An item from the Legion Magazine.
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Celebrate Mother’s Day—PLUS chance to win a Spring Peony silk scarf!
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Monthly Archives: April 2023
What Can We Do?
Given our branch’s – and particularly our cadet’s – involvement with the Wreaths Across America organization, this item may be of interest to some members.
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Dear Michael Barbour,
Every day at Wreaths Across America, we work to honor the service and sacrifice of our military. We are diligent in sharing stories of their lives to help make a personal connection for those of us who enjoy our freedom at their expense.
Early on in my time as Executive Director I became acutely aware of the challenges not only of the men and women who wear the uniform, but of their families. We all understand that they take an oath to protect our freedom and way of life and stand at the ready, but they also resolve that they and their families will make many sacrifices along the way.
I remember being approached after a speaking engagement by a young couple who wanted me to know that they had attended a ceremony that year in their community. We talked a while and they shared that he was about to be deployed and they would be relocating. They would be moving away from the helping hands of a grandmother, which would be difficult. They counted on her since their little boy had a serious illness. They added that they were certain the military community would be supportive. I relayed my concern for them to my daughter, a military spouse, whose response was, “It’s what we do.” Truer words were never spoken but they beg the question, “What can we do?”
For WAA this awareness of the “home front needs” of Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families has been touch stone in developing ways to work with like-minded organizations who have resources and skills to provide assistance, support and relief.
May has been designated as Military Appreciation Month. And although every month should afford them appreciation, this gesture does encourage everyone to reflect on the enormity of their sacrifices. That includes the daily sacrifice of not being with their loved ones. I read a quote once about the soldier who, although he would do it again, said while in service he missed his babies first steps and his mother’s dying breath.
So back to the question, “what can we do?”
We can embrace the military families and veterans in our communities and see that they receive the support they need. These men and women throughout history have been guardians and protectors of our Country. We can be the caretakers of this liberty by continuing to “find a way to serve” and show the next generation the real cost of Freedom.
Remember – Honor – Teach With gratitude, |
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Karen Worcester Executive Director |
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Upcoming Events with Wreaths Across America Wreaths Across America is excited to share that we will be participating in several impactful and historic events this May in Washington, D.C. – and all are open to the public!
May 11 – 13, the WAA Mobile Education Exhibit will be set up as part of Camp Legacy* – located on the JFK Hockey Fields/West Potomac Park – as part of The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration “Welcome Home!” event on the National Mall. This three-day public event will include formal ceremonies, daily interactive exhibits and entertainment, a dedicated area for Veterans’ Services, and more!
Wreaths Across America Radio will be broadcasting LIVE from the Mobile Education Exhibit throughout the entire event! And we want to hear from you and share your story with our listeners who are unable to be there in person. Please email us here to let us know if you plan to attend so we can schedule time to connect with you in person!
Also happening on Thursday, May 11, 2023, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm ET, at Thomas Jefferson Building – LJ 119. Wreaths Across America Radio has been invited to broadcast LIVE from the Library of Congress for their important event “Live! at the Library: The War and Peace of Tim O’Brien.” This is a free event, open to the public, however you must register for a ticket to attend. We hope to see you there! |
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Wreaths Radio: Live at the New York State Gold Star Mothers Convention |
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Tune in for coverage Friday, April 27th and Saturday, April 28th, starting at noon on both days. Wreaths Radio will be talking to Gold Star Mothers, partner organizations, and Veterans for this exclusive coverage on Wreaths Across America Radio. Listen live on the iHeartRadio, Audacy, TuneIn App, or on our website by clicking on the button below. |
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Available Now: Memorial Day Lesson Plans |
![TEACH1[1]](https://ci3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/z8CUiYU1pBobI8KpHnF9dvj8n1OIHNvRqMQ_QkUHw-AorZNAd_VMiJ35_1q-5QFcsmKAqbPvnZ9odySQ2810BDPaawAeK_MiI1V8oDJZ_kksDJ1CjnBwfTYZ8AhjRsi_r72Jb0bxXZVJfgyMGpo9zxnfNrLVYpsNAGU3gwZz6SntzLH21Q=s0-d-e1-ft#https://learn.wreathsacrossamerica.org/hs-fs/hubfs/TEACH1%5B1%5D.png?width=520&upscale=true&name=TEACH1%5B1%5D.png) |
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The Wreaths Across America TEACH curriculum offers free Memorial Day Lesson Plans where you can learn the history of “Decoration Day” and why the name was changed. How did the poppy become the colorful symbol associated with Memorial Day? It’s all included in our standards-based lesson plans. Check them out by clicking on the button below. |
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Stem To Stone Races |
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You’re invited to Wreaths Across America’s Annual Stem to Stone Races on Saturday, July 29, 2023.
Join us in Columbia Falls, Maine, where the mission of Wreaths Across America will be on display through the 5K Run/Walk/Ruck and 10K Run, or virtually from your own course at home!
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Featured Merchandise |
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Complete your very own scene of wreaths with our new 250 piece WAA Puzzle. |
Make sure to follow Wreaths Across America official channels on social media for the most up-to-the-minute news on the mission throughout the year:
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Wreaths Across America, PO Box 249, Columbia Falls, ME 04623, United States, 877-385-9504 |
A war by any other name
An item from the Legion Magazine.
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News Release: Remembering ANZAC Day, April 25, 2022
Given that our members were represented at the recent ANZAC Day service that was held locally this past Sunday, we wanted to share this item from the Merchant Navy Commemorative Theme Project that was released earlier today.
Dear Sir/Madam:
Please find attached the News Release: Remembering ANZAC Day, April 25, 2022, with a quote from The Honourable Dr. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador.
My very best regards,
Stéphane Ouellette
President and Chief Executive Officer
Merchant Navy Commemorative Theme Project (MNCTP)/
Founder/President
Colonel John Gardam Lifetime Achievement Award Institute
Tel: 613.421.9005
E-mail: ouellettes@rogers.com
Website: www.alliedmerchantnavy.com
Attachment: News Release: Remembering ANZAC Day, April 25, 2022.pdf
Be part of the difference for Canada’s Veterans
An item from Dominion Command.
Stop by your local Branch today!
April 2023
What amazing work is your Branch doing? Spring is finally in full swing, and we at the Legion are proud to shine some sunlight on the amazing work Branches across Canada are doing to serve our Veterans. From preserving their legacy to ensuring they have a safe place to live, we are extremely proud of the efforts Legion members are taking to support Canada’s Veterans. Be a part of the action! Find out what initiatives your local Branch is involved in and see how you can lend a hand to our Veterans.
Meet Mike Trauner Our first Ambassador for the 45th annual Legion National Youth Track and Field Championships has been announced! Retired Master Corporal Mike “Mega Traun” Trauner is a former Invictus athlete, after being personally invited to the event by Prince Harry, and is currently training for the Paralympics. As Ambassador, Trauner will embody the spirit of camaraderie, strength, and perseverance as he shares his incredibly inspiring story with our young athletes. Read more about the Ambassador ‣
Bay Roberts Legion is collecting Veterans’ stories A new project from the Bay Roberts Legion will tell the stories of Veterans from the area. To date, the Branch has compiled and completed biographies from over 250 Veterans. “The aim of any Legion Branch is to make sure Veterans and their families are looked after by remembrance,” said Harold Brown, Branch president. “What we’re trying to do it make sure the community knows that these people served, that specifically this area, they never forget.” Read more about the project ‣
Thorold Legion engages community to help homeless Veterans Thorold, Ontario Legion members Ken Smalko and Jeannie Soper have been spearheading their Branch’s homeless Veterans program for the last two years and have already helped 15 Veterans! Recently, they met with local fire departments, emergency services and police services to educate and coordinate services so first responders can better identify struggling Veterans and help them access the supports they need. Read more ‣
Sault Ste. Marie Legion branches out into affordable housing for Veterans The Sault Ste. Marie Legion is redeveloping its building to include a bar, a museum and an upper level with 107 apartments — 35 of which will be affordable units intended for Veterans. “Unfortunately, a number of Veterans are finding themselves where they can’t afford to live. So if we can make it a little easier, then it’s our duty and responsibility.” Read more ‣ Know a Legion Branch that’s making a difference for Veterans in your community? Send us your story at marketing@legion.ca.
The Royal Canadian Legion responds: 2023 federal budget The Royal Canadian Legion is trusting that the 2023 budget commitment of $156.7 million dollars announced today to help support military and RCMP Veterans, will do just that – and in tangible ways. “We are happy to see this proposed spending,” says Bruce Julian, Dominion President. “But it needs to be properly targeted. We need more clarity on exactly how it will be spent. This funding needs to go where it’s needed most, and in a way that directly benefits Veterans and clears the backlog.” Read our full statement ‣
Legion Command Service Officers ease process of applying for VAC benefits As advocates, advisors, mentors and guides, Legion Command Service Officers assist Veterans, serving military members and their families in submitting applications for benefits and treatments and in appealing when Veteran’s Affairs denies entitlement to them. Command Service Officers understand the deeply intense and personal journey that is necessary to submit these applications. It is a journey one does not have to travel alone. With compassion and knowledge, they take away the often overwhelming feelings associated with working through the system. If you or someone that you know requires assistance in accessing VAC benefits, please contact a provincial Legion Command Service Officer here or by calling toll free at 1‑877‑534‑4666.
Public Consultation on the Defence Policy Update The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces recently announced the opening of public consultations on the Defence Policy Update. The update will build upon Canada’s current defence policy and enable the CAF to meet any threat in the changed global security environment. Submissions will be considered to April 30, 2023. Learn more ‣
Your membership can help you save 31,000 Legions members have saved a combined total of over $1.13 million in savings through our MemberPerks program! Check out this latest offer, and many more! With MemberPerks®, you can shop online or in-store at local and national stores and service providers and save $1000s every year. It’s a great way to support the Legion, local businesses, and your wallet. Sign up for MemberPerks® today. It’s free with your Legion membership. Learn more ‣
Partner promotions The following is brought to you by our partners, highlighting special offers and other information.
Royal Canadian Legion members have access to exclusive offers & perks with BST Vacations. These offers are negotiated with our preferred travel partners and are just for Legion Members. For information on this and other exciting offers, visit our website!
Special offer from Legion Magazine
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