Connie Kewley - Letter to Editor

The members of Menominee American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Unit 146, would like to extend a sincere appreciation to our veterans on Nov. 11, Veterans Day, or Armistice Day (WWI) as it was once known, and first celebrated in 1919.  World War I ended on the 11th hour, 11th day, and 11th month, and recognized annually on the calendar.  It is a time to pay tribute to all American veterans - living, or deceased for protecting this great country - The United State of America.  The American Legion Auxiliary recognizes veterans for having a sense of duty, and courage when they answered the call to serve, and protect their country’s freedom and security.

It  is important to the American Legion organization, and to our country, to remember those who have sacrificed so that Americans can enjoy a better way of life.  Since many of our veterans, and active-duty military have witnessed, and experienced the devastation of war, it does leave a serious impact mentally, and physically on them.  Many veterans will experience homelessness, loneliness, despair, home/work-related issues and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which includes flashbacks, and severe anxiety.  The rate of suicide for veterans is more than 50% higher than that of non-veteran adults.  Veterans can dial 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to talk.  In addition, veterans may contact Oscar G. Johnson Medical Center, Iron Mountain, MI, or their local Veteran Services for referrals.  

American Legion Auxiliary members have dedicated themselves for over a century to their organization’s mission: In the spirit of “Service, Not Self”, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support the American Legion, and honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad.  For God and country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.  The ALA represents the views of its members based on its four pillars:  Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism and Children and Youth.  

In addition, the American Legion is a voice for American veterans, and service members, and lets our government officials know how we feel when it comes to changes relating to our veterans.  Lastly, the Legion Act with new eligibility requirements was also passed.  The American Legion does not support candidates, but rather issues.

Remember our veterans on November 11, and extend a thank you, or a helping hand to them.

Connie Kewley
Public Relations chairperson
Menominee ALA Unit 146