Perhaps this will sound like a bit of a tutorial, but there are some people in positions of authority who make decisions, create rules and set policy while being uninformed about the American Legion and the Auxiliary. As a matter of fact, we are not your ordinary nonprofit. Actually we do collect small donations to offset the cost of those little red paper poppies that are passed out on Memorial Day, but it isn't a lot. Nothing compared to what many organizations make when they send out fancy invitations to costly dinners, wine picnics, house tours or hospital balls.
In this community, you will find many local veterans and their wives who cook and serve the food, pour the wine, bake the cookies, stuff the envelopes, work the homes on the house tour and donate their time and creativity for events. To be turned away and considered just another nonprofit because that is "policy" is the result of not seeing the whole picture.
We are an exceptional organization that is part of a National Memorial Day celebration to honor veterans and the freedom their service has brought us.
The American flags you see on Main Street and the cemetery crosses and small flags are placed there by Legion members. The baseball teams during summer are part of the American Legion baseball program that has been around for years. The Legion's gifts committee gives monetary support to many local charities, and the members can be found on committees as workers whenever there is need. We are here for the community as well as for veterans and their families.
In light of all that the Legion does, one would hope the decision makers would take another moment to reflect on custodians of the future of a free America.
Elaine Charlat
Ketchum
