s webpage at

www. The LIT.com.Daryl G. Harrison

District 3

LIT is an Automatic Benefit of Your Membership.

Our state commander, Beth Linn, asserts that “We’ve got this. Don’t give up.” So where do you stand as a Nebraska Legionnaire? Are you floating on air with unabashed confidence from a great re-cruitment program? Are you insightful enough to be the “darling” or the “kingpin” of your post’s increasing community involvement? Or have you cornered the market on being the most forward-think-ing leader in your post, your district, or your area?

Confidence is that measure of pre-accomplishment. You may have not met your post’s goal of one recruit per post member, but you’ve got plans. Those plans include visiting all the haunts you know where potential veteran sign-ups hang out, mingling with them, and getting them to see themselves as fellow Legionnaires. Those plans also reveal that you’re a top notch organizer who never fails to be upbeat about whatever challenge from the post comes your way. No, I’m not trying to paint a picture of you as a “saintly” Legionnaire, like Scripture highlights of such persons as Abraham, David, Ruth, or Deborah, who overcame distresses and completed their trials before the Lord (Philippians 4:13). No, you’re just a Le-gionnaire, happy to do what you can whenever you can.

Along with confidence, there is your aptitude, wherein you dem-onstrate the versatility to take on any and all projects at your post with the barest hint of hesitation or excuse not to be available. You know, aptitude, like that crazy battery of tests you took before you became a full-fledged U.S. military person. I remember being mini-mally qualified to be an aircraft mechanic, or avionics technician. Instead, I was an emergency room trauma care medic, then a pho-tojournalist. Yeah, with the U.S. Air Force, I know. Who knew!!! I laugh at it myself sometimes remembering my supposed high-rated skills. But seriously, as a Legionnaire, you have a wealth of willing skills that may be brought to bear like a battle ship’s broadside on any task that needs to be done within your post. And you’re just the women or man to do it, by God’s grace, who empowers you by His wisdom (James 1:5).

With confidence and aptitude under your belt, that leaves room for one more facet of your being fully armed to quicken our state commander’s dictum--Don’t give up. We’ve got this-- about main-taining our strength and resolve through difficult times: action. Yeah, that’s right. Getting out there on the highways and byways of our communities to spread the “gospel” of the American Legion throughout Nebraska, leaving no home, email, Facebook, Twitter, cell phone or any other communication channel untried towards letting those vets and their families know that we’re here them. As Scripture intones, how will those veterans hear about us if we don’t speak (Luke 11:9)? How will veterans act on what we say unless they see us in action; e.g., Legion Baseball, Girls & Boys State, Law Cadet, Oratorical contests, grade-school visits, etc. How may those veterans seek us if we’re not out there canvasing our neigh-borhoods and communities heralding the saga of being a Legion-naire?

It always boils down to this: how much is being a Legionnaire worth to you, personally? Nebraska Department Commander Beth Linn needs you to be truthful, not condemning, about your affec-tions for the American Legion. That same fervor spills over into conversations with those would-be Legionnaires, for they pick up on YOUR excitement as a Legionnaire. Whether you be a post member, a leader at whatever Legionnaire level, or, a veteran checking out this Legionnaire thing in this article, know that it IS the best thing going. We’re glad we joined, and so will you. You may be yourself, and a Legionnaire, too, with nary a hassle to come your way, except for, which Legionnaire activities in which to get involved.

The American Legion GI Bill Forum, Exhibit Set for The National WWII

MuseumJune 20 event to open centennial salute to “the greatest legislation” WASHINGTON (May 17, 2017) - The original cover and signature page of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, along with the typed and hand-edited speech given by Presi-dent Franklin D. Roosevelt after signing it, will be showcased at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans beginning June 20 as part of an American Legion centennial salute to the GI Bill. The bill, drafted and pushed to passage by The American Legion in 1943 and 1944, transformed the United States, build-ing the middle class and democratizing higher education. The exhibit, titled “The Greatest Legislation,” features illustrated panels and touchscreen videos that tell the dramatic story of how The American Legion drafted the measure and overcame numerous challenges to get it to the president’s desk June 22, 1944. It also traces the effects of the bill during the 20th century and its evolution to best serve veterans of the post 9/11 era. A free reception at the museum is planned at 5 p.m. June 20, followed by a moderated panel discussion led by American Legion 100th Anniversary Honorary Committee Chairman Ted Roosevelt IV. Scheduled panelists include former U.S. Sen. James Webb, who wrote, introduced and championed the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008; VA Deputy Under Secretary for Economic Opportunity Curtis Coy; Stu-dent Veterans of America CEO and President Jared Lyon; and American Legion Assistant Director of Veterans Employment and Education John Kamin. The panel discussion will include remarks from National WWII Museum President Dr. Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller and American Legion Executive Director Verna Jones. The event will include a question-and-answer session were audience members will be invited to share the ways in which the GI Bill has influenced their lives and to discuss the future of the benefit for today’s veterans. In addition to the cover and signature pages of the original act, on loan from the National Archives, and the speech, on loan from the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, is a pen used by President Roosevelt to sign the bill into law, on loan from The American Legion National Headquarters. Visitors planning to attend the June 20 event are asked to call ahead at 1-877-813-3329 extension 412.

South Omaha Squadron 331 prepares to hang their 2016-2017 CWF banner to their Squadron colors. (l-r) Bill Peters, John Wenninghoff, Pat Zymola, Squadron 331 Commander Al Kalskett, David “Hondo” Locke, Brad Sutton, Ken Wenninghoff, Karl Frederickson. Each member is holding their CWF Challenge coin.

Want to sign up for Free LIT AD&D coverage? That’s a $1,000.00 (or $5,000.00 if death occurred while on official Legion business) that will go to your beneficiary to help with those final expenses.Here are the only three ways which you can sign up...• Go to www.theLIT.com and

sign up online. To do so, you will need an email address.

• Call the LIT Customer Ser-vice number at (800) 235-6943 and apply by phone. Send in the cut out from the

attached advertisement. If you are sending any other form be-sides the one attached – it could very well be rejected so please use the attached form only.

Page 7-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

Kind regards, Brian Mann

Nebraska State LiaisonAmerican Legion Riders

The American Legion Riders

Ten friends, family members and American Legion Riders from Norfolk, Beemer and Bloomfield went to Lincoln to show support for the deployment of the 641st National Guard unit. Marla Stephen, an ALR rider from the Norfolk was among those being deployed. Thanks to Marla, who leaves her son (Colten) behind, for her sacrifice and of her family. (l-r) Kevin, Kris, Becky, Jerry, Colten, Marla, Tony, Jody, Kim, Kathy and Dick.

On Tuesday, 9 May 2017 the world lost a great person and goodhearted man. Many, many, many hearts were made heavy when it was learned that Robert (Bob) N. Swanson left this Earth as a result of a tragic motorcycle accident. Aside from spending time with his loving wife Marolyn, daughters Cindy and Danya, sons in law Gene and Enrique, grandkids Jake and Abby, and of course his dog Duke, Bob was doing what he loved most; riding his Harley-Davidson and serving our active duty service men / women and our veterans.

Bob (“Corndog”) Swanson is a mentor and figurehead amongst our American Legion family, ALR chapters and veteran community state wide and beyond. I have never met a man so dedicated to the cause of veterans, the love of people, love of the open road on a motorcycle, and yes…the love of corndogs!

From being the driving force behind starting the Nebraska ALR program in 2003/2004, to becoming the first State ALR Liaison in 2005/2007, to being Commander at Post 1, to raising funds and working with state officials to install the "Nebraska Honors Our Troops - Thank You For Your Service" signs at every rest area along I-80 across the state, to raising over $15K for a new flagpole and plaque in Pilger, to organizing the Salva-tion Army bell ringing station at Dillon Brothers H-D for over 12 years, to his most recent project of getting a POW/MIA seat installed at Werner Park near Papillion, Bob is truly a leader amongst leaders. The list of things Bob has spearheaded or been involved in is countless. He is most certainly the epitome of servant leadership, an inspiration and example for which we all should aspire. All who know Bob can attest to the honor and privilege it is to have shared in this life together, with him by our sides.

Though the loss we have all suffered cannot be quantified, Bob’s sprit is alive and as strong as it’s ever been. Bob (“Corn-dog”) Swanson has forever left his mark in this world and in our hearts; a mark of goodness, humility, service, gratitude and patriotism. The world is a brighter and much better place be-cause of Robert N. (“Corndog”) Swanson. The light that was lit through his life will never be dimmed, and will shine forever in the hearts of those that knew him and those that benefited from his selfless acts of service and kindness. Bob’s motto in life is “every day’s a holiday and every meal’s a banquet”. Express-ing how to live a thankful life could not be put any better than that.

Bob would want all of us to keep on keeping on, and to stay the course. He’d want us to remember why we are here, always support and encourage each other as we continue in service of our brave men and women serving today, our veterans and

those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

On Saturday, 13 May 2017 Bob’s family and hundreds of his friends and fellow riders paid tribute to his life.

There were many tears and much laughter as we all sat to-gether and reminisced about the great times we all experienced with Bob and each other. We were all reminded by his daugh-ter Danya that Bob IS a great man and that he lives on in spirit

and in our hearts.When we find ourselves

gathered together in the future discussing plans to support and serve our military fami-lies, keep Bob’s spirit close and remember the life he lived during his time here on Earth. Let the example of his life keep us focused and help us to remain objective in our endeavors to serve others.

BRAVO ZULU Robert N. (“Corndog”) Swanson for a life well lived! Stand down my friend, for your watch here on Earth has ended. Until we meet again, fair winds and calm seas. Your watch over us from Heaven is underway!

Keep on serving and doing good deeds, selflessly for others. And, stay safe my friends!

(Robert (Bob) Swanson (cont. right)

(Robert (Bob) Swanson Cont.)

Allen, Richard L., Ceresco, WWIIAlms, Curtis A., Columbus, KoreaAnderson, Jack L., Omaha, VietnamAnderson, Leon, Wakefield, KoreaBates, Jerald R., AshlandBengtson, John M., York, KoreaBennett, James W., Albion, KoreaBloyd, Willis, Seward, WWIIBrandt, Jay A., Chadron, VietnamBrodd, Elton, CerescoBrummond, Gary A., Tekamah, VietnamBruns, Willian, Rushville, WWIIButtermore, James E., Alma, WWIICarda, Joseph F., Kearney, WWIICarew, Thomas L., Omaha, WWIICarreras, Jr. Desidero E., Spalding, VietnamCerv, Sr. Robert H., Weston, WWIICirco, Alfio, “Fred” S., Omaha, KoreaCissna, David J., Lincoln, Vietnam Clark, Robert E., Lincoln, WWIICollier, Nathan M., Lincoln, WWII Colson, Charles K., Paxton, VietnamCreevan, Gerald, WymoreDammann, Paul, WymoreDarnell, Gale E., Lincoln, WWIIDeermer, George G., Stuart, WWIIDelp, Jimmie L., Lincoln, WWII Dickes, Norbert, LaurelDingworth, Edward A., Grand Island, WWIIDirgo, Harry J, “Bud”, Omaha, KoreaDunker, Richard J., Morse Bluff, VietnamEarth, Gerben, Winnebago, VietnamEly, Richard L., Guide Rock, WWIIEtherton, Kenneth R., Cozad, KoreaEvans, Merlin C., Hartington, WWIIFair, Jack E., Gordon, KoreaFarritor, Ira J., Alliance, WWIIFranssen, Harold, Boelus, WWIIFreeman, Joe N., Ralston, KoreaFrench, W. B., Ord, WWIIFruhling, Clarence F., Lincoln, WWIIFurstenau, Verlon, Tilden, WWIIGathje, Harold E., South Sioux City, KoreaGrunwald, Duane, Union, KoreaGurney, Phillip, Omaha, WWII

Harrod, Dale, Burwell, KoreaHaselhorst, Duane, Osmond, KoreaHaspeslagh, James, Neligh, KoreaHeermann, Roger., Burwell, VietnamHeidbdrink, Russell O., Lincoln, Korea Higley, Wayne L., Stratton, KoreaHinrichs, Gerald A., York, VietnamHladky, Vernamae, Bellwood, VietnamHornicek, Loyal, Lodgepole, KoreaHoxie, Ralph T., Lincoln, Vietnam Hudson, Michael W., Hemingford, S.A.L.Hunke, Ray L., St. Paul, KoreaHusen, William H., Grand Island, WWIIHusk, Roland W., Fort Calhoun, KoreaJohnson, Gerele E., Wakefield, VietnamJones, Marvin L., NorfolkJorgensen, Peter, Dakota City, KoreaKarschner, Harold W., Alma, WWIIKesting, Laverle, Pierce, KoreaKing, George R., Havelock, VietnamKirby, Vincent J., Battle Creek, KoreaKliment, Bob, ValparaisoKoehler, Dale A., Pierce, WWIIKoziol, Stanley E., Columbus, WWIIKrysl, Raymond D., Tekamah, KoreaLabenz, Merlin J., Albion, KoreaLackovic, George A., South Omaha, WWIILangford, Steven E., Chadron, VietnamLarson, Richard E., Aurora, VietnamLawson, Ralph D., Grand Island, KoreaLemmert, Vernon, Pleasant Dale, KoreaLewellen, Verne, Mitchell, WWIILitt, Stanley E., Lincoln, KoreaLloyd, Elmo, Wymore, WWIILonowski, Donald J., Grand Island, KoreaLucas, Kenneth G., Ralston, VietnamLush, Rolla S., Grand Island, VietnamMarion, David M., Tekamah, VietnamMarisch, Robert, Spalding, WWIIMasters, Gene R., Tyron, KoreaMcKee, Robert R., RalstonMcKeever, Robert L., Odell, KoreaMcMillan, Thomas R., Columbus, KoreaMertens, Charles, Nelson, KoreaMitchell, Larry D., Butte, KoreaMlady, Dale L., Verdel, VietnamMorgan, Max E., Walthill, KoreaMorine, Jr. Keith A., Omaha, KoreaMurphy, Thomas A., Omaha, KoreaNeussendorfer, Urban, J., Omaha, WWIINull, Paul, Lincoln, WWII Oliver, Walter L., Fairbury, VietnamOsborne, Jack M., Atkinson, VietnamPavel, David L., Clarkson, Vietnam

Peters, Arthur W., Cozad, KoreaPetersen, Clarence M., Syracuse, KoreaPfeifer, Ralph P., York, KoreaPoole, Max, Lincoln, WWII Pritchard, James T., Wolbach, VietnamPulverenti, Sabastian, Omaha, WWIIRathbun, Ivan T., Lincoln, WWII Ratkovec, Lumir L., Morse Bluff, KoreaRichards, LeRoy, Gordon, KoreaRife, Calvin, Lincoln, WWII Riley, Patrick R., Plymouth, VietnamRoberts, Bob, Wymore, KoreaRobinson, Robin, Virginia, VietnamRockel, William G., Lincoln, WWII Rodino, “Vince” Charles., Omaha, KoreaRogers, Hilton, Elmwood, WWIIRopers, Lorens, Elmwood, WWIIRotthaus, Harry E., Lincoln, Korea Rubingh, Donald, Kearney, VietnamRucker, Omer L., Gresham, WWIISchiltmeyer, Al, Tilden, KoreaSchindler, Fred E., Neligh, VietnamSchmidt, Clarence, Gering, KoreaSchmode, Alvin F., Winside, WWIISchreier, Philip L., VerdigreSchultz, Harold A., Norfolk, WWIISchultz, Jr. John W., Grand Island, WWIISeastedt, Donald E., Omaha, VietnamShirley, Lolen C., Madrid, KoreaSmits, Marvin, Wolbach, WWIISperling, Rodney R., North Loup, KoreaStuck, Ralph D., South OmahaSummers, Robert, Lincoln, Korea Swan, Douglas L., Gothenburg, VietnamSwanson, Robert N. Omaha, VietnamSweeney, Bill, Cozad, WWIISykora, Frank, Omaha, KoreaTaylor, Carl M., AshlandThompson, Harold “Lefty” J., Greeley, WWIITitler, Adrian W, Denton, VietnamTobin, John R., Omaha, WWIITraudt, Lawrence F., Hebron, KoreaTubach, Duane E., Omaha BensonTworek, Lawrence J., Silver Creek, WWIITwyford, John H., Walthill, WWIIUrban, Jerome J., Millard, KoreaWagman, Raymond C., Atkinson, VietnamWalker, Donald D., Ord, KoreaWanitschke, Frank, Loup City, WWIIWhitwer, Raymond, Tilden, WWIIWiles, Frederick “Jim” J., Omaha, WWIIWroughton, Richard, Nelson, KoreaYenney, Jeffery A., Gretna, Lebanon/GrenadaZink, Raymond P., Lincoln, Korea

Page 8-The Nebraska Legionnaire-June, 2017

Reunions

Nebraska Czechs of Wilber, 'WE WELCOME YOU' 56th Czech Festival

August 4,5,6, 2017 Wilber, Nebraska

Continuous Family Fun Accordian Jamborees

Art Show, Quilt Show,

Heritage Demonstrations Legion Bingo,

3 Parades, Car Show,

Kids Rides, Vendors, Czech Pageant, Alumni Band

and Camping for MORE INFO Call: 1 888 494 5237.

Wayne Post 43 Command-er Dennis Lutt presented a plaque to Wesley Becken-hauer for his 60 years of continuous membership.

Wayne Post 43 Command-er Dennis Lutt presented a plaque to David Ley for his 50 years of membership in the American Legion.

Friend Post 183 recognized seven WWII veterans with combined total of over 350 years membership in the American Legion. Quilts were presented to Front row (l-r) Leonard Torson, Oris Williams and Harvey Weber. Back Row (l-r) Howard Miller, Glen Kinsman, Floyd Johansen and Richard Hays. Submitted by Post Com-mander Ron Corbett.

Crete Post 147 Took a group picture at the monthly meeting to celebrate the birthday of the American Legion. A delicious potluck provided by the Auxiliary was enjoyed by all. Pictured front row (l-r) Aldo Holt-meier, Dale Bruha, Dave Muff, Ronald Coffman, Roger Stehlik. Middle row (l-r) (seated) Evan Wahl, Jack Fry, Orland Justa, Wes Welch. Back row (l-r) Bob Lorenz, Tom Crisman, Jim Clark, Bill Herndon, Terry Gillespie, Wayne Lomax and Al Pomajzl. Submitted by Adjutant Bob Lorenz.

Prague Post 254 held a “Free Will” donation, all you can eat Pancake Feed and all donations were for the May 1, 2017 Honor Flight by Patriotic Productions. Over 400 customers were served, a check for $3,660 was sent to Patriotic Productions. Unit 254 Auxiliary, donated a check for $200, $100 for each of the Post members go-ing on the Honor Flight. Going on the trip are Ron Pas-eka and Don Fujan. Prague Post thanks the Community of Prague and other Posts for their continued support.

Potter Post 291 observed The American Legion Birthday at the Potter Senior Center. The 2016 Cornhusker Boy State delegates Levi Kasten and Zachary Librande dis-cussed experiences they had at Cornhusker Boy State. This year’s 2017 Boy State Delegates were also in atten-dance. Pictured (l-r) Levi Kasten, Connor Williams, JT Herboldsheimer, and Zachary Librande. Legion Family members and guests concluded the meeting with sing-ing Happy Birthday to the American Legion, cake, ice cream and time of fellowship. Picture by Dave Carew

Exeter Legion Post 218 recognized Roy Stubbendick for his 70 years of membership. Commander Alan Songster presented Roy a pin and certificate.

LTJG Ryan Smith-commanding officer, SR Dylan Price and SR Drayton Lawver gave a presentation on the U. S. Naval Sea Cadets to the Dannebrog Michelson-Larkowski American Legion Post 241. The American Legion Family donated to Dylan Price's cadet expenses. To learn more go to: www.seacadets.org

Herman Post 274 at their Legion Birthday dinner recognized William Trotter for 70 years of continu-ous membership. He was presented a certificate and pin by Department Vice Commander Jim Costello and Post Commander Carl Lorenzen.

Monroe Post 322 recog-nized three members for 50 years of continuous membership in the Amer-ican Legion. Pictured (l-r) Dave Ceder, Adjutant Duane Laudenklos and Keith Bruhn. Not pictured Harold Reese.

Thurston Post 372 do-nated $1,000 to Quacky Wackey Walkers relay for Life. Linda Simonson and Dee Moeller accept the check for the Pender team. Pictured (l-r) Post Commander Larry Sun-derman, Linda Simonson, Finance Officer Lavern Kubik and Dee Moeller.

2nd BN 34th Armor Reg.Vietnam Reunion 66-70

Myrtle Beach, South CarolinaOctober 19-22, 2017

POC Pat Forster, Phone 949-493-4080 or LTPAT234@hotmail.com

LOOKING FOR THE STAR

District 2 president Marlene Meyer sent me a delightful book called “Looking for the Star” by Bobbi L. Majors. It is a story of an elementary class challenged to find a five-pointed Star in their classroom. The children looked and looked; and finally, the teacher showed them the Star in the center of the apple. The final page reads “When you are looking for a star, you do not have to look far. A star lives in each one of you; this makes you a bright and shiny star. It will always be your time to shine.”

A star shines in each one of you reading this. That star is in the heart of Auxiliary members who have supported the programs of this organization during the past year. We have been touched by the stellar support for our veterans in the Quilts of Valor program across the state of Nebraska. The veterans in our VA facilities have felt the love and generosity of our members shining through “Dollar Days” and “Gifts for Yanks Who Gave.” Our active duty military have been supported through the constellation of boxes of necessities and goodies delivered to them overseas. Our military

families have learned that they are not alone and have someone at home to light their way. Members have illuminated our legislators by making our goals known in Lincoln and in Washington with their letters, emails, and calls.

Children across the state have been enl ightened by Americanism and the significance of the Poppy. Auxiliary members have brightened the days of many by their donations to the Children’s Miracle Network and Nebraska Children’s Home as well as other children’s facilities. Citizens of Girls State and County Government have radiated what the word “Government” means in our country. The enlightenment and education of our youth has been promoted through scholarships locally, state wide,

and nationally. Our Juniors are glowing with the sense of pride that their leadership, skills, and love of our organization provide through their program of work.

Where does it end? It doesn’t! Because members have to look no further than the star in our American Legion Emblem --- “the star that lives in each one of you. It will always be your time to shine.”

Cong rat u lat ions to the Department of Nebraska for a year of success by showing your love for others in all you do remembering to make your star to shine within the “Slice with a Price.”

Debra Albers Department President

Janet Jefford, of Manchester, Conn., was elected national president ofthe American Legion Auxiliary during the organization’s 94th NationalConvention in Charlotte, N.C., Aug. 22-28.

Jefford joined The American Legion Auxiliary through her fatherWilliam Lucas, a WWII Army veteran. She is also eligible through herson, Jeff, a Desert Storm Army veteran. Jefford is a member of Goodale-Rameker Unit 56.

Jefford is the first Connecticut resident to represent the AmericanLegion Auxiliary as national president since Helen Lee Gilbert during the1944-1945 administrative year. She has held numerous leadership posi-tions in the organization at the unit, district and department levels, includ-ing eight national program chairmanships. She currently serves on the2014-2019 Centennial Strategic Planning leadership team.

Jefford recently retired as vice president of institutional effectivenessat Goodwin College in East Hartford, Conn. She served as a commission-er on an agency that accredits schools and colleges, and as president andchairman of the Board of Connecticut Training Center, a community-based nonprofit training center. Jefford has two children and two grand-children. All are members of The American Legion Family.

By JACKI O’NEILLDepartment Secretary

The Department Convention plans are setand now we need you to come to Kearney June26-28 to join us. What’s new for this year? Theitems on hand from Flag and Emblem sales willbe available to purchase. Copies of newbrochures and pamphlets will be available.Everyone that attends will receive a packet ofnew brochures and a Convention Annual withthe chairmen reports and awards listings.Membership cards will be available to pick upfor each unit. Those not picked up will bemailed from Department Headquarters after

Convention. Anyone wanting their cards mailed to the unit membership chairmenprior to Convention will need to call 402-466-1808 and submit a request.

Thanks to all of you that submitted your volunteer hours and dollars for ouryear-end reporting. Those numbers are so important to this organization when TheAmerican Legion reports to congress.

By the way did you know being an American Legion Auxiliary member liter-ally took an Act of Congress to make that available to you? Please let other eligiblewomen know how important their belonging to this organization means to ourVeterans. It’s time to be proud to say - I belong because MY Veteran made it pos-sible for me through his/her service to this great country and with an Act ofCongress. At Department Convention I will be reporting on what I learned at theDepartment Leadership National Conference this May in Indianapolis.

See you in Kearney!

By BARB SKILLMANDepartment President

Dear Members,I would like to say thank you for all the work you have done this year.

And thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve as yourDepartment President. The time did go very fast and I will have wonder-ful memories of the visits, special meetings, and the special Auxiliarymembers I have met that made this year special.

I hope you will attend the Department Convention June 26-28 at theHoliday Inn Kearney. Please come meet our special guest NationalPresident Janet Jefford.

I have received our last membership update from National we aredoing well on renewals — Nebraska is in first place; on our Numeric goalwe are slipping fast — we are at 9th place.

Have you renewed your membership? Iif not do so today. Unit mem-bership chairman please do not hold any dues to be sent in for process-ing. We need every paid membership we can get our hands on to makeour goals. Thank You!

I just returned from a special event at the Harry S Truman Library andMuseum remembering our President for his 131st birthday and the 70years since VE Day. It was a wonderful day.

I will have the pleasure to attend Girls State on May 31 through June6. Our special guest will be Northwestern Vice President Lori SkallerudI am looking forward meeting all the girls you chose from your Unit toattend this special week.

The American Legion AuxiliaryDepartment of Nebraska The Star

March 2015

Freedom, Faith,FamilyBarb Skillman

Reminders —Girls State.....................................................................................May 31-June 6

Department Convention...............................June 25-28 Holiday Inn, Kearney Please make plans to attend the 2015 Department Convention

Every Unit President received a “Convention Call” to promote attendance tothe Department Convention. The business will take place on Thursday andFriday followed by Chairmen reports which include many awards distributed tounits and members. Each Unit is allowed delegates and alternates according tothe unit paid membership by May 24.REGISTRATION FEE — Delegates, Alternates and Senior members will becharged a registration fee of $10.00.Junior members will be charged a registration fee of $5.00, that fee will notinclude the packet with the Convention Annual. Have your 2015 member cardavailable for quicker registration.

Girls Nation.........................................................................................July 18-25

From The Desk Of The Department Secretary —

National President To VisitNebraska ALA Convention At Kearney

Inside The Star

Lottery Winners, Service to Veterans, ConventionSchedule Page 2In Memoriam, Unit Activities, Special Notices, ThankYous Page 3Chairman Reports, Scholarships, Help Wanted Page 4

Jackson Unit #175recently sponsored aPoppy Poster Contestand an AmericanismEssay Contest.

Poster winners arefirst through third place,3rd Grade — Tia Pick,Brady Carnell and TaylorFleury; 4th Grade —Abbie Hrouda, BrienaGallardo and MariannaRomero; 5th Grade —Faith Pick, MackenzieSchram and KennedyHarding; 6th Grade —Nayleli Cabrales, EliRiedel, and JocelynnGraves; and SpecialNeeds — HannahWahls, Lucas Twohigand Nate Coffman.

Essay winners are,first through third place,3rd Grade — Lily Korth,Deighton James andDylan Kastning; 4thGrade — Abbie Hrouda,Cole Jackson and EllieMcAfee; 5th Grade —Taylor Korth, MacKensieSchram and MatthewLenz; 6th Grade —Caden Schram,McKensie Kneifl andKaden Fields; andSpecial Needs — NateCoffman, JacksonStroud and AvaFontenot.

The Hartford, which is an approved member benefitsprovider of the American Legion Auxiliary, will be mailingmembers information about their Senior Term LifeInsurance. These mailings are scheduled to be sent outstarting Monday, May 18th. More information regarding theHartford can be found on the national website in theMembers Only section by clicking on Member Benefits.

June 2017

Debra Albers Department of Nebraska President

American Legion Auxiliary 2016-2017

VIRGINIA NELSEN VISITVirginia Nelsen, National Vice

President of the Northwestern Division, Past National Historian (2007/2008), and Past Department President (2000/2001) will make her official visit to Nebraska at the Department Convention in June.

Virginia is a member of Valentine Leo Brinda Unit 90. Virginia is eligible through the service of her grandfather, William Houwen; her father, Warren Walker; her husband, Don Nelsen; and her son MSGT Bill Nelsen. Virginia has been an active member of the Auxiliary for 38 years, devoting a great deal of time as a volunteer and serving as chairman of many program committees for veterans and the community. She serves as Education Director for ALA Cornhusker Girls State, a position she has held for several years. She has also held many elected offices through the years on the local and state level. Virginia has also held many chairmanships and served on many committees on the national level.

Virginia works as a para-

professional in her local schools. At school, she helps teachers c o o r d i n a t e h i s t o r i c a l e v e n t s and Presidents’ birthdays into everyday curriculum and teaches flag etiquette to each class in every grade on a continually rotating basis.

Veterans in Virginia’s family date back to the Revolutionary War. This veteran heritage is a defining factor that shapes her dedication to The American Legion Family. She is a life member of both the ALA and the VFW Auxiliary.

Don and Virginia will be married 43 years in June and have two sons --- Jack, at home; and Billy, with wife Jennifer and grandson Isaac. Virginia and Don have donated their free time to The American Legion Family since 1978. It is something they do together.

JUNIORS - “SPINNING THEIR WHEELS FOR VETERANS!”Nebraska Juniors are moving

forward “Spinning Their Wheels for Veterans!” The Department of Nebraska Junior meeting was held at Post #264 in Dorchester on May 6, 2017. Nebraska Honorary Junior Auxiliary President Daisha Hoffman conducted the meeting. The meeting was well attended with 27 Juniors, 34 Seniors, 4 American Legion members, and 3 guests. The Juniors were honored to have Department President Deb Albers and several other dignitaries in attendance.

The day was filled with many activities and fun --- including the formal meeting, reports, contests, awards, making veteran favors, skits, singing and games, and installation of new officers The participants enjoyed the entertainment provided by the magician, Gayle Becwar.

The 2017 Nebraska ALA Department Convention will be held on June 22-25, 2017 in Columbus at the Ramada Inn Conference Center. The Juniors are planning to do a Community

Service Project on Saturday, June 24th, at 2 PM and a fun activity to follow.

Seniors, keep your Juniors “Spinning Their Wheels for Veterans” by involving them in events and celebrations. Keep them motivated to earn patches in the Auxiliary’s Patch Program. If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 402.450.3009 or at judybors@gmail.com.

Judy BorsJunior Activities Chairman

CHILDREN & YOUTH LUNCHEONDEPARTMENT OF NEBRASKA CONVENTION

SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2017, 12:00 P.M.COLUMBUS VALENTINO’S

3100 23rd Street (5 BAR BUFFET) $10.00

Send check and names attending by June 16 to reserve luncheon tickets to :

Nebraska ALAC & Y Luncheon

PO Box 5227 • Lincoln, NE 68505-0227Make checks payable to: A.L.A. Treasurer

Please provide the names of members and guests who will attend the luncheon.

Tickets will be available for pickup at the Auxiliary registration table at Department Convention.

JOANN WARD RECEIVES CORNERSTONE AWARDThe Cornerstone Award of

southwest Nebraska was presented to JoAnn Ward by Department President Debra Albers at the District Nine Convention held March 25, 2017, at Curtis. The award recipient is judged on the basis of years of outstanding service and leadership to the American Legion Family. She is the first Auxiliary member to receive the citation and the Cornerstone Pin --- and a traveling trophy which will be displayed at her home unit/post until the next recipient is named.

JoAnn has been a member

of American Legion Auxiliary Unit #318 of Palisade since 1985, and joined on the service of her late husband, Harley Ward, who served in World War II. Her leadership activities have ranged from the unit, district, and department level where she served as Department President in 2013-2014 with her theme being “Soaring Into Service.” She has also served at several regional conferences, held a national office, and attended the national conventions from 1998 thru 2016. She has also been an active member of her church,

the Palisade community, and Hitchcock County.

Department President Debra Albers and Chaplain Elizabeth Paes traveled to Independence, Missouri for the Truman Pilgrimage on May 7 and 8. Also attending was Robert Sadil, District 8 Commander, representing the Department of Nebraska. Debra and Robert placed the wreath at the Memorial.

Vicki Ozenbaugh presenting Daisha Hoffman with her Past President Pin.

Daisha Hoffman, Abbey Zoubek, Amber Kotas, Kendall Kasl, Megan Kotas at the Jr. Meeting.EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Coming to a Department Convention near you (Columbus, NE), June 23-25. Here’s your first chance to check out the 2018

Lottery Calendars, complete with updated prizes and dates. More information about sales incentives and contests will be

shared in Columbus. Help us make this a 100% sales year for this important fund-raiser for Department. Your Department Advisory Committee

Pictured are volunteers clipping coupons at the Table Rock Senior Center for Brown Hayes Auxiliary Unit 289. The coupons will be sent to the “Support Our Troops” program.

2017-2018 CENTERPIECE AND TRAY FAVOR ASSIGNMENTS GI V.A. Med Center GI Veterans Home Bellevue Eastern NE Norfolk VA Home Western NE Home Western NE Home Omaha Med Center 10 Cntrpc 215 Tray Fav VA Home 24 Cntrpc 20 Cntrpc 7 Cntrpc 90 Tray Fav 75 Tray FavJune ............ #171 Milford ......... #209 Franklin ....... #273 Brainard ..........#307 So. Sioux City .......#40 Grant .............. #40 Grant .............#146 Rising CityJuly ............. #294 Hallam .......... #218 Exeter .......... #243 Plymouth ........#283 Platte Center ..........#10 Morrill ............ 2016 Girls State ...2016 Girls StateAugust ........ #290 Elmwood ...... District 11 Jrs. ....... #154 Blair ................#273 Brainard .................#7 Alliance ............ #7 Alliance ...........#235 UnionSeptember .. #290 Elmwood ...... #160 Polk.............. #3 Lincoln ...............#302 Leigh .....................#301 Dalton ........... 2016 Girls State ...#243 PlymouthOctober ....... #19 York ................ #225 Eddyville ..... #266 Bennington .....#283 Platte Center ..........#17 Sidney ............ #17 Sidney ...........#222 Shubert November ... #257 Eustis ............ #225 Eddyville ..... #294 Hallam ............#84 Columbus ................#301 Dalton ........... #301 Dalton .........#222 Shubert December ... #294 Hallam .......... #218 Exeter .......... #32 Papillion ...........#128 Crofton ..................#7 Alliance ............ #7 Alliance ...........2016 Girls StateJanuary ................................................................................................................................................#7 Alliance ............ #7 Alliance ..........................................February ..................................... # 96 Arapahoe .............................................................................................................................................................................March ......... # 126 Broken bow ................................ #371 Valparaiso ...........................................................................................................................................April ........................................... #141 Hampton ............................................................................................................................................................................May ............ #19 York .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................June ............................................ # 310 Gibbon ....... # 288 Farnam ...................................................# 288 Farnam .....................................................................Service to Veterans Chairwoman: Melody Sanna Ph: (308) 377-2716 - Email: espresso@daltontel.net

AMERICANISM AND YOUAs we are winding down this Auxiliary year, do you recall my

first article and what I asked you to do? If you answered “what does Americanism mean to me” and to “connect the nine smiley faces by thinking outside the box,” then you earn a star! It has been a busy year for everyone, but I hope you and your unit have promoted Americanism at every opportunity possible. My year-end report in the Convention Annual will give you the data on how Nebraska units did overall in Americanism.

The hot topic this year in Americanism was the theme for the Americanism essay. I’ve heard from many, many units on how difficult it was. That was no surprise to me, as I forewarned everyone about it from the get go. To clarify --- the theme is selected at the National level, not by the Americanism chairman in each state. Remember, it is a National contest; so all students across this great country of ours write on the same theme. As I’ve told many, I will share in my report to Northwest Division Americanism chairman the comments I’ve received.

Despite the difficulty of the theme, I am pleased to report that I received 76 essays with entries in each of the six classes. Yes, that number is down in comparison to other years; but there were some excellent, well-thought-out essays to judge. I had four judges --- myself; two other ladies, and one gentleman. All have a teaching background. Congratulations to this year’s winners:Class I - first - Patrick Semple-Garvin, Jackson Unit #175; second - Mikalister Anderson, Shickley Unit #164; third - Jade Nun, Morse Bluff Unit #340.Class II - first - Tessa Hulburt, Rushville Unit #161; second - Madelyn McShane, Morse Bluff Unit #340; third - Amelia Hoffman, Spencer Unit #78.Class III - first - Cara Dvorak, Howells Unit #155; second - Keenan Dicksen, Davenport Unit #335; third - Brenna Haag, Rushville Unit #161.Class IV - first - Shay Nelson, Spencer Unit #78; second - Abbigail Hotz, Niobrara Unit #224; third - Brenda Rasmussen, Plainview Unit #148.Class V - first - Shelby Smith, Scotia Unit #150; second - Sarah Prohaska, Morse Bluff Unit #340; third - Logan Gilchrist, Rushville Unit #161.Class VI - first - Nate Rask, Rushville Unit #161; second - Sarah Sanchez, Jackson Unit #175.

Thanks to the units that submitted essays and “job well done” to all the students who wrote an essay. In closing, I’d like to share Teddy Roosevelt’s definition of Americanism. “Americanism means the virtues of courage, honor, justice, truth, sincerity, and hardihood --- the virtues that made America.” May those virtues continue to make America great!

Vicki OzenbaughAmericanism Chr.

17TH ANNUALMIRACLE MILES

FOR KIDSWALK-A-THON

Sponsored byAmerican Legion Post 27

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 27

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 27

Legion RidersBeatrice, Nebraska

Come join usJune 10, 2017 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.Check-in, Registration,

RefreshmentsVeteran’s Club • 701 Dorsey St10:00 a.m. Walk-A-Thon

3 Miles or whatever is possible For additional information or to send donations, please contact

Marian Melcher at (402) 239-0746

1114 So 6thBeatrice, NE 68310

Children and Youth Chairman

Crete Unit #147 delivered 10 centerpieces to the Grand Island Veterans Home for May. Pictured are Paula Valenta and Gerry Johnson along with Bill Fullmer, who is a resident of the home. A variety of spring f lowers, along with an American Flag, made up the colorful bouquets and carried out the theme of “April Showers Bring May Flowers.”

HAY SPRINGS UNIT 239 PRESENTS CHECKHay Springs Unit 239 was

proud to present a check for $600.00 to the veterans in Hot Springs, South Dakota for their Healing Arts Programming. Recreational Therapists Mary Culberston and Alan Cisneros were on hand to accept the check.

Several members of the unit visited the VA in Hot Springs in June and were able to take a tour of their facility and meet Recreational Assistant Alan Cisneros. Through the tour and visiting with Alan, members realized what a difference recreational therapy means to the men and women veterans while they are at the domiciliary to assist in their treatment and healing through teaching positive free-time skills that support personal

recover y-based l i festyles. Budgets are never big enough to cover all the goals the recreational therapists have in mind, so the Hay Springs Auxiliary unit decided to have a Popcorn Fund Raiser featuring Double K Popcorn from Valentine. The response from the community was wonderful. $500.00 was raised from the popcorn sales, and $100.00 was generously donated by the Security First Bank for the veterans.

T han k you to a l l who purchased popcorn or donated so generously to our veterans! We give a Shout Out to other Auxiliary units and challenge them to match or surpass our fund raising!! We all can make a difference for our veterans.

Pictured (l to r) Lynn Popp, Unit 239; Alan Cisneros, Mary Culbertson, and Teri Hunzeker, Unit 239

Ann Trail’s Adopt-A-Chaplain project of sending “We Care” packages to American servicemen and women serving in the Middle East is in its 10th year. Over 1,200 packages have been sent. Ann is known as “Grannie Anne” to the military members who receive the packages. She gathers the donations from The American Legion family members and the community. Packing parties are held to prepare the items for shipping so they arrive by Christmas. She donates her time and resources to show appreciation of the soldiers’ and sailors’ service and sacrifice.

Niobrara Unit 224 placed this display in the town mall. The display includes a silhouette of a praying soldier, a, poppy wreath, and the story of the poppy. Pictured L-R are Jane Olson, Kathy Meier, and Sharon Scott

SHUBERT AUXILIARY CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY

The Shubert Auxiliary Unit #222 celebrated the American Legion’s 98th Birthday with Legion members, family, and friends on Sunday, March 19th, at the Legion Building. The Pledge of Allegiance, welcome by Vice President Linda Patchen, and a prayer given by Vicki Beilke was followed with a potluck supper. Following the meal, speaker Jim Davidson (County Commissioner and Legion member from Falls City) gave an informative talk about what the County Veterans Department has to offer our veterans --- and thanked the Auxiliary for all they do.

Certificates were presented to Legion members with 25 or more years of continuous membership by Auxiliary Vice President Linda Patchen and Jr. Auxiliary member Addy Maddox. (pictured)

EDITOR’S NOTE Please send articles and pictures for future editions of “The Star”

to Lorene Bartos, Editor, 7441 San Mateo Lane, Lincoln, NE 68516 or

email to: ALATheStarNE@yahoo.com.

Send photos jpg as attachments. Materials for the next issue need to

be submitted by June 10, 2017.

NOTE: You may have received or be receiving a mailing from The Hartford regarding their new Hartford’s Rewards Accident Insurance Plan. If you have questions, direct them to the ALA Plan Administrator at the following number: 844-363-1726.

CALENDARJUNE Cornhusker Girls State K Department Convention K4-10 American Legion Auxiliary Cornhusker Girls State - UNL Campus K 10 Deadline for articles for July/August issue of “The Star” K 14 Flag Day - Fly your Flag K 18 Father’s Day K 22 DEC Meeting - 10 a.m. K 22-25 Department Convention, Ramada Inn & Conference Center Columbus KJULY 4 Independence Day - Department Headquarters Closed K 22-29 Girls Nation - Washington, DC K AUGUST 18-24, 2017 National Convention - Reno, Nevada

Louisville Auxiliary Unit 353 members Rita Nickolson (L) and Patsy Sawyer served the Juice Cart at the Lincoln Veterans Hospital in March.

Illa Anders ( pictured) has been a member of Bertrand Unit 67 for 51 years, serving as president for over 30 years. Illa was a Girls State Mom for two years in the early 70s, served as Girls State Vice President, and attended several district and state conventions. She held many of the units’ meetings in her store --- The Smithfield Emporium --- and promoted membership every year. The highlights of her yearly activities were the Memorial Day Program and the Christmas Party with the American Legion members.

Members of the Hain Flynn Auxiliary Unit 154 of Blair proudly show off their “PROUD MEMBER” signs at their April 2017 meeting.

Bill Dowling Unit 12 American Legion Auxiliary member Betty Staal, of Chadron, recently received the “Shining Star” award for her dedication and commitment to the American Legion Auxiliary.

NEBRASKA PROUDNational Education Chairman

Norma Tramm and Education Program Coordinator Kristen Hinshaw notified the Department that Nebraska had two national scholarship recipients. We are proud of the dedication and service our recipients have given to our organization and to our veterans.

Emma Thede was sponsored by Wilber Unit 101, where she is a member. She received a $5,000 Spirit of Youth Scholarship. Emma served as District 11 Honorary Junior President and as Department Honorary Junior Vice President --- as well as other officer positions.

She received the Ooutstanding Cadet Award at the end of the 2016 Junior Law Cadet Program. Emma will attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Sydney Long, an ALA Junior member, was sponsored by Newman Grove Unit 73. She received a $5,000 Children of Warriors Scholarship. Sydney has volunteered in excess of 180 hours of service on behalf of our veterans at the Lincoln VA --- and through the DAV. She was a

2016 delegate to Cornhusker Girls State. Sydney will attend San Diego State University.

Both of these young women were ecstatic when they learned they were recipients. They were most gracious in sharing their appreciation in being given the oppor tunity to represent the Department of Nebraska ALA.

Sharon BrozovskyEducation Chairman

AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY DEPARTMENT OF NEBRASKAMemberships Received through May 11, 2017

DIST DIST DISTRICT 2017 2017 SR 2017 JR 2017 PERCENT Place # PRESIDENT GOAL Paid Paid Members % 1st 3 Adeline Hanel 1154 925 129 1054 91.33% 2nd 9 Lois Reiners 183 557 92 649 91.28% 3rd 2 Marlene Meyer 55 1874 239 2113 91.20% 4th 12 Jody Schmale 487 1656 179 1835 91.02% 5th 11 Judy Bespalec 274 1968 329 2297 90.83% 6th 7 Ann Sabata 865 1773 233 2006 90.77% 7th 5 Diane Donnelly 914 752 77 829 90.70% 8th 10 Nancy Griffiths 153 1242 195 1437 90.43% 9th 1 Bonnie Finley 1705 1311 230 1541 90.38% 10th 8 Sally Johnson 301 1755 203 1958 89.90% 11th 6 Vicki Cyboron 31 2278 294 2572 89.28% 12th 13 Ruth Heitbrink 797 610 101 711 89.21% 13th 4 Donna Bratt 263 645 90 735 87.71% DEPT. 500 paid 34 DEPARTMENT GOAL 21839 17346 2391 19769 90.522%

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW? When you planted your

garden, you selected the best plants and seeds and put them in acceptable soil --- soil that would enrich and nurture those fragile plants. Some needed to be replaced later and additional new plants added to meet your family’s needs. What is missing? Rain!!

Your rain barrel needs to be 100% full to achieve a great outcome of a bountiful garden. Congratulations to all of you who have grown productive units making it Rain Members and enriching the Legion family while providing a spirit-of-goodwill environment. Our veterans and youth will benefit, and you will have kept your promise.

For the units whose “garden” didn’t grow as well, provide more Rain, nurture existing

members, and provide a friendly atmosphere. Everyone, do no stop working on those 2017 unpaid dues and recruiting new members.

Added note: This will be my final Star article as Department Membership Chair. Thank you all for mentoring, participating, working hard, putting up with crazy ideas, your many “crab” gifts, and --- most importantly --- your friendship. Barbie

Making it Rain Members in a NO CRAB ZONE!!

Barbie MeyersMembership Chair

Top Ten Districts May 5, 2017

FROM THE VICE PRESIDENTAs members of the American

Legion Auxiliary, we all share a common link of having an immediate family member who served in the military during wartime. We belong because we honor their service and sacrifice, and we advocate for the care and concerns of veterans from all wars and their families. We promote patriotism in our communities and our children and youth. We are

volunteers with a mission. Many members have not had the

opportunity to attend a meeting or help with an activity, but that does not make their membership any less important to their unit. As of now, Nebraska’s membership goal has not been reached this year; and the year is half over. If you have overlooked remitting your dues, please take the time to do so now. If you are contemplating letting your

membership lapse, please consider the value it holds for your unit in supporting the programs that we implement.

Join with other members from across the state at Department Convention in Columbus June 22 – 25 to share in the celebration of our accomplishments.

Kathy MazurVice-President

WOLBACH HOSTS YOUTH ACTIVITIESOn April 21st and 22nd, the

Wolbach American Legion and Auxiliary hosted a variety of youth activities to recognize Children and Youth Month.

12 teens attended a card and pizza party on Friday evening with some playing spoons. Prize winners for pitch were Daniel Wadsworth, Larista Barner, and Tarryn Barr. Prizewinners for spoons were Sarah and Lukas Pelc. A door prize was given to Brylee Barr. Helping at the event were Marilyn Prentice, Rogene Vopat, and Jan Steenson. Layne Studley delivered the pizza, and popcorn with M&M’s was donated by Rogene Vopat.

On Saturday morning, the Legion and Auxiliary hosted a variety of activities for children age 4 up to 6th grade. The kids had fun decorating pins, painting sun catchers, playing war, and playing other games. Bingo was played prior to a hot dog lunch,

with everyone winning at least one game.

Following lunch, names were drawn for several prizes. Winning prizes were Dale Barr, Ty Klein, Cayle Grossart, Karsyn Wold, Craytyn Wagner, and Brynley Wold.

Before leaving, all participants were given a frozen pop ice and one more prize from the bingo prize table.

According to Unit President Jan Steenson, all children attending had a good time and enjoyed lunch. Jr. Auxiliary members helping with activities were Karleen Kolar, Colby Grossart, Taya Kolar, and foreign exchange student Lenia Kesore. Auxiliary members helping were Vonnie Barr, Gayle Grossart, Marilyn Prentice, Jan Steenson, and Rogene Vopat. Rhonda Allen helped clean up, and Donna Rother donated the hot dogs.

Friday night activitySaturday night activity

MUSIC I don’t k now

about all of you, but June is one of my favorite months.

Mostly, I think mostly June is one of my favorite months because it’s a time where since I’ve started teaching I can get organized for the next school year and take classes to strengthen my teaching. June is also one of my favorite months because of how beautiful summertime is. The weather is warmer, the sun seems shinier, and --- let’s face it

--- it’s vacation season. And, who doesn’t love a good vacation?

While we’re all basking in the summertime glow, we can’t forget that we still have work to do within our units. Music is a great way to liven up the spirit of our meetings when we might rather be outside partaking in all of our favorite summer activities. I challenge you to make a list of your favorite patriotic songs this month and have a sing-along or listen-along (if singing isn’t your thing) to add a little musical fun. Enjoy bringing music alive in the month of June!Fellowship: You Are My Sunshine (In Honor of Father’s Day June 18)Hymn: God Bless AmericaPatriotic: You’re a Grand Old Flag (In Commemoration of Flag Day June 14)

Maureen Beck Music Chairman

1. D3 90.99%2. D2 90.94%3. D9 90.86%4. D11 90.83%5. D7 90.77%

6. D5 90.70%7. D12 90.48%8. D10 90.37%9. D1 90.26%10. D4 89.73%

Apr 1 . . . . . . . . Rose Sheehy . . . . . . . . . . Omaha ............................... 50.00Apr 2 . . . . . . . . Randy Fendrich. . . . . . . . Lindwood ........................... 75.00Apr 3 . . . . . . . . Doris Huber. . . . . . . . . . . Sutton ................................. 50.00Apr 4 . . . . . . . . Legion Post 82 . . . . . . . . Wahoo ................................ 50.00Apr 5 . . . . . . . . Elaine Sluti . . . . . . . . . . . Kearney.............................. 50.00Apr 6 . . . . . . . . AlA Unit 318. . . . . . . . . . Palisade .............................. 50.00Apr 7 . . . . . . . . Fred Craigie . . . . . . . . . . Lincoln ............................... 50.00Apr 8 . . . . . . . . Aaron Smith . . . . . . . . . . Orchard .............................. 50.00Apr 9 . . . . . . . . Jeremy Doyen . . . . . . . . . Glenvil ............................... 75.00Apr 10 . . . . . . . Tony Knight . . . . . . . . . . Fort Calhoun ...................... 50.00Apr 11 . . . . . . . Janet Todd . . . . . . . . . . . . Brunswick ......................... 50.00Apr 12, . . . . . . . Davenport ALA. . . . . . . . Davenport .......................... 50.00Apr 13 . . . . . . . Patty Post . . . . . . . . . . . . Palisade .............................. 50.00Apr 14 . . . . . . . Marlene Meyer . . . . . . . . Creighton .......................... 50.00Apr 15 . . . . . . . ALA Unit 12 . . . . . . . . . . Chadron ............................. 50.00Apr 16 . . . . . . . Lynne Wild . . . . . . . . . . . Lincoln ............................... 100.00Apr 17 . . . . . . . Nonie rogers . . . . . . . . . . Craig ................................. 50.00Apr 18 . . . . . . . Melvin Haba . . . . . . . . . . Lawrence ........................... 50.00Apr 19 . . . . . . . Tom Costello. . . . . . . . . . Omaha .............................. 50.00Apr 20 . . . . . . . Alan Kemp . . . . . . . . . . . Niobrara ............................. 50.00Apr 21 . . . . . . . Robert Schneider. . . . . . . Aurora ................................ 50.00Apr 22 . . . . . . . Kyle Mitchell . . . . . . . . . Castle Pines, CO ................ 100.00Apr 23 . . . . . . . Bennington ALA #266 . . Bennington ........................ 75.00Apr 24 . . . . . . . Nathan Deke . . . . . . . . . . DeWitt ............................... 50.00Apr 25 . . . . . . . Adeline Hanel . . . . . . . . . West Point .......................... 50.00Apr 26 . . . . . . . Jessie Kiser . . . . . . . . . . . Dannebrog ......................... 50.00Apr 27 . . . . . . . Patty Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . Fremont ............................. 50.00Apr 28 . . . . . . . Sally Johnson . . . . . . . . . Omaha ............................... 50.00Apr 29 . . . . . . . Linda Bruns. . . . . . . . . . . Sutton ................................ 50.00Apr 30 . . . . . . . Phyllis Duenk . . . . . . . . . Cortland ............................. 75.00May 1 . . . . . . . . ALA Unit 267 . . . . . . . . . Clearwater.......................... 50.00May 2 . . . . . . . . Beverly Hofsheier . . . . . . Omaha .............................. 50.00May 3 . . . . . . . . Bill McNamara . . . . . . . . Beemer ............................... 50.00May 4 . . . . . . . . Tommy Schmidt . . . . . . . Curtis ................................ 50.00May 5 . . . . . . . . Carol Hefner . . . . . . . . . . Coleridge ........................... 50.00May 6 . . . . . . . . Charles Steinkamp . . . . . Lincoln .............................. 50.00May 7 . . . . . . . . Toni Wright . . . . . . . . . . . Newcastle .......................... 75.00May 8 . . . . . . . . Izella Ann Hedell . . . . . . Arlington ........................... 50.00May 9 . . . . . . . . Sue Tillemans . . . . . . . . . Gibbon ............................... 50.00May 10 . . . . . . . Julie Addison. . . . . . . . . . Wayne ................................ 50.00May 11 . . . . . . . Rosealie Kleinschmidt . . Shickley ............................. 50.00May 12 . . . . . . . Diane Mooney. . . . . . . . . Utica .................................. 50.00May 13 . . . . . . . Mary Queen . . . . . . . . . . Ft Calhoun ......................... 50.00May 14 . . . . . . . Bennington ALA #266 . . Bennington ........................ 200.00May 15 . . . . . . . ALA Unit 126 . . . . . . . . . Broken Bow ....................... 50.00May 16 . . . . . . . Nancy Jensen . . . . . . . . . Windside ............................ 50.00May 17 . . . . . . . Mary Swenson . . . . . . . . Norfolk .............................. 50.00May 18 . . . . . . . Francis B. Pavel . . . . . . . Waverly .............................. 50.00May 19 . . . . . . . Gary Vesely . . . . . . . . . . . Verdigre ............................. 50.00May 20 . . . . . . . Robin Haupt . . . . . . . . . . Sidney ................................ 100.00May 21 . . . . . . . Daryl Harrison . . . . . . . . Thurston ............................. 75.00May 22 . . . . . . . Doris Dejonge . . . . . . . . . Humboldt ........................... 50.00May 23 . . . . . . . Michelle Earnest . . . . . . . Lincoln .............................. 50.00May 24 . . . . . . . Hershey ALA 279 . . . . . . North Platte ........................ 50.00May 25 . . . . . . . Barb O’Keefe . . . . . . . . . Omaha .............................. 50.00May 26 . . . . . . . Richard A Baxter. . . . . . . Palisade .............................. 50.00May 27 . . . . . . . Frank Welchert . . . . . . . . Fort Calhoun ...................... 50.00May 28 . . . . . . . Molly Nagel . . . . . . . . . . Brownville ......................... 75.00May 29 . . . . . . . Rick Gleason. . . . . . . . . . Palisade .............................. 125.00May 30 . . . . . . . Charlie Williams . . . . . . . Ashland .............................. 50.00May 31 . . . . . . . Mary Ann Osmera. . . . . . Weston ............................... 50.00

CONGRATULATIONS, LOTTERY WINNERS!

In MemoriamNotices received

March 10, 2017 to May 10, 2017

Myrna C Koopman . . . . . Omaha . . . . . . . . .1Virginia R Neal . . . . . . . . Lincoln . . . . . . . . . .3Erma F Rohla . . . . . . . . . Lincoln . . . . . . . . . .3Rose M Hefner . . . . . . . . Lincoln . . . . . . . . . .3Lu Jean A Bonge . . . . . . Lincoln . . . . . . . . . .3Celestine Loseke . . . . . . Lincoln . . . . . . . . . .3Loretta Foreman . . . Central City . . . . . . . . . .6Vyvienne Juzenas . . . . . Alliance . . . . . . . . . .7Mildred Brown . . . Nebraska City . . . . . . . . . .8Lorraine Hucke . . . . Hemingford . . . . . . . . . .9Sandra K . Carpenter . . . . Morrill . . . . . . . . 10Bianca Ballweg . . . . . . Hastings . . . . . . . . 11Carmen Cook . . . . . . . Chadron . . . . . . . . 12Terry L Burks . . . . . . . . Chadron . . . . . . . . 12Josephine Hulshizer . . . Chadron . . . . . . . . 12Alice M Wagner . . . . . . Chadron . . . . . . . . 12Dorothy Shamburg . . . Tekamah . . . . . . . . 15Elizabeth Hatfield . . . . . Norfolk . . . . . . . . 16Joan A . Stover . . . . . . . . Norfolk . . . . . . . . 16Esther Henke . . . . . . . . . . Sidney . . . . . . . . 17Marjorie E McClatchey . . . . .York . . . . . . . . 19Marlene Schlender . . . . . . .York . . . . . . . . 19Connie Hoagland . . . . . Fairmont . . . . . . . .21Cindy Ann Henrichs . . . .Fairbury . . . . . . . . 24Mildred Carmichael . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Hilda Dieckhoff . . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Donna Milke . . . . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Helen Schneider . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Irene Sokolik . . . . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Delores Thornburg . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Kathryn Traeger . . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Mildred Kotas . . . . . . . .Beatrice . . . . . . . .27Alice Valaika . . . . . . . . . Gordon . . . . . . . .34JoAnn Hauck . . . . . . . . . . Gering . . . . . . . .36Freda Augustyn . . . . . . . . . . Ord . . . . . . . .38Roberta Wolff . . . . . . . . . Aurora . . . . . . . .42Joyce Petersen . . . . . . . . . Utica . . . . . . . .49Aloha Pozehl . . . . . . . . . . . Utica . . . . . . . .49Esther Sterner . . . . . . . . . Merna . . . . . . . .50Carol K Williams . . . . . .Kearney . . . . . . . .52Ruth A Jones . . . . . . . . .Kearney . . . . . . . .52Darleen J Walker . . Grand Island . . . . . . . .53Rheita M Schmer . . Grand Island . . . . . . . .53Marianne Ridder . . . . . Callaway . . . . . . . .58Gina M Street . . . . . . . Callaway . . . . . . . .58Teri L Sharkey . . . . . . . . . Sutton . . . . . . . .61Martha Bowers . . . . Benkelman . . . . . . . .65Virginia Opocensky Newman Grove . . . . .73Shirley Hilkemeier . . . Creighton . . . . . . . . 74Margarett A Landholm . . Bristow . . . . . . . .76Marion Nelson . . . . . . . . Bristow . . . . . . . .76Teresa L Percival . . . . Ainsworth . . . . . . . .79Helen Breunig . . . . . . . . .Wahoo . . . . . . . .82Marjorie Harris . . . . . . . .Wahoo . . . . . . . .82Phyllis Wagner . . . . . . . . .Wahoo . . . . . . . .82Marian M Lloyd . . . . . Columbus . . . . . . . .84Dona Verzal . . . . . . . . . Atkinson . . . . . . . .86Shirley Bennett . . . . Clay Center . . . . . . . .87Beverly M Turner . . . Clay Center . . . . . . . .87Helen E Schroder . . . Clay Center . . . . . . . .87Frances Craven . . . . . . . Osceola . . . . . . . .91Mary J Page . . . . . . . . . Osceola . . . . . . . .91Mavis Rowan . . . . . . . . . Osceola . . . . . . . .91Dorothy Miller . . . . . . . . Minden . . . . . . . .94Beverly Nielsen . . . . . . . . Homer . . . . . . . .97Irene Heink . . . . . . . . . Syracuse . . . . . . 100Shirley Miller . . . . . . . . Syracuse . . . . . . 100Norma Lafollette . . . . . Syracuse . . . . . . 100Sandra L Smith . . . . . . . . Wilber . . . . . . 101Lila Corman . . . . . . . . . Superior . . . . . . 103Delores James . . . . . . . . Mullen . . . . . . 109Sue Yerger . . . . . . . . . .Coleridge . . . . . . 114Mary Shald . . . . . . . . . . . Stuart . . . . . . 115Helen Ramm . . . . . . . . . . Stuart . . . . . . 115Jean M Lowe . . . . . . . . . . Stuart . . . . . . 115Linnie Dunn . . . . . . . . . . . . Alma . . . . . . 118Maxine Meyer . . . . . . . . .St Paul . . . . . . 119Setha E Zimbelman . . . . .St Paul . . . . . . 119Eao M Carson . . . . . . . . .St Paul . . . . . . 119Alvina J . Dostal . . . . . . . . Dodge . . . . . . 122Georgia Peterson . . . . . . Bassett . . . . . . 123Myrldean Govier . . .Broken Bow . . . . . . 126Ardes Slagle . . . . . .Broken Bow . . . . . . 126Shirley Mischke . . . . . . . Crofton . . . . . . 128Catherine Bockholt . . . . Crofton . . . . . . 128Lillian B Heger . . . . . . . . Crofton . . . . . . 128Wilma Kaeding . . . . . . . Ashland . . . . . . 129Dorothy Laughlin . . . . . . Ashland . . . . . . 129Gertrude C Williams . . . . Ashland . . . . . . 129Fern Hauschild . . . . . . . Ashland . . . . . . 129Lois Stapleton . . . . . . . . . . Allen . . . . . . 131Sally Kjelson . . . . . . Stromsburg . . . . . . 132Irene Fredrickson . . Stromsburg . . . . . . 132Doris Seaberg . . . . . Stromsburg . . . . . . 132Betty J Corbit . . . . . Stromsburg . . . . . . 132Betty Erdman . . . . . .Springfield . . . . . . 143Evelyn Andersen . . . . .Plainview . . . . . . 148Margaret Bowman . . . . Fullerton . . . . . . 151Margaret Furby . . . . . . Fullerton . . . . . . 151Elaine Lee . . . . . . . . . . Fullerton . . . . . . 151Betty L Baumert . . . . . . . . Blair . . . . . . 154Maxine Baumert . . . . . . Howells . . . . . . 155Arlene Janata . . . . . . . . Howells . . . . . . 155Mildred Polodna . . . . . . . Howells . . . . . . 155Alice Sindelar . . . . . . . . Howells . . . . . . 155Marcella Telecky . . . . . . Howells . . . . . . 155Wilma Hartford . . . Cedar Bluffs . . . . . . 158JoLene M . Siebels . Cedar Bluffs . . . . . . 158Joyce Giese . . . . . . . . . . Beemer . . . . . . 159Lyda Hansen . . . . . . . . . Beemer . . . . . . 159

THE CHAPLAIN’S CORNER A time to weep, and a time to

laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance; Ecclesiastes 3:4

This is the time of year when we gather to celebrate all the work done for our veterans throughout the state this year. This year, we gather in Columbus to hear about the hours and hours of work that have been reported to the chairmen.

This year, there will be tears as we say good-bye to our Secretary/Treasurer, Jacki O’Neill. We will be sad to see her leave the position, but happy that Jacki will start a new journey in her life (of leisure).

We will laugh as we enjoy the company of the members we have not seen for many months. There

will be pictures of grandchildren, weddings, and graduations. We will meet new members, have lunch meetings with some, and some fun in the hospitality rooms.

We have mourned the passing of two of our Past Department Presidents --- Margie Swanson and Shirley Babcock. We mourn also all the members of our units whose dedication and talents we greatly miss.

And we will dance as we hear of the good works done through this year. We will hear all the hours spent on Dollar Days, bingo games, community events, gift shops, and other events too numerous to mention. We will dance as we install new department leaders and wish

them well in the coming year. And we will go home to start another year helping our veterans. Remember: “Service, Not Self.”

Loving Father, we come to You with hope in our hearts. We pray that we use the time You give us wisely. We pray we remember that balance is necessary to live our lives to the fullest. Help us to know that when we weep and mourn, the laughter and dancing will follow. Remind us that when there is chaos and confusion we come to You for grace and mercy. We pray these things in Your Holy Name. Amen

Elizabeth Paes, Department Chaplain

2017 NEBRASKA ALA DEPARTMENT CONVENTION RAMADA INN & CONFERENCE CENTER

COLUMBUS, NEBRASKA • JUNE 22 – 25, 2017This schedule is subject to change

Wednesday, June 228:00 - 9:00 p.m. • Constitution and Bylaws meeting • Room 101

Thursday, June 23rd8:30 - 9:30 • ALA DEC to review agenda • Ballroom 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. • ALA DEC Call to Order - Department President Debra Albers • Introductions • Ballroom 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. • Registration Committee • Ballroom Noon - 6:00 p.m • ALA Registration Open • Outside Ballroom1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. • ALA DEC • Ballroom 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Constitution & Bylaws • Ballroom

All meetings will be held in Ballroom unless otherwise noted.Noon: History, Publicity and Prayer books, Poppy Posters, Poppy Centerpieces and Corsages checked in at registration.

Friday, June 23th 7:45 a.m. • Sgt. at Arms on site – Teresa Kauth / Melissa Steinle8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. • ALA Registration Continues • Outside Ballroom8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. • ALA Formal Opening and General • Ballroom Reports of the Department Officers • Department Chairmen reports: 11:45 a.m. • Recess for Lunch

Friday, June 23th - 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. American Legion Family Session & Memorial Service • Courtyard

2:45 p.m. • Auxiliary Session Reconvenes Home and Medical Center Panel Discussion3:30 p.m. • Department Special Commiteee reports Advisory Committee … JoAnn Ward, Chairman Finance/ Publication Committee… Donna Hatfield, Chairman Department Chairmen Report Introductions of Candidates Preparations for elections5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. • District Caucus5:30 p.m. • Recess5:45 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Nominating Committee meeting7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. • Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committee Meeting Brief reports from facilities Everyone is welcome to attend

American Legion Auxiliary Saturday Morning June 25th 7:45 a.m. • Sgt. at Arms on site8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. • ALA Registration Continues • Outside Ballroom8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. • Auxiliary Session Reconvenes 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. • Gold Star Recognition Memorial Tributes: Margie Swanson Shirley Babcock

CHILDREN & YOUTH LUNCHEONNOON - 2:00 P.M. VALENTINOS, 3100 23RD ST, COLUMBUS, NE 68601

SATURDAY AFTERNOON ~ JUNE 25th2:30 P.M. - 4:00 P.M.

SPECIAL GUESTS’ AND CANDIDATES’ RECEPTIONNorthwestern Division National Vice - President

Virginia NelsenNebraska Department Secretary/ Treasurer

Jacki O’Neill 2006-2017Candidates for 2017-2018 Department Offices

Everyone is invited to this reception

SundaySunday 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. • American Legion Family Joint Religious Worship Service – Ballroom

American Legion Auxiliary Sunday, June 25th Morning Session9:00 a.m. • Musical Prelude9:15 a.m. • Final Convention Session9:30 a.m. • Elections: Alternates to Delegates to National Convention10:00 a.m. • Department Chairman Reports cont… Final Report of Constitution & Bylaws ChairmanPlease stay for the installation10:30 a.m. • Installation of Officers

CLOSING OF 2017 DEPARTMENT CONVENTIONFollowing the installation of officers and the adjournment of 2017 Department Convention, the Post-Department Executive Committee meets along with protential delegates and alternates to 2017 National Convention in Reno, Nevada

Stephanie Stetson . . . . Rushville . . . . . . 161Frances Colvin . . . . .North Platte . . . . . . 163Paula R Windhorst . .North Platte . . . . . . 163Patricia Sexton . . . .North Platte . . . . . . 163Ra Vae Bowman . . . . . . Bruning . . . . . . 166Delphine Carbaugh . . . . Bruning . . . . . . 166Iola Stout . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tilden . . . . . . 170Norma Schmoldt . . . . . . . Tilden . . . . . . 170N Jean Nelson . . . . . . . . . Tilden . . . . . . 170Nancy A Pedersen . . . . .Jackson . . . . . . 175De Loris Zimmer Beaver Crossing . . . . . . 178Denelda Edwards . . . . . . Hardy . . . . . . 179Lorene Saathoff . . . . . . . Hebron . . . . . . 180Mary Gutherless . . . . . . . Friend . . . . . . 183Bobbette Backes . . . . . . Orleans . . . . . . 184Sharon Stiegemeier . . . . Harvard . . . . . . 185Maxine McCutchan . . . . .Nelson . . . . . . 187Lois Engdahl . . . . . . . . . Uehling . . . . . . 196Muriel Rabe . . . . . . . . . . Uehling . . . . . . 196Marcella Welke . . . . Wood Lake . . . . . .202Hazel G Jameson . . . . . .Franklin . . . . . .209Carolyn Barber . . . . . . .Franklin . . . . . .209Mildred Bergstrom . . . . . . Ewing . . . . . . 214Eleanor M Pratt . . . . . . . . Gretna . . . . . . 216Kay Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . Gretna . . . . . . 216Tess Moor . . . . . . . . . . . . Exeter . . . . . . 218Ina M Tichy . . . . . . . . . Niobrara . . . . . .224Shirley Babcock . . . . . . . . . Elgin . . . . . .229Darlene Chmelka . . . . . . .Malmo . . . . . .232Angela G Stander Weeping Water . . . . . .237Norma Lockhart . . . . Red Cloud . . . . . .238Alberta Pope . . . . . . . Red Cloud . . . . . .238Dorothy Hobbs . . . . . . Red Cloud . . . . . .238Betty L Bohrer . . . . . . Red Cloud . . . . . .238Marion Claussen . . .Hay Springs . . . . . .239Joan Heiting . . . . . .Hay Springs . . . . . .239Darlene Krejdl . . . . . . . . Milligan . . . . . .240Norma Jean Nadherny . . Milligan . . . . . .240Mary Halla . . . . . . . . . . .Ceresco . . . . . .244Marie Cochran . . . . . . . . Bartley . . . . . .245Marjorie Kronberg . . .Bloomfield . . . . . .249Bette A Jessen . . . . .Bloomfield . . . . . .249Eunice E Murray . . . .Bloomfield . . . . . .249Constance Hemphill . . . . Oconto . . . . . .250Mildred Waddel . . . . . . . Arcadia . . . . . .251Jeanne F Fells . . . . . . . . Arcadia . . . . . .251Alice L . Moormeier . . . Cortland . . . . . .253Dorothy Hampl . . . . . . . .Prague . . . . . .254Leah L Wahl . . . . . . . . .Western . . . . . .255Madeline Schmeeckle . . . Eustis . . . . . .257Esther Sedivy . . . . . . . .Verdigre . . . . . .259Lorene Oberhauser . . . . Lindsay . . . . . .261Mary L Fischer . . . . . . . Lindsay . . . . . .261Adele Boss . . . . . . .Silver Creek . . . . . .263Evelyn Hines . . . . . . . . Kenesaw . . . . . .268Joan Runyan . . . . . . . . Kenesaw . . . . . .268Dorothy Milner . . . . . . . . .Madrid . . . . . .271Elsie Dvorak . . . . . . . . Brainard . . . . . .273Catherine Andrew . . . . . Herman . . . . . . 274Margie Welsh . . . . . . . Danbury . . . . . .276Betty L . Stolte . . . . . . . . .Bennet . . . . . .280Gladys Detmer . . . . . . . . .Bennet . . . . . .280Darlene F Unger . . .Hayes Center . . . . . .287Delores Puhalla . . . . Table Rock . . . . . .289Goldie Hunzeker . . . Table Rock . . . . . .289Ruth Snook . . . . . . . Table Rock . . . . . .289Barbara Reisdorff . . . . . . Shelby . . . . . .296Doris Cermak . . . . . . . . . Shelby . . . . . .296Shirley Schepers . . . . . . Shelton . . . . . .297Peggy Banks-Fairbairn . Burwell . . . . . .298Patricia A Nietfeld . . . . . Burwell . . . . . .298Elizabeth L Seamann . . Spalding . . . . . .299Glenda L Deaver . . . . . . . Dalton . . . . . .301Lois M Dickenson . . . . . .Paxton . . . . . .303Shirley Boning . . . . . . . . Creston . . . . . .306Rose E Kapels . . . . . . . . Creston . . . . . .306Charlyne Snyder . . .South Sioux . . . . . .307Rosalie Schluckebier . . Palisade . . . . . . 318Jeanette A Hoffmann . . . . . Cody . . . . . . 319Evelyn Clements . . . . . .Riverton . . . . . .328Violet Miller . . . . . . . . . Carleton . . . . . .329Elsie Denich . . . . . South Omaha . . . . . .331Evelyn M Krcmarik South Omaha . . . . . .331Beverly Kovarik . . South Omaha . . . . . .331Pearl Dasovic . . . South Omaha . . . . . .331Esther A Sousa . . South Omaha . . . . . .331Hildegard Gamache South Omaha . . . . . .331Louvene L Medina South Omaha . . . . . .331Genevieve M Swatek South Omaha . . . . . .331Ilene Rickman . . . .Crab Orchard . . . . . .336Jean Trout . . . . . . .Crab Orchard . . . . . .336Glenda K Jacobsen McCool Junction . . .341Betty J Wolfe . . . . . . . . Havelock . . . . . .342Evelyn Winters . . . . . . . Indianola . . . . . .344Zella R Day . . . . . . . . . . . .Miller . . . . . .351Betty Bokenkamp . . . . . Deshler . . . . . .352Mary Terry . . . . . . . . . . Louisville . . . . . .353Phyllis I Cox . . . . . Pleasant Dale . . . . . .354Carol A Borgmann Pleasant Dale . . . . . .354Carol Svehla . . . . Pleasant Dale . . . . . .354Loretta West . . . . Pleasant Dale . . . . . .354Leona M Warnsholz . . . . Garland . . . . . .369Marlene Donahue . . . Valparaiso . . . . . .371LouAnn Ryan-Nordell . . Ralston . . . . . .373Faymone Betzer . . . . . . Ralston . . . . . .373Lynda K . Eitzen . . . . . . . .Millard . . . . . 374Geraldine V . Young . . . . . .Millard . . . . . 374