By Tom Fernlund
Keeping and preserving our freedom is a commitment of our military and veterans. National Security is one of the Four Pillars upon which The American Legion was founded.
The Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion our members recite before every meeting begins with the purpose: “To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United State of America, to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy.”
As stated on The American Legion website legion.org, the Legion believes national security is upheld by keeping a well-funded Department of Defense, a good quality of life for troops and a sensible transition between service and separation.
Our support and care for our troops and veterans is needed now more than ever. Our heroic military men and women have done everything and more that was asked of them to defend and sacrifice for those in need. We will always remember.
The groundwork for Minnesota American Legion Fastpitch Softball is happening and is an exciting opportunity for our families and communities in our state. The program falls under the Americanism pillar that promotes teamwork, fitness, sportsmanship, active citizenship and brings families together.
Mike Arvidson from Parkers Prairie is chairing the Fastpitch Softball Ad Hoc Committee. Mike is experienced in setting up sports programs and has recruited other very talented volunteers that will help to ensure the softball program is successful.
The first few months as department commander has been a whirlwind experience. Many of the events and activities I attended, such as the signing into law the Veterans Restorative Justice Act at the Capitol and the groundbreakings for new Minnesota Veterans Homes in Preston and Montevideo, would not have happened without the tireless efforts of our American Legion Family
I am honored to represent the Department of Minnesota and grateful to see so many other American Legion Family members in attendance. I was at the National Convention in Phoenix during the groundbreaking for the Bemidji Veterans Home.
The veterans from all three communities worked tirelessly to support having the needed veterans homes in our state.
The American Legion Fall Conference is scheduled to take place Oct. 21-23 in Mahnomen. All American Legion Family members are encouraged to attend to learn more about our organization, get to meet members from around the state, ask questions and share experiences.
My bags stay packed and ready for traveling around Minnesota to meet and share experiences with the greatest American Legion Family.
Tom Fernlund is the commander of The American Legion Department of Minnesota.
