Caregivers Reflect on Needed Respite and Support Networks - Range of emotions - www.ALAforVeterans.org
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www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 $3.75 Range of emotions Caregivers Reflect on Needed Respite and Support Networks
Most ALA members don’t
renew after their second
and third years of joining
How do you keep unit
17:05
members engaged? Are you
in regular communication
Elle Smith
with them? When was the
Hi, Elle! It’s Jocelyn from your last time you checked in
ALA unit. I first wanted to let with someone who’s been
you know that we’re thinking
about you and hope you’re inactive for a while?
doing well! I also wanted to
invite you to our service project
next Saturday at the post.
Member retention is critical.
We’re crafting and handwriting Consider gathering active
thank-you notes to veterans at
the VA hospital. members in your unit to
devise a plan on re-engaging
Oh! Thanks for contacting
me! What time?
people you haven’t heard from
in months … or even years.
It’s at 3pm.
You’ll help the ALA and our
Project sounds cool.
mission of serving veterans,
I’ll be there! military, and their families.
Great! We can’t wait
to see you again!
www.ALAforVeterans.org/Join © American Legion©Auxiliary National
American Legion Headquarters.
Auxiliary All rights
National Headquarters. reserved.
All rights 03/2022
reserved. 03/2022
contents
FEATURES IN EVERY ISSUE
26 CAREGIVERS TELL US 4 NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S 43 ALL THINGS
WHAT IT’S REALLY LIKE MESSAGE ALA GIRLS STATE
It’s one of the toughest jobs anyone could 6 NHQ AT YOUR SERVICE 44 ALA SCHOLARSHIP
have, but they wouldn’t trade a bit of it. 7 OUR READERS RESPOND RECIPIENTS: WHERE
8 JUNIOR MEMBERS ARE THEY NOW?
31 ALA HONOR AND COLOR GUARDS:
WHAT THEY DO AND HOW TO JOIN 10 HEART OF THE MISSION 45 WISE PERSON SAID
Check out our profile on members who 13 IT’S ALL GOOD 46 LEGION FAMILY IN ACTION
participate in these very respected groups. 36 IMPACT ALA! 48 MISSION MATTERS
42 BUILDING ALA 49 WE’RE DIGITAL
34 THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORING
BRAND LOYALTY 50 THE LAST WORD
OUR JUNIOR MEMBERS
We know Juniors are our organization’s
future — let’s help them get there.
ON THE COVER: American Legion Auxiliary member Toni Kettner of Michigan, along with her husband, Jason, and Jason’s service
dog, Hera. In 2016, Toni and Jason married. The following year, she left her nursing job to take care of her husband full-time.
Kettner and other ALA members are profiled in the second of our three-part series on the unsung heroes: caregivers
(photo: Sarah Rice). ABOVE: “Wearing the poppy reminds our own hearts and the heart of the world … that other generations
might have a richer heritage of happiness.” — Kathleen C. Morgan, Southern Division Poppy Chairman (1931-1932).
National Poppy Day® falls on May 27 this year.
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 3
LEADING THE MISSION: FROM OUR NATIONAL PRESIDENT
need programs with a caring hand to
assist them. Eagle’s Healing Nest will
help foster purpose and direction.
Our servicemembers’ families — who
also serve our country — deserve the
resources, support, and best treatment
available.
Seeing new and different ways
to serve our veterans, military, and
their families brings about a sense
of pride in our organization and
those we partner with. I’m proud of
our ALA members from Minnesota,
South Dakota, and across the country
who have thought of ways to think
As I travel from unit to unit, Ranch in South Dakota, which outside the box and work with other
members continue to share with me provides equine therapy for organizations in their communities.
their caregiver stories, the heartache veterans, among other services. I Together, we can make a difference!
and healing that comes with the role experienced a tiny bit of the therapy As we continue this administrative
of caring for others. they use to help our veterans, and I year into summer, take some time
After discussing this very was completely floored! to reflect on how you can best help
important and personal topic, there The mission of DTOM Ranch caregivers and veterans. One thing that
are always members who come up is to provide a safe place for always helps me — having a positive
to me and say they didn’t realize healing and recovery for military attitude! It is easy sometimes to get
it before, but they are caregivers caught up in the negativity, but I really
too! I hope this subject continues Remember: You can want all members to focus on the
to bring ALA members a sense recognize caregivers in your positives of who we are, what we do,
of togetherness — knowing you unit, district, or department and why we matter. That supportive
are not alone, and the ALA will with a caregiver certificate spirit can go a long way in serving our
continue to support you in your of appreciation. veterans, military, and their families
caregiving efforts. and helping us continue to achieve our
Remember: You can recognize servicemembers, veterans, and mission.
caregivers in your unit, district, their families while encouraging, Along with our caregivers and
or department with a caregiver engaging, and positively impacting veterans, as we observe Memorial
certificate of appreciation. The their lives through hope, self- Day in late May, I’d like to ask you all
recognition can take place at a unit conviction, and family activities, to keep those U.S. military members
meeting, special event, or even all while helping them learn to live who died serving our country in your
in the caregiver’s own home. It’s again with purpose. thoughts and prayers, as well as their
a simple gesture, but it can mean I also had the privilege of visiting surviving family members. Their
so much to have just that little Eagles Healing Nest in Minnesota. ultimate sacrifice gave us the freedoms
bit of recognition. Download the There are incredible things we have. Let’s not forget why we are
certificate today at happening here! The nonprofit is part of the American Legion Auxiliary!
www.ALAforVeterans.org. committed to meeting the needs
In addition to showing our of veterans, servicemembers, and
caregivers love and appreciation, their families who suffer from the
what members are doing to take invisible wounds of war. According Kathy Daudistel
care of our veterans is incredible. to the nonprofit’s website, many National President
One example is the DTOM of our military are struggling and
QUESTIONS ABOUT NATIONAL POPPY DAY® BRANDING?
In the 1920s, the poppy became the official flower of The American Legion Family to memorialize the
soldiers who fought and died during World War I. In the decades that followed, poppies have been
worn, displayed, and distributed for fundraising efforts by veterans service and support organizations
like the American Legion Auxiliary around the world. Check out page 42 in this issue of Auxiliary to
learn more about branding for National Poppy Day®.
4 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.org
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NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS AT YOUR SERVICE
A Community of Volunteers
Serving Veterans, Military, and their Families
May 2022
Published by
American Legion Auxiliary
National Headquarters
Executive Director
Kelly Circle, J.D., Ph.D.
Communications and Marketing Director
Stephanie L. Holloway
Communications Manager
Aaron Meyer
Webmaster
PROGRAMS: We hosted the National Chairmen’s Meeting in spring and heard from Travis Perkins
several speakers on what to expect for the 2022-2023 ALA administrative year. Communications Specialist – Writer
Sara Fowler
We are planners, and in a world issue of the quarterly Auxiliary is Communications & Marketing Specialist
of uncertainty and sometimes announced in this timely piece of Jennifer Donovan
tumult, we think it’s an admirable ALA media. All members with an Communications Coordinator
quality to prefer being ahead of the email address on file receive this Alexa Freeman
game. We’re organized folks here at publication. Contributing Writers
Sydney DeLong, Zane Glotzbach,
National Headquarters, and that’s
why unexpected news is hard for
e——f Zac Felty, and Angie Graham
2021-2022 National Officers
us to swallow. It is with deep sadness that we National President Kathy Daudistel
You’ve more than likely heard announce the passing of ALANHQ National Vice President Vickie Koutz
about the global supply chain staff member Michael Butt, who was National Secretary Coral May Grout
National Treasurer Marybeth Revoir
problems disrupting the economy. director of the Communications
Well, the Division. Mike, who had been with ADVERTISING
James G. Elliott Company Inc.
American us for 12 years, had a keen passion NEW YORK (212) 588-9200
Legion for the ALA’s mission and sharing DETROIT (248) 530-0300
CHICAGO (312) 236-4900
Auxiliary is the story of members’ ongoing LOS ANGELES (213) 624-0900
not immune. commitment to Service Not Self. ADDRESS CHANGE:
Paper He was a patriotic citizen who Email name, previous address, new address
and membership ID (9-digit number above
shortages made sure the American flag was your name on magazine label) to:
have affected respected at all times. Internally, alamishelp@ALAforVeterans.org
Auxiliary upon beginning employment at Contact Us: ALA National Headquarters
3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
magazine — National Headquarters, Mike (317) 569-4500 | www.ALAforVeterans.org
the February issue was delayed zeroed in on reshaping Auxiliary email: ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org
hitting mailboxes by about a week magazine and bringing its focus American Legion Auxiliary Magazine is published
to two weeks. back to members. Having overseen quarterly by the American Legion Auxiliary
with a yearly non-refundable allocation of $3.40
As of press time, we’ve not the Development Division during from membership dues. Letters, unsolicited
received adverse production news part of his tenure at National articles and photographs are not guaranteed
to be published or returned and may be edited.
about the May issue, but we do Headquarters, Mike was a strong See www.ALAforVeterans.org/Media/Magazine-
want to throw it out there: It could proponent of the American Legion Submissions for further details. Opinions
expressed in this publication may not necessarily
be a little late reaching you, and Auxiliary Foundation and was a represent policy or positions of the organization.
for that, we are sorry. There is a longtime major donor. He passed Advertisements do not reflect endorsement
by the organization.
bright spot in all of this, and it’s away in January, just after the
Non-member Subscriptions
in the form of an email. Are you February issue of Auxiliary had Send $15 (checks only) to address above,
subscribed to ALA eNews? Each gone to press. He will be missed. Attention: Accounting
Payable to: National Treasurer, ALA
The American Legion Family
The American Legion
The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) is a community of volunteers serving (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org
veterans, military, and their families. Our members also support the
Sons of The American Legion
mission of The American Legion in improving the quality of life for our (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org/Sons
nation’s veterans. Proud sponsor of ALA Girls Nation, National Poppy Day®
American Legion Riders
and recognized for advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, the nearly 600,000 (317) 630-1200 www.Legion.org/Riders
ALA members across the country volunteer millions of hours annually and raise
millions of dollars in service to veterans, military, and their families. Founded in 1919,
the ALA is one of the oldest patriotic membership organizations in the U.S.A.
To learn more and to volunteer, join, and donate, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.
OUR READERS RESPOND
energizing, and meeting great young have written notes. There have
men and women like Cadet Piper also been some thank-yous with
gives me a bit of an adrenaline rush donations. Something so small —
too. just a greeting — means so much,
In many states, our Sea Cadet connecting with elderly veterans
units drill at American Legion and others.
facilities. This is critical to our — Joyce Waldock, North Dakota
success.
We really appreciate your
IT’S ALL GOOD TO HONOR
The four chaplains were awarded THE FOUR CHAPLAINS
the Distinguished Service Cross and Lt. George Fox,
support to Sea Cadets, and of
Purple Heart posthumously. They Methodist minister
could not be awarded the Medal Lt. Fox served as a
of Honor because they didn’t meet medical corps assistant
the requirements. As a result, a in World War I.
posthumous special medal of heroism Following the war, he
was awarded in 1961 by President
course, veterans (I’m one!). It’s
was awarded the Silver Star, Purple
Dwight D. Eisenhower. The Four Heart, and French Croix de Guerre.
Chaplains’ Medal was given and will Fox returned home to Vermont
never be given again. and became a public accountant,
The American Legion Family married, and had two children. He
remembers these men and their later become a minister in Gilman,
a team effort to raise the next
sacrifices in an interfaith program each Vt. He was a member of Walter G.
February. Four Chaplains Day is Feb. Moore American Legion Post 41
3, and many post homes will host a — now named Moore-Fox — and
ceremony on Four Chaplains Sunday, returned to active duty in 1942.
which is the first Sunday in February. Lt. Alexander Goode,
Editor’s note: Caregivers generation who will one day become
Jewish rabbi
Chapel of the Four Chaplains Lt. Goode was from
Dr. Daniel A. Poling, father of Lt. Brooklyn, N.Y. He
Clark Poling, decided there needed
THE FOUR CHAPLAINS: SAVING OTHERS to be a shrine in memory of the four
followed in his father’s
footsteps and became
WITH A SELFLESS ACT chaplains and their sacrifice. He
members of your organization.
a rabbi and then earned a medical
feature resonates with readers
Imagine — a sinking ship and Orders were given to fire, and the imagined it as a place where all faiths degree. He was married with four
not enough life jackets. Would Dorchester was hit by a torpedo. could worship God. children. He applied to serve as a
you give up your life jacket to save After the hit, the four chaplains This shrine became a reality Navy chaplain in 1941 but was not
another? attempted to bring calm to the in Philadelphia in the late 1940s. accepted. Following the attack on
On a cold night in the North chaos. They began by handing out President Harry S. Truman dedicated Pearl Harbor, he applied as an Army
Our three-part caregivers — Rear Adm. Andrew Lennon,
Atlantic on Feb. 3, 1943, not only life jackets, only to realize there the chapel in 1951. chaplain and was accepted.
did one man give up his life jacket, were not enough. The men each The Chapel is no longer in its
Lt. Clark Poling, Dutch
but three others joined him. This removed their jackets to save four original location. In 2001, it moved
Reformed minister
story may sound familiar to you: others. to a third location, now at the site of
Lt. Poling was from
The Four Chaplains — Father John As the ship was sinking, the a 1942 World War II Navy Chapel in
Poughkeepsie, N.Y. He
P. Washington, Rabbi Alexander D. four chaplains were seen standing Philadelphia.
series, which launched with the U.S. Navy (ret), Executive Director,
served as a pastor of First
Goode, the Rev. George L. Fox, and on ship’s stern, arms locked as they The Chapel of the Four Chaplains
Reformed Church in
the Rev. Clark V. Poling — were on prayed and sang hymns. Not only serves as a place to tell their story and
Schenectady, N.Y. He was married
a sinking USAT Dorchester. was it a sign of bravery, but the encourage selfless acts and interfaith
and had two children, the second
The Army transport was part of chaplains put aside their different cooperation.
of which was born two months
a convoy of three ships en route to faiths and prayed as one. The Four Chaplains Day program
U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps
after the sinking of the Dorchester.
February issue, was a popular topic
an American base in Greenland. On that night, only 230 of the can be found in the American
His father served as a chaplain in
Before the ships could reach their 902 on board survived. The ship Legion Auxiliary Chaplains’ Prayer
World War I and decided to serve
destination, an officer on a German was carrying servicemen, merchant book in the MyAuxiliary section of
again after the United States entered
submarine noticed the convoy. seamen, and civilian workers. www.ALAforVeterans.org.
World War II.
Lt. John Washington,
for letters from readers. Many of
Roman Catholic priest
Did you know? Lt. Washington was born
ALA Past National Chaplain the Rev. Isadore Fox was the wife of Lt. George Fox. She served in Newark, N.J., to Irish
as the American Legion Auxiliary national chaplain in 1970-1971. Isadore also served the immigrants. He was
Stretching grant dollars
Department of Vermont as a chaplain for many years and as department president in 1960-1961. ordained as a priest in
you wrote to say you related well
She wrote a book, The Immortal Chaplain, about her husband’s life. Isadore was an ALA member 1935. Following the attack on Pearl
for more than 30 years and continued to serve until her passing in 1982. Harbor, he was appointed as an
Army chaplain.
24 Auxiliary magazine | February 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.org www.ALAforVeterans.org Fe
to the challenges, struggles, and for veterans
appreciation our caregivers are Through a grant received More information about
presented with on a daily basis. One from the Parshall Community Lt. Clark Poling
reader said she could write a book Foundation in 2021, American I enjoyed reading the It’s All
about her experience, while another Legion Auxiliary Unit 121 has Good to Honor article titled, The
thanked us for giving caregivers “a been able to send small gifts and four chaplains: saving others with
voice and platform to move forward greetings monthly to older veterans a selfless act. Lt. Clark Poling
and forge ahead.” Lots of you and assisted living and nursing grew up in Deering, N.H. I’ve
recalled the times when you were a home residents who once lived included the link to information
caregiver for your loved one before around Parshall. This idea came on a local summit named after
they passed away. from the hardship COVID created him: deeringnaturalhistory.
Read more about our unsung when no visitors were allowed. com/2017/08/21/clark-summit.
heroes — check out the second part The challenge now is to think When I was a teen, there was also
of our caregivers series on page of something relatively flat, being an eternal light atop Clark Summit,
26 in this issue of Auxiliary, and postage conscious, so we can which I think vandals destroyed.
be sure to follow the ALA blog at reach out to approximately 38-40 — Sharon Powers, New Hampshire
www.ALAforVeterans.org/blog for individuals monthly and stretch the
additional caregiver stories. grant money. We frequently discuss Beyond the Four
adding names, changing addresses, Chaplains story
Thank you for spotlighting and dropping individuals if they Sure appreciated the article
Sea Cadets are not here anymore. We meet about the four chaplains who
I enjoyed reading your monthly as a group, address signed sacrificed their lives to help others
fantastic article about Sea Cadet envelopes with a surprise inside, during the shipwreck.
Trinity Piper from Ohio in your and discuss “what” for the next I am 80 years old and never
February issue. Her excitement month. knew of the incident until a retired
and passion for adventure really “Parshall Auxiliary Cares” has Lutheran pastor attended our
come through when she said, been a fun project and has many church and told of the shipwreck
“… it’s a great experience. I … rewards. The residents and families where three-fourths of the troops
enjoy the friendships you make, of residents are so appreciative: died.
the experiences you get and the “You have no idea how good it is It helps to be reminded of the
adrenaline rush …” Every one of to be remembered by people back destruction wars create.
my visits with our cadets has been home.” Some residents themselves — Mary Ellen Kiely, Texas
WE WANT TO Email: ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org
you
or send letters to: ALA National Headquarters
3450 Founders Road, Indianapolis, IN 46268
HEAR FROM Story and Photo Submissions: Visit
www.ALAforVeterans.org/Magazine
for more details.
JUNIOR MEMBERS
NATIONAL JUNIOR MEETINGS RETURN
TO IN-PERSON FORMAT
What a great feeling it was for our meeting. In 2022, there were five in the mission. The combination of
Junior members to be back in person meetings — one in each ALA a service project, guest speakers, and
for the national Junior meetings this division — Las Vegas (Western), engaging activities give the girls the tools
administrative year! After not being Orlando (Southern), Indianapolis they need to learn about the Auxiliary as
able to meet physically last year, it (Central), Baltimore (Eastern), and Junior members, and will lead to active,
was a welcoming sight to see our Omaha (Northwestern). adult memberships.
youngest members gather for fun, National Junior meetings take The girls take away friendships and an
activities, and fellowship. place at the same time as each ALA overall appreciation of the Auxiliary and
Nationwide, ALA Junior members Mission Training event and are who we are, what we do, and why
build their leadership skills as they designed to be interactive and fun. we matter.
carry out our mission of helping Additionally, the meetings are a way Stay tuned to ALA national media for
veterans, military, and their families to connect with our younger ALA dates of future national Junior meetings
when they attend a national Junior members and help them engage and ALA Mission Training events.
year, and she would donate her time
for whatever she could,” Virginia
recalled. “She was very involved —
always doing something.”
Alivia participated in
extracurricular activities and was an
honors student at school.
“She loved everybody and made
everybody laugh,” she said. “If she
knew someone was having a bad day,
she made them smile.”
One thing that brought Alivia
great joy was animals — it didn’t
matter what kind. She was thinking of
FAMILY CREATES her family has focused on honoring becoming a veterinarian or a marine
SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY her memory through the Alivia biologist someday.
OF JUNIOR MEMBER Paige Moylan Memorial Scholarship “She was always wanting to give
“We just continue to honor Fund. back to the community, and I think
her,” said Virginia Moylan of her She was very active in her local someone like that should be honored,”
late daughter, Alivia. “She was an American Legion Auxiliary New Virginia said.
exceptional young girl.” York Unit 1113. Earlier this year, the Auxiliary held a
Alivia passed away in 2020 at “She placed flags every year with raffle to benefit the Alivia Paige Moylan
the age of 12 following a tragic all- her father at gravesites, she helped Memorial Scholarship Fund. Auxiliary
terrain vehicle accident. Since then, with the chicken barbecues every member and local artist Judy Dimbleby
8 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.org
JUNIORS EARN PATCHES patch activities are ones they are
WHILE ATTENDING NATIONAL already doing — they just needed
MEETINGS an introduction to the program
Some of our younger ALA process.”
Juniors were able to receive a patch One way to earn a patch at a
or two as part of the ALA Junior Junior meeting or a regular ALA
Activities Patch Program at this unit meeting is through leadership
year’s national Junior meetings. opportunities. This can include
Many of these activities were learning how to make a motion,
already being conducted at the learning proper protocol for
national meetings, as well as speaking or making a motion at an
unit meetings, giving Juniors an ALA meeting, learning common
opportunity to earn their patches at terms in parliamentary procedure,
the same time. and participating in a meeting that
National Junior Activities follows parliamentary procedure. serving our country’s veterans.
Committee Western Division Poppy is another simple one There are three levels to the
Chair Marge Christianson helped that can be done at unit meetings program: red (kindergarten through
spearhead the idea at this year’s — read the poppy story, as a group, third grade); gold (fourth to eighth
meetings. recall facts just learned, and make grade); and blue (ninth to 12th
“Even the most patriotic kids poppies. grade). Currently, 34 ALA Junior
have so many competing interests Junior members, as well as patches are available. Americanism,
and opportunities for using their school-aged Sons of The American Leadership, and Poppy are the most
time,” she said. “I thought it would Legion members, may earn patches popular patches. New this year is
be beneficial to introduce Juniors for activities in ALA programs. the caregiver patch for the blue
to this wonderful program while Participating in the Patch Program level.
we had them focused on the ALA is a great way to be involved in To learn more about patches,
mission with the hope that once learning about the Auxiliary and log in to the MyAuxiliary member
started, they would share with their The American Legion Family, portal at www.ALAforVeterans.org
parents and continue. Many of the volunteering in the community, and and select Junior Member Activities.
painted a watercolor still life CAREGIVER BAGS creative artwork and messages of hope.
bouquet of poppies and donated PROVIDE FUN, LEARNING “The artwork of these kids
it for the raffle, which raised over FOR JUNIORS amazes me,” said Kristin Hinshaw,
$2,000 toward the fund. For this year’s service project at senior program coordinator at ALA
The scholarship will begin in the national Junior meetings, the National Headquarters.
2025, the year Alivia would have girls made caregiver bags. The idea The Juniors made an assembly
graduated from high school. It was inspired by an ALA National line to stuff bags with the various
will go to an honors student from Headquarters staff member items for caregivers, including
the Whitesboro Central School spending hours waiting at various notepads, pens, phone chargers, and
District who plans to major in appointments at a U.S. Department spray hand sanitizer.
veterinary health or healthcare. of Veterans Affairs facility with The bags were donated to
Donations to the scholarship her father. She realized some items VA-related facilities for veteran
fund can be mailed to the would be helpful to always have caregivers.
Moylan residence at 20 Mohawk with her as a caregiver. The project is not only a mission-
St., Whitesboro, NY 13492. Juniors spent time during related activity for those attending
For further questions, please meetings decorating the bags with a national Junior meeting, but it’s
email Virginia at great for Juniors to take on at the
vdmoylan02@gmail.com. unit level. Ask for similar items to
“I feel lucky that everyone be donated, decorate the bags, add
loved her so much and they the items, and take to your local VA
care for us so much,” she said. facility or similar location where
“This helps to honor her so she caregivers could use the items. Be
will never be forgotten. She was creative, think outside the box, add/
amazing. She really was.” change the items, and have fun!
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 9
HEART OF THE MISSION: MEET OUR MEMBERS
“Use your scars for good because you never know who needs to hear
your testimony. It can have a tremendous ripple effect around the world…”
LINDSAY GUTIERREZ
American a nasty spill on the road. While I on how they can be supportive of
Legion wasn’t seriously hurt, my ego was those we serve to share their stories?
Auxiliary most impacted due to personal Meet people where they are in life.
member humiliation of an adult crashing Simply put, don’t force people to share
Lindsay their bike for no apparent reason. I something they aren’t ready to, and be
Gutierrez, ended up with a scraped elbow and there to support them wherever they
a U.S. shoulder and a nice imprint of my are in their journey. When people are
Air Force bike chain on my right leg. ready to share, they will.
veteran, is Fast forward to a few months Just being there for someone can be
originally later: I have a tremendous keloid enough, and letting them know you’re
from scar that now carries a fun story. there for them can be a tremendous
Oklahoma, This got me thinking of the many start in fostering trust between ALA
and now lives in Georgia with her people I’ve encountered who have members and their community. What
active-duty Air Force husband, physical scars. We think to ourselves, we want to avoid saying are the phrases,
Anthony, and many fur babies. She I wonder how that happened? I’m a “I’m here
works as a congressional caseworker very inquisitive person, so it led me if you want
for federal veteran-related issues. to wondering even more if people to talk” and
From her experiences both would be interested in telling how the all-too-
professionally and personally, their physical scars occurred. I common-
Gutierrez created The SCAR immediately took this thought a but-with-
Initiative. The mission is to highlight step further and thought, How many good-
the various wounds we’ve all endured people would tell of their invisible, intention, “I
— through storytelling and how internal scars? understand
these stories illuminate the courage Mental health in America how you feel/ Lindsay with her
active-duty Air Force
and empowerment of participants. is a major discussion point and what you’re
husband, Anthony
We are proud to have you as something we all have struggled going through.”
an ALA member! What does your with. As a veteran of the U.S. Air Do you have any final advice
membership mean to you? Force, I recognized early on in my you want to share?
Community, pride, and love military career how much veterans Use your scars for good because you
for the men and women who have suffer in silence because being never know who needs to hear your
served to provide us the freedoms we vulnerable is viewed as a sign of testimony. It can have a tremendous
often take for granted. Being an ALA weakness. Personally, I’ve lost too ripple effect around the world, and
member means being a servant- many battle buddies to suicide, and now, more than ever, does humanity
leader and offering care to veterans it hurts to know if only we could need to have people who want to make
and their families through various have shared our story, would it have a difference to those around them.
programs and resources, so anyone changed the outcome?
needing a help up, not a handout, My goal with TSI is to help FACEBOOK:
can turn to the ALA for that support. be a small catalyst in turning this @scarinitiative
What inspired you to create systemic stereotype around, where INSTAGRAM:
The SCAR Initiative? vulnerability with our physical and @linds_gutierrez and @scarinitiative
The SCAR Initiative (TSI) was invisible scars is seen as incredible
EMAIL:
created one day as I was staring strength and courage. thescarinitiative@gmail.com
at one of my own physical scars Sometimes, members of the
WEBSITE:
located on my right elbow. I love to military don’t always find it easy https://thescarinitiative.
road cycle, and over the summer I to talk about their experiences. Do godaddysites.com
was out riding my bike when I took you have any tips for ALA members
SHARE YOUR MEMBERSHIP STORY!
Tell us about yourself and how you support the American Legion Auxiliary as a unit member who also loves the ALA’s mission
of serving veterans, military, and their families. Contact us at ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org or (317) 569-4500.
10 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.orgFREEDOM.
TO BE YOU.
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MKT-P0240Give a Birthday Gift to
Support Veteran Caregivers
Join us in celebrating National President
Kathy Daudistel’s birthday on July 10
by making a gift to the ALA Foundation
in support of veteran caregivers. Your name
will be signed on her birthday card!
Use your smartphone
camera and scan
this code to sign
Kathy’s birthday card!
(or go to donate.legion-aux.org/
HappyBirthday)
The American Legion Auxiliary Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that supports the American Legion Auxiliary.
Ensuring Our Mission of Service Endures All gifts to the Foundation are tax-deductible as allowed by the United States Tax Code and U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
© American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters. All rights reserved. 03/2022IT’S ALL GOOD NEWS, WORKS, TO SERVE
“Let every American wear a memorial poppy this month and let
everyone pause, if only for a moment on Memorial Day,
to honor those who have given their lives that we may be free.”
— Gen Ryan, ALA National President (1966-1967)
There’s something about The American Legion Family presence during honor and remembrance ceremonies
and events. The images of blue caps and blue stars somehow seem to connect us on another level to the
servicemembers who sacrificed so much, even if we didn’t know these heroes personally. On Memorial Day
and Veterans Day especially, we show our care, concern, and support with a salute or hand over heart. May
we always have a special place for the fallen — and those still serving — deep in our memories forever.
Above: Hank Lucas, American Legion Post 72 chaplain, leads a procession to the war memorials on the Southington
Green during the Veterans Day Ceremony at American Legion Post 72, Nov. 11, 2021, in Southington, Conn.
(Aaron Flaum/Record-Journal via Associated Press).
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 13IT’S ALL GOOD ALA MEMBERS SPEAK OUT
What is the most valuable thing you’ve
learned from being part of the ALA?
ALA ACADEMY LIVE
Since the “As in all things, knowledge is power. The more you
poppy is on immerse yourself in the programs of the ALA, the greater
your ability to honor and support our veterans and their
your mind families. I truly believe in our motto of Service Not Self.”
— Marylou Melton, Indiana
this month…
“True leadership is built from sincere service and humble
• Log in to the understanding that collaboration and community will
ALA Academy to get us farther and have greater impact than any initiative,
watch a recording project, or program we attempt alone.”
on using poppy — Claire Moore, Virginia
funds, where
you’ll learn all of “How many things we can do for veterans, children, and
the details of this our communities. Most importantly, that as much as I
specialized area give, I receive much more back by doing so.”
and connecting to — Julia Moore, Illinois
our mission.
Log in with
“Leadership. I’ve learned how to organize and reach out
your member ID to my unit members and veterans in the community.”
today at www. — Melissa Cannell, Missouri
ALAforVeterans.org.
“All members have special talents that should be utilized,
recognized, and praised. We are all here for one reason.”
— Joanne Valletta, New York
“Knowing that we all come from diverse backgrounds
and have a variety of talents that can assist in the
betterment of our organization, and above all can help
our veterans, their families, and our communities.”
— Cherril Threte, Indiana
“Our veterans are the most valuable asset we have. They
need us to stand behind them, support them, and help
take care of their families.”
— Carol K. Kottom, Minnesota
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @ALAforVeterans.
You could be featured in an upcoming issue of Auxiliary.
14 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.orgIT’S ALL GOOD TO GO
MEMORIAL HONORS
THE MILITARY SERVICE
OF NATIVE AMERICANS
In 2013, Congress passed
legislation for the National Museum
of the American Indian (NMAI) to
create a National Native American
Veterans Memorial to give “all
Americans the opportunity to
learn of the proud and courageous
tradition of service of Native
Americans in the Armed Forces
of the United States.” The
memorial opened Nov. 11, 2020, in
Washington, D.C., on the grounds
of NMAI.
The memorial is described
by the museum as “a welcoming (Photo: Alan Karchmer/NMAI)
space for gathering, reflection, visitors may leave prayer ties, a with all they need; and the wind that
healing, and remembrance, a place traditional sacred buddle of tobacco will carry the prayers and memories
to honor the sacrifices and service used as an offering of gratitude. of visitors skyward.
of generations of Native veterans.” The seals of the five branches of the The water pulsing across the
The memorial titled Warriors’ Circle armed forces are on a nearby wall. surface of the drum is echoed by
of Honor was designed by Harvey concentric rings in the stone of the
Pratt, a member of the Cheyenne Symbolism of the design walkways, suggesting the beat of a
and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. The museum describes the drum calling people to gather within
Pratt, a retired forensic artist, is a meaning of the memorial as the circle.
Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, timeless and inclusive, honoring all
and a Southern Cheyenne Peace Native American, Alaska Native, First landmark in D.C. to focus on
Chief. The museum conducted an and Native Hawaiian veterans, as contribution of American Indians
international competition to select well as the families who support This is the first national landmark
the design for the memorial and was them. The circular design suggests a in Washington, D.C. to focus on the
chosen through a juried, two-stage sacred circle, the cycles of time and contributions of American Indians,
process. life, and the movement of the stars Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians
and planets. who served in the military. In a June
A place to reflect and heal According to the museum, the 2018 press release on the memorial’s
Per the museum’s website, the circle is relevant to many Native selection, NMAI wrote that Native
memorial’s focal point is a large, American cultures in the shape of Americans serve at a higher rate per
vertical stainless-steel circle, sitting a drum and of circles for dance, capita than any other population
atop a low, carved stone drum form, storytelling, and prayer. The group, and that few outside the
at the center of a circular gathering memorial incorporates the elements military and American Indian
space. Water flows continuously of fire, representing strength, Nations know that Native people
outward from the center of the courage, endurance, and comfort; have served in the U.S. armed forces
drum, and a fire may be lit at the water, signifying purification and since the American Revolution and
base of the steel circle on ceremonial prayer; earth, which provides people continue to serve today.
occasions.
A circular seating area may
be entered at the four cardinal See the Museum in Person
directions from a surrounding NMAI will host a dedication ceremony to honor Native
walkway called the Path of veterans and their families on Veterans Day 2022.
Harmony, respecting different Visiting the Memorial: The outside memorial is open
cultural practices regarding the every day, 24 hours a day, and can be visited for free.
appropriate direction from which Location: 4th St SW, Washington, DC
to enter the central space. There are
Online: americanindian.si.edu
four vertical spears or lances where
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 15IT’S ALL GOOD CONTENT FROM YOU
or contact you for more information,
if needed. Be sure to include pertinent
details like the Five W’s — who (was
involved), what (happened), where
(event or activity was held), when
(date), and why (was the event,
etc., held). Remember: The more
information and details you include,
the better we’re able to showcase it in
ALA media, so tell us everything!
Strike a pose: There’s
nothing to it
Photos should reflect the ALA
mission and values. Please consider
photos with smiling, positive people
actively engaged in serving veterans,
military, and their families. Examples
are volunteers handing out items to
DID YOU HEAR THE AMAZING THINGS veterans at a stand down, or members
of The American Legion Family
OUR MEMBERS ARE DOING? fully branded and serving current
Do you have an inspirational or across our many social media servicemembers’ families at an event.
Auxiliary or American Legion platforms @ALAforVeterans.
How to submit your story
Family story to share with the
Why share your success To submit your story online, visit
world? The story may be your
stories? www.ALAforVeterans.org/magazine/
own or one about a fellow
Members often mention how submissions. Please be sure to read
member or a member of your
our programs and being involved the suggestions and requirements for
family involved in our programs
in our organization have changed images and content, and then submit
or military service. your content using the online form.
their lives. As an organization and
We’re always looking for
as a community of volunteers, The people with the red pens
stories and photos about you for
we love hearing the inspiring (our editors)
our magazine, blog, newsletters,
stories behind every program, Please note that if used in ALA
and social media platforms. We
every member, and every mission media, all submitted items are
want you to help us show the
moment. By sharing your success subject to our editing process. Besides
world what we do and why we
stories, you can provide inspiration typos — they happen to the best
matter.
and motivations to all members of us — we’re checking for clarity,
Members of all ages and from
who are part of our mission. style, and format. By submitting
all organizations of The American
Sending us your inspiring stories material, you acknowledge that you
Legion Family are welcome
and photos of members working are legally entitled to distribute the
to submit content for possible
our mission or enjoying one of our work and allow it to be redistributed.
inclusion in ALA media. We
many mission outreach programs We may use such materials with or
invite you to share your success
helps us to connect with current without your name and for any lawful
stories and tell us how you as
members, future members, donors, purpose, including, for example, such
a member, your local unit or
and advocates. purposes as publicity, illustration,
department, Legion Family, or any
advertising, and web-related content.
of your fellow members or family Writing tips: What kind of
members are making a difference information should I include Do you have their permission?
in the lives of veterans, military, in my story? In providing photos, you represent
and their families. Your story The more information, the that you own all copyrights and have
could be shared in the national better! Don’t worry about your been given the authority by each
quarterly Auxiliary magazine, writing skills or being a wordsmith individual depicted in the photograph
shared on the national website — just tell us your story as best you to provide photos to ALA National
at www.ALAforVeterans.org, can, and we can take it from there Headquarters.
16 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.orgIT’S ALL GOOD INVESTING
meaningfully appealing art piece tiny, doesn’t mean it has no value or
hanging on the wall. significance. If you have details about
“Our American Legion post the item, log that too.
was building a brand new building
in 1959,” said Coral May Grout, Store safely, then learn value
member of Unit 193. “Dad was In the case of Post 193’s Rockwell
on the committee and was asked painting, Grout said that in 1982,
to obtain donations from local a man attending a party at the post
Winchendon notables. He visited offered to purchase the painting for
Rev. Wilfred Tisdell, pastor of the $500. The commander at the time
Catholic Church, at his lovely home. stopped and thought, If this guy wants
Father Tisdell invited Dad to go to pay $500, how much is it really
upstairs to the art gallery where worth? The post then contacted the
about 25 original paintings were Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge,
housed. Rev. Tisdell asked him if Mass., to give a ballpark figure on its
he had selected a painting, and Dad value. Museum staff were shocked
responded, ‘Yes.’ So, the two of them that the painting was never stolen or
TREASURE: This Norman Rockwell went upstairs and Dad pointed out damaged all those years.
painting, part of The American his choice.” The easiest way you can protect
Legion Post 193 Family in The painting was a Norman items in your post home: Look
Winchendon, Mass., sold at auction Rockwell original titled, Home for for harmful factors like sunlight,
last year for $3.6 million (photo/ Thanksgiving, a 35-by-33 inch oil uncontrolled temperature, and
Norman Rockwell Museum). on canvas and the Nov. 24, 1945, cigarette smoke — all of these can
YOU MIGHT HAVE A cover of The Saturday Evening Post. severely impair the value of your
Commissioned for the magazine, historical property. The next step is to
VALUABLE ITEM IN YOUR
the painting tells the tale of the first get it appraised. These trained experts
POST HOME
Thanksgiving after the Allies’ victory. will carefully examine your materials
Collecting, protecting, and
In November 2021, it was sold at and offer a value amount, as well as
financing: What you need to know
auction for $3.6 million. ways to properly insure them.
It’s a familiar sight at the
community American Legion Family Assess your archives Archiving takes time
post home — trinkets large and When was the last time a member Rome wasn’t built in a day, and
small hanging on walls, positioned in of your post home went through neither will assessing your archives. It
glass curio cabinets, and sometimes, everything and thoroughly studied takes time to sift through records, and
stuffed in a closet … untouched for each item? Has it been years? Or has you don’t have to make decisions right
years. it ever been done? Include a blast in away about what to do with valuable
When you’re older than a century your next newsletter asking for help items.
like The American Legion and ALA, from the trusted history buffs. You “It was thanks to my dad that
you’re bound to have archives and might be surprised at how much this even happened,” Grout said.
sentimental items placed in every people really want to be involved. “With the pandemic, much revenue
nook and cranny around the house. Dig through boxes, trunks, and didn’t come in from weddings, post
But what about all that stuff? cabinets … and then some. Even the funeral events, art shows, and other
What if something in your collection most organized places can contain events. Without money, things
is more than just a ticket from a objects that lost their way at one couldn’t get done. I visited my dad’s
dance event hosted by the hall in the point or another. Suit up with dust grave at the Massachusetts State
1950s? What if that silver dish you masks and head to the attic — you Veterans Cemetery prior to the sale
thought was a pretty memento was might come across a box that was of the painting, and I asked Dad if he
actually an item of value? once considered junk from members wanted me to continue to ‘fight’ the
Last year, a painting belonging of yore and stored out of the way. sale or agree to it. Dad came to me
to The American Legion Post Be sure to log every item that’s in the middle of the next night and
193 Family in Winchendon, part of your post home history, even said three words: ‘Let it go.’ Then he
Mass., became more than just a the small things. Just because it’s disappeared. So, I let it go.”
Did your American Legion post home discover a now-valuable item, or even something of significance
to your local community? Tell us about it! Contact ALAMagazine@ALAforVeterans.org.
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 17IT’S ALL GOOD TO ENGAGE | ENTERTAIN | ENERGIZE
START PLANNING NOW:
VETERANS DAY IDEAS
FOR YOUR UNIT
Honoring and supporting the
sacrifice of those who serve is the
foundation of the American Legion
Auxiliary’s mission. Although
Auxiliary members are dedicated to
helping our nation’s heroes every day,
Veterans Day — Nov. 11 — is the one to do with your Auxiliary unit for 3. Laminate paper. Trim.
day set aside annually to specifically Veterans Day? These handmade 4. Punch a hole at the top of the
show gratitude for all of our veterans bookmarks can be completed by bookmark. Thread your cord or string
and servicemembers. younger members, older members, through.
It’s impossible to compensate and everyone in between. This is a 5. Spell out your message with the
veterans for their great personal great project to express gratitude in a beads.
sacrifice, but we can honor them meaningful way. Thank a veteran for 6. String the beads in order.
on Veterans Day by demonstrating their service by drawing a thoughtful Personal thank-you cards
our deep appreciation for all they’ve picture or writing a heartfelt message for veterans
done. Traditionally, Veterans Day on the bookmark. Give these
is observed with local parades, Often the most memorable and
handmade gifts to veterans at your encouraging gifts our veterans will
dinners, and celebrations, but there local U.S. Department of Veteran
are countless other ways to show receive, personal thank-you cards/letters
Affairs medical centers to show your with special messages for the veterans
your appreciation to veterans on this appreciation.
special holiday, and now is the time in your life will let them know how
to start planning for them. Materials needed: grateful you are for their sacrifices.
Beyond in-person events and • Posterboard/cardstock Card suggestions:
volunteer activities, try giving back • Clear laminate paper • The message you write should
to veterans through kind words and • Red and blue markers, crayons, speak from the heart.
artistic projects. These small acts glitter, and/or stickers • It can look any way you want it to.
of kindness come from the heart • Cord/thick string Make it simple, or be creative — the
and will be treasured by our past • Alphabet beads and other possibilities are endless.
servicemembers forever. Honor decorative patriotic beads • Ask your Auxiliary unit and Junior
military veterans and educate our Directions: members to make cards and slip them into
youth about the importance of 1. Cut a bookmark shape from local veterans’ mailboxes, or give them to
Veterans Day this Nov. 11 with these the posterboard. Legionnaires at your post home.
craft ideas: 2. Write a special message and Make Veterans Day cards during an
Handmade patriotic bookmark decorate the bookmark however ALA meeting, and contact your local VA
Looking for a creative craft you want. facility to schedule a time to deliver them.
AUXILIARY SUDOKU
Insert the missing numbers one to nine exactly once in every row, column, and 3x3 square. The three Sudoku games below
are in order of beginner, newspaper style, and hard. Answers are found on page 49.
18 Auxiliary magazine | May 2022 www.ALAforVeterans.orgIT’S ALL GOOD TO GIVE
HANDBAG COMPANY
GIVES BACK TO ALA
FOR MISSION SUPPORT
As members of the American
Legion Auxiliary, we are committed
to honoring the sacrifice of those
who serve by enhancing the lives
of our veterans, military, and their
families. Cameron Cruse and Lisa
Bradley, co-founders of R.Riveter,
created a company that echoes this
commitment. Co-recipients of the
2017 American Legion Auxiliary
Woman of the Year Award, and
both military spouses, Cruse and
Bradley experienced firsthand the
struggles of finding employment
while supporting their military
spouses and families through
constant relocation. Out of that
struggle, R.Riveter was born with
a mission to help military spouses
and their families find employment
that was both stable and mobile.
The company makes one-of-a-kind
handbags, each with a unique story
stemming not only from the process to Pillar, a marketplace of home Instagram, auctioning off two one-of-
of crafting each item, but also from decor and accessories handmade by a-kind handbags from their Heirloom
the materials used. military spouses. collection and donating 100% of
“R.Riveter doesn’t hire military Today, R.Riveter employs 29 local proceeds to the ALA. The Heirloom
spouses to make handbags. We Riveters and 48 remote Riveters. collection is a program that transforms
make handbags to hire military That title, and the company’s name, a loved one’s military uniform, blanket,
spouses and create a greater sense of pay tribute to the iconic image of duffel bag, or other materials into a
mission,” reads a description from “Rosie the Riveter.” Each Riveter has personalized handbag with memories.
the company’s website at rriveter. a special ID number stamped on The auctions, which raised $1,910
com. the R.Riveter product at whatever for the ALA, featured a handbag
What started as two women stage in the journey the handbag is crafted from a 1955 USAF Greatcoat
working out of an attic has quickly in. Every handmade bag can have and a Marine Corps dress jacket.
grown to a network of military as many as five Riveters working Today, their reinvention as stylish
spouses across the country. After on it throughout the process, accessories will remind everyone of
a 2014 Kickstarter campaign and including working on leather, the stories being told, the stories never
the subsequent 2015 opening of a canvas, or within the store. When known, and the duty to keep honoring
brick-and-mortar store in North all of the pieces come together to their tales.
Carolina, Cruse and Bradley were culminate in a bag, the final product The auctions earlier this year are
able to further grow R.Riveter carries the Riveters’ stories with it, part of a few to be held throughout
with an appearance on the reality wherever it goes. 2022, each of which will see 100% of
TV show Shark Tank for budding Stories such as these have proceeds designated to serve veterans,
entrepreneurs, plus an investment been on display through a recent military, and their families.
by Mark Cuban in 2016. Since partnership between the ALA and If you would like to find your own
Shark Tank, R.Riveter has opened a R.Riveter. In January and March, unique way of giving back, visit www.
new warehouse and launched Post R.Riveter hosted auctions through ALAforVeterans.org/donate.
The ALA and R.Riveter have partnered to provide ALA members with a unique 20% discount that can be
accessed at www.rriveter.com/pages/welcome-ALA-members. To participate in a future auction and to stay
up to date with both R.Riveter and the ALA, follow @rriveterbags and @ALAforVeterans on Instagram.
www.ALAforVeterans.org May 2022 | Auxiliary magazine 19You can also read
