Successful Homecoming For Commander Denny Brenden
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE SOUTH DAKOTA
VOLUME 86, NUMBER 2 STILL SERVING AMERICA OCTOBER 2018
Successful Homecoming For Brett P. Reistad
Elected National Commander
Commander Denny Brenden lieutenant with the Fairfax County
Police Department after 26 years of
to the stage. Additionally, Sons of service and began a second career as
the American Legion Detachment a law enforcement services coordi-
Commander Kerry Jorgensen and nator for the Regional Organized
his wife, Donna. Crime Information Center of the
PDC Larry Price was the speaker Regional Information Sharing Sys-
of the day, congratulating his long- tems Program, a congressionally
time friend on his election and offer- funded law enforcement investiga-
ing words of advice on Denny’s tive assistance program of the U.S.
year as commander. Department of Justice. He holds a
PDC Tim Jurgens did an excel- B.S. degree in Criminal Justice from
lent job providing the special music Virginia's Bluefield College.
throughout the program, offering the Reistad's American Legion mem-
Marine Corps Hymn, a folk song bership eligibility is through his
medley and God Bless America. honorable Vietnam War-era service
Commander Jorgensen and Auxil- (1974-1978) as an active duty U.S.
iary President Jeannine Loesch of- Brett P. Reistad Army infantryman where he served
fered their congratulations and ex- National Commander with the Presidential Salute Battery
pressed their excitement in working 2018-2019 of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment
State Commander Dennis Brenden Receives together over the next year. (The Old Guard) at historic Fort
Wrapping up, PDC Hugh Holmes Brett P. Reistad was elected na- Myer, Va. He participated in the
State Commander Banner awoke the crowd in a typical Homer tional commander of The American inaugural ceremony for President
The Homecoming for South Dakota remarks by Codington County Post fashion, and presented Denny with Legion on Aug. 30, 2018, in Minne- Carter and other high-profile cere-
American Legion State Commander #17 Commander. After the warm the Department Commander Home apolis during the organization's monies. He has since been honored
Dennis Brenden, hosted by Codington welcome, The Master of Ceremo- Post Banner. 100th national convention. He has as a Distinguished Member of the
County American Legion Post #17 of nies, PDC Paul Evenson, then took Following the ceremony, Post #17 been a member of the nation's larg- Regiment.
Watertown, SD, held on Saturday, over the microphone, followed by a hosted a meal and social time. The est veterans organization since 1981. Reistad has served at every level of
August 4, 2018. The reception was hand salute to the Colors of our Department Children and Youth A resident of Manassas, Va., Reis- The American Legion. He is a past
well-attended and brought in Legion- country. Chairman, Miranda Krumm, tad is a life member and past com- president and honorary life member
naires and other Legion Family mem- Larry Klumb of Ethan, SD, of- brought 60 backpacks for distribu- mander of Post 270 in McLean. The of the National American Legion
bers from across the state. fered the Invocation. tion across the state as part of the Department of Virginia reached an Press Association. He recently com-
The Homecoming Program, held at Paul Evenson then called for the Backpack Initiative. Overall, a very all-time high in membership while pleted a six-year appointment as
the Ramkota Conference Center in presentation and escort State Com- successful homecoming. he served as department commander chairman of the Department Legis-
Watertown, started off with opening mander Brenden and his wife Roxy Pictures on Page 6 from 2005-2006. He retired as a Continued on page 2
Dell Rapids Post Celebrates Centennial Under 100th Commander
George A. Fitzgerald Post #65 Boasts New Commander Every Year Since 1919
When George McGee took com- continues for many years to come,”
mand of Post #65 in 1919, he had no Majeres explained. “We’ve had 5
idea that he was the start of a centu- father and son sets serve as com-
ry-long tradition. This year, the Dell mander, and one husband and wife
Rapids American Legion elected it’s serve consecutive terms. Their son
100th commander, Jack Majeres. served 10 years later.”
A farmer and chairman of the The system has proved successful
Moody County Conservation Dis- for the post. Not only can they boast
trict by trade, Majeres has worked a new commander every year, but
his way through the post’s leader- the rotation keeps fresh ideas com-
ship positions the last four years. ing, burnout rates low and member-
“As Post #65 begins its 100th year, I ship active. Their monthly meeting
am honored to be it’s 100th com- attendance is proof positive.
mander. We have the distinction of The Dell Rapids American Legion
being the only post in South Dakota Post is a valued part of its communi-
able to claim a different commander ty. Recently, they constructed a
each year.” beautiful Veterans Memorial Park in
This is not a small feat—the only town. They also host the annual
other known post in the country Cootie Days Festival, a much-
with the same accomplishment is the anticipated family friendly carnival
Francis Scott Key Post #11 located in June. Additionally, Dells has
Above: George A. Fitzgerald Post #65 Commander Jack Majeres stands in front of the in Frederick, Maryland. sponsored Legion baseball teams,
post’s Past Commanders boards. Post #65 is one of two posts known in the nation to “This is a major accomplishment, hosted weekly Bingo and boasts an
have had a different commander, without repeats, every year since 1919. and we are working hard to ensure it extremely active Auxiliary unit.
PAGE 2 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS October 2018
Top Ten American Reistad Elected
National
Flag Myths Commander
The Flag Code is The American Legion Flag Code. On Flag Day, June Continued from Page 1
14, 1923, The American Legion and representatives of 68 other patriotic,
fraternal, civic and military organizations met in Washington, DC for the lative Committee and two three-year
purpose of drafting a code of flag etiquette. The 77th Congress adopted this terms as a gubernatorial appointee to
codification of rules as public law on June 22, 1942. It is Title 4, United the Commonwealth of Virginia's Joint
States Code Chapter 1. Leadership Council of Veterans Ser-
A flag that has been used to cover a casket cannot be used for any oth- vice Organizations where he helped
South Dakota Legion News
er proper display purpose. A flag that has been used to cover a casket coordinate the input of 23 veterans
(ISSN 0745-5801)
can be used for any proper display purpose to include displaying this flag service organizations in crafting veter-
Vol. 86 No 2, October 2018
from a staff or flagpole. an-friendly legislation and advocating
Official Publication of the American Legion of South Dakota
Published six times per year by The Flag Code prohibits the display of a United States flag of less than the proposed legislation before the
The American Legion of South Dakota 50 stars. According to the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry the United governor and General Assembly. He is
14 1st Ave SE States flag never becomes obsolete. Any officially approved American also a tenured past department histori-
Watertown, SD 57201 flag, irrespective of the number or arrangement of the stars and/or stripes an and was recently bestowed an hon-
Member American Legion Press Association may continue to be used and displayed until no longer serviceable. orary life membership by the National
Member South Dakota American Legion Press Association The Flag Code does provide for penalties for violations of any of its Association of Department Historians
Member South Dakota Press Association provisions. The Flag Code is simply a guideline for proper flag etiquette. of the American Legion.
Printed at 218 South Egan Avenue, Madison, SD 5757042-0348 The law does not provide penalties for violation of any of its provisions. He is a past Legionnaire of the Year
Subscription Price: $5.00 a year, Send subscription request to: You must destroy the flag when it touches the ground. As long as the from Post 270 and a member of the
South Dakota American Legion, PO Box 67, Watertown, SD 57201 flag remains suitable for display, the flag may continue to be displayed as a Sons of The American Legion Squad-
Courtney VanZanten, Chester, Editor symbol of our great country. ron 10 in Manassas. His wife, Jessica,
Travise Flisrand, Watertown, Managing Editor The Flag Code prohibits the washing or dry-cleaning of the flag. There and his family, are proud members of
are no provisions of the Flag Code, which prohibit the washing or dry- the American Legion Family.
Send all copy for publication to: cleaning of the flag. The decision to wash or dry-clean would of course His theme as national commander is
South Dakota Legion News, PO Box 67, Watertown, SD 57201-0067 depend upon the type of material. "Celebrating Our Legacy," with spe-
Office Phone (605) 886-3604, Fax (605) 886-2870 There has been a change to the Flag Code that no longer requires the cial emphasis on the organization's
Email: dso@sdlegion.org flag to be properly illuminated during the hours of darkness. There centennial.
Home page: http://www.sdlegion.org has been NO CHANGE to Flag Code section 6(a), which states: “It is the
universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on build-
PLEASE REPORT CHANGE OF ADDRESS TO: ings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic Centennial
SD LEGION NEWS, PO BOX 67, WATERTOWN, SD 57201-0067 effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if
properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.” Website Boasts
DEPARTMENT OFFICERS
State Commander — Dennis Brenden, Watertown
The mayor, a town official, or the Post Commander can order the flag
to be displayed at half-staff. The gesture of placing the flag at half-staff
Over 3,000 Post
State Vice Commanders — Ed Thompson, Custer; Ed Stringer, Hartford
National Executive Committeeman — Jim Huls, Madison
means that the Nation or the state mourns the death of a highly regarded
National or state figure, hence only the President of the United States or
Histories
Alternate National Executive Committeeman — Terry Hanson, Arlington the Governor of the state may order the Flag to be half-staffed in accord- Five years after its release at the
State Adjutant — Travise Flisrand, Castlewood ance with Flag Code section 7(m). Those individuals and agencies that 2013 American Legion national con-
State Americanism Officer — Larry Madsen, Gettysburg usurp authority and display the flag at half-staff on inappropriate occasions vention in Houston, the number of
State Membership Chairman — Gene Opbroek, Ft Pierre are quickly eroding the honor and reverence accorded this solemn act. pages on the Centennial Celebration
State Service Officer — Courtney VanZanten, Chester The Flag Code states that when the flag is no longer a fitting emblem post history platform has surpassed
State Chaplain — Larry Klumb, Ethan for display it is to be disposed of by burning in private. The Flag Code 3,000.
State Finance Officer — Gary Wolkow, De Smet as revised and adopted by the Congress of the United States in 1942 has Any Legion post, no matter its age,
State Historian — Fred Lee, Sioux Falls never included the word(s) "private" or "in privacy." Section 8(k) of the can start a page and fill it with its
State Judge Advocate — Gary Schumacher, De Smet Flag Code states: "The flag, when it is in such a condition that it is no long- history – through descriptions, time-
State Sergeant-At-Arms — Verle Whipple, Clear Lake er a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, line items, photo galleries and more.
State Children and Youth Chairman — Miranda Krumm, Chester preferably by burning." Since 1937, The American Legion has promoted Notable members and notable accom-
the use of a public flag disposal ceremony. This ceremony is a fitting trib- plishments alike are encouraged.
DISTRICT COMMANDERS ute and an overt expression of patriotism, which enhances the public's un- This functionality will remain as the
1—Kevin Morello, Black Hawk 5—Matt Lagerstrom, White derstanding of honor and respect due the American flag. Centennial Celebration site transitions
2—Eugene Iron Shell, Jr., Rosebud 6—Doug Feltman, Chamberlain The Flag Code prohibits the “fringing” of the flag. Fringing of the flag into the updated and expanded Legacy
3—LeRoy Madsen, Pierre 7—Roger Klos, Sioux Falls is neither approved of nor prohibited by the Flag Code. The American & Vision site. Slated for release this
4—Perry Schmidt, Redfield 8—Gregory Geiman, Scotland Legion considers that fringe is used as an honorable enrichment to the fall, the new site will serve as a one-
Flag. Additionally the courts have deemed without merit and frivolous, stop shop for accessing both the histo-
Advertising rates upon request; we reserve the right to refuse any advertisement lawsuits that contend that the gold fringe adorning the flag conferred Ad- ry (legacy) and future (vision) of The
American Legion. It will include links
Congressional Contact Information miralty/Maritime jurisdiction.
to the memorials database, the Digital
Senator John Thune, 511 Dirksen Senate Office Bldg, Washington DC Archive, founding documents of the
20510, Phone: 202-224-2321, Fax: 202-228-5429, Toll free phone 866- Legion, news, events and more. But
the URL will remain the
850-3855, Web site: http://thune.senate.gov
Senator Michael Rounds, Hart Senate Office Building, Suite 502,
2019 MidWinter Conference same: www.legion.org/centennial.
Holiday Inn Convention Center To view the Department of South
Washington DC 20510, Phone: 202-224-5842, Fax 202-228-5765, Dakota posts, visit https://
South Dakota toll free phone: 844-875-5268, Web site: http:// Spearfish, SD,
centennial.legion.org/histories/south-
www.rounds.senate.gov February 8-10, 2019 dakota. There are 63 posts who have
Representative Kristi Noem, 2457 Rayburn House Office Building, started or completed their histories on
Please watch the upcoming editions of the Up-To-Now
Washington DC 20515, Phone: 202-225-2801, Fax 202-225-5823, Toll the site, and placeholders built to
for the 2019 MidWinter Conference Agenda
free phone: 855-225-2801, Web site: http://noem.house.gov showcase at the very least the number
of posts within the state. If your post
has not completed their online history,
please do so.
Please send all original photos DISCLAIMER Reach out to your local high school
and news materials to: or Boy/Girl Scout programs if you
SD American Legion The South Dakota Legion News is published six times a year to serve its members and need assistance with navigating the
interested parties by informing them of and about Department activities and other website. Creating these histories is a
PO Box 67 relevant issues concerning the veterans of South Dakota. The paper is also the voice great community service project for
Watertown, SD 57201 of the members. We welcome articles from members. The news and opinions ex-
young people—not only will they log
pressed in this publication does not necessarily reflect the views of The American
dso@sdlegion.org Legion Department of South Dakota, its officers, members, or the Editor. The Editor hours working with the Legion, they’ll
has the right to edit all articles. be learning about their local history as
well.
October 2018 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS PAGE 3
VA Releases Department
“We Will Leave No National Adjutant’s Thoughts
Veteran Behind” Veteran Suicide
Travise Flisrand
Dennis Brenden Data Analysis State Adjutant
State Commander
WASHINGTON — Today, the
Legionnaires, U.S. Department of Veterans Af-
The questions I hear most from Legionnaires are “Are you busy?” and “Are fairs (VA) released national and Legionnaires,
you enjoying being Commander?” I can answer both with a quick yes. Here state-level findings from its most
are just a few of the events I’ve attended representing the Department: State B recent analysis of Veteran suicide As you read this column, State Commander Denny Brenden of Watertown
and State A Baseball Tournaments, Youth Trooper Academy, State Golf Tour- data, from 2005 to 2016. The anal- has finished with the 2018 State Commander’s Calls that he is conducting at
nament, National Membership Workshop in Indianapolis, Pow Wow in Little ysis is part of VA’s ongoing ex- several locations across the state of South Dakota. Hopefully, you or someone
Eagle, 3 veterans memorial Dedications, one Veterans Cemetery dedication, amination of non-Veteran and from your Post has had the opportunity to attend one of these events. If you
State Fair, Labor Day Parade in Wagner, Post Leaders in Pine Ridge, and tons Veteran death records that is being haven’t, you missed a great opportunity to learn new information on programs
of Post Meetings and Events. Each one I’ve enjoyed immensely. used to evaluate and improve of The American Legion.
I truly enjoy attending a Post Meeting. It seems that every Post has its own VA’s Suicide Prevention Pro- On Sunday, November 4th, National Commander Brett Reistad of Virginia
unique qualities and events that pertain to that Post. The dedication can be felt gram. will arrive in Sioux Falls for his official visit to the Department of South Dako-
of those Legionnaires attending the meeting. Truly the American Legion, “Suicide prevention remains VA’s ta. We would have much preferred to have the visit coordinated with a Depart-
Communities and Children are rewarded for having the local American Legion highest clinical priority. One life ment Convention or MidWinter Conference, but when the National Commander
Post. lost to suicide is one too many,” has 55 Departments to visit, not everyone can get the visit scheduled in conjunc-
This year there is a need for increasing our numbers to maintain the strength said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. tion with a major Department function.
the American Legion in South Dakota. My motto this year is “We Will Leave The report yields several im- The schedule is still being finalized as this article is being written, here is
No Veteran Behind” and I believe in this motto. I believe if a veteran needs portant insights: what is firming up and is NOT written in stone yet:
help we need to step up to the plate and do what we can to assist our brothers • From 2015 to 2016, the over-
and sisters. Also, by not offering them the chance to become a member of our all current and former service Nov 4th
organization we are leaving them behind. Many of you go to meetings where member suicide count de- National Commander arrives late evening– Overnight in Sioux Falls Sheraton
it’s Post, District, State or National. As we gather a relationship is built up creased from 7,663 to 7,298
between each other. This relationship does not happen if veterans are not given deaths (decrease of 365). Nov 5th
the opportunity to become one of us. One time. as a Post Commander, I looked Breakfast at Sioux Falls Legion Post 15
out at the 16 members present and stated “Without The American Legion most • From 2015 to 2016, the Vet- Visit Sioux Falls VA & Claims office
of us present would not be friends and share our Comradeship”. A veteran eran specific suicide count Watertown Post visit for noon meal
needs another veteran to confide in and maybe just to be around. While we decreased from 6,281 to Visit Posts on way to Aberdeen area
were in the service our buddies were very important to us. We at least need of 6,079 deaths (decrease of Evening Meal in Groton?
offer membership to them, to give them a chance to become a member of a 202). Overnight in Aberdeen.
winning team. This year our National Commander has named all of us “Team • From 2015 to 2016, the Vet-
100” in reference to our 100 years of service to America. I urge everyone to eran unadjusted suicide rate Nov 6th
take the time to ask people you come in contact with if they are a veteran. If decreased from 30.5/100,000 Breakfast in Aberdeen
so, man or woman ask them to join us in the American Legion Family. to 30.1/100,000. Drive to Standing Rock. Meeting with Veterans late morning. Possible at Casi-
I would like to visit your Post or any event that you would like me at. All I no.
ask is that you email me the date and information on the event. Our District
• Overall, the fact remains that
Visit other Posts on way to Pierre.
Meeting are about to start. I look forward to seeing many friends and comrades on average about 20 current
Drive to Pierre. Possible visit to YTA/State trooper academy and Capitol
across the State. We are going to have a good year as we celebrate our 100 th or former service members
Evening meal at Post 20
anniversary. We are the largest veteran’s organization in the world and most die each day, six have been
Overnight in either Pierre.
respected. Thank you all for being part of our history and future. in VA health care and 14
For God and Country, were not.
Nov 7th
• Rates of suicide were highest Breakfast in Pierre
Denny Brenden, among younger Veterans Late morning on Rosebud with veterans.
Your State Commander (ages 18-34) and lowest Afternoon on Pineridge with Veterans
among older Veterans (ages Evening meal at Hot Springs Post
55 and older). However,
2018 Legacy Motorcycle Run because the older Veteran
Overnight in Hot Springs
population is the largest, this Nov 8th.
Tops $1.2 Million group accounted for 58.1
percent of Veteran suicide
Breakfast at Go to Vets home
Go to Hot Springs Hospital
Don’t let the leather fool you—there are hearts of gold under those vests. deaths in 2016. Tourist Attractions and more Post visits
The American Legion Riders raised $600,000 for the Legion’s Legacy • The rate of suicide among 18 Evening meal in Hermosa at Post
Scholarship Fund during the 1,000-mile Legacy Run from Hutchinson, Kan- -34-year-old Veterans contin- Drive north, overnight in Northern Hills
sas, to Anoka, Minnesota. Legion Riders gathered on stage during the 100th ues to increase.
National Convention in Minneapolis to present more donations. In total, a Nov 9th
record $1,256,930 was raised – the fifth straight year the ride helped raise • The use of firearms as a Breakfast with post in Northern Hills
more than $1 million. method of suicide remains Lead Post visit with possibly a visit to lab in gold mines.
The American Legion Department of Minnesota led the way, donating high. The percentage of sui- Ft. Meade visit
$251,000. Other top department donations were the Department of Missouri cide deaths that involved Noon meal with Post
($93,324); Department of South Carolina ($65,204); Florida ($57,005); Wis- firearms was 67.0 percent in Visit Posts in afternoon
consin ($45,439); and Kansas ($57,005). Ohio Post #557 in Wintersville do- 2015 and 69.4 percent in Evening meal in Rapid City Area
nated $15,000. 2016. Overnight in or near Rapid City.
Other donations on the national convention floor included: $44,315 for Oper- • Information regarding deaths
ation Comfort Warriors and $139,651 for the National Emergency Fund. among current service mem- Nov 10th
bers is not included. Fly out early from Rapid City
Veterans who are in crisis or hav-
VETERANS DAY ing thoughts of suicide, and those
who know a Veteran in crisis, can
call the Veterans Crisis Line for
Legionnaires are encouraged to attend these events during the National
Commander’s visit. We would like him to meet as many South Dakota Legion-
naires as possible and as you can see from the schedule, he will get to see a lot
November 11, 2018 confidential crisis intervention and
support 24 hours a day, seven
of our great State. When the final schedule gets Posted, be sure to RSVP with
the Host Post that is serving meals so they can plan accordingly. Watch the Up-
days a week, 365 days a year. to-Now for updates.
Please show your support by proudly wearing your For God and Country,
Call 800-273-8255 and press 1;
American Legion cap when attending your local send a text message to 838255 or
community Veterans Day programs and events. chat online at Travise Flisrand
VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. . Department Adjutant
PAGE 4 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS October 2018
Veterans Affairs and Global War on Terror Advocates Start
Rehabilitation
Work on Memorial in D.C.
Courtney VanZanten
Department Service Officer WASHINGTON — Michael Rodriguez doesn’t know what the national Global War on Terror memorial
will look like, but he’s confident about where it should be.
Greetings Legionnaires! “I believe it needs to be on the National Mall,” said Rodriguez, president of the memorial’s foundation.
It’s hard to believe it is fall already. My oldest started Kindergarten this year, “In a lot of ways, this has already become a forgotten war. We need that national reminder.”
so it’s been a whole new learning curve adjusting to the new schedule. Add in The Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation is about to launch a multi-month outreach project dis-
the new baby during harvest on a farm, and it’s a miracle I can compose a com- cussing the size, scope and meaning behind the planned tribute, authorized by Congress in 2017.
plete sentence right now. That will include surveys of troops, veterans, military family members and even individuals with no di-
School got me thinking about our younger veterans again, and how to reach out
rect link to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to collect their thoughts on what the memorial should in-
and help them. Educational benefits are one of the most commonly used VA
programs, but there is one corner of the G.I. Bill that remains woefully underuti-
clude. Foundation officials announced that Winstanley Architects & Planners will serve as the architect
lized: On-The-Job/Apprenticeship Training. A large range of professions can for project and will lead that effort.
utilize this program: EMTs, Firefighters, Chefs, Truck Drivers, Welders, Me- Like other national war memorials, the foundation is following a rigorous 24-step process outlined by the
chanics and even Farmers—if your line of work requires training or certifica- National Capital Planning Commission to establish site selection, memorial design and construction
tion, it could very well qualify for payments under the G.I. Bill. schedule.
OJT and Apprenticeship allow Veterans to learn a trade or skill through train- But unlike other memorials, foundation officials are conducting their work while troops remain deployed
ing on the job participation rather than attending formal classroom instruction— overseas in support of the Global War on Terror.
a fantastic alternative use for those uninterested in two or four-year schools. A Supporters had to gain special permission from Congress to waive the mandatory 10-year waiting period
Veteran generally enters into a training contract for a specific period with an
for the memorial construction process, arguing that waiting longer would prevent veterans from the earli-
employer, and at the end of the training period, the Veteran gains job certifica-
tion or journeyman status.
est days of the 17-year-old conflict from ever seeing the final honor.
As an apprentice/OJT worker, a Veteran is entitled to a housing allowance in Rodriguez said that presents an unusual challenge of putting the still-ongoing worldwide military opera-
addition to their agreed-upon wages. In 2017, the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill Military tions in context with the height of fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Housing Allowance (MHA) for the Madison, SD area was $1206/month. While We don’t know how long this war is going to continue,” said Rodriguez, a former Army Green Beret who
on the program, a Veteran will receive 100% of the MHA during the first 6 served in Afghanistan and saw his wife and son also deployed overseas in recent years
months of training, less 20% every six months following until completion of the “I just welcomed my first grandson, and he very well could one day be fighting in this war. So we don’t
training. Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients will also receive up to $83 per month for know what the memorial is going to be yet and how to capture all of that.”
books and supplies. But given the scope of the individuals involved — nearly 7,000 U.S. troops killed and hundreds of thou-
If interested, both the employer and the trainee must submit an application to
sands of others who served overseas — Rodriguez said he feels the memorial needs a prominent public
the State Approving Agency in Pierre, to include a training outline, Designation
of Certifying Official form, and a training agreement. Apprenticeships must also
placement, like the National Mall.
meet the state criteria published by the Department of Labor. Earlier this year, federal officials approved plans for the National Desert Storm War Memorial to be lo-
Businesses may proactively set up training programs to incentivize future Vet- cated there, just a short walk away from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall and the Lincoln Memorial.
eran hires. There are thousands of South Dakota Veterans who could benefit The Global War on Terror Memorial is still several years away from any such decision.
from a program like this—go to your local businesses and preach this opportuni- Once a site is approved, foundation officials will host a nationwide design competition to establish the
ty. If a business takes hold of the program, recognize them by putting them in memorial’s look and scale. Rodriguez said the goal is to have groundbreaking on the final site in 2022,
for a Veteran Employer award. with dedication by the end of 2024. For more information or to donate to the project, visit the founda-
For more information, and to search for already participating employers, go tion’s website at: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/
here: https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/onthejob_apprenticeship.asp .
Always here to help,
Courtney VanZanten
2018 Marks 35th Anniversary of Beirut Bombing
Department Service Officer This year marks 35 years after one of the worst attacks on the U.S. Marines on foreign soil: The Oct. 23,
1983, attack on the Marine Barracks at the Beirut Airport in Lebanon. Experts said it was the largest con-
ventional (nonnuclear) explosion in history up until that time.
South Dakota Receives The United States lost 241 service personnel, the largest loss of military lives since Iwo Jima in World
War II.
Grant Opportunity for The attack occurred during the administration of President Ronald Reagan, when Lebanon was torn
apart by sectarian bitterness and civil war. The Palestinian Liberation Organization, the Israeli Defense
State Cemetery Forces, the Syrians, the Iranians and Hezbollah were active or suspected to be active on the ground.
Reagan sent Marines to Beirut to be part of an multinational peacekeeping force, to act as a buffer be-
tween warring sides, then to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces.
PIERRE, S.D. – The United States Department of Veterans Affairs National The attack happened at 6:22 in the morning, when a yellow Mercedes truck loaded with explosives
Cemetery Administration (NCA) has notified the South Dakota Department of
rammed into the airport building where 350 Marines were sleeping. The Marine sentry at the gate, Lance
Veterans Affairs they may be awarded grant funds for the construction of a
state veterans cemetery. Corporal Eddie DiFranco, was unarmed because of the rules of engagement under which the Marines
“Today’s announcement is great news for the men and women of South Dako- were operating. He quickly realized the truck driver's intent and went for a magazine to load his M16, but
ta and the surrounding area, who served this country,” said Larry Zimmerman, he was too late to stop the truck. Moments later, the truck exploded inside the building, killing the driver
Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA). and 220 Marines, 18 Navy sailors and three Army soldiers. Another 100 others were injured.
“South Dakotans in the eastern part of the state will not have to travel 370 plus
miles to bury their heroes in a veterans cemetery.”
“Now the real work begins,” said Aaron Pollard, Deputy Secretary for
SDDVA. “Our Department will begin meeting with NCA, the State Office of
Engineering and our design firm, Stockwell Engineers.”
This announcement coincides with the City of Sioux Falls’ first reading of
their ordinance gifting over 60 acres of land to SDDVA for the construction of
a state veterans cemetery.
“This state veterans cemetery is the culmination of a lot of hard work be-
tween numerous partners who are committed to taking care of our veterans,”
said Zimmerman.
The NCA Design and Construction Service provides planning, design and
construction project management, design and construction standards, environ-
mental, energy, and historic preservation services and expertise to deliver high
quality and cost-effective cemetery facilities that honor veterans with final
resting places and commemorate their service to our nation. They provide
leadership, expertise, and advice in the development, acquisition, expansion
and preservation to create veterans cemeteries as lasting memorials which
invoke a sense of honor and dignity for our Nation's veterans .
The Beirut bombing, October 23, 1983. Picture: Associated Press
October 2018 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS PAGE 5
Membership Membership Percentages by Posts / Districts
“20,001 Plus 1” *As of September 24, 2018
DISTRICT 1 62.25% Gettysburg 72.18% Veblen 84.85% Madison 54.03%
Gene Opbroek POST % of GOAL Hoven 71.57% MARSHALL CO 65.59% Nunda 45.45%
State Membership Chairman Belle Fourche 49.21% POTTER CO. 71.91% New Effington 72.31% Ramona 31.03%
Nisland,Newell, Vale 62.50% Fort Pierre 57.50% Old Agency 6.98% Wentworth 78.38%
BUTTE CO. 53.68% STANLEY CO. 57.50% Rosholt 65.38% LAKE CO. 55.48%
I hope this finds you all well and prosperous. As I write this we are in the Sisseton 56.78%
Buffalo 78.13% Onida 51.69% Colman 65.22%
midst of the Fall District Meetings. Really great to see everyone and spend Wilmot 68.75%
HARDING CO. 78.13% SULLY CO. 51.69% Egan 84.21%
some time with you. ROBERTS CO 55.47%
Lead 63.54% Bonesteel 9.30% Flandreau 56.25%
We are a little bit behind last year on our Membership numbers and I know all Bradley 68.75%
Spearfish 54.90% Burke 53.57% Trent 88.00%
of you are working diligently to bring those numbers back in line. Carpenter 47.62%
LAWRENCE CO. 57.67% Dallas 73.33% MOODY CO. 67.94%
GREAT JOB TO THE POSTS OVER 100%! Keep driving on!! Clark 61.80%
Box Elder 55.93% Fairfax 88.24% Bridgewater 59.09%
I am hoping you are making plans to speak to our National Guard soldiers Raymond 81.03%
Piedmont 63.88% Gregory 59.05% Canistota
during their drill periods. There is a CD available online with talking points for 76.67%
Sturgis 66.90% Herrick 58.00% Willow Lake 43.75%
you to discuss at your presentations to Guard members. It is called TS2 and is Montrose 65.17%
Faith 40.00% GREGORY CO. 53.85% CLARK CO. 63.43%
part of the Operation Outreach program. This is a great CD with information Watertown 60.10%
Salem 60.56%
MEADE CO. 63.21% Kennebec-Reliance 62.35%
on how to prepare a presentation in your own words. It also gives you suggest- Presho CODINGTON 60.10%
McCOOK CO. 64.62%
Bullhead 4.35% 75.76%
ed remarks and a lead in to get you started off on the right foot. Log onto Le- Vivian 11.76% Astoria 52.00%
Baltic 10.00%
Little Eagle 13.33%
gion.org and in the search area, put TS2 and it will bring the page up. Posts LYMAN CO. 59.26% Clear Lake 50.00%
Brandon 49.41%
McIntosh 62.50%
need to order these. Colome 60.19% Gary 50.55%
Colton 63.16%
McLaughlin 70.21%
I want to also remind everyone to let me know if you have any events in your Winner 47.51% Toronto 54.05% Dell Rapids 56.62%
Thunder Hawk 63.64%
area that you may need assistance with. We have a Membership team ready Witten 60.87% DEUEL CO. 50.92% Garretson 34.09%
CORSON CO. 50.51%
willing and able to assist in any way they can. Do not be too proud to ask for TRIPP CO. 51.29%
Bryant 80.00% Hartford 61.90%
Eagle Butte 170.83%
help. We are here to help each other. That is why we joined the greatest Veter- Miller 43.33%
Castlewood 43.94% Humboldt 61.18%
Isabel 90.00%
ans organization in the World, right?? Polo 65.79%
Estelline 51.49% Renner 47.44%
Timber Lake 87.50%
I also just received a list of events at the Rapid City Civic Center for October HAND CO. 52.04%
Hayti 78.72% Sioux Falls 51.04%
DEWEY CO. 117.14%
and November. I will be forwarding them to the membership team for review. DISTRICT 4 57.87%
HAMLIN CO 61.27% Valley Springs 65.59%
Bison 65.96%
Looks like some great events we can attend to help with recruiting new mem- POST % of GOAL
Aurora 88.24% MINNEHAHA CO. 50.49%
Lemmon 59.20%
bers. Aberdeen 57.47%
Brookings 63.68% Alcester 53.57%
PERKINS CO. 61.05%
Let’s not forget to check with Gary Henle on our past members as well. Gary Claremont 69.57%
Bruce 53.85% Beresford 67.86%
Dupree 47.06%
is doing a fantastic job working retention for us. Columbia 56.41%
Elkton 45.61% Elk Point 51.61%
ZIEBACH 47.06%
I have stated in District Meetings that we need to remember, we need to reach Frederick 54.84%
Sinai 76.19% North Sioux City 69.39%
DISTRICT 2 53.69%
20,001 for everyone in the Legion. To protect our programs, to have a strong Groton 70.15%
Volga 64.58% UNION CO. 62.55%
POST % of GOAL
voice for Veterans issues, to preserve our Freedoms and Democracy, and to be Hecla 92.00%
White 66.67% Canton 52.83%
Allen 11.76%
there for these young soldiers Stratford 55.81%
BROOKINGS CO. 63.74% Harrisburg 68.54%
Martin 46.62%
who are protecting our way of Warner 61.54%
DISTRICT 6 57.35%
Hudson 54.14%
BENNETT CO. 42.67%
life in this great nation. They BROWN CO. 60.22%
POST % of GOAL
Lennox 56.32%
Midland 65.52%
need us to have their back, today Philip Herreid 71.43%
Hitchcock 25.93%
Tea 56.94%
64.71%
and days into the future!!! Let’s Pollock 65.52%
Huron 63.24%
Worthing 61.54%
HAAKON CO. 64.95%
be there for them!!! Belvidere CAMPBELL CO. 69.01%
Virgil 40.00%
LINCOLN CO. 58.04%
17.65%
Thank you for all your HARD Wessington 69.84%
Wanblee 5.56% Bowdle 65.96% DISTRICT 8 59.61%
WORK!! I know you are out Wolsey 74.42%
Kadoka 51.16% Hosmer 35.14% POST % of GOAL
BEADLE CO. 60.61%
there beating the bushes for JACKSON CO. 33.33% Ipswich 65.71% Centerville 56.82%
Arlington 58.14%
membership. WE WILL GET Draper 82.35% Roscoe 54.24% Chancellor 62.99%
Badger 30.77%
20,001!!! Murdo 65.00% EDMUNDS CO. 52.09% Davis 36.84%
DeSmet 44.94%
Be safe!! JONES CO. 72.97% Eureka 30.36% Hurley 60.00%
Erwin 65.52%
GeneO Norris 0.00% Leola 60.00% Marion 57.50%
Hetland 84.21%
White River 71.43% Long Lake 60.71% Parker 11.11%
Iroquois 56.82%
Wood 60.00% McPHERSON CO. 46.25% Viborg 9.09%
Lake Preston 69.35%
Right: GeneO a few years back. MELLETTE CO. 55.70% Mobridge 62.81% TURNER CO. 53.30%
Oldham 13.33%
Let this be a lesson in submitting Mission 40.00% Selby 51.39% Avon 63.41%
KINGSBURY CO 55.93%
articles that fit the allocated Parmelee 113.33% WALWORTH CO 58.55% Scotland 72.09%
Canova 5.88%
space. Rosebud 56.52% Brentford 60.00% Springfield
Howard 58.46% 47.13%
St. Francis 13.33% Conde 69.33% MINER CO. 47.56% MDSP Springfield 60.00%
TODD CO. 55.88% Doland 70.37% Plankinton 9.38% Tabor 68.83%
Custer 61.76% Mansfield 68.75% Stickney 51.56% Tyndall 73.77%
In State Headquarters, September 24, 2018 Hermosa 67.59% Mellette 50.00% White Lake 46.67% BON HOMME CO. 63.27%
Northville
State Vice / District Commander Membership Standings CUSTER CO. 65.73% 88.24% AURORA CO. 39.68% Geddes 59.42%
Edgemont 72.00% Redfield 62.35% Chamberlain 60.00% Greenwood 10.00%
Hot Springs Tulare 62.96% Kimball* 34.33%
2018 2018 53.85%
SPINK CO. 64.74%
Lake Andes 58.33%
Oelrichs 60.00% Pukwana* 80.00%
State Vice Commander Goal Mbers Percent Cresbard 35.56% BRULE CO. 52.33%
Pickstown 25.00%
FALL RIVER CO. 55.34%
Districts 1-2 Ed Thompson 3,535 2,029 57.40% Hill City 22.22% Faulkton 52.73% Gann Valley 40.91%
Platte 40.00%
Wagner 66.02%
New Underwood 6.67% Rockham 51.85% BUFFALO CO. 40.91%
CHARLES MIX CO. 53.85%
Districts 3-8 Ed Stringer 16,216 9,277 57.21% Rapid City 57.21% FAULK CO. 46.46% Ethan 105.88%
Alsen 59.26%
Rapid City Foothills 62.77% DISTRICT 5 59.50% Mitchell 62.69%
Irene 59.18%
District Commander 2018 2018 Wall 65.22% POST % of GOAL Mount Vernon 64.58%
Vermillion 73.08%
Andover 31.25%
Goal Mbers Percent Pos. PENNINGTON CO. 55.85% DAVISON CO. 70.96%
Wakonda 56.36%
Batesland 0.00% Grenville 94.44% Alexandria 31.91%
DISTRICT 1 KEVIN MORELLO 1,531 953 62.25% 1 CLAY CO. 60.75%
Kyle 13.33% Lily 86.67% Emery 68.42%
DISTRICT 2 GENE IRON SHELL 2,004 1,076 53.69% 8 Armour 70.21%
Pine Ridge Pierpont 36.84% Ful-Frm-Epiphany 71.43%
DISTRICT 3 LEROY MADSEN 1,881 1,074 57.10% 7 33.33%
Roslyn 51.85% Corsica 58.06%
DISTRICT 4 PERRY SCHMIDT 2,058 1,191 57.87% 4 Porcupine 6.67% HANSON CO. 52.48%
Waubay 59.74% Alpena 72.22% Delmont 54.55%
DISTRICT 5 MATT LAGERSTROM 3,304 1,966 59.50% 3 Manderson 4.76%
DISTRICT 6 DOUG FELTMAN 2,682 1,538 57.35% 6 Webster 57.44% Wessington Sprgs 46.45% DOUGLAS CO. 60.37%
OGLALA LAKOTA
10.23% Freeman 56.00%
DISTRICT 7 ROGER KLOS 4,100 2,202 53.71% 5 CO. DAY CO 60.00% JERAULD CO. 51.31%
DISTRICT 8 GREG GEIMAN 2,191 1,306 59.61% 2 DISTRICT 3 57.10% Big Stone City 61.29% Artesian 64.00% Menno 62.50%
Post 500 250 150 Parkston 74.42%
POST % of GOAL Milbank 47.40% Letcher 43.08%
Blunt 64.00% Strandburg 80.65% Woonsocket 47.14% Tripp 56.10%
Pierre 60.71% GRANT CO 57.14% SANBORN CO. 48.13% HUTCHINSON CO. 64.89%
HUGHES CO. 60.89% Britton DISTRICT 7 53.71% Gayville 63.16%
Department Totals 20,001 11,456 57.28% 58.11%
Highmore 35.19% Kidder 50.00% POST % of GOAL Yankton 64.84%
HYDE CO. 35.19% Langford 50.00% Chester 59.15% YANKTON CO. 64.49%
PAGE 6 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS October 2018
Department Commander Brenden’s Homecoming Celebration
Department Commander Dennis Brenden addresses the audi- PDC Tim Jurgens provided special music for the Homecoming PDC Larry Price provided remarks for the occasion.
ence at his Homecoming on August 4, 2018 in Watertown, SD. Celebration.
PDC Paul Evenson served as Master of Ceremonies for the Following the ceremony, a meal was hosted by Post #17 at the Dick Vohlken serving as host at Post #17’s reception for De-
Homecoming Celebration. post home. At the meal, the C & Y Backpack Initiative gave partment Commander Denny Brenden.
away 60 backpacks for distribution across the state.
Spearfish Starts Junior Shooting Sports Program
Black Hills Junior Shooters is that become a challenge because of the advice? Don’t be afraid to ask for
it is a program of an American sights on the rifles being changed help. “I am thankful for the support
Legion Post and not sponsored by numerous times.” and guidance received and for the
the US Department of Agriculture. Additionally, there is significant grants from the NRA and the Black
The Post #164 team is currently training required of coaches, to in- Hills Shootists Association provid-
affiliated with the Civilian Marks- clude range officer training and CPR. ing the baseline funding of our pro-
manship Program (CMP) and is The training, however, does come gram.”
working on collaborating with the with benefits: “I am a CMP level 1 Overall, Scott Hansen and Spearfish
Lawrence County 4H for future range officer. We (Post 164) are Affil- Post #164 have a lot to be proud of
post matches. iate on the CMP. Anyone looking for with their new program. “We are
Scott Hansen, the Spearfish Post a Junior Shooters Club can find us.” looking forward to our first year
#164 Shooting Sports coach, is a Hansen will be attending the CMP competing,” Hansen stated. “Getting
retired Army veteran. “Shooting Level 2 Range Officer course at the our teams name out there so they
marksmanship and instruction are end of the year. The knowledge and know who we are.”
in my life. My years as a Drill further exposure will pay off for the Anyone interested in donating to
Sergeant and Range Officer in the program, he hopes. the Spearfish Shooting Sports Pro-
Army provided me with the train- “I am excited for this opportunity for gram can send donations to:
ing to be able get this youth pro- our younger generation to learn and Spearfish American Legion
gram going. When asked if I want- develop the skills and aptitudes to RE: Shooting Sports
Spearfish Post #164 Shooting Sports Coach Scott Hansen provides ed to start a Junior Shooting Sports compete in future months. They are PO Box 583
guidance on the range to a Junior Shooter. program for the Spearfish Post taking their safety courses before Spearfish, SD 57783
#164, I immediately said yes!” learning to handle and practice shoot-
It’s a sport that’s sweeping the team. This competitive shooting is a “I began working on starting this ing.”
nation, and Spearfish has jumped Legion sponsorship sport that creates program a year ago and it is nice to Hansen encourages other posts to take
on board as the newest Shooting an equal playing field for all compet- see everything come together,” the steps to developing their own
Sports program in the state. itors. said Hansen, “Today we have ten shooting sports programs. There is no
The American Legion Junior Junior Shooting Sports is a three- boys and girls signed up for our required number of students to start a
Shooting Sports Program is a gun part program that combines the Basic team and we are looking to grow.” team, nor age or gender requirements.
safety education and marksman- Marksmanship Course, Qualification There are growing pains, howev- That flexibility means that any post
ship program that encompasses the Awards and Air Rifle Competition er, Hansen noted. “We currently from any size town could start a team.
basic elements of safety, education, into a well-rounded activity. This have three .177 air rifles to use and He notes that while it is a bit of work
enjoyment and competition. Shoot- kind of team is not new to the Spear- our BB guns were ordered. Since to get things organized, he’s been
ers use the .177 caliber air rifle. fish area—there are local 4H clubs this is our first year and we are a overwhelmed by the support he’s
Both males and females ages 8 to that have shooting junior shooting new program, we have to share the received from the Post, the community
18 can participate and disabled sports. The difference about the rifles, both BB guns and Air rifles, at large and the local gun clubs. His
youth are encouraged to join our Spearfish American Legion Post 164 with other team members. This can
October 2018 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS PAGE 7
100th Annual National Convention – Minneapolis, MN
Top Left: The South Dakota National Con-
vention delegates at the South Dakota Caucus.
Members each attended their assigned con-
vention committee and reported back to the
caucus. Bottom left: Past Department Com-
mander Hugh “Homer” Holmes, NEC Jim
Huls and Department Adjutant Travise
Flisrand South Dakota Department stand next
to the department sign in the main convention
hall. The placard is signed by all 42 depart-
ment national convention attendees, and each
side given to the immediate PDC and current
Department Commander. Attendees saw Vice
President Mike Pence, Secretary of Veterans
Affairs Robert Wilkie, Theodore Roosevelt
IV, and National Commander Denise Rohan,
amongst others. Bottom Right: The South
Dakota delegation marching in the National
Convention parade. The parade was moved
indoors at the last minute because of inclem-
ent weather, but was still a lot of fun for all.
The parade was nearly 2.5 hours long, with
every department participating and numerous
bands, floats and other entities.
U.S. Mint Unveils Legion Centennial Coin Designs
U.S. Mint Director David J. Ryder, the son of two veterans, unveiled before it www.legion.org/
thousands of American Legion members Aug. 29 the designs of three com- coin. For ordering
memorative coins that go on sale next March to honor the organization’s information, prices
100th anniversary. and other infor-
“Every day across the nation, the Mint connects America through coins,” mation as it becomes
Ryder said. “And next year, it will be our great privilege to connect America available from the
to the legacy of the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization.” Mint, vis-
Sales of a $5 gold piece, a silver dollar and a clad half-dollar honoring The it www.usmint.gov.
American Legion’s legacy stand to raise up to $9.5 million for the organiza- “Since the beginning
tion’s programs and services, Ryder said. of the commemora-
The coin required congressional action. On Oct. 6, 2017, Congress passed tive coin program in
Public Law 115-65 allowing the Mint to strike and issue 50,000 of the gold 1992, the U.S. Mint
coins, 400,000 of the silver dollars and 750,000 of the half-dollars. has raised more than
The gold pieces feature on the heads side the Eiffel Tower, a V for victory $506 million to help
in World War I, the engraved word LIBERTY and the years 1919 – 2019 preserve or enhance
encircled by the outer ring of an American Legion emblem, recognizing the museums, preserve
organization’s founding in Paris after the armistice that ended the Great War. historical sites and
On the tails side of the $5 coin, a soaring bald eagle is depicted, along with a support important
sculpted American Legion emblem. national programs,”
The silver dollar shows on the heads side the Legion emblem surrounded Ryder said. “If we
by oak leaves and a lily, commemorating the Legion’s founding in Paris. The sell this program out,
reverse side has crossed U.S. and American Legion flags under a fleur-de-lis it should raise somewhere in the neighborhood of $9.5 million for the organization.”
and the dates 1919 and 2019 and the inscription 100 YEARS OF SERVICE. Ryder said that over 36 percent of the U.S. Mint’s 1,700 employees are military veterans. “Since our institution’s
The half-dollar has on its heads side two children, one of whom is wearing founding in 1792, the men and women of the United States Mint have taken great pride in rendering the story of our
her dad’s Legion cap, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The reverse contin- nation in enduring examples of numismatic art,” he said. “To hold a coin or medal produced by the U.S. Mint is to
ues the pledge with …OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA with a connect to the founding principles of our nation and the making of our economy.”
billowing U.S. flag and Legion emblem above the inscription. The commemorative coins were designed through the Artist Infusion program and U.S. Mint sculptors and engravers,
The coins are scheduled to go on sale around the time of the Legion’s birth- in consultation with The American Legion, the Citizens Coin Advisory Committee and the U.S. Commission on Fine
day in March 2019. To be added to the mailing list for updates, vis- Arts.
PAGE 8 SOUTH DAKOTA LEGION NEWS October 2018
National Convention Reunites Aberdeen CBOC
82nd Annual American Legion
to Expand to
Long-Lost Shipmates Larger Facility High School Oratorical
By Courtney VanZanten Scholarship Program Dates Set
Rodney Smith has always been hospitable. As a father of nine, he has seen The Sioux Falls Department of
more than his fair share of people traipse through his home—though every Veterans Affairs (VA) Health It’s not too early to start guiding high school students in The American Le-
single friend ends up feeling like family. It’s a skill set that he and his wife, Care System has awarded a gion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program.
Joyce, honed during Rod’s service in the Navy; the makings of which brought The main purpose of The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholar-
lease for a new larger site for
two long-lost shipmates together at the American Legion National Convention ship Program “A Constitutional Speech Contest”, is to develop a deeper
in Minneapolis, Minnesota this past August.
the VA Community Based
knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part
Rod started his military career in March of 1970 with boot camp at the San Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) in
of high school students.
Diego Naval Training Center, followed by Shipfitter Class A school and Class Aberdeen, SD. Plans will now Other objectives of the contest include the development of leadership quali-
C Gas Welding School. Immediately following his training, Rod received begin for the contractor, Con- ties, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, the preparation for
orders to the USS Tutuila ARG 4 in Vietnam, where he repaired Mike 6 and struction Managers of acceptance of the duties and responsibilities as well as the rights and privileges
Mike 8 boats and the occasional LST or mine sweeper. Goldsboro, Inc., to build the of American citizenship.
In December of 1971, Rod received new orders for the USS Orion AS 18, a new clinic at 909 S. Lamont The opportunity to win more than $18,000 in scholarships awaits high
submarine tender stationed in Charleston, South Carolina. On his 30 days of Street behind Target in Aber- school students who participate in the South Dakota American Legion Oratori-
leave between duty stations, he went home to South Dakota and married his cal Contest. The national contest offers $18,000 for the 1st place winner;
deen. The current Aberdeen
sweetheart, Joyce Grieve. The trip to Charleston served as their honeymoon. $16,000 for 2nd place; and $14,000 for 3rd place.
The Smiths settled in and, as a married couple, were asked to sponsor some
CBOC has 8,141 sq. feet; and
The state winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship and a trophy plus a
of the incoming people to make them feel more at home in Charleston. In the new clinic will add nearly
plaque for display in his/her high school trophy case. Second place winner
1973, a young sailor named James “Jim” Bluth reported on board. Rod and Jim 2,000 sq. feet for primary care, will receive a $500 scholarship and a trophy and third place winner will re-
hit it off, and Jim spent some time at their house. “The running joke became expanded mental health and ceive a $300 scholarship and a trophy. Fourth through eighth place finishers
that Joyce must have had an unending pantry,” Rod said, “I always bringing telehealth services. Since the will each receive a $100 scholarship and a trophy. The state winner will also
someone home for a home-cooked meal. Jim was no exception.” VA outpatient clinic opened advance to the national competition in Indianapolis where he or she is guaran-
Rod was discharged from the Navy on March 25, 1974. On the rare trip with contracted staff in 2001, it teed a $1,500 scholarship for participating in the first round of competition and
through Minnesota, Jim Bluth’s home state, Rod would look in the phone book has continued to grow with an additional $1,500 for participation in the second round but does not advance
to see if he could find Jim’s phone number. As time passed and memories to the final round.
support from Aberdeen area
faded, attempts dwindled, and eventually stopped. Local contests must be completed by January 13, 2019. The District con-
Fast forward, and Rod Smith has been an active Legionnaire, serving at the
veterans and surrounding com-
tests must be finished on or before January 27, 2019. The top contestant from
post and county levels, as well as on the Department Americanism Commis- munities. During FY 2017,
each District will compete in the State Finals which is scheduled to be held at
sion. Rod and Joyce have attended three National American Legion Conven- over 2,500 veterans received the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Spearfish, SD, Sunday, February 10,
tions, to include this year’s Centennial Convention in Minneapolis. health care there. 2019, immediately following the Non-Denominational Memorial Service at the
As with any National Convention, a huge parade had been planned, but a pre- MidWinter Conference.
dicted thunderstorm moved the parade indoors. The new indoor route meant a
lot more stop-and-go traffic, and during one of the stops, Rod noticed two men
Rapid City District contests will be held as follows:
District 1– (Butte, Corson, Dewey, Harding, Lawrence, Meade, Perkins,
wearing USS Orion AS 18 caps. He walked over, made mention that he was
there from 1972-1974. When they responded with “us too,” Rod asked for
Guard Unit Ziebach counties) Chair: Ken Sabers, (ksabers@rushmore.com) 1908 Butte
View Dr, Sturgis, SD 57785. District Contest to be held at Sturgis
names. “He said Jim Bluth! I said I used to haul you to my house for a meal Returns Home American Legion Post 33, Jan. 6, 2019, 1:00pm. Storm date, Jan. 13, same
now and then and told him my name was Rod Smith.” time and place.
The parade started moving again, so Rod marched on as well. When the From Middle District 2– (Bennett, Custer, Fall River, Haakon, Jackson, Jones, Mellette,
South Dakota delegation finished, Rod hurried back to where Jim and Dennis
Couture were standing. They visited until the last American Legion Depart- East, Pennington, Shannon, Todd counties) Chair: Paul Douglas, 622 Auburn
Dr, Rapid City, SD 57701. District Contest to be held at Rapid City American
ment marched out, then went out to find Joyce. As hugs and handshakes were
exchanged, Jim looked at Joyce and told her he remembered coming to their
Homecoming Legion Post 22, 818 E. St. Patrick St., Rapid City, January 13, 2019
2:00 p.m. Storm date, January 20, 2019 7:00 p.m. same place.
house for a Mountain Oyster feed! Many memories were shared, and Rod and in Works District 3 – (Gregory, Hand, Hughes, Hyde, Lyman, Potter, Stanley, Sully,
Joyce have reconnected with friends not seen or heard from in 44 years. Tripp counties) Chair: Larry Madsen, (larry_madsen@hotmail.com) or 906
Thanks to the American Legion and the National Convention, an old friend- E Commercial Ave., Gettysburg, SD 57442. District Contest to be held at
ship was rekindled. And if there’s one recommendation Rod Smith can give in More than 90 soldiers with the
the Faith Lutheran Church Christian Living Center, 714 N Grand Ave,
regards to attending a National Convention, it is “Go. If you get the chance, South Dakota Army National
Pierre, SD. January 20, 2019 2:00 p.m. Storm date, January 27 same time
just go.” Guard's Company C, 1st Bat- and place.
talion, 189th Aviation Regi- District 4 – (Brown, Campbell, Edmunds, Faulk, McPherson, Spink, Wal-
ment have arrived home to worth counties) Chair: Dale Strom, (dale_strom@yahoo.com) 115 N.
South Dakota after completing Kline St, Aberdeen, SD 57401. District Contest to be held at the Plymouth
overseas duty in the Middle Congregational United Church of Christ, 431 W Melgaard Rd, Aberdeen,
East. The Rapid City-based SD 57401 January 6, 2019, 4:00 p.m. Storm date, January 13th, same time
unit returned after a nearly and place.
year-long deployment where District 5 – (Brookings, Clark, Codington, Day, Deuel, Grant, Hamlin, Mar-
shall, Roberts counties) Chair: Shelli Romeu (shelli.romeu@gmail.com)
they provided aerial medical
PO Box 284, Watertown, SD 57201. District Contest will be held at Water-
evacuation support with HH- town Post home, Jan. 20, 2019, 1:30 p.m. Storm date, Jan. 27, same time
60M Black Hawk helicopters and place.
to U.S. military and coalition District 6 – (Aurora, Beadle, Brule, Buffalo, Davison, Hanson, Jerauld,
forces in the region. "This unit Kingsbury, Miner, Sanborn counties) Chair: Tim Thomas,
exceeded all expectations (photostoday@midstatesd.net) 112 S Merrill St Chamberlain SD 57325.
throughout their deployment," District Contest to be held at the Best Western Hotel 2000 Dakota Ave S,
said Maj. Gen. Tim Reisch, Huron, SD, January 13, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Storm date, Jan 20th, same time
adjutant general of the SDNG. and place.
"We are so thankful for their District 7 – (Lake, Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha, Moody, Union counties)
Chair: Kevin Hempel, (krhempel@gmail.com) 25793 470th Ave. Sioux
safe return to South Dakota."
Falls, SD 57107. District Contest to be held at Humbolt American Legion
The soldiers returned stateside Post Home, Humbolt, SD 57035, January 13, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Storm date
to Fort Hood, Texas, to com- January 20th same time and place.
plete demobilization require- District 8 – (Bon Homme, Charles Mix, Clay, Douglas, Hutchinson, Turner,
ments before to returning back Yankton counties) Chair: Greg Geiman, (gksn_82501@hotmail.com) 410
to South Dakota. A welcome Stafford St Scotland, SD 57059. District Contest to be held at the Yankton
home ceremony for the unit is Public Library, 515 Walnut St, Yankton SD 57078, January 12, 2019,
being planned for early No- 10:00 a.m. Storm Date January 17, 2019, same time and place.
vember. Details for the cere- We encourage Legionnaires to come out and support these very talented
Above: USS Orion AS 18 Veterans Dennis Couture, Rodney Smith and Jim students at your respective contest. The National Oratorical Finals will be held
Bluth reunite on the indoor parade grounds at the 100th National American mony will be released once
in April 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Legion Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. confirmed.
You can also read
