Legion news: What you need to know

Host a blood drive. Last year, nearly 50,000 people donated blood through holiday blood drives hosted by American Legion posts. The Legion’s 2013 holiday blood donor drive is Nov. 28 through Dec. 31; learn how to host a blood drive at your post: www.legion.org/security/blood

Remember troops over the holidays. Many military personnel serving overseas will not come home for the holiday season. There are many ways Legion Family members can let these men and women know that they are thought of during a time of celebration and giving. www.legion.org/troops/weblinks

Download Blue Star Families booklet. "Everyone Serves" is a handbook released by Blue Star Families that aims to help family and friends of a service man or woman cope with the stresses associated with a deployment. The Legion gave input on the handbook, which is available in PDF, eBook or Web form. www.everyoneservesbook.com

Watch Oratorical Contest videos. The Legion created 11 videos that illustrate how to conduct an Oratorical Contest at the post and department level. There’s also downloadable program materials, presentations and scripts for posts to modify and use. www.legion.org/oratorical