REMINDER - DON'T FORGET!!

Early Bird entry deadline for the 2023 Fall Sweepstakes is coming up SOON on Saturday, September 23! So either mail in the entry you received in the mail with a postmark date NLT the 23rd, OR you can enter online at www.NHAL.org

Either way, you'll be eligible for one of two Early Bird prizes of $250 each. Don't Delay! Enter TODAY!! DEADLINE 9/23/23

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NATIONAL

To reach the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) dial 988 then press #1

National Emergency Fund (NEF) Details with fillable Application.

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Please review application and Power Point video regarding completion of the NEF Grant Application instructions carefully

If any of your American Legion posts perform duties in disaster relief efforts, please let us know about this.

The NEF Grant Application (fillable) can be found at this link:

https://www.legion.org/emergency/apply

The two links below provide important information about NEF. First is the PowerPoint of how to complete an application:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYTPVnmrsh0

The second is PNC/Illinois Department Adjutant Marty Conatser on how they set up disaster teams within Illinois following a massive tornado disaster, which could help you within your own departments.

https://www.legion.org/emergency/videos/PLF29FAF30BB761026/x5ZlecXviD8

Please review the NEF Grant Application carefully, and remember, until there’s an emergency declaration for a natural disaster in place (federal, state or local), NEF can’t help until one is called. If a declaration happens, ensure that the applicant is current on their membership prior to the disaster and at the time of application submission, provides photos, receipts and any insurance paperwork. FEMA statements are good too. Statements from American Legion Post/District/Department officers or community leadership is encouraged to reinforce the grant application. Ensure the application is completely filled out, or it could be sent back to you for more information. This is all outlined on the application and is provided for on the instruction sheet.

NEF does not provide for repairs or replacement of lost or damaged items in the primary home of residence. If the destroyed property is owned by the member, but he/she does not physically live there, that is not covered. Vehicles or outbuildings are not covered. That is what insurance should cover. If available, provide copies of insurance determination, if any. If the home is rented, renters insurance information should be provided, if any. Call or e-mail me or Mark Woodsmall (317-630-1265) for any clarifications.

For American Legion posts, the only things covered are post programs that might sustain losses pertaining to the intent of the Four Pillars of The American Legion. Losses from the social quarters and/or restaurant of the post are not covered. A copy of the most recent Consolidated Post Report (CPR) needs to be attached. A statement from post/district/department officers or community leaders as to how the losses in the post is very helpful if available. Photos of damages are needed for the best determination. Insurance documents should be provided.

You can mail, fax (317-630-1413) or scan/e-mail the application and any attachments (photos, receipts, other supporting documents) to ia@legion.org. Staff will process from there. If approved by the National Adjutant, a check will be cut from Finance and mailed in a timely fashion to the department adjutant to disburse to the member or the post. Address to mail grant applications is:

The American Legion National Headquarters

ATTN: National Emergency Fund

Internal Affairs & Membership Division

P. O. Box 1055

Indianapolis, IN 46206

Again, if a National Emergency Fund application comes to us directly from the member, we will scan/e-mail back to the department adjutant for your recommendation. Remember, you and your leadership are “boots on the ground”, so the department has to make the best determination for recommended grant amount to the national organization.

MICHELE STEINMETZ | Member Engagement Coordinator

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National Awards

The William F. Lenker National Service Trophy - Provider of the Year Award - Physician of the Year Award

The American Legion Veterans Employment & Education Commission Award

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National Legislative Commission - John Graham, PDC -- Notice

DEPARTMENT ADJUTANT

The National Commander, Daniel Seehafer, will be visiting the State from October 28,2023 through November 1, 2023.

>> Tentative Itinerary <<

Please make every effort to attend either the Meet and Greet at the Hookset Post or make plans to attend the National Commanders Banquet in Rochester.

Please contact my office with any questions.

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*** HOW TO ACCESS POST 200 ***

September 23^rd 11 am Convention Committee Meeting Post 49 (Tilton). Everyone welcome, Fresh Ideas Wanted and Volunteers Needed.

Veterans and Returns - Details

The American Legion Programs