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The Commander's
Column If anyone should ever ask you, there are 597 American Legion Posts in the state of Ohio. Many have their own post homes, but there are some that meet in city buildings, libraries, and restaurants or at other fraternal and veteran organizations. The one thing they all have in common is their support to the local communities and the programs of The American Legion. I am proud to be serving as your commander knowing the great things our American Legion Posts are doing. Every day I receive correspondence noting that a Post has donated money to the Legacy Fund, Child Welfare Foundation, National Emergency Fund, or our own special project, Alzheimer's. In my travels throughout Ohio I have had the opportunity to participate in Veterans Day programs at Orange Middle School and the Minster schools. We appreciate the invitation from the members of Delaware Post 115 and Commander John Smith. Virgil and Martha Arling were great hosts when we visited Minster. It was my first Veterans Day program at a school and trust me, it won't by my last. I urge all veterans to participate in your local Veterans Day programs. It's all about honoring you. During the month of December we traveled to Sandusky for the annual "Gifts for Yanks Who Gave" distribution at The Ohio Veterans Home. We appreciate the help of all the volunteers who assisted in giving the veterans their Christmas presents. A good time was had by all. A special thanks to Sandusky Post 83 for their hospitality. Also, I'm sad to say, during the month of December we lost our last surviving World War One veteran from Ohio, J. Russell Coffey. What an interesting and rewarding life he had during his 109 years. We thank the World War I veterans for founding The American Legion. Thank goodness they didn't give up. Congratulations to the entire Twelfth District and Commander James Refinati for being the only district ahead of last year's membership. If you're reading this article, we need your help to promote membership in The American Legion. Everyone knows of someone who is eligible to join. Congratulations also go out to Tyler Shoff, a 14-year-old girl and member of the Junior Auxiliary Unit in Marshallville. In June, Tyler won the local All American Soap Box Derby and then went on to become the World Champion. She had to compete against 298 other racers. I'd like to give a special thank you to Department President Carol T. Robinson and The American Legion Auxiliary for their donation to Alzheimer's. It is greatly appreciated. Please continue to pray for our troops. Thanks for being a member. Mike Morman, Department of Ohio Commander |
