It's time to reach out for 'Buddy Checks'

Dear American Legion Family members and friends,

Spending the past week in Washington, D.C., conjured up memories, both personal and historical. All through the week, it was evident that the authority, import and legacy of The American Legion was on full display.

Our members brought The American Legion’s top legislative priorities to their elected representatives. Four members of Congress participated in our fireside chat. Top federal officials briefed American Legion Family members on topics ranging from national defense to VA health care to PTSD/TBI advances.

It’s clear why The American Legion yields such influence in our nation’s capital. When we speak on behalf of our nearly 2 million patriotic members, Congress, VA and others will listen.

I am thankful that we count almost 2 million members. But we can do better. Our upcoming “Buddy Checks” or “National Week of Calling” affords us this opportunity.

The key, to paraphrase a former president and American Legion member, is to “ask not what they can do for our organization, but ask what our organization can do for them.”

I would like to see posts, districts, counties and departments streamline efforts to reach out to former American Legion members simply to see how they are doing. This is not a membership campaign as much as it is a comradeship campaign.

Leading up to our 100th anniversary this month is a perfect time to reach out to these expired members. Ideally, American Legion members can make contact with their comrades this week, leading up the Legion’s 100th birthday, March 11-16. However, I understand that posts have made other plans to celebrate the centennial. So they are free to choose another week in the centennial month.

When you reach out, ask what The American Legion can do for them. Perhaps one of our talented service officers could help with a claim. Or perhaps the veteran’s family has fallen on hard times and we can provide the assistance they need. Others may just want to talk with a fellow veteran.

If you haven’t already, I would encourage you to review the Buddy Check toolkit, including scripts for Legionnaires to use when making personal contact. It is available online by clicking here.

Celebrating our legacy.