OllieNorth1The American Legion National Commander Daniel M. Dellinger (Va.) called to order the 96th  Annual American Legion National Convention held in the Charlotte Convention Center, Tuesday, August 26.

The Advancement of the Colors was performed by Harrisburg Post 472 Color Guard from Houston, Texas.

Montel Williams, a power Emmy Award-winning television personality for more than 17 years was Master of Ceremonies.

Williams began his military career in the US Marine Corps. He was the first African American Marine selected to attend the Naval Academy Prep School. He later graduated from the US Naval Academy.

He is a decorated former Naval Officer and inspirational speaker, and prolific author of practical and uplifting books.

Because of his military service, he has a special place in his heart for America’s men and women in uniform.

The American Legion recognized four “Youth Champions” during the Convention: 2014 Boys Nation President Matthew Ellow, from Lacey Spring, Alabama; 2014 Eagle Scout of the Year Joseph Blaisse, Newton Square, Pennsylvania; 2014 Junior Shooting Sports Precision Champion Michael Steinel, Lowell, Ohio; and 2014 Junior Shooting Sports Sporter Champion Antonio “Andre” Gross, Ontario, New York.

American Legion National Commander Daniel Dellinger presented “Spirit of Service” Awards to an active duty member of each of the five branches of the U.S. Military.

The “Spirit of Service” Award, now in its 15th year, is given to outstanding military personnel who are actively committed to volunteer community service during their off-duty hours.

Dr. Donald H. Jenkins, Associate Professor of Surgery and Director of Trauma, Critical Care and General Surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., was presented the “Distinguished Service Award” by American Legion National Commander Daniel Dellinger.

Jenkins served as a surgeon in Iraq during the 2nd Battle of Fallujah in November 2004. He retired from the US Air Force in 2008.

Lt. Col. Oliver L. North, USMC (Ret.) was presented the National Commander’s Public Relations Award by National Commander Daniel Dellinger. Col. North was recognized for raising public awareness about the honorable nature of military service and the sacrifices made by America’s heroes, through his best-selling books and as host of the documentary series, “War Stories with Oliver North.”

Pres. Barack Obama spoke to the Convention Delegates, distinguished guests and American Legion Auxiliary members on Tuesday.

Pres. Obama outlined steps to help veterans and restore trust damaged by a series of inexcusable problems and scandals.

He said, “I want you to know that we are focused on this at the highest level.

“We are going to get to the bottom of these problems, and fix what is wrong. We are going to do it right by you and right by your families and that is a solemn pledge.”

Pres. Obama promised a new culture of accountability at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

He also promised to find more resources for the VA, beyond the money approved last month.

Pres. Obama stated that we need to provide better help for veterans with mental health issues and post-traumatic stress disorder and offer better suicide-prevention programs. “We have to end this tragedy of suicide among our troops and veterans,” he said.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald addressed the American Legion National Convention after Pres. Obama.

He stated, “The VA will overcome its present difficulties.

“Today, we want veterans to know that when they walk through the VA’s doors, employees are “All In” when it comes to meeting our mission, living our values, and keeping veterans first.”

McDonald also stated, “The agenda for improving the VA is ambitious, it can be done with The American Legion’s help and the support of all veterans service organizations.”

The American Legion “Patriot Award” was presented to U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (Vt.), Chairman U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs and U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller (Fl.) Chairman U.S. House Committee on Veterans Affairs. Sanders was honored for his leadership as Chairman and Rep. Miller was honored for his leadership and bipartisanship as Chairman of the House Committee.

These men addressed the delegates after the awards presentations by American Legion National Commander Daniel Bellinger.

 

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