Greetings to all!  If you are interested in learning more about the American Legion’s programs and want to take an active role in supporting these programs at the post level, then you may want to run for delegate and represent our post at the Department Convention which will take place 27 – 30 June 2013.  This year the convention will be in Palm Springs , CA .  All expenses are paid for each delegate.  If you are elected you will be assigned as a District 24 representative to cover designated standing committee meetings.  The idea is that each delegate will learn more about what the American Legion does so that they can bring back ideas on how to implement initiatives at the post level.  Normally our post is represented with 12 delegates.  Nominations will take place April 15 and the election for Delegates will be held on May 6, 2013.   If this sounds like something you would like to do, I encourage you to run as a delegate and upon return from the convention, seek out responsibility in one or more of our many committees.  Getting involved in the activities and programs of the post generates enthusiasm, motivation, and teamwork which is a win-win for everyone.

April is Children & Youth Month. Did you know that the American Legion has been actively involved with children’s issues since it first began in 1919? In many instances, the Legion has been the driving force on the federal, state and local levels representing children's interests and voicing concerns on their behalf. Recently, the American Legion created an educational comic book, "Bridging the Gap," to help middle school age children recognize, prevent and stop bullying.  The Legion also has other educational comic books for children and youth that include,” Our Country's Veterans”, "Our Country's Flag,” “I Pledge Allegiance" and "The Light of Liberty." I encourage ALL Post 43 members - Legionnaires, Sons, and Auxiliary - to help raise awareness about these topics in their local area by providing copies of these publications to nearby schools, churches, and youth organizations. Please contact me if you'd like to get involved in this important effort.

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, March 11, 2013) -- President Barack Obama announced today that an Army chaplain, Capt. Emil J. Kapaun, will be awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously, April 11, for his actions leading up to his capture as a prisoner of war in North Korea. Kapaun's nephew, Ray Kapaun and other family members will join the president at the White House to commemorate the chaplain's example of selfless service and sacrifice.

Help all veterans to sign up for the V.A. as it helps our veterans. Remember these days - April 1st - April Fools' Day, April 6th - Army Day, April 9th - National Former POW Recognition Day, April 11th - Persian Gulf War Official Cease Fire (1991), April 15th - Income Tax Day, April 22nd - Earth Day, April 24th - Administrative Professionals Day, April 26th - Arbor Day. Also April 21 thru 27 is National Volunteer Week. Remember our America 's Veterans by supporting by volunteering and giving to our programs. Always remember, every Veteran is important - let's see that they get their Benefits.

APRIL is CHILDREN AND YOUTH MONTH - This is a great time to challenge each Junior to sign up another Junior.  Perhaps even invite the new Junior to attend Junior Conference with the Junior that signed them up.  Have a fundraiser to pay for their Junior Conference fees.  Honor those “Leprechauns” working membership that have been recruiting new members with a small reception at your meeting or some type of small award.