spring 2018 free state warrior 1 for god and country ...mdlegion.org/forms/fsw.pdf · spring 2018...

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VOLUME 54, NUMBER 3 BALTIMORE, MD. Summer 2018 Commander’s Message James P. Marchinke Commander, Department of Maryland FREE STATE WARRIOR For God And Country . . . A s this Legion year for administrative purposes comes to a close we must remember our commitment to the organization never ends. As your Commander my concentration has been and will always be in retaining and recruiting our force. I continued to state that without members we have no organization and the fewer members we have the less funding we can provide those in need. New member’s suggestions on how to make our organization operate is not always accepted by current members; give them a chance to show what they can offer. We need to change the Post’s environment; this is a fact, and who better to incorporate that change than the next generation of Legionnaires. When members are not recognized and are ignored they form their own organizations where they are accepted and we lose a valuable asset. June is community service month and Flag Day is the 14th of June. My project this year has been raising funds for Boys State which starts on June 17th, still time to donate to our youth for this vital endeavor. I enjoyed my year as Commander and will continue to assist in our missions in the future. I will always do my best for the betterment of the organization and the Veterans we serve. As this is my last Free State Warrior article as your Commander I would like to thank all for the support you have given to the Department throughout the year. Younger Legionnaires are stepping up and taking charge, mentor them to be successful, please. We cannot just let them take over without your valuable experiences and knowledge. Yours in Legion Service, James P. Marchinke Department of Maryland American Legion Commander A s we promised, the 100th Anniversary Pins are in and were introduced at the May DEC meeting in Oakland, MD. We have two different shapes for your preference (shown above). The pins will sell for $3.00/each. Also, don’t forget we still have our Commemorative Coin for sale at $10.00 each. Both the Coins and Pins will be on display and for sale at the Department Convention. You may purchase a set consisting of one (1) coin and both pins for $15.00. Our material for “Every Department has a Story,” was sent to National in February for printing. As of this writing, we are waiting on the finished product. Hopefully, the placemats will be received prior to our Department Convention in Ocean City so that they can be on display and distributed. 100th Anniversary As a reminder, our Second Department Centennial Pistol Raffle will begin in January 2019 and will be awarded at our July 2019 Convention in Ocean City, MD. A special thank you to all of the Committee Members for your work and travel during the year. It has been a pleasure serving with you on this Committee. Philip Dorsey, Chairman 100th Anniversary Committee A delegation from Maryland picked up the National Commander in Delaware and arrived in LaPlata, Southern Maryland. The following morning they went to Randolph Fury Post 170 for breakfast and held a membership forum on diversity. Following that they made a visit to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home where Director Sharon Murphy gave a tour of the facility. They then had lunch with and greeted the Veterans at the home. That evening Harry White Wilmer Post 82 in LaPlata hosted a fantastic Banquet for the National Commander joined by the Legion Family Leaders. The following morning Post 82 had breakfast before Adjutant Myers transported the National Commander to Pennsylvania. Pictures of the National Commanders visit can be found on their website: http://imageevents.com/nationalcommander National Commander visits Maryland Pictured above left to right: Detachment Commander David Hullihen, Department President Alta Glotfelty, National Commander Denise Rohan and Department Commander James Marchinke. Pictured below Charlotte Hall visit.

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Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 1

VOLUME 54, NUMBER 3 BALTIMORE, MD. Summer 2018

Commander’s MessageJames P. Marchinke Commander, Department of Maryland

FREE STATE WARRIORFor God And Country . . .

As this Legion year for administrative purposes comes to a close we must remember our commitment to the organization

never ends. As your Commander my concentration has been and will always be in retaining and recruiting our force. I continued to state that without members we have no organization and the fewer members we have the less funding we can provide those in need. New member’s suggestions on how to make our organization operate is not always accepted by current members; give them a chance to show what they can offer. We need to change the Post’s environment; this is a fact, and who better to incorporate that change than the next generation of Legionnaires. When members are not recognized and are ignored they form their own organizations where they are accepted and we lose a valuable asset. June is community service month and Flag Day is the 14th of June. My project this year has been raising funds for Boys State which starts on June 17th, still time to donate to our youth for this vital endeavor. I enjoyed my year as Commander and will continue to assist in our missions in the future. I will always do my best for the betterment of the organization and the Veterans we serve. As this is my last Free State Warrior article as your Commander I would like to thank all for the support you have given to the Department throughout the year. Younger Legionnaires are stepping up and taking charge, mentor them to be successful, please. We cannot just let them take over without your valuable experiences and knowledge. Yours in Legion Service,

James P. MarchinkeDepartment of Maryland

American Legion Commander

As we promised, the 100th Anniversary Pins are in and were introduced at the May DEC

meeting in Oakland, MD. We have two different shapes for your preference (shown above). The pins will sell for $3.00/each. Also, don’t forget we still have our Commemorative Coin for sale at $10.00 each. Both the Coins and Pins will be on display and for sale at the Department Convention. You may purchase a set consisting of one (1) coin and both pins for $15.00. Our material for “Every Department has a Story,” was sent to National in February for printing. As of this writing, we are waiting on the finished product. Hopefully, the placemats will be received prior to our Department Convention in Ocean City so that they can be on display and distributed.

100th Anniversary

As a reminder, our Second Department Centennial Pistol Raffle will begin in January 2019 and will be awarded at our July 2019 Convention in Ocean City, MD. A special thank you to all of the Committee Members for your work and travel during the year. It has been a pleasure serving with you on this Committee.

Philip Dorsey, Chairman100th Anniversary Committee

A delegation from Maryland picked up the National Commander in Delaware and

arrived in LaPlata, Southern Maryland. The following morning they went to Randolph Fury Post 170 for breakfast and held a membership forum on diversity. Following that they made a visit to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home where Director Sharon Murphy gave a tour of the facility. They then had lunch with and greeted the Veterans at the home. That evening Harry

White Wilmer Post 82 in LaPlata hosted a fantastic Banquet for the National Commander joined by the Legion Family Leaders. The following morning Post 82 had breakfast before Adjutant Myers transported the National Commander to Pennsylvania.

Pictures of the National Commanders visit can be found on their website: http://imageevents.com/nationalcommander

National Commander visits Maryland

Pictured above left to right: Detachment Commander David Hullihen, Department President Alta Glotfelty, National Commander Denise Rohan and Department Commander James Marchinke. Pictured below Charlotte Hall visit.

2 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

Membership retention and recruitment is at the top of the list as always. Mentorship of new members and future leaders is another. It’s up to each of us to ensure the next generation of Legionnaires is prepared to carry on the mission of The American Legion. I want to thank all the Posts for your hospitality during my visits. I meet a lot of great Legionnaires and made a lot of new friends. Thanks to James, Phil, Will, Ron, Gary, Tom, Frank, Russell and Steve for your advice and support. In Ocean City on Friday July 13, I will be asking my fellow Legionnaires to repose their trust in me once again and elect me as your Department Commanderfor 2018-2019.

David J. Johnson1st Vice Commander

The American LegionDepartment of Maryland

Reflections of an AdjutantBy Russell W. Myers, Jr.

1st Vice CommanderBy David J. Johnson

2nd Vice CommanderBy Philip R. Dorsey

Well fellow Legionnaires we are nearing the end of another Legion year. As a

Department we should finish the year at about 95%. Congratulations to all the Posts that achieved or surpassed 100% in Membership. To all who received a Membership Challenge Coin for recruiting 3 new members into The American Legion this year, thank you for your efforts. The NESD held a Revitalization on April 14th and 15th. The District had 35 Legionnaires volunteer on Saturday the 14th and 22 on Sunday the 15th. The District was able to transfer 25 297 Members into local Posts, 30 commitments for renewal. Assistant Service Officer Doug Willey was in attendance to assist with VA enrollment and filing for claims. Thanks to District Commander Nikki Randolph and all the Legionnaires who attended and made the Revitalization a success. As this Legion year winds down to our 100th Department Convention in Ocean City on July 10th to 13th where we will be celebrating this year’s accomplishments, we need to start thinking about those areas we need to improve on for the next Legion year.

Greetings: I can’t believe this administrative year is about to come to a close. It has

been a very busy year. I have many to thank for the emails, calls, and cards while laid up with my vascular surgery on my leg. They were greatly appreciated. Thanks to all for your concern. As we get ready for the Department Convention in Ocean City, MD, a reminder to all Posts to get your delegates into the Department early so that you don’t get caught paying a late fee. Our Department Adjutant sent out a membership breakdown and the number of delegates required. Use this and get your delegates’ registration and fees in. Remember the report of delegates is required to be submitted not later than twenty (20) days before opening of the convention.As you know, we will be holding our 100th Convention this year. We hope to have all of our delegates present to celebrate with special convention. Again, many activities are planned during Convention week with the Golf Tournament, the great Southern Maryland Fish Fry, Legion College, Opening Ceremonies on Tuesday evening and Post Everlasting

on Wednesday evening. Please take advantage and participate in the many activities planned and make our 100th year Convention a huge success. As a lways , I thank all Posts, Counties, and Districts for your hospitality and camaraderie while making my visits. It has been my pleasure to serve our Department Commander James Marchinke and all of the Department Officers. A special thank you to all of the Department staff for your support and all the work and extra duties you performed during the year. In closing, I thank everyone for your support over the years and ask for your continued support this coming year to serve this great Department as your 1st Vice Commander. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Ocean City. Thank you and God Bless America and our troops.

Yours in Legion Service,Philip R. Dorsey

Department 2nd Vice Commander

My article this quarter will focus on the Department and National Conventions scheduled for this summer. The 100th Department

Convention is in Ocean City July 10-13, 2018, and National Convention is in Minneapolis August 24 - 30, 2018. Both events are packed full of highlights of programs, learning opportunities, and the ability to network with other Legion Family members. The Department Convention is always a busy time of year for our Posts and Department Officers. The convention offers an opportunity to highlight the programs of The American Legion, and the deeds of many of our honorees from our communities and State. There is a draft timeline of events included on page 6. This schedule will see minor changes only so look it over and prepare for a great week. Some highlights are as follows: Monday evening the Southern MD District hosts their annual Fish Fry outside the Convention Center. Legion College kicks off at 8:00 am on Tuesday morning, and these courses are essential for officers at all levels and I guarantee the instruction will teach you something about the Legion you didn’t know. An additional class on Marketing and a Chaplains Class will take place in the afternoon on Tuesday. Our Joint reception and Opening Ceremonies will take place Tuesday evening. The reception is being held in the beautiful Bayview Grand Ballroom and offers a wonderful view of the sunset (provided it is not cloudy that evening). Bring the family and enjoy the light food and refreshments. Membership awards are distributed on Wednesday morning, so ensure all Posts have representatives there to receive the recognition for this hard work. Some other highlights are from our youth program champions that will speak on Thursday morning. Also on Thursday the National Security-Public Safety Committee will hand out awards to first responders from across our State that stand guard and answer the call when needed. There will be others that come to present services offered to veterans and families around the State. Special Olympics of Maryland is a great partner for the Department and donations to their programs throughout the year make the dreams of many young people come true. Our Department Convention offers a glimpse at the busy year, and above all allows the Department to thank the committees and commissions for their hard work, and to thank the Posts that are the heart and soul of our organization. On top of all that it gives the Legion Family a week of fun in the sun, and ability to share the good times through a family vacation or get-away. This year is an election year for our Governor, and both the candidates for that office are invited to address our convention. This is a tradition in our organization that goes back to the beginning and we still must maintain our non-partisan stance. Hopefully as in years past both candidates will address the convention, and our delegates will be respectful of this occasion. The 100th American Legion National Convention is in Minneapolis, MN August 24 - 30, 2018. If any Legionnaires are planning on attending the National Convention they should make sure they get registered as a delegate. Delegate selection is controlled by the Districts and the selection is done at the District Caucuses. Any question about delegate selection should be referred to District leaders. In closing, I pass along well wishes from myself, and my family, for a happy Independence Day celebration and a safe summer season. Danielle just completed her Junior year at Messiah College near Harrisburg, and J.E.B. Stuart has completed his Freshman year at McDaniel College. I want to thank everyone for the continued service to our communities, State, and nation. Let us all vow to keep those currently serving, our fellow Veterans struggling with issues, and the families that make such great sacrifices in our thoughts and prayers every day of the year.

Russell W. Myers, Jr.Department Adjutant

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 3

was a pleasure and a learning experience for me thank you

Mike Mooney NECNational Executive

Committeeman

Several years ago, I was contac t ing

members who had not yet renewed for that year. One individual when asked why he had not renewed replied: “I did not renew because I don’t drink anymore!” Whoa! Is that all your American Legion membership means to you?! I attempted to share what membership really means with this person, but I could tell it was falling on deaf ears. Sadly, in the time he was a member, he never understood why we are here. Was that his fault? Or, was it our fault? In reality, probably some of each. As we come into our 100th year, ask yourself “why” you are here. Do you want to be a part of helping in our communities; assisting fellow veterans; mentoring and teaching young people; and being a part of the largest, most influential veterans organization? Much has been accomplished in these 100 years, but much remains to be done. Are you up for the challenge? Our latest round of County Commander Inspect ion Reports has been quite a revelation into the work we are doing, while revealing compliance items that are not being properly completed. Such as: Is the Insurance appropriate and adequate for that post; are the officers properly protected; is the physical plant properly protected; and are the policies up to date and readily available? A number of posts without a facility had no insurance at all. There was nothing to protect their officers or provide for personal property. We don’t expect post officers to be insurance professionals, but basic knowledge is sorely lacking. This will be addressed during County Commander training in August. Have the proper forms and applications been filed with the County, State and Federal Government? (IRS Forms 990, Maryland State Form 1, Beverage and Food Service licenses, etc)? Are shortfalls and penalties being addressed? Failure to comply is costly and corrections require more effort than the original requirement. Are all funds properly protected and accounted for? Finance reports don’t

3rd Vice CommanderByWill Trotter

Official publication of The American Legion, Department of Maryland, Inc. Published at The War Memorial Building, 101 N. Gay Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, 410-752-1405, quarterly. website: www.mdlegion.org

Department OfficersDepartment Commander ...............James P. Marchinke1st Vice Commander ......................... David J. Johnson2nd Vice Commander ........................Philip R. Dorsey3rd Vice Commander ...........................William TrotterJudge Advocate .................................Thomas L. DavisTreasurer ............................................ Gary W. GiffordHistorian ........................................Richard L. DouganChaplain ...............................................Frank A. PorterSergeant At Arms ........................Ronald L. HolcombeAdjutant ......................................... Russell W. Myers, Jr.Assistant Adjutant .................................Steve M. TatroService Office .....................................Adrian GamboaNational Exec. Comm. ..................Michael L. MooneyAlt. N.E.C. .............................................Lewis E. Trott

Publication CommitteeChairperson Alexander Whitney (WMD)Members: Nikki Randolph (NESD) G. Paul Durance (SMD) Richard Dougan (WMD) Vincent Dulys (BALT) William Garlitz (SESD) Robert Berlett (NCD) John Countryman (SMD)

Publication StaffPublisher Russell W. Myers, Jr.Editor Steve M. TatroProofreader Steve M. Tatro

THE FREE STATE WARRIOR

THE FREE STATE WARRIOR Subscription: $3.00 per year to non-members of The American Legion. Members of the Department of Maryland, a $1.50 of the yearly dues pay for publication.

You are eligible to belong to The American Legion if you served honorable in the Armed Forces of the United States during these periods: April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918; December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946; June 25, 1950 to January 31, 1955; February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975; August 24, 1982 to July 31, 1984; December 20, 1989 to January 31, 1990 or August 2, 1990 to the cessation of hostilities as determined by the U.S. Congress.

NEC ReportMichael L. Mooney, National Executive Committeeman

I would like to take the time to thank all of those of you who supported me so well as

I served as the National Executive Committee man for the department of Maryland for the past 4 years A special thank you goes to Ed White and to Lew Trott for their help and companion ship as we ran the road together during these years. ! It

always tell the entire story of where funds are coming from and where they are going. Are audits accomplished in a timely manner? Who are the “Resident Agent” and “Responsible Party?” This caused much confusion early in the year. It has been rectified for the most part and the 2018-2019 inspections will pay special attention to this requirement. A r e a l l q u e s t i o n s a n s w e r e d a n d explanations given where necessary? A number of forms had to be returned or reaccomplished because items were left blank, missing, or incomplete. The old, obsolete form was used in a few cases. Handwriting required an FBI expert analyst (Please type using the fillable PDF on-line form). Timeliness. There is a schedule of when a given county is to have their report submitted, based primarily on the number of posts in that county. Some were way ahead of schedule, others were months behind. Adjustments will be made for 2018-2019 where we have found it to be prudent. As this was the first year for the new form, we have several recommendations for enhancements. We have also identified several areas that wil l require more emphasis (like insurance) during the County Commander training in August. A b ig Thank You to the County /Area Commanders that completed their reports properly and on time! The larger counties were innovative in utilizing vice commanders, District Officers, and insurance professionals in accomplishing the reports. As we are now into the 2018-2019 election season, newly elected Post and County Commanders should immediately request the 2017-2018 reports (even those just considering these offices!). Then for items that were “written up,” look into the corrections that were made, are being made, or were not made. New District Commanders would be wise to do this as well.

Will TrotterDepartment 3rd Vice Commander

New Product Announcement from Your Legionnaire Insurance Trust

The LIT is pleased to announce the availability of new insurance products designed to help serve the needs of Department members. They are accessible on www.theLIT.com.

We now are able to offer:

HEALTH INSURANCE - This product is available for members under age 65 that need health coverage. The site offers a variety of medical plans to meet your individual or family needs. The site is able to qualify you if you are eligible for subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a. Obamacare).

DENTAL INSURANCE – The offerings include a full range of dental plans that are available to individuals and families. We invite you to shop for the plan that best fits your needs

SHORT TERM HEALTH INSURANCE – This is the type of medical insurance needed by people such as those between jobs who have no medical coverage. The coverage period and premiums are adjustable to meet your requirements.

TRAVEL MEDICAL INSURANCE – There are numerous plans available for different situations while you are travelling or working overseas.

Below is just a sample of the insurance carriers that are offered.

Please let your members know through your newsletter or by email. Thank you!

4 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

PURPOSE The Convention is called for the purpose of electing officers for the ensuing year, hearing and considering resolutions, and for the transaction of such other business as may be deemed necessary to come before the Convention.

REPRESENTATION The Department Convention shall be comprised of representatives from each Post who shall be members in good standing of the Post by which they are elected, and all Past Department Commanders while in good standing in their respective Posts. Each Post having 15 members in good standing shall be entitled to two Delegates. Each Post having 26 members in good standing shall be entitled to three Delegates and to an additional Delegate for each additional fifty members after the first twenty-six. Each Post shall be entitled to an Alternate for each Delegate. Membership strength of the Post, for determining Delegate strength, shall be computed as of paid-up membership in Department Headquarters at the close of business on June 11th. All District Commanders, all Department and all National Officers listed in ARTICLE VI, Section 1 of the Department Constitution in the year in which they serve (excluding the Department Adjutant if serving as an employee of the Department), and all Past Department Commanders, shall be Delegates-at-large to Department Convention, with right to vote thereat, to be exercised by them with their respective Posts. Every Post shall file the name and number of the Delegates and Alternates to the Department Convention at least twenty days prior to the convening of the Convention, (no later than June 20th this year), and at the same time pay the registration fee of $15.00* for each and every Delegate, in the case of an Alternate taking the place of a Delegate such Alternate shall be required to pay the registration fee of $15.00* which shall be done when the substitution takes place or sooner; unless and until such registration fees of the Delegates have been paid, the Delegation is disqualified to act for any purpose, and no individual Delegate will be allowed to vote, provided, however, that the mere non-payment of registration shall not deprive a Delegate otherwise duly qualified, of the right to vote in any District Caucus, on any matter (including election of officers) which thereafter is subject to ratification by the Department Convention.

Post Commanders are urgently requested to have at least one member of their Delegation on the Convention floor at all times. *Cost of Delegates will be $20.00 on or after June 20th. As ratified by the DEC Meeting on 18 Feb. 2018.

VOTING ARTICLE V, Section 3 (a) On all matters of business except the election of Department Officers, members of the Department Executive Committee and Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention, and except amendments to this Constitution or the By-Laws, voting shall be by voice, and the decision of the chair thereon shall be final unless a vote by roll call be demanded; and upon demand of any person having proper voice such other manner of voting shall be employed. (b) The election of all Department Officers, and National Officers, shall be by roll call except where, in the case of individual offices, the necessity of a roll call is dispensed with by unanimous consent. (c) The election of members of the Department Executive Committee and Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention shall be in accordance with such rule as adopted by the Caucus in and for the District from which such members, delegates and alternates are elected, but in no case shall any such rule prevent the nomination of any member from the floor of such Caucus by any person having proper voice thereat. Voting at Caucuses shall conform to the provisions of Subsection (d) hereof. (d) In all voting, the vote of each Post shall be equal to the total number of delegates to which such Post may be entitled. Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote. The vote of any delegate who may be absent shall be cast by the delegate’s alternate and the vote of any delegate absent and not represented by an alternate shall be cast by the majority of the present delegates from the member’s post. An alternate whose delegate is present may nevertheless move into the place of an absent alternate whose delegate also is absent, and there by acquire the right to vote provided he/she is the senior alternate present at the time. Alternates shall have all the privileges of delegates, but may only vote as herein set forth; provided the alternate’s registration fee is paid. At the conclusion of all roll call voting, for each individual election required to be conducted by the Department Convention, the Department Officer conducting

such elections shall ask if any Post desires to amend or change its vote; or ask does any Post, which has not cast its vote during the roll call vote, now wish to cast its vote. No Post shall be allowed to pass more than one time. After the Department Officer conducting the election has made the aforesaid announcement and taken due note of all change in voting and has recorded the vote of any Post which originally passed, then the conducting officer shall announce that the voting is closed and direct that the tally be taken, and the results announced. (e) All Past Department Commanders, while in good standing in their respective Posts, shall be delegates for life to all Department Conventions with voice and vote, to be exercised by them with their respective Posts and to all District Caucuses at which any election provided for in this Constitution shall be held, and at which their respective Posts may be entitled to vote. The failure of such Post to properly register its delegation shall not deprive such Past Department Commander of their right to vote, provided the Past Department Commander is properly registered as a delegate. (f) All Department Officers as set forth in Article VI of this Constitution and National Officers of this Department shall be Delegates-at-large to Department Conventions, with the right to vote thereat, in the year in which they serve, to be exercised by them with their respective Posts; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall give to any of such persons the right to more than one vote.

ELECTION The following Officers are to be elected. A majority of the authorized vote of the Convention shall elect: (Per ARTICLE V, Department Convention Section 4) (a) The Department Convention shall elect a Department Commander, a Department First Vice-Commander, a Department Second-Vice Commander, a Department Third Vice-Commander, a Department Judge Advocate, a Department Treasurer, and a Department Sergeant-at- Arms, for the term of one year. A National Executive Committeeman and an Alternate National Executive Committeeman for a term of two years and such other officers as may be authorized by the Department Convention for such terms appointed by the Department Convention. Section 4 (b) The Officers listed in Section 4 (a) to be elected by the Department Convention shall be nominated and elected for office in the following order and sequence and for the term of office described in Section 4 (a):

1. An Alternate National Executive Committeeman

– 2 Years.2. A National Executive Committeeman – 2 Years.3. A Department Sergeant-at-Arms – 1 Year.4. A Department Treasurer – 1 Year.5. A Department Judge Advocate - 1 Year.6. A Department Third Vice-Commander – 1 Year.7. A Department Second Vice-Commander–1 Year.8. A Department First Vice-Commander – 1 Year.9. A Department Commander – 1 Year

DISTRICT CAUCUSES (ARTICLE V, Sections 7-8-9-10) A caucus shall be held by each District during, or not more than twenty days prior to, the convening of each Department Convention, at which caucus the election of the District Commander, District Vice Commanders, County/Area Commanders, such Department Executive Committee members, and Delegates and Alternates to the National Convention of The American Legion to which such District may be entitled by this Constitution shall be held. It shall be the responsibility of the District Commander in and for each District to see that at least fifteen days prior notice of any District Caucus convened for the above purposes shall be given by mail to the Commander of each Post in the District, and no such Caucus shall be deemed legally convened in the absence of such notice; provided, however, that any District may caucus at any Department Convention upon three hours notice by announcement from the Rostrum, and all the purposes of this section may thereafter be fulfilled just as though prior written notice had been given. The action of such District Caucus as to the election of any of the officials named in this section shall not be final until ratified by the Department Convention. Section 8. A quorum shall exist at a Department Convention or at a District Caucus when one third of the Posts in the Department or District, as the case may be, are represented by duly elected Delegates or Alternates. Section 9. Each District in Caucus not more than twenty days prior to the convening of the Department Convention shall elect one delegate and one alternate delegate to the National Convention, this delegate and alternate delegate is to represent the first thousand members of their respective District; there shall also be elected a delegate and alternate delegate for each succeeding thousand members. The five Department Delegates shall consist of the Department Commander, the Department Commander for the immediate prior year, the Department Adjutant, the Alternate National Executive Committeeman and the Department First Vice-Commander who hold office at the convening of the next succeeding

CALL FOR THE 100th ANNUAL CONVENTION THEThe One-Hundredth Annual Convention of The American Legion, Department of Maryland, Inc., is hereby called, and in conformity with the action of the Ninety-Ninth Annual Convention and the Department Executive Committee, will be held in Ocean City, Maryland, Tuesday, July 10 through Friday, July 13, 2018.

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 5

National Convention. The alternates for these delegates shall be appointed by the Department Commander. Any additional delegates and alternate delegates are to be elected by the District with the highest percentage of their previous year’s membership as of the day that determines the Department Convention membership strength for the District. Section 10. Each District in Caucus not more than twenty days prior to the convening of the Department Convention shall elect one representative to the Department Executive Committee for each unit of 500 members or major fraction thereof in the said District. The membership strength of said District for this purpose shall be computed as paid up membership in the Department Headquarters at the close of business on the 30th day prior to the convening of the Department Convention or as of July 1st, in each year, which ever date shall first occur. In the event any District shall have less than its first and only unit of 500 members, it shall nevertheless be entitled to elect one representative to the Department Executive Committee. In the event that there are an equal number or more members representing the District, than there are counties or areas within that District, then there must be at least one representative from each County or Area elected to the Department Executive Committee, if the County or Area requests such representative. The District shall submit the names of all elected as above for ratification to the Department Convention such ratification constituting election. At such Caucus each Post shall be entitled to the same number of votes as for the Department Convention. No District Caucus for the purpose of such election shall be convened sooner than June 20th, 2018.

MEETINGS The opening Joint Session will begin at 8:00 PM, Tuesday night, July 10th. All business sessions of The American Legion, Department of Maryland, will be held in the Convention Hall (Bayfront Ballroom) and will start promptly at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, July 11th, Thursday, July 12th and Friday, July 13th, unless changed by the Convention. Business sessions of The American Legion Auxiliary will also be held at the Performing Arts Center (First Floor of Convention Center), Ocean City, Md. A quorum shall exist at the Department Convention when one-third of the Posts in the Department are represented by a duly elected Delegate or Alternate. CREDENTIALS CERTIFICATES For Credentials Certificates for Delegates and

AMERICAN LEGION, DEPARTMENT OF MARYLAND, INC.Alternates. A check made out to The American Legion, Department of Maryland, at $15.00* per Delegate, and MUST accompany the Credentials Certificate. All Constitutional Delegates (ART. VI) and Past Department Commanders must also pay the $15.00* Delegate Fee or they can not vote. It is extremely important that the certificates be forwarded to Department Headquarters immediately after Post elections. County Commanders should personally check each Post under their supervision to see that the above is complied with. All Post Adjutants are charged with the responsibility of returning the Credentials Certificates to us at the earliest possible moment. *$20.00 on or after June 20th. (As ratified by the DEC on 18 FEB. 2018).

AMENDMENTS Amendments to the Department Constitution and By Laws must be submitted in typewritten form to Department Headquarters by June 1st, 2018 in time for the Department Adjutant to forward copies to each Post in the Department at least 30 days prior to the convening of the Convention. These amendments require a two-thirds majority of votes of the representation at the Convention. However, the Constitution may be amended without notice by unanimous vote at any Department Convention. (ARTICLE XIII, Section 1).

RESOLUTIONS Resolutions shall be submitted typewritten, in triplicate, to the Resolutions Committee at the Convention, or prior to June 1st to Department Headquarters. By order of the Department Executive Committee, each resolution MUST have supporting documents and authority attached to each copy. Resolutions submitted to Department Headquarters prior to June 1st will receive preferred attention. Those submitted after that date will be considered only if the Convention Resolution Committee considers them to be of paramount importance to the Legion.

SPECIAL NOTICE The thirty-fourth Annual Department Convention, 1952, unanimously resolved no one should be allowed on the main portion of the Convention floor on election day except Officers, Delegates, Alternates and working press. (Ref: Resolution #13)

POST OFFICERS ARTICLE VIII, Sec. 6 of the Department Constitution states that all Post Officers for the ensuing year shall be elected at least TWENTY days prior to the opening of the Department Convention and shall assume their duties as such within TWENTY days after the closing date. THIS MEANS THAT YOUR NEW

POST OFFICERS MUST TAKE OFFICE DURING A FORTY-FOUR DAY PERIOD, TWENTY DAYS OF WHICH ARE PRIOR TO THE OPENING OF THE CONVENTION AND TWENTY DAYS AFTER THE CLOSE. YOU MAY HOLD YOUR INSTALLATION PARTY ANY TIME YOU WISH; YOUR POST OFFICERS MUST TAKE OFFICE DURING THE TIME ABOVE STATED. THE DEPARTMENT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HAS REQUESTED THAT EACH POST F I L E A C O P Y O F M E M B E R S H I P ELIGIBILITY DOCUMENTS FOR EACH POST COMMANDER WITH DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS. THE DISCHARGE WILL NOT BE RETURNED BUT RETAINED IN DEPARTMENT FILES.

REPORTS 1. You are urged to promptly file your Certificate of Elections of Post Officers which MUST be signed by both the Post Commander and Adjutant. The Certificate on the bottom of this form means exactly what it says. You MUST EXAMINE the service record of each of your Post Officers to certify their eligibility. 2. Consolidated Post Report Form should be filed promptly. 3. All other Report Forms. If you have lost or misplaced any of these report forms, send a postcard to Department Headquarters and ask for a duplicate.

REGISTRATION For Tuesday the Registration Desk will be open at the Convention Hall beginning at 7:30 AM, July 10th. DO NOT SHOW UP BEFORE THEN AND EXPECT US TO ACCOMMODATE YOU. IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR US TO OPEN EARLIER THAN 7:30AM ON TUESDAY.

NO CREDENTIALS ARE REQUIRED FOR ATTENDANCE AT DEPARTMENT LEGION COLLEGE. EVERYONE WILL BE GRANTED ACCESS TO THESE COURSES WITHOUT CREDENTIALS.

On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday we will open at 7:30 AM. You are urged to pick up your Delegate’s Credentials and badges as soon as possible in order to facilitate the business of the Convention. NO ONE EXCEPT A LISTED DELEGATE OR POST COMMANDER OR ADJUTANT MAY PICK UP CREDENTIALS FOR THEIR POST DELEGATION. AN ALTERNATE MAY PICK UP THEIR OWN CREDENTIALS ONLY. ARTICLE IX, Section 2 of the Department Constitution provides that the amount of annual Department dues shall be determined by the

Department Convention. Consequently, we hereby notify you that dues will be set and voted upon as usual by the Department Convention.

Russell W. Myers Jr. Department Adjutant

James P. MarchinkeDepartment Commander

NOTE: DEPARTMENT OFFICERS, COMMISSION, COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN AND DISTRICT COMMANDERS MUST HAVE THEIR WRITTEN REPORTS IN DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS ON OR BEFORE MONDAY, JUNE 4TH OR THEY WILL NOT BE DUPLICATED FOR THE CONVENTION. REPORTS SHOULD BE TYPED AND DOUBLE SPACED. BE SURE TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE MEMBER OF YOUR POST DELEGATION ON THE CONVENTION FLOOR AT ALL TIMES. PLEASE WEAR YOUR LEGION CAP AT ALL TIMES IN OCEAN CITY SO EVERYONE KNOWS WE ARE THERE. REMEMBER TO TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WANT TO BE TREATED YOURSELF. WE WANT TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION ON THE PERMANENT RESIDENTS AND THE THOUSANDS OF VISITORS. EACH POST DELEGATION CHAIRMAN SHOULD LIST HIS OCEAN CITY ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBER AT THE DEPARTMENT REGISTRATION DESK IN THE OCEAN CITY CONVENTION HALL. PLEASE DO THIS AS SOON AS YOU ARRIVE IN OCEAN CITY, BUT NOT BEFORE 7:30 AM ON TUESDAY, JULY 10TH. NO ONE BUT A REGISTERED DELEGATE, OR POST COMMANDER OR ADJUTANT MAY PICK UP THE DELEGATES AND ALTERNATES PACKET FOR THEIR POST. ALL DELEGATES MUST BE PAID.

THERE WILL BE A MEETING OF THE 2018- 2019 DEPARTMENT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. THIS IS TO BE HELD IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE CLOSE OF THE DEPARTMENT CONVENTION.

THERE WILL BE NO FEE FOR LEGION COLLEGE THIS YEAR (But note there will be no pins or Certificates given out this year.) Go to the Department Website under the “Web letter/Mailings” left column header and register online for the courses each Legionnaire wishes to attend.

6 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

CONVENTION PROGRAMTHE AMERICAN LEGION, DEPARTMENT OF MARYLAND, INC.

JULY 10, 11, 12, 13, 2018CONVENTION HALL, OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND

PRESIDING OFFICER, JAMES P. MARCHINKE, DEPARTMENT COMMANDER

MONDAY JULY 9, 2018 7:30AM Convention Center Set up; Volunteers always accepted 4:00 PM Southern Maryland District Fish Fry (North Parking Lot of Convention Center) (All welcome; donations appreciated)TUESDAY, JULY 10 7:30 AM Registration - Convention Hall – Room 210, 2nd Floor**8:00 AM Legion College – Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd Floor 9:00 AM Legion College – Classes Located as Posted 1:00 PM Chaplain Course – Room 217, 2nd Floor**6:30 PM Joint Reception for Opening Session (Light fare; All are invited) (Sponsored by

Diamond Games) 8:00 PM Pre-Convention Joint Session by the Convention Corporation, The American Legion,

The American Legion Auxiliary, Eight & Forty, Sons of The American Legion – Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd Floor Call to Order, Colors, Invocation Introduction of Distinguished Guests Principal Address Benediction - Colors

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 7:30 AM Registration - Convention Hall – Room 210, 2nd Floor 8:00 AM Business Session, Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd Floor

Call to Order, Invocation, Advancement of Colors, Roll Call Membership Awards National Staff Introductions Veteran Employment Community Services Programs Rules Committee Report Expression of Appreciation Mayor Richard W. Meehan Secretary, Maryland Dept. of Veterans Affairs Historian ReportSAL reportVSO reports After Session Past Department Commander’s Luncheon (Invited Guests)

**7:00 PM Post Everlasting Ceremony – Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd FloorTHURSDAY, JULY 12 7:30 AM Registration - Convention Hall – Room 210, 2nd Floor 8:00 AM Business Session, Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd Floor

Call to Order, Invocation, Advancement of Colors, Roll CallTime and Place ReportResolutionsChildren and Youth ReportAmericanism ReportOfficers ReportsNAT’L SEC ReportVA & R PresentationRehabilitation FoundationAfter Session Rehabilitation Luncheon (Invited Guests)

FRIDAY, JULY 13 7:30 AM Registration - Convention Hall – Room 210, 2nd Floor 8:00 AM Business Session, Bayfront Ballroom, 2nd Floor

Call to Order, Invocation, Advancement of Colors, Roll CallSession, Call to Order, Invocation, ColorsIntroduction of newly elected Officers of The American Legion AuxiliaryElection of OfficersInstallment of newly elected OfficersAfter Session First meeting of new Department Executive Committee

The first 45 minutes of the program is conducted in the main hall with everyone

attending in the Bayfront Ballroom. This period of a common session will facilitate the presentations from the Leading Candidate for National Commander, as well as other speakers that normally travel from room to room making their introductions. Once this general session is complete, participants will be given a break and time to break out into the various classes to be conducted throughout the Convention Center. Last year we added Post Historian how-to session at 9:00 am, and this session is meant to give working knowledge to Post Historians on how to assemble the Post Yearbooks and History files. For a large majority of people the next 3 hours of Legion College will be spent in a course called “Post Leadership Training”. This course is designed for all Post leaders or aspiring Post leaders except the Finance Officer, Judge Advocate, and Service Officer. These three positions will have a course up to three hours long on their specialized area of responsibilities. Everyone else from the Post in a leadership position or aspiring to be in leadership shall attend the “Post Leadership Training” classes The participants in the Post Leadership Training course will get three 50 minute blocks of instructions on the following subject areas Post Leadership, Post Administration, and Post Membership programs. Each of the blocks of instruction will be further divided into a “Basic” and an “Advanced” level conducted in two different classroom areas. After each block of instruction the participants will be given a chance to reshuffle between the “Basic” and “Advanced” level for the next block. This way if a person has been a Post Commander for 10 years, but has very little knowledge of Post Administration and the Adjutant’s duties, they can attend Post Leadership Advanced course, and Post Administration Basic course to fit their individual needs and gain more relevant training for their experience level. The Post Leadership Training participants are expected

to attend all three blocks of instruction at their appropriate skill level to complete the course. As always Post Finance Officer, Judge Advocate, and Service Officer courses will educate these vital positions for their specific roles. There will also be a National Security and Foreign Relations Seminar as usual. Courses offered would be:

General Session 8:00 – 8:45 (All legion College attendees in the main hall)

Post Leadership Basic 9:00 – 12:00 (Consisting of basic courses in Post leadership, Post Admin, and Post membership) (participants will be given the opportunity to change classes between levels after each topic)

Post Leadership Advanced 9:00 -12:00 (Consisting of advanced courses in Post leadership, Post Admin, and Post membership) (participants will be given the opportunity to change classes between levels after each topic)

Judge Advocate 9:00 – 12:00 (or as much time as they may consume up to noon)

Service Officer 9:00 – 12:00 (or as much time as they may consume up to noon)

Finance and Insurance 9:00 – 12:00 (or as much time as they may consume up to noon)

Historian 9:00 – 12:00 (or as much time as they may consume up to noon)

National Security Briefing/Seminar 9:00 – 12:00 (or as much time as they may consume up to noon)

The Legion College is an excellent way to expand the knowledge of the duties of Post Officers, and to assist each Post, and hopefully improve all Posts through knowledge and gained expertise.

Legion College 2018 Come to the Ocean and LearnLegion College (July 10, 2018 from 8:00 am until Noon) this year will feature all of the courses from last year. NO DELEGATE BADGES ARE REQUIRED TO ENTER THE SESSIONS OF LEGION COLLEGE. COME INTO THE HALL AND GET A BADGE LATER IN THE MORNING OR ON WEDNESDAY MORNING BEFORE THE SESSION.

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 7

THE AMERICAN LEGIONDEPARTMENT OF MARYLAND

410-752-1405

Department of Maryland Convention-- play in The Wm. C. Kesting Memorial Golf Tournament, July 9, 2018, at the Ocean City Golf & Yacht Club, 11401 Country Club Dr., Berlin, Maryland.

Start time is 8:30AM. Tournament play is a Scramble (Captains Choice, Best Ball) 1st, 2nd and 3rd place & closest to the pin (Bracket Scoring) Prize tickets & 50/50 ticket winners.

*GREAT HOLE IN ONE PRIZE – (on designated par 3) -- a NEW vehicle donated by Pohanka of Salisbury, Maryland*(First hole in-one-one on designated hole Wins), No Professionals or Club Pros eligible for prize.

SUPPORT our VETERANS and our CHILDREN & YOUTH programs.Luncheon and awards ceremony to be held following the Golf Outing, at the Golf Course. $70.00 per player and/or $280.00 per foursome.**Make checks payable to “The American Legion, Department of Maryland”Send Players Fee to: Kevin Mook, 26618 Ridge Rd, Damascus, MD 20872

Or Register on-line to play at: www.mdlegionconvention.org

Player _______________________________________________________

Player _______________________________________________________

Player _______________________________________________________

Player _______________________________________________________

Phone # to contact Player (s) _____________________________________

THE AMERICAN LEGIONDEPARTMENT OF MARYLAND

410-752-1405

SPONSOR APPLICATION

The American Legion, Department of Maryland, is looking for Sponsors to assist us in supporting our Veterans and Children, and Youth Programs. During a Golf Tournament held during the Maryland Legion Convention (Ocean City July 9, 2018) Donors will have a sign displayed on a “t” box recognizing their donation.We request “SPONSORS” from American Legion Posts, Business Owners Corporations and Individuals. ALL DONATIONS GO THE AMERICANISM PROGRAMS WHICH INCLUDE VETERANS’ THEIR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN AND YOUTH.Legion Posts donating should list the donation on their Post Consolidated Report. Businesses and Individuals should take a Tax Deduction.Tax ID #520222815**Make checks payable to “The American Legion, Department of Maryland”Send payments to: Kevin Mook, 26618 Ridge Rd, Damascus, MD 20872

Or Register on-line for Sponsorship at www.mdlegionconvention.org

Merchandise to be picked up: Contact Kevin Mook (301) 204-9230 and a sign recognizing your donation will be displayed.

NAME AS IT SHOULD APPEAR ON SIGN. ___________________________

_____________________________________________________________

ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________

MESSAGE FOR __________________________________________________

We are well on our way to having a great WM C Kesting Golf Tournament in

Ocean City this year. We could always use more players and sponsors. As your Legion year comes to an end, please don’t forget to

sign up to be a sponsor and/or send in your players. We already have some single players so please don’t feel that you must create a foursome to participate.

Thank you,Kevin Mook

Golf

8 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

MOUNTAIN DISTRICTServing Allegany and Garrett Counties

Greetings from the Mountain District, Another year is about to come to the

end. Time has gone by rather quickly. The Mountain District is finally starting to green up and warm up. I have visited all of the Posts in the District and discussed the membership progress with them. Membership is looking very well at this time, with several of the posts being within the 100% range. We did our Martinsburg VA visit in April with the cook out for lunch and BINGO to follow. This visit was probably the largest turnout of Veterans that we have had. Everyone enjoyed themse lves , (Good food and good

company.) Now we are in the process of gearing up for the Mountain District Reception and the final D E C of the year. Looking for a big turn-out for both. I will be looking forward to running for the Mountain District Commander again because I feel that I have learned a good deal this 1st year and that will only be a plus for the next year. Once again thank you for allowing me to be your commander in the Mountain District.

For God and CountryRonald Friend

Mountain District Commander

NORTH EASTERN SHORE DISTRICTServing Caroline, Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties

BALTIMORE DISTRICTServing Baltimore City

DISTRICT DATASOUTHERN MARYLAND DISTRICTServing Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s, Montgomery and St. Mary’s Counties

Greetings Comrades, families, and friends: This is my last article as your Southern

Maryland District Commander. The 2017 – 2018 Legion fiscal year has rolled along quite quickly. I am happy to report that it has been my extreme pleasure to serve you. I am hopeful that some portion of my leadership; a word or deed, has made an impact that might have been grasped and will succeed me as others step up and take on leadership positions in the coming years. Even though we believe Southern Maryland District (SMD) is the greatest in the state, I am in awe of the affectionate comradeship that I also received from the other districts, from their Commanders on down through the membership as a whole; thank you all. Although each district strives to take first place in membership and joke on whose district is the best, we do so in jest, respecting one another. As comrades, we are all in first place! I owe a debt of gratitude to those whom have been the backbone of the Great Southern Maryland District; first and foremost on the list are the comrades and auxiliary members of Post / Unit 170; my home. I could not have done anything without the support of my home Post. Next, kudos to the hard working members of my staff: 1st Vice Commander (and Anne Arundel County Commander) Patrick Guibao, 2nd Vice Commander Haywood Moss, Adjutants Rebecca Stoll (1st and 2nd quarter) and Billy Hill (current), Finance Officer Dick Switzer, Chaplain Toni King, Judge Advocate Ed White, Sgt-at-Arms (and Charles County Commander) Kelvin Jordan, Service Officer Leon Parks, Historian Charles Lewis, Calvert County Commander Jay Bolles, Montgomery County Commander Kevin Mook, Prince Georges County Commander Steve Brennan, St Mary’s County Commander Skip Disharoon, and the 47 Post Commanders

in our district. Next, special thanks to Dept of Maryland Commander James Marchinke, Dept Sgt-at-Arms Ronald Holcomb, Dept of Maryland Chaplain Frank Porter, Dept Adjutant and Dept Assistant Adjutant Russell Meyer and Steve Tatro (respectively), Past Dept of Maryland Commanders Chuck Gannon and Patricia McCoy, and Junior Past SMD Commander Stan Shaw for their outstanding support and words of wisdom that aided in my success. Last, but definitely not least, thanks to each Comrade, Son, and Auxiliary member throughout the district for your dedication. Everyone has that special something that makes your presence unique. It might be a properly timed word of inspiration when you didn’t even know the recipient needed it; a corrective criticism done in private; a public pat on the back; volunteerism; a monetary donation; a listening ear; or most importantly, a silent prayer for those unaware that you were praying for them. I’d like to say thank you to Post 170, the Charles County Council, and the Southern Maryland District for putting further trust in me by submitting their recommendation and endorsement for me to step up to the position of Department of Maryland Sgt-at-Arms at the next possible opening (2019 – 2020). As I close, I’d like to leave you with these words by Holmes - “What lies behind you, and what lies before you, are nothing compared to what lies within you.” Be blessed!Still Serving,

John R. Countryman, Jr.Commander, Southern Maryland District

[email protected]

“May the work we do speak for us”

Comrades, It has been my extreme pleasure to serve as the Baltimore City District

Commander for the last 2 years. One this period of time I have encountered nothing, but positive energy and support for all of the initiative the command team has planned, coordinated and executed. The support we have received from the Post Legionaries and Comrades will have a long standing impact on this District for many years to come. In 2016, I think we all can agree that the District had its fair amount of issues and the bottom line was the only solution to the well-known problems were rooted in developing a new culture based on all of us working together really hard to change the District’s declining enrollment and community standing. The District has created media campaigns and community outreach projects that are having a direct and positive impact on our name recognition and membership enrollment in the community. Earlier this year we partnered with the Radio One Media group and began a series of On Air interviews that made more veterans aware. Each of the broadcasts had a specific theme but they all began by promoting the 4 pillars of the American Legion. The net results were amazing we reached hundreds of veterans in the listening area. We had over 150 call ins and contact us directly, from those calls we were able to enroll a number of new members to the District, 6 veterans were homeless and we were able to help each of them find housing and shelter. We would specifically like to thank the Chesapeake Urology Clinic for supporting the Health Seminar Broadcast. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention 1st Vice Commander, Austin Ball, Finance Officer, and Chanel Eames, for

all of their hard work. I would also like to thank Area A, B, & C Commanders, the District Adjutant, Paul Franklin, for their dedication in serving the District. We also had the unique pleasure of helping our greater community by providing funding to veteran sponsored causes in our community. When we were made aware by one of our comrades asking us to provide elementary students with school uniforms, we helped provide food and clothing to a local Women’s Shelter. We also were able to support the Project Survival Summer Basketball League at Bentalou Recreation Center. This league provides summer activities to inner city children between the ages of 6 & 13. This was introduced to the Baltimore District by the District Adjutant, Paul Franklin. As I say goodbye, I remind myself that farewells are not forever, nor are they the end. They are simply words to say I will remember my time as your District Commander fondly. I have the greatest confidence in the young leadership that I have tried to develop that will push this District to new and greater heights. Please rest assured that I am a legionnaire for life and will never be far away. If my counsel, advice or service is needed please know it’s given before the question has been asked. Thank you for allowing me this time to serve.

Darrell N. Truesdale, Sr.Baltimore District Commander

God Bless America

“We would like to thank the past District Adjutant, Joyce Smith, for her dedication serving the District, and those who participated in making the District successful”.

Serving the North Eastern Shore this past year has been an honor. We as a team

have accomplished much this year. From our outstanding community programs, an excellent revitalization session this spring and hosting one of the most fun District Receptions was just a tiny insight to all the great things happening on the North Eastern Shore. A big shout out to all the NESD

Legion Family, you truly made this year fantastic!

Nikki Randolph. North Eastern Shore District Commander

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 9

SOUTH EASTERN SHORE DISTRICTServing Dorchester, Somerset, Wicomico and Worcester Counties

DISTRICT DATANORTHERN CENTRAL DISTRICTServing Baltimore, Harford and Howard Counties

They say that time flies when you are having fun. It has been a fun ride this

year, and I am looking forward to the next. David Heredia is a strong leader and will make an outstanding District Commander. I hope all of the Posts in the NCD will support him next year. David hails from the Bernard L. Tobin Post #128 in Aberdeen. He and his wife, Deborah, are outstanding members of the American Legion Family. They work nearly all of the fundraisers at their Post home, and attend and support fundraisers at other Posts, as well as functions throughout the military community in the District. Dave led our District revitalization last October, and we already have a tentative date for the next NCD Membership Revitalization, we will nail that down shortly after the Department Convention. The Posts in our District are always doing something. In Havre de Grace, Post 47 has dinner and music on Friday nights. You can enjoy the waterfront views while relaxing and getting a bite to eat. Post 109 in Arbutus has a band nearly every Saturday, and they have great food specials too. Post 256 in Parkton holds Turkey Shoots in the fall. Post 156 in Ellicott City has gotten involved with Honor Flights at BWI. Just contact the Posts for more information. I can’t list everyone, but you can see that there is always something going on. At our District Reception on March 25, the Northern Central District was honored to present and Honorary Life Membership to Ms. Vivian “Millie” Bailey. Aunt Millie as she is called, just turned 100 years young,

and she packs up supplies and treats in care packages for our deployed soldiers. She has been doing this for years, and does it every single day. Aunt Millie is a World War II veteran, who proudly served her country, and she still does today. She is an inspiration to all of us, and we are grateful to have her show us how to carry on. I am asking that you give your support to Dave Johnson, the leading candidate for Commander for the Department of Maryland. Dave is an outstanding legionnaire and has the vision to lead the Department into the future. Dave and his wife Connie are always at events throughout the Department, so stop and say hi if you see them. It has been an honor to serve the District and Department alongside Dave, and I look forward to working with him during his tenure as Department Commander. I want to thank my home Post, Rosedale Post 180, for all the support the members have given me throughout the past few years. We have a great team there and we are looking forward to a prosperous future. I always said, “they are my guys” and I mean that. Without these men and women, we are not able to succeed. Take care of the grass roots, and your lawn will grow beautifully. See you all in Ocean City!

For God & Country.Eric V. Warthen, Sr.

Northern Central District Commander

WESTERN MARYLAND DISTRICTServing Carroll, Frederick and Washington Counties

Greetings again from the Great Western Maryland District as we come closer to our

Department’s annual Convention and the election of new leadership from the Post, Department, and National levels. I’m still amazed by the efforts of all our members from all levels, and I couldn’t be more excited about being a Life Member of such an outstanding organization that is making a difference from Capitol Hill to communities like mine. Everywhere I go I’m reminded why I became an “Active” member. It’s easy to be a member of almost any organization but there’s more thought and energy behind being an active member. I’m using my input for this edition of the Free State Warrior to have everyone reading this paper to look at ourselves and to ask ourselves … “am I an active member or just a member?”. If you’re the latter, ask yourself the next question … “how I can become more active in my organization and what impacts and contributions can I make as an active member and not just a card-carrying member?” First, I must thank the men and women that have consistently gone above and beyond to do what they could to keep our Posts in the WMD and its programs alive and well. Although we’ve bounced from 2nd to 4th in the Department for

membership, it’s not due to lack of willingness or effort. I think it is a lack of consistent push at all levels to market our organization and to keep remembering why we became members and the great things we’ve been a part of and doing for our future Veterans. I wish to thank our members that have gone above and beyond to not only recruit and retain but to recognize the one’s that consistently make the Department and National commander’s list by recruiting 3 new members each year. I salute the members of our Department and the WMD that are out there beating the bushes and keeping our District and Department alive with new members and encouraging our old members to renew. Without them, there is no American Legion. Keep up the great work and reminding yourself that everyone is a recruiter and every day is recruitment day. What’s the difference between an Active member and a member? Attitude! There are some members that can’t physically or mentally recruit and I respect that and thank them for their membership and support and the contributions

The South Eastern Shore District started this Legion year off on a good run. Having a

POSITIVE AND PERSONAL attitude made things fall in place. Many district members have been involved with activities in the district and this is a very positive action. Let’s keep this up and make sure we use the Personal Touch to achieve our goals.. At our district meetings new faces have been appearing and this is also a good sign. A very Positive action from the district is that every Post has attended at least one meeting. Many thanks to Synepuxent Post #166 for the first class hospitality that was displayed at the SESD Reception on April 21st. The excellent meal they prepared was served by 9 “Coasties” from the OC Coast Guard Station. Most of the “Coasties” in OC are active Legion members of Post #166. Following the SESD Reception the SAL District Commander Richard Pennington (#166) took the lead for the District’s project. It was to recognize Past American Legion Commanders,

Past SAL Commanders, and Past Auxiliary Presidents of all Posts in the District. All past leaders who were present received a Recognition Certificate for their leadership. The turn out was great and the event received many positive comments. Thanks to Commander Pennington and his committee for an outstanding event. Our 16 Posts of the South Eastern Shore District have had or will be having their elections in the very near future. REMEMBER; It is the responsibility of the Post Commander and the Post Adjutant of each Post to attend the district meetings. This is the way communication from the Department of Maryland, the Counties and the District can pass on information and keep in a good communication mode. The Post Commanders and the Adjutants are the key members of our Districts.

Continued on page 15

Continued on page 15 Pictured are NCD Sgt.-at-Arms Frank Price, Vivian "Millie" Bailey, Dept. Cdr. James Marchinke, NCD Cdr. Eric Warthen

10 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

By-Laws as followed:Dept. Sgt.-At-Arms

Article Vll: S e c t i o n 1 . T h e Sg t . - a t -Arms sha l l preserve order and d e c o r u m d u r i n g t h e s e s s i o n s o f t h e D e p a r t m e n t Convention and Department Executive Commit tee . He/She sha l l conduc t absentees to the Convention Hall in the event their presence is necessary for a quorum.Section 2. The Sergeant-at-Arms shall take charge of the colors at all official functions of the Department.Section 3. At each specific Department function the Sergeant-at-Arms shall determine the number of assistants needed to properly carry out his/her duties, and shall appoint assistants for that function only. A suitable armband or other detachable insignia shall be provided to the assistants and the armband shall be returned to custody of the Sergeant-at-Arms when the Department function has ended. No permanent or yearly Assistants shall be appointed. I have conducted other duties as assigned: Maintaining the Department of Maryland Meetings and Programs Calendar and Conducting the Department Officer’s Christmas Party and attended Department Officer’s monthly meetings. I’m looking forward to assuming the Department Third Vice Commander’s position for the Legion Year 2018-19. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve with Commander James Marchinke and the Department Officer’s and the Department Headquarters Personnel Staff. I’m looking forward to seeing you at the 99th American Legion Department Convention, remember to fasten your seatbelt and have a safe trip to and from the Convention and remember to enjoy yourself during your visit in Ocean City, MD

Respectfully

Department Sergeant-At-Arms Ronald L. Holcombe

Department Sgt-at-ArmsBy Ronald L. Holcombe

Greeting My Fellow Legionnaires: I hope everyone had a Blessed and

Eggy Easter. It look’s like Old Man Winter want to hang around and I hope that you haven’t been affected by the high wind storms. As this is the last Free State Warrior Article as the Department Sgt.-At-Arms, I would like to take this opportunity to mention some highlights of my activities from the past 3 months. This has been a great year for me serving as the Department Sergeant-At-Arms,As I have traveled across this Great State of Maryland I have been impressed with the programs being conducted by the Post and the Districts to benefit veterans and their communities and I have learned a lot about the American Legion Historical Post and most of all fellowshipping with the Legion Family. I attended the National Commander’s Membership Diversity meeting at Post 170 “Great meeting”; I attended the National Commander ’s Banquit and Breakfast at Post 82, the food was good and I had an opportunity to engage into a conversation with the National Commander Denise Rohan about her overall view of the American Legion and afterwards I was very impressed with her manner of thinking. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those members that I have awarded the Department Incentive Membership Challenge Coin for recruiting 3 new members for the year 2018, remember the cutoff date to receive a Department Membership Challenge Coin is June 11, 2018, you also can receive the National Commander Denise Rohan 2018 Membership Incentive Pin for recruiting 3 new members for year 2018, the cutoff date is June 30, 2018 or until the quantity has depleted. I hope everyone took time out to attend a Memorial Day Service of Remembrances, as for me I enjoyed speaking on Memorial Day at Pine Grove Chapel (Thank You Gold Star Post 191 for the invite); I also enjoyed the Baltimore District Memorial Day Service. I have performed the duties as described by the American Legion Constitution and

T h e s e m e m b e r s o f F o r t C u m b e r l a n d P o s t 1 3 o f C u m b e r l a n d s e r v e a s t h e H o n o r G u a rd f o r t h e S t a t e o f M a r y l a n d A m e r i c a n L e g i o n . Requested by the State Commander, they volunteered to travel to various meetings throughout the State to open and close the ceremonies. This photo was taken at the last DEC meeting in Oakland, Md. From left to right are Richard Holder, Jeff Shook, Pete Kelly, James Anderson (Commander of the Guard), Department Commander, James Marchinke, Charles (Chuck) Fisher and Bob Smith.

If you haven’t given since the last Warrior, it is time to schedule an appointment

Please give if you are able.

THANK YOU!

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 11

From the Chaplain’s DeskHe that dwelleth in the secret of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1)

Misfortune and hardship are the rule, not the exception, of life. Job’s famous

epigram reminds us that “man is born to trouble” (Job 5:7). But just as an eagle uses the wind and storm to reach greater heights, so the child of God, on wings of faith, rises above life’s hardships to new heights of strength and holiness. From 1869-1948, Civilla D. Martin was confined to a sickbed. Unable to leave the house, she composed the words of a song one Sunday afternoon in 1904 that expressed her faith amid trials. She showed the words to her husband after he returned from a preaching mission. He sat down at the pump organ in their home and composed the tune- that he called “Martin.” This hymn, born upon a bed of affliction, has been a source of comfort for many who bear the burdens of illness and hardship.

“Be not dismayed whate’er betideGod will take care of you;

Beneath His wings of love abide,God will take care of youGod will take care of you,

Through every day, o’er all the way;He will take care of you,

God will take care of you.

We may be tempted to feel alone, forsaken, and forgotten. But let us remember that the Lord is with us always. God does not promise that He will deliver us from trials but He promises that He will give grace that will carry us through the trials. So, “be not dismayed whate’er betide,” be assured that “God will take care of you.” The Chaplain’s seminar will be held on Tuesday, July 10, 2018 at 1:P.M. We are asking all chaplains to come and share their thoughts and experience in our discussion on “What Chaplains Do?” The seminar is open to anyone interested in learning about the duties and responsibilities of the chaplain. Finally, remember, when anything or anyone becomes more important to you than God, you have an idol in your life. To protect us, God sometime uses adversity to strip away everything we have relied upon so that we will cling only to Him. See you in Ocean City.

Frank Porter, ChaplainDepartment of Maryland

Left-to-Right; Back Row (Standing): Anita Trotter Department Contest Facilitator, Dr. Erin Josendale, George Washington University, Judge, Dr. Ingrid Tulloch, Stevenson University, Judge, Dr. Joseph McGraw, Stevenson University, Judge, Prof Kathryn Hall, Stevenson University, Judge, Dr. Jamie Goodall, Stevenson University, Judge, Dr. Glenn Johnston, Stevenson University, Judge, Mr. Steve Whiting, Special Olympics of Maryland, Judge, James Marchinke, Commander, Left-to-Right; Front Row (Seated) Our Student Candidates, Akrem Abdelwahab, SESD (Third Place), Utopia Diabe, Balt City District (Second Place), Roula Hammer, WMD (First Place), Arpan Barua, SMD (Third Place)

The Eighty-First National Finals of The American Legion High School

Oratorical Scholarship Program – “A Constitutional Speech Contest” – were held the weekend of April 13 – 15 in Indianapolis. Fifty three high school students from the 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico and the Department of France competed on Saturday to select the three finalists for Sunday. This year’s winner was Carlissa Frederich, a senior at McCracken County High School in Paducah, Kentucky. The daughter of an Army couple, she was actually born in Maryland! Second Place went to Emily Parker, a home school senior from St. Paul, Minnesota. Third Place was awarded to Nathan York, a home school junior from National City (San Diego), California. Our Maryland candidate was Roula Hammer, a junior at St. James School in Hagerstown. She was sponsored by Clopper-Michael Post 10 in Boonsboro and Washington County. This makes two years in a row that our candidate was from the Western Maryland District. Her second time competing at the District Level, she was surpassed last year by the eventual National Second Place Winner, Robyn Anzulis. A well accomplished student, Roula was editor of the school newspaper last year and continues to report for the publication. She plays piano, harp and cello, takes dance lessons, and is on the girls’ varsity tennis team. At the National Contest, there were nine concurrent quarter final events on Saturday Morning. Roula’s quarter final was comprised of candidates from Louisiana, Maine, New York, North Dakota, and Ohio. The two young ladies from North Dakota and Ohio were in the National Finals last year. Renee Betterson of Berea, Ohio, took this quarter final round and advanced to the Semi-final on Saturday Afternoon. Here, Renee lost to Carlissa, the eventual National winner. Roula has vowed to take the experience to heart and return next year. She will present her Prepared Oration at the Ocean City Convention on Thursday Morning. Our Department of Maryland final held at Towson University on March 4, had four speakers from four of our seven districts. Roula came in first earning her trip to Indianapolis and a Department Scholarship Award of $2500. Second Place and a

scholarship award of $1500 went to Utopia Diabe, a junior at Lanham Christian High School, sponsored by the Baltimore District. Third Place Finishers were Arpan Barua, a senior at Clarksburg High School (Southern Maryland District) and Akrem Abdelwahab, a junior at James M. Bennett High School in Salisbury (SE Shore District). Third Place contestants received scholarship awards of $500. Each participant was required to research, prepare, and memorize five speeches. The main speech is referred to as the Prepared Oration. It must be between eight and ten minutes. The other four speeches are the Assigned Topics, of which only one is given after it is chosen at random by a member of the audience. This speech is required to be between three and five minutes. Each candidate does not know which one of the four was selected until it is their turn. Hence, they must be ready for any of the four. This year’s Assigned Topic, drawn at random was Amendment 3: “No soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.” The other possible choices were Amendment 2, 15, and Article 2, Section 4. In 2019, they will be Amendments 1, 4,13, and 21. Our seven state judges were primarily incumbents from various levels of academia, legal, and community service. They brought a diverse perspective on history, the Constitution and public speaking. Many Legionnaires were also on hand as escorts, ushers, room monitors, tabulators, and time keepers. Most had served at post, county and district level. We are extremely thankful for these volunteers without whom the program would not succeed. We have been informed Towson University will be undergoing extensive remodeling to their Student Union next year. Our venue at the West Village Commons will become the Student Union during this time. Thus, event space will be at a premium and non-university events will be excluded. We are looking to move the contest to Stevenson University for March 3, 2019. Towson University has been a gracious and accommodating host and we thank them for their support of the American Legion High School Oratorical Contest.

High School Oratorical Contests 2018Anita Trotter, Department Chairperson

12 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

POST EVERLASTING As of February 21, 2018-May 22, 2018NAME POST #Guy Carleton Parlett Post 7, AnnapolisJoseph L Edmonds 7Loren B Elliott 7David L Fowler 7Ian S Gordon 7Joseph B Isaac 7Charles L Leonard 7George H Loftus 7Raphael J O’Neill 7J. E. E Rasmussen 7James E Richards 7Alton J Sadler 7Karl R Schroeder 7Lorraine F Soash 7Charles D Stubbs 7Robert F Thompson 7David L Wallace 7Clopper-Michael Post 10, BoonsboroRalph T Ambrose 10Lewis T Dubel 10Joseph R Jones 10Robert T Shank 10Joseph K Williamson 10Francis Scott Key Post 11, FrederickFrank L Baker 11English Bryant 11Bernard E Clem 11David Curtis 11David A DeWitt 11Richard L Diggs 11Robert L Engle 11George E Fulk 11Jerry L Grace 11Gerald A Hurley 11Robert J Johnson 11John H Kapke 11John J Kee 11Patrick J Lynch 11Robert L Main 11Robert D McCracken 11Scott McKnight 11Roy N Meachum 11Thomas L Megill 11Richard J Meskill 11Richard M Metcalf 11C. R Miller 11Leroy L Reinitz 11Edward K Rice 11Archie E Rogers 11Donald C Rosenthal 11William C Smith 11Bob Snyder 11Daniel M Spitzer 11Alford R Taylor 11Malcolm C Thomas 11Donald L Wachter 11Paul E Wagner 11Donald W Wiles 11Eric R Wolfe 11Fort Cumberland Post 13, CumberlandGuy A Evans 13Joseph C Kessler 13Howard F Lueck 13Charles E Miller 13

No Color on Pages 12 & 13

NAME POST # NAME POST # NAME POST # NAME POST # NAME POST #Harry T Ritchey 13Donald L Simmons 13John R Smith 13Raymond G Wise 13Richard C Yeager 13Cecil Post 15, Elkton Robert L Harrington 15James F Penhollow 15William J Swyka 15Robert L Veasey 15William R Wilson 15Stanley Cochrane Post 16, CrisfieldKore Christensen 16Walter Czawlytko 16Michael C Milbourne 16Martin L Tyler 16Patrick Daily-Mark Logsdon Mem.Svc Post 17Earl L Dennis 17James J Haggerty 17Meral H Hoffman 17John D Howard 17Wiley D Johnson 17William V Sweeney 17Jeff Davis Post 18, CentrevilleJohn L Murdoch 18Robert R Price 18John R Reibly 18S. A Tubman 18Frances L Wilmer 18Federal Post 19, BaltimoreClarence S Figgs 19Willie T Frederick 19Ernest L Hargrove 19Bernard C Wallace 19Towson Post 22, TowsonCharles H Cleveland 22Goff C Cochran 22Harry Janelsins 22Plato T Pappas 22Eugene A Servary 22Daniel P Stanton 22Charles R Thomas 22Farrady Post 24, FrostburgJohn F Armstrong 24Junior A Baker 24Albert M Crall 24Alexander Ganyu 24Ronald J Hess 24Raymond G Kammauf 24David L Sanford 24Walter J Shriver 24David R Willetts 24Webster B. Harrison Post 26. HancockJohn E Ritz 26Caroline Post 29, DentonJames A Fife 29Noble H Goad 29Glenn A Liddell 29Robert S MacKenzie 29James W Merriken 29Harry R Norman 29Charles R Taylor 29Carroll Post 31, Westminister

John W Bowersox 31Donald W Hooper 31Paul A Miller 31Howard Otto 31Frederick R Peters 31Robert V Peterson 31Paul W Staley 31Frank M. Jarman Post 36, ChestertownMedford C Capel 36Dundalk Post 38, DundalkGeorge J Bangert 38William Hirsch 38Nicholas J Lilli 38Lawrence L Marable 38Calvin H Schoeberlein 38Harford Post 39, Bel AirWilliam F Alley 39Sidney W Beddow 39Donald J Beichler 39Donald E Brewer 39John T Canova 39Robert E Comes 39Wade Cullison 39Dick F Depkin 39Clifton M Dowling 39George F Duffy 39James E Hammons 39Charles H Horton 39Edgar G Huffman 39Leonard L Laylon 39William A MacGill 39Calvin G Moler 39Bernard H Morgan 39Ronald J Sweeney 39William W Wisel 39Glen Burnie Post 40, Glen BurnieJohn M Adams 40George D Ayers 40Leon F Beaty 40Carroll R Dunton 40Walter F Gross 40Joseph J Hock 40Joseph B Payne 40Cecil V Schrock 40Cornelius J Twomey 40William R Wilson 40Cissel-Saxon Post 41, Silver SpringDouglas C Floyd 41Jon F Price 41Jesse B Sakowski 41Hugh L Sanford 41John Simirtzakis 41Joseph O Smiroldo 41Alfred Sypher 41Morris Frock Post 42, HagerstownStephen Bernadyn 42Albert R Deckert 42John C Flynn 42Joseph H Hetherington 42Samuel R Keller 42Robert E Knode 42Roger E Moore 42C. K Poole 42Dieter H Protsch 42James W Sachs 42Glenn K Somers 42Don A South 42Ruthanna S Ungvarsky 42Charles A Zemene 42Joseph L. Davis Post 47, Havre De GraceRebecca L Brooks 47John J Fidazzo 47Bruce A Hart 47

Robert L Johnson 47Nestor S Kline 47Donald W Lay 47Willard N Mills 47John M Rowland 47James E Rudolph 47John E Simpers 47John G Yeager 47Bel Air Post 55, Bel AirMaurice L Bishop 55Laurel Maryland Post 60, LaurelJerome F Burke 60Raymond W Burton 60Lewis G Davenport 60Edward Fallis 60Harvey D Guess 60Frederick C Heyer 60Walter L Jarvis 60John J Ladabouche 60Wayne L Lusk 60John R Roarty 60George A Sumner 60Edward J Terech 60James W Watson 60Wicomico Post 64, SalisburyMartin D Beatty 64Christopher M Bonsteel 64Milton B Carew 64John E Epple 64Walter J Powell 64David J Schor 64Disney-Bell Post 66, BowieAlex Bacho 66Anthony J Begenwald 66Robert L Bowman 66John Delinsky 66Robert G Lamountain 66Frederick J Luddy 66Kenneth G McKee 66Richard E Ornburn 66Earnest H Seborg 66Philip G Thomas 66John D Wiggins 66Norman Price Post 68, Sandy SpringRichard Merkel 68Andrew V Varriale 68Talbot Post 70, Easton John A Bridges 70George A Fromm 70Prentice W Hall 70Jack A Henderson 70Albert L Ireland 70Randall R McNaught 70Eugene D Quidas 70Winfred E Simpkins 70Jeffrey Zellmer 70Proctor-Kildow, INC. Post 71, OaklandEdward R Bennett 71Forrest L Dobbins 71Robert W Johnson 71Robert B Snider 71Blake-Blackston, Post 77, EastonJames G Bailey 77Charles L Blake 77James K Blake 77James E Dear 77Harry White Wilmer Post 82, LaPlataBengt B Barnas 82William L Geary 82Peter W Gromen 82Jon E Harris 82Dale E Hockett 82Arthur E Knowles 82Robert C Loper 82

Gregory K Pruitt 82Henderson-Smith-Edmonds Post 86, RockvilleFred E Bevenour 86James Connors 86George Davis 86Robert H Thompson 86E. P Wilson 86Dorchester Post 91, CambridgeAllen L Boorstein 91Franklin Bradford 91Gilbert F Dodson 91George E Howard 91William R Johnson 91Russell E Kirwan 91Ray Pritchett 91James J Temple 91Earl P Wright 91Worcester Post No. 93, Pocomoke CityDarryl L Hopkins 93Oliver T. Beauchamp, Jr Post 94, Pr.AnneNorman R Briddell 94Donald R Cooper 94General Joseph Haller Post 95, BaltimoreHoward L Moore 95Steadman-Keenan Post 96, BrunswickM. T Hummer 96John W McGolerick 96Fitzgerald-Cantrel Post 105, BethesdaRobert H Gill 105John F Miller 105Cheverly Post 108, CheverlyHugh D Brown 108George A Krimsky 108James L Marosy 108Paul E Plant 108Bernard N Stockstill 108Dewey Lowman Post 109, ArbutusConrad D Bittenbender 109George W Brooks 109Kenneth E Hedrich 109James M Hopkins 109Howard D Litchfield 109James C Loughran 109Robert L McElroy 109Alfred Merkel 109George E Penyak 109James W Powell 109Charles C Rabel 109James W Shetterly 109Charles H Sipes 109Carole J Zentz 109Reisterstown Post 116, ReisterstownFrank J Burke 116John H Gellner 116Robert P Kloss 116Michael A Lozosky 116Hesson-Snider Post 120, TaneytownPaul D Bare 120Glenn E Gonder 120Dean B Kone 120Clarence A Leppo 120Paul B Stockman 120Liberty Post 122, RandallstownWalter W Arbogast 122Leo J Christie 122James L Drewery 122Arthur R Shields 122Joseph R Williams 122Boggs-Disharoon Post 123, BerlinGeorge J Latchum 123Ronald L Smith 123

Donald J Vonrestorff 123Joseph E Woroniecki 123My Maryland Post 126, ForestvilleEugene W Boykin 126Bernard L. Tobin Post 128, AberdeenThomas W Burns 128John A Wolff 128Overlea-Perry Hall Post 130, Perry HallWilliam J Bidinger 130William J Burton 130Joseph E Carolan 130David W Dearholt 130James T Decker 130Johnnie L Humphrey 130John A Lamarr 130Dodd C Mesmer 130Donald Resch 130Colmar Manor Post 131, Colmar ManorDallas V Mahoney 131Dale B Woodburn 131Walter Polk Post 132, Princess AnneVirgil T Roper 132Susquehanna Post 135, PerryvilleGeorge W Baker 135Edward H Davis 135William C Fay 135Judith A Fortier 135Steven D Landbeck 135Lee W Rector 135Gerald F Thomas 135Katherine E Wein 135Paul M Williams 135Greenbelt Post 136, GreenbeltGary R Aldridge 136Charles R Ashurst 136George E Cantwell 136Stephen J Carroll 136William P Day 136Charles E Dennison 136Ralph J Edinger 136Paul E Ferrina 136George A Fischer 136Roy E Griest 136Edward Gutbrod 136John A Heinicke 136Thelma L Kennedy 136Charles W Larkin 136Charles L Lay 136Claire E Lenihan 136Tonsel Lide 136Richard C Lint 136Richard Middlekauff 136Joseph M Miller 136Harold A Nitowitz 136Billy D O’Connor 136Joseph J Pesak 136Justin A Price 136Paul M Rall 136Samie F Scarpelli 136Donald J Seibert 136James E Updegraff 136Alfred A Wenk 136James D Williams 136John T Worthington 136Morrell Park Post 137, BaltimoreElmer C Fleischer 137Francis J Koenig 137James J O’Donnell 137Nelson G Smith 137James C. Ludwig Post 139, BaltimoreLouie Dellamea 139James T Sebeck 139Bonner T Wilkes 139

MEMORIAL BOOK INSCRIPTIONSIn Memory of Past Department Commander Russell L. “Lee” Fisher, by

Department of Maryland

In Memory of Past Department Commander James C. Loughran, by Department of Maryland

In Memory of PDC Russell L. “Lee” Fisher, by Western Maryland District

In Memory of PDC Russell L. “Lee” Fisher, by Carole and Dave Winpigler

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 13

No Color on Pages 12 & 13

Cook-Pinkney Post 141, AnnapolisMerlan C Banks 141Parker-White Post 143, ChestertownCharles A Frazier 143Essex Post 148, BaltimoreArvel Hargis 148Marvin P Herl 148Don F Hogarth 148Wilson Kalb 148Patrick M McBurney 148Alexander B Page 148Allen J Racusin 148Frederick C Spencer 148Lithuanian Post 154, BaltimoreJoseph R Keydash 154Victory Post 155, WesternportCharles D Biggs 155John A Ferrell 155Norman W Layton 155Richard E Miller 155Adams, Hanna, Moore Post 156, Ellicott CityClaud L Asbury 156Louis Bender 156Shelton B Bosley 156Roland R Bounds 156Stephen T Craddick 156Harvey L Langley 156Henry Niese 156Roland D Ortel 156Donald H Regelin 156Thomas J Walsh 156Synepuxent Post 166, Ocean CityRoger L Clouse 166Charles R Howard 166William M Kenney 166John P Koontz 166James J Leahy 166Richard T McCarthy 166Joseph Mierzejewski 166Thomas D Pizza 166Neil F Taylor 166Edwin C. Creeger, Jr Post 168, ThurmontWalter J Bowers 168Russell L Fisher 168Donald Lewis 168Roland C Stull 168Daniel P Tressler 168Donald S Wadase 168Dennis F Welch 168John R Willard 168William P Zentz 168Randolph Furey Post 170, Indian HeadClifford E Ransome 170Damascus Post 171, DamascusRoland L Hockenbery 171George H Honeycutt 171James G Peck 171Kevin J Smith 171Beltway Post 172, LanhamFrederick A Bolling 172Robert J Eash 172Thomas M Hall 172Thomas A Hannigan 172Roy L Hodges 172O. Wesley Hofstad 172Victor C Johnson 172Roy G Kidwell 172Jackie McDuffie 172Thomas N Morgan 172Leon O Turner 172Thomas M Walker 172Severna Park Post 175, Severna ParkDonald L Forbes 175Burton D Hazel 175Garry Holtzman 175Rhine Jager 175John O Jennings 175

Joseph C Lund 175Thomas C Murray 175William W Owens 175Joseph C Shepley 175Dan M Spain 175William J Winkler 175William P Zimmerman 175Rosedale Post 180, RosedalePaul L Bramhall 180Charles J Eder 180Joseph C Gingell 180Francis P Halecki 180Jeffery C Hitt 180Ronald Jones 180Richard M Ramires 180Daniel W Yeager 180Melvin R Znamirowski 180Slate Ridge Post 182, WhitefordWilliam M Hanna 182Charles E Pyle 182Francis G Stallings 182Parkville Post 183, ParkvilleWilliam J Alcorn 183John W Anderson 183Owen W Blum 183Joseph T Bowling 183John E Brandau 183Raymond Christman 183Joseph P Connelly 183James A Cook 183Philip G Davis 183Leonard J Debaufre 183Joseph E Dillman 183Louis E Elliott 183William R Fray 183Edmund L Fry 183Samuel E Gibson 183George W Hawkins 183S. P Hense 183Richard E Huettner 183Milton J Klausmeyer 183Stanley A Kluckowski 183George P Korb 183Robert A Krach 183Gordon L Morgret 183Thomas B O’Brien 183John E O’Toole 183Carl Olszewski 183Olderico P Pennoni 183Dominick A Piccolo 183Leon J Sadowski 183George W Segrist 183Charles R Stamm 183John L Swem 183Donald F Thrift 183Emmett W Todd 183James A Wagner 183Ronald A Wallace 183Gerald A Yamin 183Cas Zoltowski 183Barton Post 189, BartonEdward L Crowe 189David W Darr 189Robert J McGregor 189Harry W Miller 189Carl D Munson 189Eugene Stewart 189Gold Star Post 191, Mount AireyJames L Barber 191Robert L Browning 191William G Case 191Graydon J Clifton 191Thomas E Daniel 191Sterling A Shipley 191Dennis L Wagner 191Ralph Woodward 191Mannie Scott Post 193, DentonVernon C Wilson 193

Mason-Dixon Post 194, Rising SunDavid R Boyd 194Nestor Z DeLeon 194William J McKittrick 194John W McNabb 194Frank D Pyle 194Bobby J Roberts 194George T Terrill 194August J. Raveio Post 195, BaltimoreWilliam C Byrd 195Henry L Patton 195Robert J Stolte 195Suitland Post 196, SuitlandRoy Banks 196Anderson E Carter 196Hampstead Post 200, HampsteadCharles E Cooper 200Paul G Feddon 200Richard W Hess 200Ralph L Renner 200John W Tedder 200Potomac Post 202, WilliamsportEdgar L Barr 202Claude Cline 202Bradford W Downey 202Robert L Flora 202Charles H Horner 202Carl W Hull 202Harold R Kirkpatrick 202John Lubas 202William B McMahon 202Michael S Wharton 202M. L Williamson 202Stallings -Williams Post 206, Chs. Bch.Larry M Herbert 206Thomas A Rymer 206Vernon A Tucker 206George A Vermillion 206Dixon-Troxell Post 211, FunkstownDavid M Dick 211Vaughn H Dullabaun 211Phillip L Fox 211Gerald L King 211Ronce L Knight 211Keye N Loper 211Raymond G Miley 211Charles D Shadrach 211John R Smith 211Charles W Vance 211Robert E Vidoni 211Darrell B Wilhelm 211Postal Memorial Post 213, BaltimoreVernon N McGowens 213Harry O Perry 213Roy K Spruill 213John B. Latimer College Park Post 217, College ParkJoseph R Darner 217Larry E Forrest 217Robert W Goth 217James R Martin 217Archie L Paschall 217Douglas W Stevens 217Laddie M Sylvester 217James L Walker 217Dor-Wic Post 218, SharptownRichard H Griffith 218John F Morgan 218Gordon B Sickmund 218Gray-Ray Post 220, Prince FrederickAsia M Broome 220John Henry Gray 220Thomas H Gray 220Parran N Gross 220Joseph C Harrod 220Overton J Hawkins 220Wilbur W Hurley 220Elmer Mackall 220Jesse J Reid 220

Southern Maryland Post 221, AvenueEugene J Guazzo 221Ada F Schmitz 221Joseph C. Herbert Post 222, Clear SpringRay D Hensley 222James R Morgan 222Sykesville Memorial Post 223Gerard F Bentkowski 223James F Erb 223Brian Goble 223Louis C Pfefferkorn 223Cummings-Behlke Post 226, MayoRobert A Carobrese 226Ridgley W Crutchley 226Michael J Fasanella 226Charles A Pell 226Fred R Todd 226Michael C Williams 226Brandywine Post 227, BrandywineBernard J McKenna 227Michael S Rye 227Sgt. Preston Ashley Post 228, Rock HallBarry W Jones 228Dale McMullen 228Robert Wagner 228Duncan-Showell Post 231, BerlinLeonard Drummond 231James Jarmon 231Jack R. Cross Memorial Post 233, Indian HeadCecil Hepner 233Leo C Warren 233Richard W Williams 233Spring Hill Post 237, HebronGeorge Alexander 237Earl Harlen Dize 237John J Gistedt 237John R Shanahan 237David K Tanaka 237Jameson-Harrison Post 238, HughsvillePatrick F Harkey 238Maurice I Long 238Carley J Whitley 238Cascade Post 239, CascadeJohn E Kivela 239Warren G Suker 239John M Updegraff 239Hurlock Post 243, HurlockEarl E Gates 243Theodore P Gorski 243Geraldine Schmidt 243C. Henry Price II Post 246, BettertonMarion E Blevins 246Stephen W Blevins 246Oxon Hill Post 248, Oxon HillJames Breiner 248Frederick D Coleman 248James A Howison 248Ernest A Schlaefli 248Ridge Post 255, Ridge Gary A Brunts 255Antonio Campos 255John W Leroy 255Parkton Post 256 Lester Brown 256Taylor H Greer 256Ronald W Kapp 256Clinton Post 259, ClintonRobert W Bublitz 259Frank M Chonka 259Oscar S Collins 259Robert L Dotson 259Ervin J Forte 259Gerald L Garrison 259Andre L Lewis 259Robert F McCollum 259Steve Medvan 259

Harry V Proctor 259Herman Spearman 259James M Spilman 259Jackson & Johnson Memorial Post 263, CatonsvilleJames Cornish 263Wheaton Post 268 Herbert G Huff 268Sherman Lazrus 268Edwin A Morgenstern 268Albert G Napolitano 268John R Pidgeon 268Maurice Ricklin 268George L Seidl 268Michael T Wolfe 268Arick L. Lore Post 274, LusbyWilliam R Barnes 274George E Clements 274George Haliscak 274Ronald F Jacobs 274Stew E Otta 274Norman A Twigg 274Glenarden Post 275, GlenardenEddie R Ball 275Manford Carter 275James B Eady 275William Gressen 275Dennis R Johnson 275William E Mitchell 275Richard L Murphy 275James J Price 275McKinley Wallace 275Earle L White 275Howard L. Turner Post 276, SevernRobert M Baldree 276Raymond L Batten 276John Dallas 276Billy J Houchins 276David H Knight 276Robert R Schneider 276Bill N Trott 276Gerard R Youse 276Pasadena Post 277, Riviera BeachJack H Foster 277Edward P Kiley 277Ralph J Shephard 277Robert E Skillman 277Kent Island Post 278, Kent IslandRobert L Alarie 278Vincent J DePasquale 278Spencer M Simpson 278Clyde A Thomas 278Louis Wachter 278Glen W. Eyler Post 282, WoodsboroIra A Caldwell 282Elwood L Hokanson 282Arthur Hugglestone 282Richard E Lohr 282Northeastern Post 285, BaltimoreJerome C Bracey 285Charles Watson 285John Williams 285Edwin Adams Post 293, WaldorfJohn F Campbell 293Vincent P Cusack 293Hilton A Dawson 293Robert F Hall 293Roanna L Icenhower 293Richard M Nowacki 293Carl F Reynolds 293Gregory E Schroeder 293Otha Spriggs II, Memorial Post 294, Balt.James D Harrison 294Vietnam Veterans Mem. Post 295, GaithersburgDelbert C Anderson 295Stephen G Arapian 295Frank Delgandio 295

Arthur J Lawrence 295Albert J Parlett 295Holding Post 297 Alister C Anderson 297Richard L Anderson 297William Atkinson 297Russell Bohlman 297Wayne Bory 297George E Boyd 297Donald S Brisbane 297James A Caldwell 297David L Cantler 297William J Carter 297Bernard B Chester 297Guy E Childs 297Malcolm Cobbs 297Kenneth Collier 297Fred Cox 297Cleveland T Crawford 297Bernard F Curtis 297Alfred N Dyett 297Albert Eisenhardt 297William M Epps 297Jose M Garcia 297Herman E Gettier 297Joseph Hampt 297Leonard L Henson 297Michael Holt 297Bennie B Hooks 297Melvin B Hopkins 297Lewis C Howe 297John A Jeffery 297John Justice 297Morton Kayne 297Carl M Kupniewski 297John Lainhart 297William Law 297Dudley Leppert 297Charles Luffey 297George Mackley 297Gerald M McDonald 297John Mitchell 297Frank A Nauman 297Gregory Nichols 297Lee J Purnell 297Edward Rainey 297David R Rapp 297Francis J Reynolds 297M. Eugene Rice 297Larry M Robinson 297Louis E Romm 297Dennis E Ruthloff 297Franklin D Schales 297Kenneth L Schildt 297John H Seyle 297John H Spear 297Joseph J Stolte 297Ernest R Stumpfel 297Larry Summers 297Robert F Tansey 297John E Teter 297Oliver E Thomas 297Frank J Uttenreither 297Richard L Wanex 297Stephen M Watson 297Edwin D Wayson 297W. Franklin Witte 297Alvin O Wright 297Francis H Zacot 297John F. McNulty Memorial Post 298, Charlotte HallHoward A Buckler 298Hazel Dewes 298Gerald Guthrie 298George Schoyer 298Columbia Post 300, ColumbiaKenneth C Wood 300

14 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEAmerican Legion

AuxiliaryWith the year coming down to the end I

wish to thank all members of The American Legion Family for a great year. Thanks to members working together we have made many veterans, their families as well as communities a little happier this year. Units, Districts and Department’s continuous support for our veterans is the reason we are here and I thank you and ask that everyone continue volunteering and donating to all our programs and projects. Please always remember that I can’t do it alone it takes WE to get the jobs done. The Department of Maryland American Legion Auxiliary has that WE and I am glad to be a part of it. I thank everyone for support during this past year and I will still be around to help just need to ask. The Americanism essay contest was a success again this year with the at least one winner from each of the seven districts. First place winners at Department level has been forward to the Eastern Division for judging there. Congratulations to all the winners. Girls State is June 17-21, 2018 at Salisbury University and as of this writing we have 126 girls registered to attend. I thank all the units for supporting this great program. Our Honorary Junior President Lindsay Birckhead-Morton chose as her project for this year Fisher House and the juniors have done well with it. I thank everyone who made donation toward her project. I thank Lindsay for all her hard work this year and it has been a pleasure to work beside here. My president’s project this year was the

Children and Youth Scholarship fund and as of the first of May we had raised over $6300 and so the department will have funds for their scholarship this year. I thank you all for all your donations not only to my project but to all our projects and programs. I thanks all units who sent in their unit reports to the Department Chairmen and I wish you all good luck on being winners. You are all winners even though you might not get any awards for you are volunteers and that is what is really important and for this I thank you. As summer is upon hopefully, we need to remember that many kids will be out running around and not playing any attention to their surrounds so please lets all help keep them safe and work the American Legion Auxiliary programs by planning events for the kids this summer to help keep them out of harms way. Good way to start working on your report list for next years reporting. I thank each district for the fine receptions honoring all of the leaders of the Department of Maryland American Legion Family. But the ones who really should have been honored is all the members for they are the true leaders and are the ones who do the work. We just see that it is done.

God bless our service men and women

For God and Country

Alta GlotfeltyThe American Legion Auxiliary

Department of Maryland President

S.A.L. CommanderSince my last article

there has been lots of movement and action that has been going on and there is also lots more to come. I am sad to say that my time as Detachment Commander is coming to a close. It has been a fantastic year for all our projects this year. We again as a family have raised a lot of money and have volunteered lots of hours. In March we had a drawdown fund raiser for my project and between that and the money donated that night we raised over $18,000.00 what a great job by all. I need to thank the whole family at post 135 in Perryville Md. For all their help, and all who were there. As of this writing we are over $26,000.00 for my Boys Scouts program and we still have 2 months to finish up. I think we can surpass $30.000.00. As we continue on we will keep supporting all

the legion programs . It has been a pleasure serving as your Detachment Commander this year and if I could, I would do it all over again. As your Commander and along with your Department Commander James Marchinke and Department President Alta Glotfelty we have traveled a lot together and I couldn’t have picked 2 better people to be with all year. Both have been tremendous to work with this year and both have worked extremely hard. I need to thank them both for all that that have done to help me and the SAL this year. As we continue to grow as an organization I hope we continue to grow as a family. I believe this can only help us all.

Thank you and bless you all for a job well done.

Dave HullihenDetachment Commander

Well Baseball is here again, with this being our 93rd year of playing American Legion Baseball in Maryland. We currently have 43 teams registered to play starting over

the Memorial Day weekend. A lot of time, effort and money go into giving our youth some summertime activities. After playing about 645 games in two months, winners will be selected for our State Tournament. The Junior Tournament will be played at Mt. Airy, Post 191 baseball field from July 20 thru July 22, 2018 and the Senior Tournament will be played at the Parka Sports Complex, July 31st thru August 4th 2018 and hosted by Wicomico, Post 64 in Salisbury, Maryland.Parings for the first day, July 31st 2018 will be:

10am Northern Central VS. Mountain1pm Montgomery County VS Frank Riley League4pm Eastern Shore VS. Jim Cary League7pm Western Maryland VS. HOST Wicomico

Please don’t forget to come out and support your team and players. I would like to Thank my Committee for their support and a job well done again this year. To Laurel, Post 60, Commander Luby, members of the Post for allowing us to meet and use the Post these past 2-years.

Mike Riston, Chairman

Baseball

First, I would like to thank Commander James Marchinke for appointing me as

the Chairman of the Department of Maryland, Children & Youth Committee, this has been a humbling experience helping veterans with families in need. I would also like to thank my committee for working so hard this past year & Dept. SAA Ron Holcomb for helping me with the transition of this position. As of today, we have received 31 Temporary Financial Requests. Of those requests: Nine requests were approved for a total of $11,881.19; Six requests did not submit required documentation requested; Twelve were denied for various reasons as per requirements or instructions; Four did not qualify. In addition to the Temporary Financial Requests, the committee made the following donations: $5,000. Southern Maryland District Youth Camp for upgrades to the heating/ac; $1,000. for the family of the Fallen Baltimore City Police Officer; $1,250. for 50 uniform sets at Lockerman Bundy Elementary School; $1,200. for after school program, “It Suits You. Org”; $500 for SAL member of Squadron 296 who lost everything in a house fire; $500 for Legion member of Post 19 who lost everything in a house fire; $1,000 for a family who are both veterans & lost everything in a house fire. For a total of: $10,450. I chaired all the Children & Youth Committee meetings held at the DEC’s where a quorum

was present. I attended training held by National in Indianapolis. I also held a called meeting January 27, 2018 at Guy Carleton Parlett Post 7 where I held a training on the new TFA request forms & we discussed our recommendations to DEC as per NEC’s new guidelines. I will be presenting three awards at this Department Convention; first the “Paul Chonkick Memorial Trophy” to the posts with outstanding achievement in Child Welfare programs; second the “Arthur L. McGee Memorial Trophy” to the posts excelling in Child Welfare work; & third the “Dr. Alfred Brothman Memorial Trophy” to the district that excels in Child Welfare programs. I would like to thank fellow veterans who make these donations possible through their contributions. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my family for their love & support during this past year.

Respectfully submitted,

Ruth A. HigginsChildren & Youth, Chairman

Children & Youth

Summer 2018 FREE STATE WARRIOR 15Eight & FortyLA BOUTIQUE DES HUIT CHAPEAUX ET QUARANTE FEMMES DEPARTEMENTAL DE MARYLAND SALON 39

Bon Jour, Partners: We are coming to the end of another year of service to

our special children afflicted with lung and respiratory diseases. Have you done your part? It boggles the mind how many suffering children we have in Maryland who need our assistance. For the price of a Starbucks coffee or a fast food meal at McDonalds we could do so much good. The American Legion Children and Youth Commission needs our support as well as the nursing profession who are graduating nurses and physical therapists who are dedicated to these children. The Eight and Forty funds at National Jewish could use a little added attention. National Chapeau Days, held in Denver the first week in May, was hosted, as usual, by National Health and was, I’m told, enjoyable. I was unable to attend this year. The upcoming Maryland La Marche will be held in Beltsville at the Bistro Restaurant on the last Saturday in July. The Salons will be recognized for their work, new officers will be installed and plans put in place for 2018-2019. Partnership continues to be of concern. We must actively seek new Partners if we are to continue as an organization in Maryland. We need Partners who are willing to step up and assume leadership roles. This year

we were “Reaching For the Gold Ring” as we rode the Carousel of Service. The National La Marche will be held in September in Arizona. Perhaps some will be able to attend?? We thank Chapeau Phyllis Otten and Le Secretaire/Cassiere Marian James for their service to the Maryland Partners.

Until next time, I remain, Yours in Service, not Self,

Ivy Christoffers, CNP, CDP and La A’vocate de MD.

Le Chapeau Departemental240.421.9580

[email protected]

they’ve made to our organization. But to the member’s that can, I ask that we look in the mirror and reflect on the last time you pitched in or helped without being asked? When did you last take on a major project for our organization? I’m sure many will rationalize their response. Every day I meet members that I feel may not have another minute to spare and they surprise me by doing something that needs to be done and without any thought of being recognized, rewarded, thanked, etc., they are the true heroes of our organization. They not only pull their weight, they pull the weight of many because they have a passion and desire to continue our great programs and make sure that every opportunity is leveraged supporting our Veteran’s, their families, our communities and above all keeping our good name and reputation on the forefront of everyone’s mind. While I provide my definition of an active member, I’m sure you could look around and point out the active members in your Post and on the other hand identify the individuals that either take up our time with petty issues and personal agendas to the member that doesn’t know where to start. Let’s become an organization that returns to its roots, with a clear focus on our future and the passion and experience to not repeat any mistakes we’ve made in the past and reach out to our members that are looking for a leader and or mentorship and help them make a difference. As the temperature changes and the sun stays up longer, let’s use this time to build new relationships and increase our membership

with a positive and active tone that will make a change in our mission and the Post we belong to. Remember one of my first reports was on what or how we characterize what the American Legion is all about. I’m sure many of you don’t know what to say when asked that. We are a Veterans Service Organization committed to mentoring youth, sponsoring wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting national security and devotion to all service members and veterans. If you don’t have a solid footing in our organization and what we’re about, especially as we roll into our 100th anniversary, what will you say? I challenge each of us to become an Active member and to refresh our memory on what we, the American Legion stands for and what “WE” do every day and how to explain it? Isn’t it time that we had a current understanding of the pillars of the American Legion that we built our foundation on and how each pillar is connected? Isn’t it time that you change your way of describing the American Legion and the great men and women that volunteer their time and resources every day? Isn’t it time that we all understand the foundational principles we stand for? The Pre-amble of the American legion constitution states it all. We are only as great as our weakest link and don’t let that be you! Become an active member with a solid understanding of our organization, what it stands for and what “WE” do.

Robert A. Effler, Western Maryland District Council,

Commander

WMD Continued from page 9

I just know everyone reading this would have made a bet that the Membership message would be in the first paragraph. Did I fool you? If your Post has met their goal and plus 1 member, good job. If your Post met their goal plus 25 members, outstanding job! At this point we should have at least 50% of our 16 Posts to have reached their goal plus 1 member. Let’s hope for more. It is time to take a look at the real world or at least the ways of the real world. SANDBAGGING or being a SANDBAGGER is deceiving others about their real intentions and using deception to gain something. Would an American Legion Post do something like this? I bet throughout the state this is a common practice, but it does not take place in the South Eastern Shore District. Remember a great quote from somebody, “thou shall not Sandbag”. In a few more weeks the Legion membership year of 2017-2018 will come to an end. While

you are trying to make goal you still have to get your Committee Reports sent to the Department in time. You will have to get your Convention Delegate names and fees sent to the Department. Do not forget the Legion College and do not forget to come to the Convention Center on July 10th at 0730hrs to help unload the truck so the Convention can be set up. One last important thing before the Convention starts is, do not forget to make a donation to the Southern Maryland District to help with the Fish Fry. Oh yeah, do not forget to attend the Fish Fry. The secret to find the location of the Fish Fry is to park your car at the Convention Center parking lot, get out of your vehicle and walk toward the Center. Then follow the person in front of you. In a few months the 100th Anniversary of the American Legion (1919-2019) will have its official kick off. The South Eastern Shore District has Stanley Cochrane Post #16 of Crisfield and Wicomico Post #64 of Salisbury

SESD Continued from page 9 29449 Charlotte Hall Road,

Charlotte Hall, MD 20622

Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs

“Serving Those Who Have Served

800-522-8387 Toll FreeState Executive Director 301-884-8171 Ext. 401

Fax 301-884-8036, [email protected]

Admissions: 301-884-8171 Ext. 409

Fax: 301-884-4964

who are Charter members of the American Legion. I am shore there will be a list of all Charter Posts in the Department and let’s try to visit every one of them. Rosie and I will see you there. On June 24th at 1400hrs the Annual Caucus will be held at Post #16 in Crisfield to decide on the District Officers for 2018-2019 Legion Year. This is the same event where the Department Executive Committee (White Hats) are also elected. If there are any questions regarding this popular Caucus, please get in contact with me. I want to thank the officers of our District for their outstanding participation and support this past year. The communication and input was very good and it appears the Positive and Personal Touch was a good road to take.

WL ‘Sarge” Garlitz, CommanderSouth Eastern Shore District Commander

16 FREE STATE WARRIOR Summer 2018

Greetings Legionnaires, Our office has been extremely busy for the last two months

with hearings at the Baltimore Regional Office. I am referring to Decision Ready Officer hearings (informal hearings), Pre-Determination hearings (usually for proposed reduction in compensation), and hearings with the Board of Veteran’s Appeals (BVA). The BVA hearings have been done through video conference with the judge and in person as part of the traveling board process. Over the last few months we’ve had many Veterans opt into the Rapid Appeals Modernization Program (RAMP). In my last article I spoke about decisions being made with 125 days starting in early 2019, this was incorrect. Most of the Veterans who have chosen one of the two review options are getting decisions back between 60-90 days with a 75% grant rate. The RAMP program was originally by invitation only however this was extended to Veterans with disability compensation appeals pending in one of the following stages: Notice of Disagreement, Form 9, Certified to the Board (not on docket/activated), and Remand. There are currently close to 470,000 pending appeals nationwide, the BVA is projected to complete 81,000 cases but that doesn’t account for the approximately 90,000 they will take in this year. As I mentioned in my previous article, Veterans that are considering RAMP but are not sure which review lane is right for them should contact our office to schedule an appointment for a review of their case file. Carroll Post 31 in Westminster, MD held a Veterans Benefits Fair/Post Open House last April with over 100 Veterans in attendance. Representatives from the Veterans Benefits Administration (Baltimore Regional Office)

were there to assist Veterans with claims. The majority of the Veterans were there to apply for the VA ID card however the process turned out to be a little more complex than expected. In my previous article I listed the requirements which are premium DS login (Veterans that have an Ebenefits account or a Defense Finance and Account Service (DFAS) myPay account) or ID.me account, government-issued ID card, DD 214, and a full face photo (passport type). A premium My HealtheVet account can also be used. Through trial and error we discovered that many of our Veterans did not have a DS Login, My HealtheVet account, smartphones or computers at home which made the 2-factor authentication process very difficult. The first part of this process requires a phone and an email account. Smartphones allowed us to get the first 6 digit authentication code through text or phone call; Veterans with home phones only required someone available to receive the call in order to get the 6 digit authentication code. Email accounts are required because this is the only login ID accepted when setting up an ID.me account; an email with a link is sent to confirm the ID.me account. Several email accounts were created on the spot to facilitate the process. The second part of this process can be done using one of the following: a valid government issued ID card, a valid passport or by answering a few questions generated by the Equifax credit bureau. This last option can be difficult for many Veterans because all the questions need to be answered correctly and some of them may also

The American LegionDepartment of Maryland, Inc.The War Memorial101 N. Gay Street, Rm. EBaltimore, MD 21202

NONPROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE PAID

EASTON, MDPERMIT NO. 230

Department Service OfficerAdrian G. Gamboa

Reminder:To continue to receive the WarriorPlease make sure your dues are paid

by the end of the year.

have a credit freeze. If the Veteran still wanted to keep the credit freeze, a link to an Experian page offers a free single-use personal identification number (PIN). This PIN allows a one-time access needed to generate the questions. Most of the 100+ Veterans were successful using a valid driver’s license or state ID. Once the 2-factor authentication is complete the application is generated and the branch of service needs to be selected. A photo and a copy of the DD 214 also need to be uploaded. The Veteran has the option

to review the generated ID before finalizing the process. There is also an option to email or text the temporary card. The following link is recommended to start the process (VIC option): https://access.va.gov/accessva/ Please send any questions to [email protected]. Our office number is (410) 230-4420. Thank you. Adrian Gamboa

Adrian G. GamboaDepartment Service

“The Department’s Boy Scout Committee selected Eagle Scout Jacob “Jake” Witlin to be the Department’s 2018 Eagle Scout of the Year. He is also a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 60, Laurel, Md.”

Scouting CornerToday’s column is a refresher on the

important role of the Chartered Organization Representative and to promote the new online training course that is available. Every Scout unit holds a charter from the Boy Scouts of America, and that charter is granted to a community organization such as an American Legion Post, religious organization, or other service organization. One member of that organization is appointed by its executive officer to be the liaison between itself and the unit. That member is called the Chartered Organization Representative (COR). For ease of understanding in this column, I’ll call the chartered organization a Legion Post, but it can also mean a Squadron or Auxiliary unit. So, what does a Legion Post COR do?The COR has several responsibilities. The primary ones are to help Scout units be successful and to provide coordination between the Post and the local Scout district and council. In the case of a Post, the goal of the COR is to report to it about the Scout unit’s programs, needs and successes regularly, and to share with the unit the needs and desires of the Post. With

respect to the council, the COR updates the Post on the latest information from the council and Scouting district and vice-versa. The COR’s job includes a number of leadership tasks rather than specific duties to be performed by any one person. Many of the tasks below are shared by members of the unit committee and the unit commissioner. However, when a task is not being performed or has been overlooked, the COR serves as a counselor, motivator and resource to make it happen. These leadership tasks include:Encouraging the unit leadership to take training.• Promoting well-planned unit programs.• Monitoring the progress toward Journey to

Excellence performance.• Promoting recruitment of new youth members.• Assisting in the annual unit charter renewal process.

• Suggesting Good Turns that benefit the Post and its community.

• Encouraging regular unit committee meetings.• Promoting the earning of rank advancement,

including religious awards, and recognizing the adult leaders.

• Approving unit finance policies.• Keeping the Post’s leaders informed.

• Encouraging active outdoor unit programs.• Cultivating resources to support the Post’s units.• Representing the Post to the Scouting district

and council.Chartered Organization Representative Online Training As with most of the positions in Scouting, COR training is now available in an online course to help you learn more about the important role of the COR and how to accomplish it. The COR course consists of four modules that takes about a total of 40 minutes to complete. To take this online course, go to the BSA Learn Center on the My.Scouting.org website.You’ll learn all about the tasks to help your Scout units to succeed and where to find the resources to help your units. Please keep up your good work that you do for Scouting and let me know if you have any questions about Scouting.Yours in Legion and Scouting Service,

Dana EdwardsChairman

Boy Scout CommitteeDepartment of Maryland

[email protected]