ANAVICUS: A Bond Without Borders
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What if you spotted a Legionnaire in a purple beret or garrison cap, perhaps during the Washington Conference or National Convention? Who is authorized to wear them? And what do they mean?
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October 10, 2008
What if you spotted a Legionnaire in a purple beret or garrison cap, perhaps during the Washington Conference or National Convention? Who is authorized to wear them? And what do they mean?
Full Story
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TrackBacks (0)October 9, 2008
Eleven Students Earn $20K College Scholarship
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Eleven outstanding high school students emerged from a field of nearly a hundred applicants as recipients of a $20,000 Samsung-American Legion Scholarship.
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October 8, 2008
DoD Awarding Purple Hearts to POW's Killed in Captivity
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| DoD Photo |
The Department of Defense announced today it has expanded the Purple Heart eligibility criteria allowing prisoners-of-war who died in captivity to receive the award.
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October 6, 2008
Oklahoma Legion Sponsors Another Operation Homecoming
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Last winter, The American Legion’s Department of Oklahoma led a massive effort to bring nearly 2,000 National Guardsmen home for the holidays. “Operation Holiday Homecoming” required 42 buses and more than $400,000 in contributions. By all accounts, the event was a phenomenal success.
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October 3, 2008
The American Legion Charity Golf Tournament Aids Kids Of Fallen Heroes
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The American Legion is staging a charity golf tournament to benefit the children of fallen heroes.
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October 2, 2008
Secretaries of State visit 3rd Sustainment Command and Joint Base Balad for Overseas Voting Update
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| U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael Behlin |
JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Secretaries of State and a chief election officials delegation from Pennsylvania, California, Indiana, Mississippi and Florida visited Joint Base Balad Tuesday to meet with Brig. Gen. Michael Lally, 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) commanding general, and receive updates on the voting process for servicemembers serving in Iraq.
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October 1, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans - Glendale, AZ
October 2nd
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for veterans on Thursday, Oct. 2, at the University of Phoenix Stadium (Home of the Arizona Cardinals). This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale (Greater Phoenix), AZ 85305. RecruitMilitary urges all job seekers who have military backgrounds to attend--veterans who already have civilian work experience, men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
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October 2nd" »
September 30, 2008
Pride And Purpose
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There are two words that my campaign has been about, that I’ve spoken to you about as I’ve traveled – those two words being “pride” and “purpose.” You’ll continue to hear them because that’s really what this organization is about. That purpose that those World War I vets felt when they came home from Europe 90 years ago, understanding that they had stood beside their comrades during combat in the trenches, understanding that they still needed to stand beside their comrades as they came home because their comrades needed them, just as our comrades need us now. That purpose stayed alive for 90 years and will stay alive for another 90 years because our comrades will always need us.
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September 29, 2008
Operation Recreation: 'From Crisis To Miracle In One Week'
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Thanks to the efforts of Legionnaires and ACO Hardware in Michigan, a wealth of sporting goods has been delivered to U.S. troops fighting in Iraq. Enough volleyballs, footballs, golf clubs and basketballs were collected to fill 18 large boxes. Legionnaire Gary Tanner and ACO Vice President Bob Dunlap coordinated "Operation Recreation," which attracted volunteers from American Legion posts, Michigan Military Moms, Michigan National Guard family readiness groups, and local veterans and servicemembers returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan.
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September 26, 2008
Proclamation By The President
Gold Star Mother's Day, 2008
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Throughout our history, the men and women of the Armed Forces have put our Nation's security before their own, doing their duty in the face of grave danger. On Gold Star Mother's Day, we pay solemn tribute to the mothers of the patriots lost serving this great Nation.
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Gold Star Mother's Day, 2008" »
September 25, 2008
Posts To Be Awarded For Excellence
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National Commander Dave Rehbein has created a post excellence award program to honor American Legion posts that achieve a high standard of participation in each of four key areas: membership, youth activities, community service, and support of our U.S. military or veterans.
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September 24, 2008
The American Legion Applauds VA Move to Award Benefits to More Vets with Lou Gehrig’s Disease
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The American Legion is expressing strong support for a new rule that offers monetary and medical benefits to a greater number of military veterans who have contracted amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Studies have shown that military veterans are more susceptible to ALS than members of the general population.
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September 19, 2008
U.S. Military Vows To Find Missing Servicemembers
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| Photo By James V. Carroll |
WASHINGTON, Sept. 18, 2008 – The U.S. military never stops searching for servicemembers reported as captured or missing during the global war on terrorism or those missing from past wars.
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September 17, 2008
The American Legion's NEF Assists Ike, Gustav Victims
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| DoD Photo |
The American Legion has speeded up its process to assist Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members who have been victimized by Hurricanes Ike or Gustav. Financial grants are available through the organization’s National Emergency Fund.
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September 15, 2008
National Emergency Fund
Hurricanes Gustav & Ike
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| DoD Photo |
As you are all aware, devastation has come to the United States again by way of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. We cannot even begin to describe the horror and tragedy that has come upon the citizens of Louisiana and Texas. But we can help through the National Emergency Fund (NEF) to provide some immediate assistance to our fellow impacted Legionnaires.
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Hurricanes Gustav & Ike" »
September 12, 2008
Women Vets of World War II Honored
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In July, the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix hosted a gathering that honored all women who served in World War II. The event was attended by many female veterans who served in the armed forces during those wartime years; a few even wore their uniforms.
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September 11, 2008
Half-staffing of the United States Flag
Patriot Day 9/11
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| DoD Photo |
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America
September 11, 2001, was etched into America's memory when 19 terrorists attacked us with barbarity unequaled in our history. On Patriot Day, we cherish the memory of the thousands of innocent victims lost, extend our thoughts and prayers to their families, and honor the heroic men and women who risked and sacrificed their lives so others might survive.
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Patriot Day 9/11" »
September 10, 2008
Actor Gary Sinise Speaks Out On Suicide Prevention
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| Click above for video PSA by Gary Sinise |
Suicide Prevention is everyone's business, and VA is enhancing its efforts in this vital area of veteran health.
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September 9, 2008
Florida National Guard Prepares As Ike Strikes Cuba
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| Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa |
OKEECHOBEE, Fla., Sept. 8, 2008 – As Hurricane Ike moved westward toward Cuba yesterday, emergency management officials cautioned residents in Key West and South Florida to pay close attention to the hurricane's track in case the storm turned north toward the United States.
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September 8, 2008
Thousands Take Part In National America Supports You Freedom Walk
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| DoD Photo |
WASHINGTON, Sept. 7, 2008 – An assembly of thousands gathered this morning at the entrance of Arlington National Cemetery, the starting point of the fourth annual National America Supports You Freedom Walk.
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September 5, 2008
National Guard Troops In Four States Prepare For Hanna
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| Photo by Tech. Sgt. Thomas Kielbasa |
ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 4, 2008 – Four states along the East Coast are employing their National Guards as Tropical Storm Hanna nears. Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina have almost 40,000 Army and Air National Guard members available to their governors, if needed. This includes almost 11,000 in North Carolina, 9,000 in Florida, 11,000 in South Carolina and 9,000 in Georgia.
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Legion Joins With Russians To Gather POW/MIA Information
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The American Legion signed an agreement last week with the War Veterans Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States (nine of 15 former Soviet republics), supporting activities of the U.S.-Russia Joint Commission on POWs/MIAs. The Legion's National Executive Committee passed a resolution last May at its Spring Meetings to sign on with the commission, formed in 1992 by Washington and Moscow.
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September 2, 2008
Iowa Veteran Elected Leader Of American Legion
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A research metallurgist and U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam era has been elected national commander of the nation's largest veterans organization.
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August 28, 2008
"America's Toughest Sheriff" Addresses Legionnaires
PHOENIX (Aug. 27, 2008) -- Sheriff Joe Arpaio, admittedly, is not the most popular person in Maricopa County, Ariz. He has been the recipient of death threats – he travels with a bodyguard – and has a Web site, www.arpaio.com,...
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August 27, 2008
Legion Riders raise $515, 346.23 for the Legacy Scholarship Fund
More than 200 motorcyclists roared into downtown Phoenix Friday, culminating a cross-country ride of 1,800 miles to make a college education possible for the children of thousands of U.S. military men and women who have died defending our freedoms since...
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August 26, 2008
More than 600 take oath of enlistment
PHOENIX – Mason, Ariz., resident Jennett Vega already has one nephew serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. A second, 17-year-old Gabriel Valdez, will soon head off to boot camp in the U.S. Marine Corps. Vega didn’t see the older nephew’s...
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August 18, 2008
Legion, Military.com Present Historic Online Presidential Debate
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Presidential candidates Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., and Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., recently granted exclusive video interviews on military, national security and veterans' issues to The American Legion Magazine. Some of their responses to questions on veterans, military and national security issues will be launched Aug. 19 on Military.com's "Debate 2008" Web site.
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August 14, 2008
American Legion Legacy Run To Honor Military
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Hundreds of motorcyclists will take the concept of "veterans helping veterans" to a new level next week when The American Legion Riders kick off the third annual American Legion Legacy Run to raise money for the American Legion Legacy Scholarship program. The riders, who are wartime veterans themselves, will travel 1,800 miles to make possible a college education for the children of those who have died defending our freedoms since September 11, 2001.
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August 13, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans - Anaheim, CA - August 14th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for veterans on Thursday, Aug. 14, at the Angel Stadium of Anaheim (Home of the Angels). This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the stadium on 2000 Gene Autry Way, Orange County, CA.
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August 12, 2008
Teen Sharpshooters Excel In Legion Air Rifle Tourney
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USA SHOOTING RANGE, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO – Xentri Garza, a seventeen year-old female shooter from Ft. Worth, Texas, capped off a championship year to capture the sporter crown at the 18th annual American Legion Junior Air Rifle National Championship, August 7-9.
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August 8, 2008
House passes VA funding bill
The House of Representatives passed its fiscal year 2009 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill on Aug. 1 in a strong bipartisan vote of 409 to 4. The 2009 legislation (H.R. 6599) builds on historic increases for veterans and troops passed into law last year, which saw the largest funding increase in VA's 77-year history.
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August 7, 2008
Career Fair for Vets Coming to Milwaukee - Aug. 14
The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for veterans on Thursday, Aug. 14, in Milwaukee’s Bradley Center. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the center on 1001 N. Fourth St.
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August 6, 2008
Membership Workshop 2008
Attitude, leadership and accountability are crucial to recruiting new members and retaining current ones, American Legion National Commander Marty Conatser told the 45th Annual Membership Conference in Indianapolis July 31 to Aug 2.
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August 5, 2008
Terrorists Take Battle to Courts
Photo By John Raughter
There’s a saying I once heard: “You can’t talk a hog into slaughtering itself.” I am not sure I believe that anymore, after the U.S. Supreme Court’s June decision to give detained enemy combatants the ability to sue us in our own judicial system.
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August 4, 2008
Coast Guard celebrates 218th birthday
The U.S. Coast Guard traces its roots to U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, which was established by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton on Aug. 4, 1790. At the time, the Revenue Cutter Service was the only naval force of the United States.
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July 31, 2008
No Better Place For Dale Dye
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Capt. Dale Dye, U.S. Marine Corps, retired, could be any other white-haired veteran among the many visiting Normandy the first week of June. He sits alone on a bench outside a stone manor and squints across the quiet meadow where the Merderet River flows. He imagines what it must have been like 64 years earlier when, for three days, the air whizzed with bullets, and the narrow causeway road was soaked with the blood of fallen American soldiers. Dye, a decorated combat veteran of the Vietnam War, has a unique way of imagining such things.
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July 30, 2008
Career Fair for Veterans - Oklahoma City, OK
Thursday, July 30th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Portland, Oregon on Thursday, July 31, 2008. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Coca-Cola Events Center, 425 East California, Oklahoma City, OK 73104. RecruitMilitary urges all job seekers who have military backgrounds to attend--veterans who already have civilian work experience, men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
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Thursday, July 30th" »
July 28, 2008
Students Capture Veterans' Stories With "Our Local Greatest Generation"
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Capt. Scott Bell, USA |
Most high-school students learn about the past by memorizing text in history books. Teacher Terry McLeod's class experiences history firsthand through the eyes and voices of the men and women who lived it. Building on a six-year educational partnership, Richland Northeast High School and American Legion Richland Post 6 in Columbia, S.C., are bridging more than 60 years of history by bringing veterans into the classroom.
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July 25, 2008
Tennessee Delegate Elected President Of
2008 American Legion Boys Nation
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The 2008 session of American Legion Boys Nation got under way last week at Marymount University in Arlington, Va. The program officially began when 98 "senators" arrived July 18, representing 49 state programs. Three days later, they elected new leaders: President Joseph Riley of Tennessee, Vice President Dominick LoBraico of New Jersey, President Pro Tempore Joseph "Wells" Ellenberg of Georgia and Secretary of the Senate Travis Nordgaard of Minnesota.
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2008 American Legion Boys Nation" »
July 23, 2008
Career Fair for Veterans - Portland, OR - Thursday, July 24th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Portland, Oregon on Thursday, July 24, 2008.
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July 22, 2008
Legion Changes Insurance
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Periodically, The American Legion reviews its insurance programs to ensure that Legionnaires are offered the best possible coverage at competitive rates. Accordingly, The American Legion recently sought competitive bids for the brokerage and administrative service for all insurance plans offered by the national American Legion. After a comprehensive review of all bids, Gallagher Benefit Services was selected as the new broker effective June 1, 2008.
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July 21, 2008
WWII Ship Keeps History Alive At Sea
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Photo by Steve Brooks |
Six times a year, history repeats itself off the coast of San Pedro, Calif., when the SS Lane Victory disembarks on a 26-mile, round-trip cruise that gives hundreds of passengers an up-close look at what life was like serving on board a World War II cargo ship.
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July 17, 2008
Coast-To-Coast Highway Honors Korean War Vets
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Many U.S. states have dedicated sections of their highways to veterans of the Korean War. While these stretches of road are a tribute to those who served, they are unlinked and disparate.
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July 15, 2008
All-Star Rick Monday To Coach At White House
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WASHINGTON (July 15, 2008) – As Major League greats line up today for one final All-Star Game in legendary Yankee Stadium, one former All-Star is headed to an even more historical venue – the White House.
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22nd Golden Age Games Set For August
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An estimated 600 "golden-age" veterans from across the country will travel to Indianapolis Aug. 20-24 to compete in the world's largest sports and recreational competition for senior veterans.
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July 14, 2008
National Convention Veteran Small Business Expo
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This year we have small business experts, senior federal officials, congressional representatives and financial lending experts all flying to Phoenix for the express purpose of assisting YOU.
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July 11, 2008
"Freedom Walks" Urged For 9-11 Commemorations
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DoD Photo |
INDIANAPOLIS (July 2008) - The Department of Defense has asked posts of The American Legion to consider coordinating a “Freedom Walk” in their communities to commemorate the 7th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our nation on or near September 11th.
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July 10, 2008
Ground Breaks At Bethesda For New Walter Reed
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DoD Photo |
Defense Department officials and President George W. Bush broke ground July 3 on a new 345-bed Walter Reed National Military Medical Center at Bethesda, Md. The project, estimated to cost nearly $1 billion, will unite the historic Walter Reed Army hospital in Washington with the National Naval Medical Center in a massive 261,000-square-foot expansion that will include construction of two new buildings at the Maryland site.
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July 9, 2008
Career Fair for Veterans - Jacksonville, FL Thursday, July 10th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Jacksonville, Florida on Thursday, July 10, 2008. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Jacksonville Municipal Stadium (Home of the Jacksonville Jaguars), One Stadium Place Jacksonville, FL 32202. RecruitMilitary urges all job seekers who have military backgrounds to attend--veterans who already have civilian work experience, men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
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July 8, 2008
Minnesota Legionnaire Leads GPS Donation Effort For Troops
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Up near Saint Cloud, Minn., Ed Meyer is busy helping our troops find their way around Iraq. Hmm. He must be using gigantic semaphore flags, right? Actually, Meyer is equipping soldiers headed to Iraq with their own global positioning system (GPS) receivers. They come in mighty handy when you're on patrol and don't know the local language. GPS is a navigation/location system that works off 32 satellites orbiting the Earth. They transmit signals that give GPS users their exact locations - even altitudes. It only takes a few seconds to get the info, and it's usually accurate within a meter or so.
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July 7, 2008
Legion Rides for Camp Smile-a-Mile
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Every year, American Legion Riders of Post 107 in Leeds, Ala., don their helmets and ride their motorbikes to Camp Smile-a-Mile, a place where children with cancer go to enjoy the great outdoors. The Riders bring along a giant, symbolic "check" with a dollar amount written on it for the amount of donations. Last month, they delivered a check for $30,000.
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July 3, 2008
Severely Wounded Soldiers Learn To Scuba Dive
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Thanks to a program at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, disabled soldiers are learning to scuba dive and explore the wonders of our undersea world. Known as "SUDS" (Soldiers Undertaking Disabled Scuba), the innovative training and certification program is helping wounded warriors from Iraq and Afghanistan to experience life from below sea level.
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July 1, 2008
The road to a better GI Bill
Young veterans from across America converged on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building on April 29 to voice support for a new and improved GI Bill. They spoke about how difficult it is for veterans to earn college degrees...
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June 30, 2008
President Signs GI Bill
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WASHINGTON (June 30, 2008) – In a bipartisan action hailed today by the leader of the nation’s largest veterans organization as “an historic event,” the president today signed legislation that provides $162 billion to carry out military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan into 2009 and establishes a GI Bill that mirrors its 1944 predecessor, cited by many as the greatest piece of social legislation ever enacted.
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June 27, 2008
Career Fair for Veterans - Atlanta GA Tuesday, July 1
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Atlanta, Georgia on Tuesday, July 1, 2008.
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June 25, 2008
Street Named For Ohio Airman Killed In Action
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U.S. Airforce Photo |
About 400 servicemembers gathered at an intersection on an air base in the Persian Gulf region on June 10 to honor a vehicle operator who made the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq a year ago. Airman 1st Class Eric Barnes, 20, of Lorain, Ohio, died June 10, 2007, after an improvised explosive device attack on an Air Force convoy about 100 miles south of Baghdad. He was deployed from the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
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June 24, 2008
Legion Post Offers Church Services
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
Legionnaires and their families and friends gather once a week at American Legion Post 258 in Jonesboro, Ga., with a solemn intent: never forget those who made the supreme sacrifice to protect America's freedoms. On Sunday mornings, people gather in the post's Chapel for God and Country for religious services.
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June 23, 2008
Pueblo, Colorado Legion Riders Launch
Operation Enduring Support
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Photo courtesy Post 2, Pueblo, Colo. |
American Legion Riders at Post 2 in Pueblo, Colo., are a busy group of veterans committed to supporting the military, fellow veterans and their families. And they're a group always up to a challenge.
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Operation Enduring Support" »
June 20, 2008
President Confers Medal of Freedom on Former Joint Chiefs Chairman Pace
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DoD Photo |
WASHINGTON, June 19, 2008 – President Bush presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to retired Marine Corps Gen. Peter Pace during a White House ceremony today. Video Bush honored Pace with the highest civilian award the United States can bestow for a career that went from the streets of Hue City, Vietnam, to the halls of power in Washington.
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June 19, 2008
Gulf War Veterans Given Added Voice at VA
New Committee to Air Veterans’ Concerns
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DoD Photo |
WASHINGTON - - Veterans of the 1990-91 Gulf War will gain additional access to the leadership of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) when the department’s Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans holds its first meeting today. The 14-member, independent panel will advise the Secretary and the department on the full range of health care and benefits needs of those who served in the conflict.
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June 18, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans - Indianapolis, IN
Thursday, June 19th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Indianapolis, Indiana on Thursday, June, 2008. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208. RecruitMilitary urges all job seekers who have military backgrounds to attend--veterans who already have civilian work experience, men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
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Thursday, June 19th" »
June 17, 2008
Vets Prepare for Annual Wheelchair Games in Omaha
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The 28th National Veterans Wheelchair Games, scheduled for July 25-29 in Omaha, Neb., will attract more than 500 veterans with disabilities; it has become the largest annual wheelchair sports competition in the world. Veterans from combat zones in Afghanistan and Iraq will participate in 17 competitive events being offered in Omaha.
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June 16, 2008
Commander Honors Fallen Heroes at Normandy
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American Legion National Commander Marty Conatser walked in the boot prints of heroes on June 6. He joined American Legion Auxiliary National President Jan Pulvermacher-Ryan in ceremonies at Omaha Beach and Ste. Mere-Eglise, France, to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the D-Day invasion.
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June 12, 2008
American Legion to Supreme Court:
Terrorists Ruling endangers U.S. military
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Photo by John Raughter |
The nation’s leading veterans organization reacted to today’s Supreme Court ruling that foreign terrorist have U.S. constitutional rights. The ruling came as the result of a challenge by detainees at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, who want hearings in U.S. civilian courts.
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Terrorists Ruling endangers U.S. military" »
A GI Bill Worthy Of Its Name
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DoD Photo |
BY MARTY CONATSER
When The American Legion wrote the first draft of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, it changed the course of American history. A generation of heroes was able to join the middle class, achieve home ownership, earn higher education and live the American dream. More famously known as the GI Bill, it was hailed by many as the greatest legislation ever. Sadly, as the generations passed and memories dimmed, GI Bill benefits were so drastically reduced by inflation that many veterans either declined or were denied even the opportunity to participate in the program. Few veterans today have the luxury of attending school without also holding a job, and many colleges are totally out of reach.
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June 11, 2008
Kenneth Ham: Legionnaire In Space
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Hearing that Kenneth Ham, a 1983 graduate of Arthur L. Johnson Regional High School in Clark, N.J., was in NASA's space program, fellow Clark resident and Post 328 Legionnaire William Duffy reached out and invited him to join the nation's largest veterans organization.
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June 9, 2008
Legion Helps Parkersburg Tornado Victims
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When a tornado devastated many homes last week in Parkersburg, Iowa, The American Legion's Department of Iowa immediately responded by securing emergency grants for storm victims. The local Legion post became a community center providing food and comfort to displaced residents, helped out by a department grant. Polk County American Legion members also began to collect clothing and supplies for beleaguered families who had lost everything to the tornado.
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June 6, 2008
Boys Of Pointe Du Hoc
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On June 6, 1984, President Ronald Reagan spoke at the Ranger Monument on a cliff overlooking Omaha Beach to mark the 40th anniversary of the historic Allied landing. The following is the text of his memorable speech:
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June 5, 2008
Army Hero Joins Medal of Honor Roster at Pentagon Ceremony
WASHINGTON, June 3, 2008 – Medal of Honor recipient Army Pfc. Ross A. McGinnis joined a select group of military heroes during a Pentagon ceremony here today.
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June 4, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans - Foxborough, MA, Thursday, June 5th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Foxborough, Massachusetts on Thursday, June 5, 2008.
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June 2, 2008
Bush Presents Medal of Honor to Fallen Army Hero’s Family
WASHINGTON, June 2, 2008 – President Bush presented the Medal of Honor to fallen Army hero Spc. Ross A. McGinnis’ parents during a White House ceremony here today.
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Bush Presents Medal of Honor to Fallen Army Hero’s Family
WASHINGTON, June 2, 2008 – President Bush presented the Medal of Honor to fallen Army hero Spc. Ross A. McGinnis’ parents during a White House ceremony here today.
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May 30, 2008
Retroactive Combat Action Badges Pushed
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DoD Photo |
Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, R-Fla., recently introduced legislation to retroactively award the Army Combat Action Badge to those members of the U.S. Army who were engaged by the enemy from Dec. 7, 1941, to the present day.
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May 29, 2008
Wounded Warriors Honored At Indy 500 Parade
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Photo by Duane Mercier |
More than 300,000 spectators lined the streets of Indianapolis May 24 to watch the annual 500 Festival Parade, honoring those who have fought for freedom and celebrating the start of the world’s largest single-day sporting event, the Indianapolis 500.
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Lou Dobbs - The Unabashed Anchor
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
Award-winning CNN host Lou Dobbs has built an audience of millions by taking stands on issues from illegal immigration to outsourcing the U.S. economy. Forty-five years ago, he stood before a group of Legionnaires in Idaho and discovered he had what it takes to speak his mind.
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May 28, 2008
A Promise Fulfilled
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
Rep. Chet Edwards is living up to the legacy of the man known in Washington as “Mr. Veteran.”
Texas Democrat Chet Edwards may never have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, but his 18 years in Congress have been shaped by those who did.
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May 27, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans - Baltimore, Maryland, Thursday, May 29th
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Baltimore, Maryland on Thursday, May 29, 2008. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the M&T Bank Stadium (Home of the Baltimore Ravens), 1101 Russell Street, Baltimore, MD 21230.
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May 21, 2008
GI Film Festival Honors Heroes
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Photo by Duane Mercier |
WASHINGTON-- The realities of serving in Iraq were a common theme in many of the films featured at the second annual GI Film Festival here last week.
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May 20, 2008
Disaster Guide Wins Hermes Award
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The American Legion’s guide, “Disaster Preparedness and Response for American Legion Posts” has won a platinum award in the Hermes Award competition. This award honors creative professionals involved in the concept, writing and design of traditional and emerging technology. Additionally, The American Legion Veterans Day speech won a gold award and The American Legion’s Vision blog won an honorable mention in the competition.
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May 15, 2008
Video Link Allows Veteran, Military Voters to Question Presidential Candidates
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The American Legion and Military.com are teaming up to enable military and veteran voters to pose questions directly to U.S. presidential candidates this election year.
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May 14, 2008
Shakopee Teen Named The American Legion
Eagle Scout Of The Year
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A Shakopee, Minn., student has been named The American Legion Eagle Scout of the Year for 2008.
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Eagle Scout Of The Year" »
May 9, 2008
American Legion to Congress: ‘Pass a clean GI Bill’
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DoD Photo |
The leader of the nation’s preeminent veterans organization criticized Congress for delaying a needed GI Bill because of cost. Improvements to the current GI Bill, like its predecessors, will serve as the ultimate stimulus package for veterans, their families, and for the nation.
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May 8, 2008
GI's Honored in Upcoming Film Fest
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Washington, D.C. will host the second annual GI Film Festival May14-18. The festival will present both classic and premier films from international and domestic filmmakers celebrating the heroic stories of the American Armed Forces and the worldwide struggle for freedom and liberty.
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May 7, 2008
NEC addresses election-year issues
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
INDIANAPOLIS (May 7, 2008) – Members of The American Legion’s National Executive Committee gathered here today for their annual spring session at national headquarters.
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May 5, 2008
Ironmen Roll Across America
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On March 1, retired U.S. Marine Tom Knoll of Hawaii and his son, Warren, embarked on the 3,300-mile Freedom Run to raise money for three charities: the Wounded Warrior Project, which assists wounded veterans and their families; The Sunshine Foundation, which grants wishes to seriously ill and abused children; and the Challenged Athletes Fund, which assists disabled athletes.
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May 2, 2008
New Generation of Legionnaires
Post 911 energizes Left Coast
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Photo courtesy of Post 911 |
SAN FRANCISCO – With its progressive politics, high cost of living and lack of military bases, San Francisco is not a place one would assume to find the newest generation of Legionnaires. Yet the Bay Area is now home to one of the fastest growing and unique posts in The American Legion.
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Post 911 energizes Left Coast" »
May 1, 2008
American Legion Joins Department of Homeland Security in promoting Fifth Annual National Preparedness Month
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
The American Legion has joined with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in promoting the fifth annual National Preparedness Month this September and encourages Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. This year, the Ready Campaign is encouraging Americans to take simple steps to prepare including: Get a Kit; Make a Plan; Be Informed about the different types of emergencies and their appropriate responses; and Get Involved.
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April 30, 2008
Career Fair for Veterans - Cincinnati, Ohio - May 1st
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Cincinnati, Ohio on Thursday, May 1, 2008. This event, the RecruitMilitary Career Fair, will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Great American Ball Park (Home of the Cincinnati Reds), 100 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 RecruitMilitary urges all job seekers who have military backgrounds to attend--veterans who already have civilian work experience, men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, members of the National Guard and reserves, and military spouses.
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April 29, 2008
FOX 26 Wins American Legion’s Top Journalism Award
KRIV FOX 26 in Houston, Texas has been selected to receive The American Legion’s Fourth Estate Award for a documentary chronicling the rehabilitation of wounded warriors from Iraq and Afghanistan.
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April 28, 2008
Veterans Launch National Education Effort on Illegal Immigration
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INDIANAPOLIS (April 28, 2008) – Crime, terrorism and dependency on scarce government dollars are some of the major reasons why the nation’s largest veterans organization is concerned about illegal immigration. So concerned, in fact, that The American Legion today began a nationwide outreach to alert Americans to the dangers posed by illegal aliens and the government’s reluctance to seriously address the issue.
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April 23, 2008
Post 157 designated as disaster shelter
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American Legion Post 157 Bandera, Texas (located in South Central Texas) has been designated as the primary shelter during Emergency Disasters for the surrounding Banera County. Under the jurisdiction of the Bandera County Emergency Operations Coordinator and The Red Cross, the post is stocking up to provide shelter and meals for 30 people. Additionally, they will offer respite and meals to the county’s first responders comprised of county volunteer fire fighters, county volunteer EMS and local law enforcement.
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April 21, 2008
DC Post 1 Recognizes WWI Vet
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Members of District of Columbia Post 1 recently paid a visit to the Charles Town, West Virginia home of Frank Buckles, the last American World War I veteran. The 107-year-old enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 16 and served in Europe during the war.
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April 18, 2008
The Silver Lining
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A full year removed from Walter Reed’s dark cloud of 2007, military-to-veteran transition remains a top priority in Washington.
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April 17, 2008
Career Fair For Veterans On Wednesday, April 23rd
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The military-to-civilian recruiting firm RecruitMilitary will present a free hiring event for job seekers who have military backgrounds in Tampa, Florida on Wednesday, April 23, 2008.
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April 15, 2008
Child Hero Honored for Helping Save Mother's Life
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Years of teaching kids to memorize their address and phone number paid off for an Iowa City family. A nine year old boy was honored Tuesday with the American Legion Youth Hero Award. Quick thinking during a 9-1-1 call helped save his mother's life.
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April 11, 2008
Gitmo General Tells Legion About His “Misunderstood Mission”
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Photo by James V. Carroll |
Three months ago, Gregory J. Zanetti was a stockbroker and financial adviser in New Mexico. Today, he is an Army National Guard brigadier general who helps lead a multi-branch team of 2,200 personnel in what he describes as the “most misunderstood assignment in the military.
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April 9, 2008
Medal of Honor for Navy SEAL
American Forces Press Service - WASHINGTON, April 8, 2008 – President Bush today posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor, a Navy SEAL whose mortal sacrifice in Iraq saved the lives of two fellow SEALs and several Iraqi soldiers.
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April 8, 2008
American Legion to Congress: Support Petraeus and his mission
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DoD Photo |
Washington, DC (April 9, 2008) – Congress should give Gen. David Petraeus the tools he needs to succeed in Iraq, the head of The American Legion said today. Commander, Multi-National Force–Iraq 8-9 April 2008
Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member, Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to provide an update on the security situation in Iraq and to discuss the recommendations I recently provided to my chain of command.
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