BLOOMINGTON, Ill./EWORLDWIRE/Jan. 6, 2009 --- "By visiting a range of communities across the state each year, our Illinois Department American Legion annual membership drive delivers an up-close and personal look at the activities of the American Legion," stated National Vice Commander James W. Davis of Post 46 of Benwood, W. Va. Leaders of American Legion districts in Illinois participate in a week-long annual membership caravan. This year's event kicks off on Friday, Jan. 9, 2009. Members of the public who attend any one of 15 different events will find forums held at Legion Posts share and update veterans about issues that directly impact them, and discover the resources of an organization centered around supporting those who have served the United States.
Leaders of each district will be available to discuss the needs of the military and provide details about how others can join the ranks to become involved in the programs and activities of the American Legion, and apply their talents to strengthen the backbone of the American Legion base, both on the state and national levels. Topics range from community events designed to recognize and remember POWs/MIA, to local outreach and the work of the various committees, and championing childrens' welfare.
"We are driven to ensure that those who have served receive all that they deserve," said Davis.
Davis is joined by accomplished leaders and advocates across the state:
. Matteson
. Watseka
. Champaign
. Mattoon
. Louisville
. Harrisburg
. Murphysboro
. Collinsville
. Jerseyville
. Macomb
. Colona
. Marseilles
. Wauconda
. Franklin Park
. Evergreen Park
A complete schedule of days and times is available at 'http://www.jointhelegion.org'.
"Over 800,000 claims are filed each year," added Davis. "A staggering number of vets need our help. The level of the public's involvement dictates our ability to serve everyone. Americans share a common duty and ethical commitment to deliver the proper caliber of services to those who are honored patriots.
"The current VA hospital system ministers to over 5.5 million vets; 264,000 of those have served in Iraq. While we eagerly await the opening in 2012 of the Florida VA hospital facility, we cannot wait to provide necessary services to the men and women of the military."
Founded in 1919, the American Legion represents the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs. More than 14,000 posts across the country work for the betterment of their communities for 2.7 million wartime veterans.
The State of Illinois is intimately involved in supporting Illinois veterans and their family members. Designated support involves compensation, education and employer programs, insurance, burial, real estate/mortgages, legal assistance and permits. Illinois publishes a "Serving Those Who Have Served" booklet which contains key Web site addresses and telephone numbers for resources available through federal, state, and local agencies and organizations ('http://www.il.gov/iserved'), including the American Legion.
To learn more about the activities of local posts and state-level action, contact Denise Fields at the Illinois American Legion headquarters at 309-838-6706. Details about becoming a member may be found online at 'http://www.ILLEGION.org' or 'http://www.jointhelegion.org'.
MEDIA: To arrange for pre- or post-event interviews, or to receive additional details about venues and speakers, contact Mark Sides at 309-721-3886.
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