All veterans deserve to be celebrated, and the American Legion Auxiliary volunteers at the Syracuse Veterans Creative Arts Festival in New York make this a top priority year after year.The event hosts dozens of local veterans in a creative competition and celebration, and, since 2014, the festival organizers have relied on the support of
Patriotism runs deep in Beth McGinn’s family. Many members have sacrificed so much, including her uncle, who gave his life at Iwo Jima to protect the nation. Beth’s father also served in World War II alongside all four of his brothers, and her grandmothers were both Gold Star Mothers. Despite the tragic moments her family
photo Hannah Catt For over 75 years, the American Legion Auxiliary Badger Girls State program has brought bright students from across Wisconsin together to develop leadership skills, learn the basics of state government, and gain confidence in their ability to make a difference in the world. “[ALA Girls State] was made up of outstanding young
Jeri Greenwell has spent the past 53 years serving veterans, military, and their families through her membership with the American Legion Auxiliary. “Being the daughter of two Marines, it was instilled in me the importance of honoring the service of our military, its veterans, and their families for their many sacrifices, exemplary courage, honor, and
The wheelchairs used by volunteers and staff to transport patients around the Togus Veterans Affairs Medical center in Augusta, Maine, were heavy, outdated, and cumbersome. As a part of a larger statewide effort, American Legion Auxiliary Maine Unit 81 decided to purchase two new Stryker Prime TC Transport Chairs for the medical center. Knowing each
Carol Campbell’s father, James F. Gallagher, served in the United States Army in World War II from 1941-1943 and joined The American Legion after being honorably discharged. One of Campbell’s first memories was attending an American Legion Family Christmas party with her father and meeting Santa Claus.That memory was the start of Carol’s dedication to
At Pennyroyal Veterans Center in Hopkinsville, Ky., 50 homeless veterans at a time have a place to live and the resources to rebuild their life. By providing the basic necessities, residents are able to focus on going the extra mile to improve their situation. At the center, substance abuse and mental health treatments are available,
Many American Legion Auxiliary members volunteer to serve our nation’s heroes during much of their free time. Or, if free time is scarce, they make financial gifts toward the cause. No matter your schedule or resources, there is always a way to contribute to the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary.Kathy Wilkerson, an 11-year Auxiliary
As COVID-19 (coronavirus) has grappled all of our lifestyles, that hasn’t stopped some from getting creative when it comes to continuing mission outreach efforts.In collaboration with American Legion Auxiliary Arizona Unit 62, the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation, Veterans First, the Arizona Arts Commission, the City of Peoria, Ariz., private charities, and individuals, the Heal
Volunteers from American Legion Auxiliary Illinois Unit 577 host events each week for veterans and active military at the James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center. Whether it is a simple Sunday bingo night, a more elaborate celebration for Independence Day, or their annual Christmas shop where veterans can shop for free for their loved
