By Tom Fernlund
The holiday season is here, and for many it brings great memories of family gatherings and celebrations. I wish everyone safe travels and cheerful events during this time and always. Take time to remember those who are having difficult times and those who cannot be with family and friends.
Reach out, make a Buddy Check, to brighten someone’s day.
Remember The American Legion’s mission statement: To enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness. Many posts are taking the time to recognize and celebrate The American Legion centennial with special events. Attending these events is always an honor and learning experience. Some posts no longer have their original homes, but the members still maintain the pride and history their post’s namesake represents.
Did you know Wabasha Post 50 proudly boasts having two members that became national commanders?
Daniel F. Foley was elected national commander in 1963 and maintained his continuous membership with Post 50.
Harold “Butch” Miller was elected national commander in 1998. He joined The American Legion at Post 50, but when elected national commander, his membership was in the state of Virginia.
Another interesting note, Minnesota’s other well-known national commander, Daniel Ludwig, who was elected in 1995, lives just 30 miles up the road from Wabasha in Red Wing.
What is your value to membership? As a 30-year member, I continue to enjoy the activities, comradeship, networking and endless opportunities The American Legion offers.
The American Legion Family Bowling Tournament is a value of membership for many of us. This coming year will be the 76th annual event, which is scheduled to held March 19-April 24, 2022 in Dayton, hosted by Osseo Post 172.
Visit www.mnlegion.org for more information. The Department Media & Communication Committee is tirelessly working to promote our organizations presence on social media. They are also facilitating Zoom meetings to educate and enhance the communication with our officers, districts and posts. Thank you, M&C Committee, for your commitment to advance our organizations mission.
Our programs help to change the lives of so many but to continue the mission, donations are needed. The new Minnesota American Legion Fastpitch Softball program is starting at ground zero and needs startup funds.
Minnesota American Legion Foundation Fund 60 has been set up to receive donations for this exciting program.
American Legion Family members volunteer every day to honor and care for veterans, inspire youth and engage their communities. Always be proud of your membership and invite others to participate in “Veterans Strengthening America.”
Tom Fernlund of St. Cloud is the commander of The American Legion Department of Minnesota.
