From the Desk of the Commander
I met a former Post member the other day at our church, and they asked me if they should consider renewing their membership, even though it had lapsed. They stated they let their membership lapse because of their work schedule and other organizational obligations which prevented them from attending the monthly meetings. It was obvious they were struggling with the decision.
First question I asked, was if they enjoyed reading the American Legion Magazine to which they replied yes; they stated they read each issue, cover to cover. I then asked if they ever came out to the Post to fish, camp, use the pistol or have a picnic, and they stated yes; they love bringing the grandkids out to fish off the dock. I inquired if they had ever attended one of our Memorial Day or Veteran Day Observances at the Lindale Veterans Memorial and they stated their family had attended both. Lastly, I asked if they enjoyed getting the bi-weekly Newsletter or if they ever looked at our Facebook Page and again, they stated yes to both.
Of the nearly 250 current members of our Post, we typically see no more than 40-45 members attend a Monthly Business Meeting (2 nd Monday of each month). This is typical of attendance at most Legion and VFW Posts throughout the country now a days. That means roughly three quarters of our members appreciate the benefits of membership even though they do not or cannot attend the monthly business meeting. They see value in belonging to the largest Veteran Service Organization in America.
The American Legion National and Department Officers, who meet often with our elected officials while informing and championing the needs of America’s Veterans, are supported by the annual dues our members contribute. Imagine the impact of our military recruiting efforts if we didn’t have the Veterans Administration to administer our service-connected claims, provide medical and rehabilitation services, to assist in funeral/burial services, oversee the GI/Montgomery Bill so Veterans can obtain a college education, who provides employment assistance, brings help for our homeless Veterans and drives many other Veteran centric services.
The point is, membership in the American Legion gives all of us a voice, remembering those who served and died, those who served returning home in various conditions, and securing the many benefit our future Veterans rightfully deserve for serving their country. Locally, belonging to the Jordan-Ducan Post 15 provides a local family focused place for rest, relaxation, comradery and community support. It makes a difference in our community when our Honor Guard provides Presenting the Colors at local businesses grand openings or the Mayor’s State of the City address or providing Rifle Volleys and Flag Folding services for a deceased Veteran. It makes a difference to our Lindale High School Seniors who are awarded college scholarships, and for our junior high students who are selected to participate in Boys and Girls State and maybe selected to go on to Boys and Girls Nation. It also makes a difference to our Children and Youth when we collect toys and gifts at Christmas time.
So yes, membership in the American Legion IS worthwhile, whether you attend the monthly business meetings or not. Your membership DOES matter, and membership HAS its benefits. We look forward to all area Veterans becoming members of the American Legion Jordan-Duncan Post 15 or renewing their membership and continuing the making a difference in our community.
Sincerely,
Preston Swift
Post Commander