Greetings Legion Family,

Here we are already 4 months into my year as your Commander and what a great experience it has
been up to this point. With our membership conference and Commanders conference  and our district
meetings behind us it has been a whirlwind of activity. Getting better aquainted with each and
everyone that I have had the pleasure to meet has been most satisfying, and I'm sure will continue
as we press on with the Legion business at hand.
 

Our new National Commander is stressing the "Value of Membership" over the "Cost of Membership".
And when you think of the many programs offered by the American Legion Family their seems
to be something of value for everyone whether on the receiving end of our programs or on
the giving end of our programs.
 

Veteran's Day is fast approaching and many posts will be busy in public ceremonies, and at our states
many schools, performing the many programs to honor our Nations Veterans. I have the opportunity
to attend a monument dedication in Castle Dale on November 12th, and several other activities
from Salt Lake Community College on November 7th to the Veterans Day Parade in Murray
on November 11th. and a ceremony at the Orem cemetery on November the 10th. 
This presents a great opportunity for the exposure of what the American Legion does,
and what it is all about.
 

The Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays will follow right after and before we know it
a new year will be upon us. This is the time we need to be thinking about the oratorical contest,
boys' and girls' state, and the other activities fast approaching.
 

We appreciate the many members of this great organization, and welcome any eligible veteran to
check us out who may not be a member. Together we can enjoy the benefits and privileges that
come with a membership in the American Legion Family.

                                     God Bless the American Legion and
                                     God Bless  America

                                                                 Gary Schwartz
                                                                 Department Commander
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