MINUTES OF THE · 1 MINUTES OF THE 49th DETACHMENT CONVENTION SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION JUNE 9 & 10 2017 FRIDAY JUNE 9, 2017 Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) called the

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MINUTES OF THE

49th DETACHMENT CONVENTION

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

JUNE 9 & 10 2017

FRIDAY JUNE 9, 2017

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) called the 49th Detachment Convention of the

Detachment of Massachusetts, Sons of The American Legion to order on Friday, June 9, 2017 (2:00

PM) at the Hotel 1620 at Plymouth Harbor, 180 Water St., Plymouth Massachusetts, 02360

Sgt-at-Arms William Fruci (106) led all those present in a Salute to the Colors of Our Nation.

Detachment Chaplain William Sheehan (22) gave the invocation.

The POW/MIA ceremony and the Blue Star Banner Ceremony were read by Detachment

Commander Edward Villard (114). The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Detachment Vice

Commander Marvin Nay (338). The Preamble to the Constitution was led by Detachment Vice

Commander Ernie Laberger (224).

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) then asked Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith

(106) to read the call to the Convention. Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) then asked

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to read the roll call of Detachment Officers, Past

Detachment Commanders and Squadrons.

Present were:

Detachment Officers Edward Villard (114) Detachment Commander

Gene Theroux (124) Detachment Vice Commander

Marvin Nay (338) Detachment Vice Commander

Ernie Laberge (224) Detachment Vice Commander

Jason Lelley (40) Detachment Vice Commander

Clifford Smith (106) Detachment Ajutant / Finance Officier

William Sheehan (22) Detachment Chaplin

Mark McCue (443) Detachment Judge Advocate

William Fruci (106) Detachment Sgt. At Arms

David Johnson (435) National Executive Committeeman

William Murphy (40) Alternate National Executive Committeeman

Excused:

Gerald Pixley (224) Detachment Historian

Past Detachment Commanders

Clifford Smith (106) Mark McCue (443) David Johnson (435) William Sheehan (22)

William Murphy (40) Barry Butman (118) Tom Timcoe (380)

Squadron Representation Present:

03,0422,26,40,45,55,69,78,101,106,114,117,118,122,124,130,172,189,193,224,227,294,315,325,

331,338,344,380,414,435,440,443.

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Department Liaison Committee

William Chisholm Excused

Milton Lashus Excused

Larry Connors Excused

Frank MacDonald Excused

Ray Samko Present

Sandy Kee Excused

Michael Davis Excused

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that a quorum was present.

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) welcomed everyone to the meeting and declared the

Detachment Convention regularly convened.

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) called upon Detachment Chaplain William Sheehan

(22) to conduct the Detachment Convention Memorial Service.

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) appointed Adyan Nay as Honorary Assistant Sgt. At

Arms for the Convention.

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) now called for the reading of the previous minutes.

Motion made by Mark McCue (443) and Seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept the minutes as

distributed. Motion carried

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) now called for correspondence. Motions made by

Clifford Smith (106) and Seconded by Gene Theroux (124) to accept the correspondence as

received and filed accept for what would be brought up under new business. Motion carried

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) now called for the final reports of the committees.

Committee/Officers Reports:

Convention – Chairman Clifford Smith (106) thanked all those in attendance and all those who had

preregistered. Chairman Smith encouraged everyone to look at the information that was provided in

the convention packets and hoped that many of the Squadrons would take part in the programs that

were in the packets. He also wanted any Squadron who did not send in a Consolidated Report Form

prior to the convention to fill out a report and turn it into Chairman Smith. Chairman Smith also

stated that every Squadron who turned in a report would get a certificate for their efforts.

Motion made by Clifford Smith (106) and seconded by Barry Butman (114) to accept report.

Motion Carried.

Americanism: – Chairman Ray Samko (435) based his report on the following:

AMERICANISM REPORTS

Boys State (1) Number of Boys Sponsored 17

(2) Cost of Sponsorships $6,175.00

Girls State (3) Number of Girls Sponsored 7

(4) Cost of Sponsorships $2,225.00

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Education (5) No. of 5-Star/10-Ideals Programs 0

(6) Cost of Programs $-

(7) No. of Flags Presented 2,969

(8) Cost of Flags $4,174.00

(9) No. of Flags Placed on Graves 16,027

(10) No. of Flags Given at Parades 2,203

(11) Cost of Flags $1,856.00

(12) Hours of Participation 800

(13) Cost of Scholarships Awarded $14,250.00

(14) No. of Hours for Ed. Programs 182

Oratorical Contest (15) Squadron Sponsored Contest? 2

(16) No. of Contestants 2

(17) Cost of Contest $100.00


Color Guards (19) Squadron Sponsors? 22

(20) No. of Appearances 273

(21) Cost of Sponsorship $1,657.00

Flag Education (22) No. of Flag Etiquette Programs 8

(23) Cost of Programs $206.00


(25) No. of Flag Retirement Programs 1,019


Community Service (27) No. of Hours of Service 7,290

(28) Cost/Donations to Other Orgs. $52,848.00

Scouting (29) Squadron Sponsors Scouting? 2

(30) No. of Youths Involved 48


Junior Shooting Sports (32) No. of Youths Involved 0

(33) No. of Hours of Service 6

(34) Cost of Sponsorship $-

American Legion Baseball (35) Squadron Sponsors Team? 12


Other Teams Sponsored (37) Cost of Sponsorship $1,500.00

Blood Drives (38) No. of Pints Collected 2


National Emergency Fund (40) Amount of Donations $2,976.00

Overall Total Cost $105,200.00

Overall Total Hours 8,834

Motion made by Ray Samko (435) William Murphy (40) and seconded by William Murphy (40) to

accept report. Motion Carried.

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POW-MIA: Ray Samko

Boy’s State: Chairman William Murphy (40)

The 72nd annual session of Massachusetts Boys' State was held June 11-17, 2016 at Stonehill

College in Easton, MA. This year's session was once again held in conjunction with the American

Legion Auxiliary's Girls' State program. Attending Boys' State were over 350 students, at least 6

sponsored by Sons of The American Legion squadrons. Several squadrons also sponsored students

attending Girls' State. Special thanks to PNVC Mark Avis, for his encouragement and inclusion of

the S.A.L. in many aspects at Boys' State. Many students asked the basic questions regarding the

Sons of The American Legion, such as purpose as well as eligibility possibilities. Several Boys'

Staters and counselors expressed their interest and were referred to squadrons in their area. Next

year, we will be developing a presentation of how to properly conduct meetings and use of

parliamentary procedure and Robert's Rules of Order. This fall, each squadron will receive

communication encouraging their participation in the program, giving them enough time to

coordinate with their post chairmen, and contact the schools to select additional participants. It will

also give them more of an overview of the program, it's requirements, and application procedures.

In addition, a proposal was presented to both the Detachment and Department Executive

Committees and was approved to begin the process of formation of a “Boys’ State Alumni”

Squadron to attach to Capitol Hill Post 297. This will reach out to those former Boys’ Staters who

live in areas without an active SAL Squadron to join our organization, as well as raise funds

through dues payment and possible fundraising efforts to sponsor additional boys.

The committee will also encourage sponsorships of students to attend the Youth Cadet Law

Enforcement Program (Formerly "Student Trooper") This year the Detachment’s sponsored

delegate is a student at Boston College High School and member of George A. Campbell Squadron

#101 of Woburn. When presented with several aspects of his high school achievements and

possibilities, we were pleased to file his application. Jared Simonelli has joined us today and we

wish him luck as he moves forward with his college application process including applications to

both West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD. Boys/Girls State will be held June

17-23, 2016, once again at Stonehill College. Finally, as a former Boys’ Stater myself from 1988, it

has been my honor to represent the Detachment of Massachusetts as a Counselor at Stonehill

College, and this year will do so as well, in addition, received an invitation to join the staff of

American Legion Boys’ Nation in Washington, D.C. in July.

Motion made by William Muprhy (40) and seconded by Ray Samko (435) to accept report. Motion

carried

Community Service: Gene Theroux reported

I participated as part of the Post 124 Honor Guard detail welcoming home the remains of Cpl Jules

Hauterman Jr., a U.S. Army Korean War combat veteran who remains were identified and returned

for burial. I was interviewed by WWLP Channel 22 news in Holyoke on 3/29/2017. I attended the

DEC and the National Commander’s Banquet in Marlborough on 4/1/2017. I attended the Post 124

family scholarship committee meeting to determine the 2017 Memorial Day Scholarship recipients

on 4/10/2017. At the monthly Squadron 124 meeting, in behalf of the Squadron, I made a check

presentation to the Westfield YMCA. I attended the Squadron Co-Sponsored Boy Scout Troop 821

Meeting to present the Troop a check for $ 150 to replace an unserviceable pup tent – 4/13/2017.

I attended the Department Community Service Committee Awards selection meeting at Vernon Hill

on 4/15/2017. I participated in the city of Westfield Patriot’s Day ceremony honor guard detail at

the Great River Bridge Park on 4/15/2017. I volunteered at the Soldiers Home in Holyoke as a

Black Jack dealer for the quarterly sponsored Post 124 Casino Night held on 4/18/2017. I attended

and participated in the March of Dimes, March for Babies walk at Stanley Park on 4/22/2017. I

attended the American Legion Auxiliary District 3 Annual Banquet honoring Director Jennifer

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Hamre and her officers in East Springfield on 4/23/2017. I attended the 2017 Massachusetts Boys

State Orientation at the Knights of Columbus in Chicopee on 5/13/2017. I attended the Westfield

Community Scholarship Fund Awards night held at Westfield’s South Middle School on 5/15/2017.

I participated in the Memorial Day Flag detail on 5/20/2017. I participated and hosted the Annual

Post 124 family golf outing which the net proceeds are used for additional opportunities for

American Legion Youth and Americanism programs on 5/21/2017 at Tekoa Country Club. I

attended each and every Memorial Day School Assembly in city of Westfield public schools and at

Saint Mary’s Parish School as follows: Paper Mill Elementary – 5/19/2017, Saint Mary’s Parish

School – 5/19/2017; At Saint Mary’s Parish School, four American Legion School Awards Medals

were presented (two each for those graduating from the Elementary School to the Middle School

and two each from those graduating from Middle School to the High School. Highland Avenue

Elementary – 5/22/2017, Russell Elementary – 5/22/2017, South Middle – 5/23/2017, North Middle

– 5/23/2017, Southampton Road School – 5/24/2017, Franklin Ave Elementary – 5/24/2017, Abner

Gibbs Elementary – 5/25/2017, Munger Hill Elementary – 5/25/2017. I attended and participated in

the Quabbin Park Cemetery Memorial Day Services and placed the wreath for the former town of

Greenwich, Massachusetts on 5/28/2017 in Ware, Massachusetts. I was the speaker at the

Southwick Memorial Day Observances held in the Southwick Town Hall on 5/29/2017. I

participated in the Post 124 Memorial Day program and awarded two Sons of the American Legion

Squadron 124 scholarships on 5/29/2017. I attended the Westfield High School Senior Awards

Ceremony accompanied by Post 124 Commander Cindy Lacoste to award the American Legion

School Award Medallions and certificates to Katie Knapik, a 2016 Girls State alumni and the class

Salutatorian and to Squadron 124 Jonathan D. Huntley, a 2016 Boys State alumni and who is the

class of 2017 Valedictorian. I attended the Saint Mary’s Parish High School Seniors Night

accompanied by Squadron 124 Junior Vice Commander Mo Spradlin to award the American Legion

School Awards Medallion and accompanying certificates to Samantha Manchino and Will Lucardi,

a 2016 Boys State alumni. I attended the burial of dual-member Weston B. Shepard Jr., a WW II,

U.S. Navy decorated combat veteran whose eligibility in the Sons of the American Legion was from

his mother, a U.S. Navy WW I veteran. The burial was in Blandford Cemetery on 6/3/2017.

Motion made by Gene Theroux (124) and seconded by David Jonson (435) to accept report. Motion

Carried.

Children & Youth: - Chairman David Johnson (435) based his report on the Squadron

Consolidated report forms received as of the convention. I did not attend the 1st Combined

Committee meeting of the 2016-2017 year on Sunday August 14, 2015 at Dudley/Gendron Post 414

in Sutton. There was no notification of the meeting. On the Department calendar it was listed as an

Americanism meeting held that day. I did speak to Department Adjutant Milt Lashus when I visited

Department Headquarters. He explained that they put Americanism Committee Meeting on the

calendar was because the committees fall under Americanism. He said it will be noted as Combined

in the future. I will be attending the next meeting on 9/18/2016. I attended the Children and Youth

Committee meeting on Sunday September 18, 2016 at Dudley/Gendron Post 414 in Sutton. The

meeting was called to order by Jimmy Brehio at 10:00 am followed with the pledge of allegiance

and opening prayer. The Children and Youth Committee Chairperson was not present Jodi Pajak

was at the C & Y meetings in Indianapolis, IN. There were only 3 committee members present

Bruce Daigneau, Arthur Strafuss and myself. Jimmy Brehio spoke before the committees and state

that this year we will be coming up with lists for each committee to give to Posts, Squadrons and

Units on ideas for what to support and work on. He discussed that we could possibly give out more

Awards (possibly certifications) then at the convention give a larger award to the best. He also

informed us that the awards and the Scholarship will be given at the convention not at the

Combined Banquet. I attended the SAL National Children and Youth Committee meeting at the

NEC Meetings held October 8 – 9, 2016. Chairman John Waite (VT) opened the meeting at 7:00pm

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and recited the Mission Statement of the Committee: “The mission of the Sons of The American

Legion Committee on Children & Youth is to formulate, recommend and implement plans,

programs, and activities of The American Legion. The Committee’s responsibility is to promote

the care and protection of the children of veterans; improve conditions for all children and youth

with due concern for maintaining the integrity of the family home; prevent social and physical

ills of children and youth where possible, utilizing services and cooperating with sound

organizations and agencies for children and youth; maintain a balanced program that provides

for their physical emotional, intellectual and spiritual needs; and such other purposes as maybe

assigned to it by The American Legion and the Sons of The American Legion National Executive

Committee; and to assist The American Legion Children and Youth Program in carrying on for

God and Country.” Guest speaker Kim Harvey co-founder of Angels and Doves addressed the

meeting. This organization is a non-profit charity that is dedicated to bringing awareness, education

and prevention of bullying to youth ages 5 -18 which may cause suicides. Chairman Waite then

gave the goals for 2016 – 2017 which is the support of Commanders Frain’s projects: continue to

lead the Legion Family in CWF donations and to inform, educate and promote team sponsorship in

American Legion Baseball. The committee members spoke and explained what they will be

working on this year. Under New Business 2 Resolutions were brought up to the committee: SAL

NEC 4-F16: Support The American Legion on Children’s Organ Transplant Association And SAL

NEC 5-F16: Support The American Legion on Our Military Kids both resolutions carried.

National Commander Jeff Frain (AZ) addressed the Committee. Leading candidate for National

Commander Danny Smith (NE) addressed the Committee. The meeting adjourned at 7:40pm. I was

excused from the remaining Combined Committee meetings due to a date and location change and

other prior commitments I attended the SAL National Children and Youth Committee meeting at

the NEC Meetings held May 5 – 6, 2017. Chairman John Waite (VT) opened the meeting at

7:30pm. Reading of the previous minutes was approved as published. The committee members gave

reports: John Lawrence spoke on Family Support Network. Jim Gaddis urged support for The

American Legion Endowment Fund. Tom Marsden spoke on cyber and physical bullying. Ronnie

Grist spoke about Children & Youth month which is April. Old Business: Chairman John Waite

(VT) read the Mission Statement of the Children & Youth Committee. New Business: PNC William

Sparwasser spoke briefly and asked Chairman Waite to provide input to the Strategic Planning

Committee which he chairs. Kim Harvey co-founder of Angels and Doves addressed the meeting.

This organization is a non-profit charity that is dedicated to bringing awareness, education and

prevention of bullying to youth ages 5 -18 which may cause suicides. Gerald Hammerschmidt

thanked the Committee for their hard work. Chairman Waite reminded the Committeemen of the

upcoming conference calls. Chairman Waite told the meeting that the latest edition of the E-

Newsletter will be posted and sent out soon. Resolutions: SAL NEC 9-S17: Digitally disconnect our

kids. Was read by Ronnie Grist and a motion was made by Ronnie Grist and seconded by Tom

Marsden to support the resolution was approved. For the Good of the Sons of The American

Legion: National Commander Jeff Frain (AZ) addressed the Committee. Leading candidate for

National Commander Danny Smith (NE) addressed the Committee. The meeting adjourned at

8:28pm.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH REPORTS

Child Welfare Foundation (1) Donations $8,459.00

(2) Hours 96

Special Olympics (3) Donations $275.00

(4) Hours 222

Children's Miracle Network (5) Donations $12,728.00

(6) Hours 344

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Josh Dogs (7) No. of Josh Dogs Given 0

(8) Cost of Josh Dogs $-

Operation Military Kids (9) Donations $-

(10) Hours 111

Other Children & Youth Projects (11) Donations $3,420.00

(12) Hours 152


Overall Total Hours 925

Motion made by David Johnson (435) and seconded by Mark McCue (443) to accept report. Motion

Carried.

Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation: - Chairman Mark McCue (443)

It has been a pleasure serving as the Detachment VA&R Chairman. The VA&R Committee is

working on filling any vacancies and updating information on Sons of The American Legion

Representatives and Deputy Representatives at the VA Medical Centers and facilities in

Massachusetts. The National Organization has a seat on the National Advisory Committee of the

VA. To maintain this seat, we must be represented in 75 percent of the VA’s facilities. nationwide.

If you are interested in becoming a Rep or a Dep please let us know. Also, if you are currently

volunteering at the VA as a regularly scheduled volunteer or an occasional please be sure to check

in under the SAL our reference # is SOAL303.We continued to publish newsletters this year as well

as making personal contact with members and squadrons to assist them with their VA&R endeavors

whenever possible. We are also promoting a new approach to VA&R volunteering on the squadron

level called the Veterans Assistance Team (VAT) the veterans assistance team would replace the

standard squadron standing committee format with a team approach to volunteering. If anyone is

interested in finding out more about VAT, VAVS or VA&R opportunities please contact the VA&R

Committee

VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION REPORTS

Veterans Homes (1) Number of Visits 238

(2) Total Hours 1,506

(3) Total Donations $8,036.00

V.A. Medical Centers (4) Number of Visits 120

(5) Total Hours 495

(6) Estimated Value of Donated Items $3,373.00

Field Service (7) Number of Hours 262

Home Service (8) Number of Hours 105

Fisher House (9) Number of Hours 211

(10) Cost of Support $1,035.00

Support for the Troops (11) Number of Hours 215

(12) Cost of Support $3,300.00

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Family Support Network (13) Number of Hours 118

(14) Cost of Support $400.00

Other VA&R Projects (15) Number of Hours 700


National Veterans Assistance Day (17) Number of Veterans Helped 71

(18) Number of Hours 32


Operation Comfort Warrior (20) Cost of Support $685.00



Motion made by Mark McCue (443) and seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept report. Motion

Carried.

Information Technology: Chairman Tom Timcoe

The web site belongs to every squadron in the Detachment but I have only heard from two since the

last convention. I had set the membership report to match the link on the Department site, however

department did not keep up with the link. So I have been posting it as a pdf on a weekly basis. I

have also been posting the membership Chairs messages when I receive them. The Detachment

Newsletter is posted; the Department and District 4 newsletters have links to their sites. I have also

set up a DropBox page for the many forms the detachment has. Anyone with the DropBox link can

access the forms to download directly to their system. This includes the Squadron Consolidated

Report Form that is an Excel file. I thank Commander Ed, for the appointment and the opportunity

to assist the Detachment.

Motion made by Tom Timcoe (380) and seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept report. Motion

Carried.

Internal Affairs: – Chairman Clifford Smith

No resolutions were presented to the Convention.

INTERNAL AFFAIRS REPORTS

Total Hours (1) Other Donations, Not Covered Above $44,296.00

(2) Other No. of Hours, Not Covered Above 3,304



Motion made by Clifford Smith (106) and seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept report.

Motion Carried.

Credentials – Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) read the first credentials report.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that based on the roll call of Squadrons there were

84 Delegates registered, 11 Delegates at Large and 3 Guests

Motion made by Clifford Smith (106) and seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept report.

Motion Carried

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Detachment Commander Edward Villard (14) called upon Scholarship Chairman Jeffery Wood

(435) to present Jonathan Huntley (124) with the Past National Commander Scholarship Award.

Jonathan Huntley (124) was also presented with a special Detachment Award for being recognized

as the Department of Massachusetts Eagle Scout of the Year.

Commander Edward Villard (114) called for any Old Business. There was none.

Commander Edward Villard (114) called for any New Business.

Clifford Smith (106) made a motion that in the event of a contested election of Officers at the

Convention that vote be by ballot system and three tellers be appointed to count the votes and one

person to serve as Judge of The Elections. Motion seconded by Ernie Laberge (224). Motion

carried.

With no further business to come before today’s session Marvin Nay (338) made a motion and

seconded by Ernie Laberge (224) to suspend with the rules of the convention to begin nominations

of Detachment Officers for the 2017 – 2018 Administrative Year. Motion carried.

Commander Edward Villard (114) turned the podium to Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106)

for the purpose of nomination of Officers.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations for Detachment Commander:

William Murphy (40) Ernie Laberge (224) nominated Ernie Laberge (224)

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations for Detachment Vice

Commander: William Sheehan (22) nominated Marvin Nay (338). William Murphy (40) nominated

Gene Theroux (124). Gene Theroux (124) nominated Jason Kelley (40). Clifford Smith

(106)nominated Dennis Guilfoyle (18).

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations for Detachment Chaplain:

William Murphy (40) nominated William Sheehan (22).

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations for Detachment Historian:

No nominations were accepted.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations Detachment Adjutant. Mark Mc

Cue (443) nominated Clifford Smith (106)

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for nominations for Detachment Finance Officer:

No nominations were accepted..

The preliminary nominations were complete and it was stated by Detachment Adjutant Clifford

Smith (106) that they will be re-opened in the morning. David Johnson (435) made a motion and

seconded by Marvin Nay (338) to revert back to the regular order of business. Motion carried.

With no further business to come before the convention at this session, following a right-hand

salute, Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) declared the 2017 Detachment Convention in

recess until 9:30 am on Saturday, June 10, 2017

.

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49th DETACHMENT CONVENTION

SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 2017

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) called the 49th Detachment Convention of the

Detachment of Massachusetts, Sons of The American Legion to order on Saturday, June 10, 2017 at

9:30 AM at the Hotel 1620 at Plymouth Harbor, 180 Water St., Plymouth Massachusetts, 02360.

Sgt-at- Arms William Fruci (106) led all those present in a Salute to the Colors of Our Nation.

Detachment Chaplain William Sheehan (22) gave the invocation.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Detachment Vice Commander Ernie Laberge (224). The

Preamble to the Constitution was led by Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106).

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) then asked Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith

(106) to read the roll call of Detachment Officers, Past Detachment Commanders and Squadrons.

Present were:

Detachment Officers Edward Villard (114) Detachment Commander

Gene Theroux (124) Detachment Vice Commander

Marvin Nay (338) Detachment Vice Commander

Ernie Laberge (224) Detachment Vice Commander

Jason Lelley (40) Detachment Vice Commander

Clifford Smith (106) Detachment Ajutant / Finance Officier

William Sheehan (22) Detachment Chaplin

Mark McCue (443) Detachment Judge Advocate

William Fruci (106) Detachment Sgt. At Arms

David Johnson (435) National Executive Committeeman

William Murphy (40) Alternate National Executive Committeeman

Excused:

Gerald Pixley (224) Detachment Historian

Past Detachment Commanders

Clifford Smith (106) Mark McCue (443) David Johnson (435) William Sheehan (22)

William Murphy (40) Barry Butman (118) Tom Timcoe (380)

Squadron Representation Present:

03,0422,26,40,45,55,69,78,101,106,114,117,118,122,124,130,172,189,193,224,227,294,315,325,

331,338,344,380,414,435,440,443.

Department Liaison Committee

William Chisholm Present

Milton Lashus Excused

Larry Connors Excused

Frank MacDonald Excused

Ray Samko Present

Sandy Kee Excused

Michael Davis Excused

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Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that a quorum was present.

Credentials:

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) read the second credentials report. Detachment Adjutant

Clifford Smith (106) stated that based on the roll call of Squadrons there were 88 Delegates

registered, 11 Delegates at Large and 3 Guests. Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated

this was an all-time high for registration of Delegates and Guests at the Annual Convention.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) expressed the importance of submitting the Squadron

Consolidated Report. Squadrons that turned in reports as of the convention received a certificate. He

stated that the Detachment Awards that will be given out later in the day are based on the reports

that were received 30 days prior to the convention. To date 48 reports were filed compared to 31

last year .Adjutant Smith stated he had made 125 packets for the convention and was very happy to

see of them gone. The following is a summary of

this year’s accomplishments:

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MASSACHUSETTS

17 No. of Boys State Delegates Sponsored 96 Hours of Participation

$6,175.00 Cost of Sponsorship $8,498.00 Child Welfare Foundation Donations

7 No. of Girls State Delegates Sponsored 222 Hours of Participation

$2,225.00 Cost of Sponsorship $275.00 Special Olympics Donations

0 No. of 5-Star/10-Ideals Programs 344 Hours of Participation

$0.00 Cost of Sponsorship $12,728.00 Children's Miracle Network Donations

2,969 No. of Flags Presented (Ed. Programs) 0 Number of Josh Dogs Given

$4,174.00 Cost of Flags $0.00 Cost of Josh Dogs

18,410 No. of Flags Presented (Cemeteries/Parades) 111 Op. Military Kids Hours of Participation

830 Hours of Participation $0.00 Operation Military Kids Donations

$1,856.00 Cost of Flags

182 Hours for Educational Programs 155 Hours of Participation

$14,250.00 Amount of Scholarships Awarded $3,420.00 Other Children & Youth Project Donations

2 Squadron-Sponsored Oratorical Contest

2 Number of Contestants

62 Hours of Participation

$100.00 Cost of Contest

22 Squadron-Sponsored Color Guard

273 Number of Appearances

$1,657.00 Cost of Sponsorship

8 Number of Flag Etiquette Programs 238 Number of Veterans Home Visits

32 Hours of Participation 1,506 Hours of Participation

$206.00 Cost of Programs $8,036.00 Cash Donations

21 Number of Flag Retirement Programs 262 Number of Field Service Hours

439 Hours of Participation 108 Number of Home Service Hours

7,398 Community Service Hours 211 Number of Fisher House Service Hours

$54,434.00 Community Service Donations $1,035.00 Cost of Support

2 Squadron-Sponsored Boy Scout Troop 120 Number of V.A. Center Visits

48 Number of Youths Involved 495 Hours of Participation

$1,633.00 Cost of Sponsorship $3,523.00 Value of Items Donaetd

0 No. of Youths Involved in Junior Shooting 71 Number of Veterans Helped (NVA Day)

6 Number of Nours of Service 32 Number of Hours of Service

$0.00 Cost of Sponsorship $600.00 Cost of Support

12 Squadron-Sponsored Am. Leg. Baseball Team 239 Number of Support the Troops Hours

$15,600.00 Cost of Sponsorship $3,450.00 Cost of Support

$1,500.00 Cost of Other Team Sponsorships

2 Number of Pints of Blood Collected 118 Number of Family Support Network Hours

26 Hours of Participation in Blood Drives $400.00 Cost of Support

$2,976.00 National Emergency Fund Donations $685.00 Cost of Operation Comfort Warrior

700 Other VA&R Project Service Hours

$200.00 Cost of Other VA&R Donations

3,310 Other Hours, Not Covered Above

$44,346.00 Other Donations, Not Covered Above

16,884 Overall Service Hours for All Programs $193,982.00 Overall Cost of Donations for All ProgramsDetachment of Massachusetts - 5,527 Members Strong in 123 Squadrons.46 Squadrons Reporting for 37% of Total Squadrons

The above report is only highlights from the Overall Consolidated Squadron Reports.Here are the overall totals for the areas of the report.

Hours Donations ($$$)

Americanism 8,975 $106,786.00

Children & Youth 928 $24,921.00

Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation 3,671 $17,929.00

Internal Affairs 3,310 $44,346.00

Overall Totals 16,884 $193,982.00

2016-2017 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

DETACHMENT OF

Americanism Children & Youth

928

$24,921.00

Overall Service Hours in Support of

Children & Youth Programs

Overall Cost of Support of Children &

Youth Programs

Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation

106,786.00$ Overall Cost of Support Americanism

Programs358

8,975Overall Service Hours in Support of

Americanism Programs

Total Number of Veterans Affairs &

Rehabilitation Visits

Internal Affairs 3,671Total Hours of Veterans Affairs &

Rehabilitation Participation

17,929.00$ Total Cost of Veterans Affairs &

Rehabilitation Suppport

13

Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) brought the following guests to the Podium:

Anthony Heath introduced the following to address the assembly- Sandra Kee National Executive

Committeewoman, Jodi Pajak Department Vice Commander, Anthony Dias Department Vice

Commander and Mike Davis Candidate for Department Commander. Chris Figuero from USAA

Instance also addressed the assembly.

Commander Edward Villard (114) asked Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to present the

2016-2017 finance report and the 2017-2018 budgets. Finance Officer Smith stated there was

$1741.58/ left in the Fiscal 2017 budget. Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) now discussed

the Fiscal 2018 budget. With minor discussion the Fiscal 2018 budget will be brought up under

new business for approval.

A motion was made by Mark McCue (443) and seconded by Marvin Nay (338) to receive the

finance report subject to audit. Motion carried.

Commander Edward Villard (114) now called upon Chairman Jeffery Wood (443) to present the

Detachment Scholarship Awards. Chairman Wood explained the all the essays were read by a panel

of five people and each essay was given to the panel with a number on the essay so no one would

name the name of the applicant. The panel voted by number which essays thy deemed the best

submitted. The winners were Jonathan Huntley (124) and Shane Bowes (443).

Commander Edward Villard (114) called on Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to give the

fundraiser report. The final drawing of the raffle was done. Winners were as follows:

#94- Marie Campbell $200.00, #133 – Richard Smalley $300.00, #43 Robert Fifield $500.00

Commander Edward Villard (114) called on Vice Commander Gene Theroux present the Aaron E.

Comer / Kitty Langille Award for Community Service to Sutton Squadron 414.

Detachment Commander Edward Villard now turned the podium over to Detachment Adjutant

Clifford Smith (106). Adjutant Smith spoke on the “Partnership for Kids” program and explained

that if you donate $250.00 or more you receive the “Dream Maker” Award. Chairman Smith stated

that with the donations this year The American Legion Family of Massachusetts has donated over

the $113,000.00 to this program since its inception. He also stated that the 8th

Annual “Partnership

for Kids” Bowling Tournament will be held March 30th

, 2018 once again at Union Street Lanes in

Holbrook.

Here is a list of all who donated:

14

DATE

06/16/16 Southwick Squadron 338 300.00$

12/30/16 Southwick Squadron 338 600.00$

04/30/17 Dalton-LaValee Squadron 224 500.00$

04/30817 Westfield Squadron 124 275.00$

05/05/17 The American Legion Family Bowling Tournament 1,013.00$

05/05/17 The Detachment of Massachusetts S.A.L. 666.00$

05/16/17 1,500.00$

4,854.00$

DATE

09/29/16 Delisle Goulet American Legion Post92 100.00$

03/10/17 Vernon Hill Sqaudron 435 250.00$



05/16/17 1,500.00$

05/30/17 Cherry Valley Squadron 442 250.00$

3,779.00$

DATE

04/12/17 Charles R. Wilber Squadron 106 250.00$



05/16/17 1,500.00$

05/16/17 Clarke Haddad Squadron 188 50.00$

05/18/17 Medford Squadron 45 300.00$

3,779.00$

TOTAL DONATIONS 2017 12,412.00$

TOTAL DONATION FOR ALL YEARS 113,387.00$

Eugene M. Connor Squadron 193



15

Commander Edward Villard (114) called on Membership Co-Chairman Ernie Laberge (224) and

Marvin Nay (338) to give their Membership Report and present the Detachment Membership

Awards.

On 3/29/17, Vice Commander Nay and Department Historian Sally Nay attended a District

6 meeting. Vice Commander Nay was able to talk with members about the nonpayment of dues and

make them aware of percentage dates set by the National Organization for payment of dues. On

4/9/17, Vice Commander Nay received a call from David Paquette Commander Sal Squadron 184

Webster. He had questions about returning members who had been out for a while and what

paperwork if any needed to be completed for them to return as an active squadron member. On

4/10/17, Adjutant Smith copied me on an email; he has been in contact with the Dover Squadron

regarding their membership and payment of dues. This issue is being looked into at this time. On

4/15/17, new blank cards were mailed to Adjutant Smith for the Dover Squadron. Dover stated they

mailed in everything but the State House only received the check. Adjutant Smith will be meeting

with them and assisting them in completing the new blank cards on 4/18/17. Vice Commander Nay

took part in the Eastern Regional Conference Call on 4/17/17. Adjutant Smith called me on 4/19/17

and let me know that he met with Dover Squadron and hand delivered the blank cards. He guided

them on how to complete them and then send the two-part card into the State House. We sent

an email to all of the Squadrons still showing a 0% dues paid on 4/19/17. A follow up email will be

sent to all Squadrons showing a below percentage paid the week of 4/24/17. We sent another e-blast

out on 4/28/17 to all of the Squadrons letting them know that National sent the third and final Dues

reminder for the year. On 5/22/17, Marvin was contacted by the Commander of Squadron 184 with

questions about the correct way to transfer members into his Squadron. Marvin let them know that

he would meet with them and then assist them in the correct way to complete the forms. Again,

this year Marvin or I were able to attend at least one meeting in every district. In some cases, we

were asked to return and did so as our schedules allowed. We have started to receive more direct

contact now that people know the two of us. We did several Squadron visits and answered all

S.A.L. related questions. We also assisted with helping file out the C.R.F. Over all this year, we had

contact with 91% of the Squadrons across the State.

Membership Co-Chairman Ernie Laberge (334) and Marvin Nay (338) now presented the 100%

Ribbons and Certificates. Membership Co-Chairman Ernie Laberge (334) and Marvin Nay (338)

now presented the Willard J. Timcoe Award to Rehoboth Squadron 302 for the largest increase in

membership over the previous year. Membership Co-Chairman Ernie Laberge (334) and Marvin

Nay (338) now presented Gorton Squadron 55 with the Detachment Award for the Largest New

Squadron for the 2016 Membership Year.

Commander Edward Villard (114) called on Ray Samko (435) to present the Robert Kelleher,

Americanism Award to Vernon Hill Squadron 435.

Commander Edward Villard (114) called on Mark McCue (443) to present the Mary Timcoe

Detachment Veterans Rehabilitation Award to Hyde Park Squadron 78.

Commander Edward Villard (114) now called on David Johnson (435) to resent the Floyd “Jake”

Corliss, Children and Youth award to Winchendon Squadron 193.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that the Detachment raised $5,109.00 for the

Child Welfare Foundation this year which was 77.9% of goal and a per capita amount of .90 cents a

member. This is an all-time high for the Detachment in all categories.

16

Commander Edward Villard (114) now presented Plymouth Squadron 40 with the Commanders

Award which was for the National Emergency Fund.

Commander Edward Villard called upon Detachment Vice Commander Ernie Laberge (224) to

present the Detachment History Book Award to East Hampton Squadron 224. Detachment Vice

Commander Ernie Laberge (224) also presented the Detachment Scrapbook Award to Morrisette

Squadron 294’

Commander Edward Villard called upon Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to present the

Thomas W. “Wiggy” Wigmore Four Pillars of Service Award to Westfield Squadron 124.

Commander Edward Villard (114) now called for Final Officer Reports:

Detachment Chaplain William Sheehan:

Detachment Vice Commander Ernie Laberge (224):

I attended the Unofficial Eastern Regional Gathering 3/30 to 4/2/17. Also in attendance was Vice

Commander Nay, Adjutant Smith, N.E.C. Dave Johnson and Mark McCue. I participated on the

Mid-west conference call held on 4/4/17 as part of my responsibilities with the National

Americanism Commission. I attended the Appreciation Dinner for Tony Diaz held on 4/8/17. Also

in attendance was Vice Commander Nay and Department Historian Sally Nay. I attended the 70th

Anniversary of the Sutton Post held on 4/9/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay,

Department Historian Sally Nay, Adjutant Smith, Commander Villard, NEC Johnson and ANEC

Murphy. I traveled to the Vernon Hill Post on 4/14/17 and met with Adjutant Smith and Past N.E.C.

Samco. They assisted me in preparing for the June Convention and the duties associated with being

the Detachment Commander. Vice Commander Nay, Department Historian Sally Nay and I started

visiting Easthampton business on 4/15/17 in an effort to raise funds for this year’s N.E.F. Charity

Walk. Last year we raised over $2500 and we hope to raise more this year. I attended the District 2

Banquet in the evening of 4/15/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay and Department

Historian Sally Nay. I attended the wake of Robert Messier on 4/17/17 with the rest of the Post 224

Legion family. At the family’s request, the Post everlasting ceremony was held. I contacted all of

the Squadrons still showing a 0% dues paid on 4/19/17. A follow up email will be sent to all

Squadrons showing a below percentage paid the week of 4/24/17. I attended the Appreciation

Dinner for Mike Davis held on 4/22/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay and

Department Historian Sally Nay. I attended the District 6 Dinner held on 4/23/17. Also in

attendance was Vice Commander Nay. I sent another e-blast out on 4/28/17 to all of the Squadrons

letting them know that National sent the third and final Dues reminder for the year. I attended the

Appreciation Dinner for Fred White held on 4/29/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay

and Department Historian Sally Nay. I participated on the Mid-west conference call held on 5/3/17

as part of my responsibilities with the National Americanism Commission. I went to the Spring

N.E.C. meetings in Indy and attended both the Americanism Commission meeting and N.M.I. 1 on

5/4 to 5/7/17. I attended a dinner for Sally Nay held on 5/13/17 at my home Post. I worked the

Mother’s Day Breakfast at my home Post held on 5/14/17. I worked the Spaghetti dinner held at

Post 224 along with the rest of the Legion Family held on 5/17/17. After the Spaghetti dinner on

5/17/17, I worked with Squadron and Legion members to replace all old American Flags on the

poles so they were ready for setup in town on 5/21/17. I Attended the District 8 Dinner held on

5/20/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay and Department Historian Sally Nay. I

17

worked with Squadron and Legion members on 5/21/17 setting up all of the Flags in Easthampton

in preparation of Memorial Day. In the afternoon of 5/21/17, I participated with the Chapter 224

Legion Riders as part of the Color Guard for the District 2 Flag Retirement Ceremony held in

Orange. The Eastern Region Conference call scheduled for the evening of 5/21/17 was moved to the

22nd

and I was unable to participate due to scheduling conflicts. I attended the Chapter 224 Legion

Riders Motorcycle Blessing held on 5/25/17. I attended the Dalton Freedom Ride and Ceremony

held on 5/27/17. Also in attendance was Vice Commander Nay and Department Historian Sally

Nay. I attended the annual Veterans Mass and breakfast held at Our Lady of the Valley Church in

Easthampton on 5/28/17. I participated in the set up and staging and then participated with the other

Squadron 224 and Legion Family members in the annual, Easthampton Memorial Day Parade held

on 5/29/17. Again, this year three Post/Squadrons held a veterans walk in Easthampton to benefit

the National Commanders Charity. Post 130, Squadron 224 & Squadron 338 members all took part

on 6/3/17. I participated on the Mid-west conference call held on 6/6/17 as part of my

responsibilities with the National Americanism Commission

Detachment Vice Commander Marvin Nay (338)

June –

June 12 – Attended Boys State opening

June 17-19 Assisted with Boy Scout Camporee, Gardner

June 25 – Motorcycle escort for suicide prevention fundraiser for Veterans in Westfield

July -

July 9 – Participated in opening ceremonies at the Moto Cross Nationals Southwick Post 338

July 24 - Patriot Riders salute to Veterans picnic – Gardner, MA

August –

August 13 – Moving Wall – Waltham

August 17 – Wall that Heals escort, West Springfield

August 19 – Attended documentary screening: Unsung Hero’s; Woman in the military, Westfield

State University

August 20 – Wall that Heals – West Springfield

August 21 – Legacy Ride - Dedham

Aug 25-Sept 1 National Convention Cincinnati, OH

September –

September 5 - Labor Day Parade – Marlborough , MA

9/25/16 – Attended Massachusetts Auxiliary President Deb Barbour banquet at post 224,

Easthampton

October -

10/13/16 – Attended wake for Michael Robert Subocz Jr. member of Post 224, Easthampton

10/15/16 – Participated in the town of Palmer’s 300th

anniversary parade with the Palmer American

Legion Post 130

10/20/16 – Assisted Auxiliary unit 338 with Bingo at the Holyoke Soldiers Home

10/22/16 – Attended and participated in funeral service for Taylor Pixley a member of SAL

squadron 224, Easthampton

10/31/16 – Assisted Palmer American Legion with children’s Halloween parade and costume

contest, Palmer

November -

11/5/16 – Attended the Department of Connecticut joint testimonial for their Department

Commander, SAL Detachment Commander and Auxiliary president.

11/11/16 – Participated in Veteran Day ceremonies at Post 224, Easthampton

11/19/16 – Attended Department Commanders Banquet

18

December -

12/3/16 – Assisted Agawam Post 185 SAL with membership drive and informational meeting

12/4/16 – Assisted Auxiliary Unit 338 with Ham dinner for Holyoke Soldiers Home Veterans

12/7/16 – Attended and assisted Pearl Harbor Ceremony Post 130 Palmer

12/18/16 – Attended District 2 meeting – Northampton, MA

January -

1/7/17 – Attended state Legion Rider meeting – Oxford, MA

1/14/17 – Attended District 5 meeting – Dracut, MA

1/21/17 – DEC meeting to give membership report

1/26/17 – Attended District 1 meeting


February -

2/5/17 – Attended 4 Chaplains service Leeds VA district 2

2/18/17 – Assisted Zone 1 Oratorical contest Chicopee, MA

March -

3/4/17 – Attended District 5 banquet

3/11/17 – Attended DEC post 275

3/11/17 – Attended District 3 Banquet

3/12/17 – Met with Spencer SAL

3/19/17 – Attended District 10 meeting Wareham, MA

3/19/17 – Attended District 8 meeting Rockport, MA

3/25/17 – Bowl-a-thon participated on team


3/30/17-4/2/17 – Regional SAL meeting New Jersey

April –

4/8/17 – Attended DVC Tony Diaz appreciation day


4/22/17 – Attended SVC Mike Davis appreciation day


4/29/17 Attended DVC Fred White appreciation day

4/30/17 Attended District 4 banquet

May –

5/7/17 – Attended District 3 fundraiser

5/13/17 – Attended Department Historian Sally Nay appreciation day

5/20/17 – Attended District 8 appreciation day

5/21/17 – Assisted Post 130 with Poppy distribution

5/22/17 – Placed flags at Palmer cemeteries with Post 130

5/27/17 – Attended Memorial Day ceremony Dalton

5/29/17 – Participated in Memorial Day firing team and Parade with Post 130 Palmer

June –

6/3/17 – Assisted in organizing and participating in a Walk for the National Commanders charity

6/4/17 – Attended the District 9 appreciation day

6/6/17 – Participated in a D-Day ceremony Post 130

19

National Executive Committeeman David Johnson (435):

After the Detachment Convention in Plymouth it was a quite summer. I did attend the transition

meeting held in July at Vernon Hill Post 435 in Worcester. On Tuesday 8/16/2016, Past NEC Ray

Samko and I made a visit to the Department Headquarters at the Statehouse in Boston.

Unfortunately I was not able to get the time off from work to attend the 45th

National Convention

held in Cincinnati, OH. On 9/11/2016 I attended the POW/MIA ceremony in Fall River aboard the

USS as an invited guest and gave the greetings of National Commander Jeff Frain from the

Detachment of Arizona. On 9/25/2016 I attended Department Auxiliary President Deb Barber’s

banquet at Post 224 in Easthampton, MA and gave the greetings of National Commander Jeff Frain.

On 10/1/2016 I attended the memorial service for PDC Robert “Bo” Fifield at Post 106 in Sharon,

MA. On Thursday 10/6/2016 I left for the NEC Meetings held in Indianapolis, IN. On Friday

morning 10/7/2016 member of the Detachment went to National Emblem Sales for a tour of their

facility. After that we went to the American Legion National Headquarters for a tour of the facility.

That evening the National Committee Meetings started. I attended the Children and Youth

Committee meeting. On Saturday morning 10/8/2016 the National Executive Committee Meeting

started. After the call to order, Posting of The Colors, invocation, POW/MIA Empty Chair

Ceremony, Pledge of Allegiance, Preamble to the Constitution of The Sons of The American

Legion, Blue Star Banner Ceremony, Reading of The Call, roll call and Reading of the previous

meetings minutes National Commander Jeff Frain called the meeting convened. He then called on

American Legion National Liaison John Kerestan to speak. John Kerestan welcomed everyone to

Indianapolis. As he addressed the meeting he gave some important and interesting information:

1, My sal.org - This is a great tool that we all should be using. You can sign up on line and it will

give you access to all your membership data and you have the ability to make changes on line. To

date we have 54 Detachments and only 31 utilize it. Out of our 6100 Squadrons only 1243 utilize it.

This is a valuable tool that many of our members are missing out on. Please get the word out!!

2, Renewal postcards went out to 313,000 members in October. This should help with getting your

membership in. They will go out again in January and March. Renewal rate for 2016 is 89.16 % so

we are doing well at retaining members. 3, E-mail addresses ......We need to work on colleting e-

mail addresses and getting them in to National. Out of our 360,000 members we only have 12,150

email addresses, of that amount only 11,367 were good, only 3,000 opened the E-mail they were

sent, and only 1473 connected to the link in the e-mail. If we are going to move forward with our

organization we need to get e-mail addresses and train our people to use the e-mail as a

resource. Please try to get e-mail addresses in! After invited speaker addressed the meeting

Commander Frain asked if there were any donation. I presented the Detachment’s donation of

$1500.00 to the Child Welfare Foundation. The total donations presented on Friday were: Child

Welfare Foundation - $21,894.00, National Emergency Fund - $1,700.00 and The National

Endowment Fund - $250.00. Commander Frain then recessed the meeting until Sunday morning at

8:45am. After the meeting was recessed the Commission Meetings started at 9:30am and ran

through the rest of the day. I attended the Commission meeting that I am on, The Sub-Committee on

Resolutions. There were 6 resolutions that came before the commission:

SAL NEC 1-F16: Endorsement of Michael S. Cotton (DE) for National Vice Commander.

SAL NEC 2-F16: Veterans Employment and Education Commission On-Board Award.

SAL NEC 3-F16: Amend the Commission of the SAL Strategic Initiative Committee Members.

SAL NEC 4-F16: Support The American Legion on Children’s Organ Transplant Association.

SAL NEC 5-F16: Support The American Legion on Our Military Kids.

SAL NEC 6-F16: Establish a Per Diem for SAL National Management Institute Attendees.

The Sub-Committee on Resolutions looked at each one individually. Motions were made and

second for each and the outcome was: SAL NEC 1-F16 was Received and Filed. The remaining 5

were approved to be brought up during Sundays NEC session during their respective Commission

and Committee reports. On Sunday 10/9/2016 after the annual breakfast the General Session of the

http://sal.org/

20

NEC reconvened. After the call to order, Salute to the colors, invocation, Pledge of Allegiance,

Preamble to the Constitution of The Sons of The American Legion and roll call National

Commander Jeff Frain called the meeting reconvened. Commander Frain then called for

Commission Reports. All Commission and Committee reports were read along with their respective

resolutions and all were approved. Commander Frain then asked for any old business, new business,

Goods of The SAL or any other donations. I then went to the podium and presented donations on

behalf of Plymouth Squadron 40: $500 to the Child Welfare Foundation, $250 to the National

Emergency Fund and $250 to the National Endowment Fund. After the Benediction and the

Retirement of The Colors Commander Frain called the Fall NEC meeting adjourned. On

10/13/2016 I received an email from John Kerestan regarding the disposition made by the Internal

Affairs Commission of the Fall SAL NEC Resolution by The American Legion National Executive

Committee October 12-13, 2016: Disposition was - SAL NEC 1-F16: Received and Filed., SAL

NEC 2-F16: Rejected., SAL NEC 3-F16: Approved. SAL NEC 4-F16: Rejected., SAL NEC 5-F16:

Rejected., SAL NEC 6-F16: Hold for further study. On Saturday 11/12/2016 I attended Cherry

Valley Squadron 443’s 10th

anniversary celebrations were I gave the greetings of National

Commander Jeff Frain and addressed the audience. On 11/19/2016 I attended Department

Commander Ken Stark’s banquet at Best Western in Marlboro MA and gave the greetings of

National Commander Jeff Frain. On Sunday 12/18/2016 I was on National Vice Commander Joe

Korba’s Eastern conference call. National Vice Commander Joe Korba came to visit the

Detachment on Friday 1/13/2017 thru Sunday 1/15/2017. PDC Mark McCue, PNEC Ray Samko

and I met National Vice Commander Korba at Vernon Hill Post 435 when he arrived in Worcester.

After checking into the Hilton Gardens in Worcester we visited Cherry Valley Post 443. On

Saturday PNEC Samko National Vice Commander Korba and I traveled to Sharon Post 106 were

we met PNC Cliff Smith, Commander Villard and other Detachment Officers we went to Dedham

Post 18 to meet the Squadron Officers and members. PNC Smith and NVC Korba then took a road

trip visiting other Squadrons. Later that evening after a steak dinner at the 99 Restaurant we

watched the N.E. Patriots playoff game. On Sunday 1/15/2017 NVC Korba was our guest at our

DEC Meeting held at Vernon Hill Post 435 in Worcester. It was a great meeting in attendance was

Department Commander Kenny Stark, NEC Frank McDonald, Alt-NEC Bill Chisholm and other

Department and Detachment members. On w/20/2017 I attended a meeting at Cherry Valley Post

443 to work on Detachment and Squadron SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures). During the

weekend of 3/30/2017 – 4/2/2017 I attended the Eastern Regional Conference and NVC Joe

Korba’s banquet along with PNC Cliff Smith, PDC Mark McCue, DVC’s Ernie Laberge and

Marvin Nay in Somers Point NJ. On 4/9/2017 I attended Dudley/Gendron Post 414’s 70th

Anniversary Banquet and gave the greetings of National Commander Jeff Frain. On Thursday

5/4/2017 I left for the NEC Meetings held in Indianapolis, IN. On Friday morning 5/5/2017 member

of the Detachment went to National Emblem Sales. After that we went to the American Legion

National Headquarters for a tour of the facility. That evening the National Committee Meetings

started. I attended the Children and Youth Committee meeting. On Saturday morning 5/6/2017 the

National Executive Committee Meeting started. After the call to order, Posting of The Colors,

invocation, POW/MIA Empty Chair Ceremony, Pledge of Allegiance, Preamble to the Constitution

of The Sons of The American Legion, Blue Star Banner Ceremony, Reading of The Call, roll call

and Reading of the previous meetings minutes National Commander Jeff Frain called the meeting

convened. He then called on American Legion National Liaison John Kerestan to speak. John

Kerestan welcomed everyone to Indianapolis. As he addressed the meeting he announced he will be

retiring in November 2017. After invited speaker addressed the meeting Commander Frain asked if

there were any donation. Commander Frain then recessed the meeting until Sunday morning at

8:45am. After the meeting was recessed the Commission Meetings started at 9:30am and ran

through the rest of the day. I attended the Commission meeting that I am on, The Sub-Committee on

Resolutions There were 11 resolutions that came before the commission:

SAL NEC 1-S17: Endorsement of Edward M. Cleary (AZ) for National Vice Commander.

21

SAL NEC 2-S17: Endorsement David L. Van Duisen (WA) for National Vice Commander.

SAL NEC 3-S17: National Convention Call-in for National Executive Committeemen of The Sons

of The American Legion.

SAL NEC 4-S17: Child Welfare Donation of $5,000.00 from 2017 budget in the memory of Past

Internal Affairs Commission Chairman Larry J. Besson.

SAL NEC 5-S17: The American Legion expense authorization for VAVS NAC Executive

Committee appointment.

SAL NEC 6-S17: Proper Respect for The Flag of the United States and The National Anthem when

Participating in the Programs of The Sons of The American Legion.

SAL NEC 7-S17: The Sons of The American Legion expense authorization for VAVS NAC James

H. Parke Scholarship Foundation Board member.

SAL NEC 8-S17: Update to Squadron Handbook to Recognize Women Veterans.

SAL NEC 9-S17: Digitally disconnect our kids.

SAL NEC 10-S17: Funding request for busing at the National Wreath Laying Ceremony.

SAL NEC 11-S17: Creation of Triple Nickel Ribbon.

The Sub-Committee on Resolutions looked at each one individually. Motions were made and

second for each and the outcome was: SAL NEC 1-S17, SAL NEC 2-S17 was received and filed.

SAL NEC 4-S17, SAL NEC 5-S17, SAL NEC 8-S17, SAL NEC 9-S17 were approved to be

brought up during Sundays NEC session during their respective Commission and Committee

reports. SAL NEC 6-S17 was withdrawn by the Americanism Commission. The remaining 4 were

referred back to their respective Committees or Commissions for further review or to be submitted

at a later date. On Sunday 5/7/2017 after the annual breakfast the General Session of the NEC

reconvened. After the call to order, Salute to the colors, invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, Preamble

to the Constitution of The Sons of The American Legion and roll call National Commander Jeff

Frain called the meeting reconvened. Commander Frain then called for Commission Reports. All

Commission and Committee reports were read along with their respective resolutions and all were

approved. Commander Frain then asked for any old business, new business, Goods of The SAL or

any other donations. After the Benediction and the Retirement of The Colors Commander Frain

called the Fall NEC meeting adjourned. On Saturday 5/27/2017 I attended the Memorial Day

Ceremony held at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton, MA. On Sunday 5/28/2017 I was

attended the Memorial Day Water Ceremony at Elm Park in Worcester as a member of Vernon Hill

Post 435’s Color Guard. On Saturday 6/3/2017 I helped with registration at the Walking For Those

Who Marched For Us walk at Dalton Lavelle Post 224 in Easthampton, MA with PNC Cliff Smith,

PNEC Ray Samko, DVC’s Ernie Laberge, Marvin Nay and other members of the American Legion

Family.

Alternate National Executive Committeeman William Murphy. During this my first year as Alternate National Executive Committeeman, I have found the focus of

my activities to focus on several committees within our Detachment. Primarily the focus was

centered around membership and assisting the committee in several aspects. First I would sincerely

thank the Membership Committee Co-Chairmen, Ernie Laberge and Marvin Nay for their countless

hours of service, criss-crossing our state, attending many Department and District meetings

focusing on target dates as well as reaching out and offering as well as asking for assistance in

helping those squadrons whose membership was not being transmitted as required.

My focus with the membership committee was to attempt to promote new charters as well as

reactivations. This year, working with the Laurence W. Gay Post 55 in Groton was a top priority.

At the post meeting I attended and made the presentation, they completed their Charter Application,

and they were presented with their new charter at the April meeting of the Department Executive

Committee. And we welcome their delegate to this their first Detachment Convention. In addition,

as will be discussed further in a later report, next year’s targets will be a new charter at both Capitol

Hill Post 297 and Taunton Post 500 and reactivation at Plainville Post 217.

22

At the National Executive Committee meetings I attended both the meetings of the National Child

Welfare Foundation Committee as well as the National Legislative Commission, and filed reports

with the Detachment Executive Committee. I look forward to the second year of my term and

continuing the outreach of the office of Alternate National Executive Committeeman.

A motion was made by Barry Butman (118) and seconded by Richard Smalley (435) to accept all

the officer reports. Motion carried.

Commander Edward Villard (114) now called Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to the podium for the

purpose of final nominations and election of Detachment Officers.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that he would read the list of those nominated and

if no additional nominations were to be made a motion will be made to accept all the nominations as

read. Adjutant Smith read the following Nominations: For Detachment Commander – Ernie

Laberge (224), For Detachment Vice Commander – Dennis Guilfolye (18), Marvin Nay (338) Jason

Kelley (40), Gene Theroux (124), For Detachment Chaplain – William Sheehan (22), for

Detachment Historian No Nominations, For Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) for

Detachment Finance Officer no nominations.. Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) asked for

any more nominations. Hearing none, William Murphy (40) made a motion and seconded by David

Johnson (435) to close all nominations and have the Adjutant cast one unanimous ballot for all the

Offices. Motion carried. The Adjutant cast one unanimous ballot for all of the above offices.

Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) now called Detachment Commander Edward Villard

(114) for his final report of the 2017 Administrative Year

Motion made by Clifford Smith (106) and seconded by Mark McCue (443) to accept Commander

Edward Villard’s (114) report. Motion carried.

Old Business Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) stated that Detachment Golf Shirts are still available. .

They are Grey Button Down in color and have Detachment of Massachusetts and the S.A.L. logo on

the shirt. The cost is $25.00 a shirt. Anyone interested in purchasing a shirt is to contact the

Detachment Adjutant with your size and send payment to the Adjutant also.

New Business Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) now called for any New Business. Motion by

William Murphy (40) and seconded by David Johnson (435) to accept the 2017-2018 proposed

budget. Motion carried.

Commander Edward Villard (114) called upon Detachment Adjutant Clifford Smith (106) to

introduce special Guest Past National Vice Commander John from Vermont to address the

assembly.

Good of the Sons of The American Legion The Child Welfare Foundation Fund Raiser will be held at the Sun Dynasty immediately following

the Convention.

23

Installation Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) now called upon Past National Vice Commander

John Waite (VT) for the purpose of installing the Detachment Officers. The 2017-2018 Detachment

Officers were installed.

Motion by Mark McCue (443) made and seconded William Murphy (40) to adjourn. Motion

carried.

With no further business to come before the Detachment Convention, Detachment Commander

Edward Villard (114) called on Detachment Chaplain William Sheehan (22)) for the benediction.

Following a right-hand salute, Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) declared the 2017

49th Detachment Convention adjourned.

Submitted by: Attested by:

Edward Villarde Clifford A. Smith Edward Villard Clifford A. Smith

Detachment Commander Detachment Adjutant

Documents

MINUTES OF THE · 1 MINUTES OF THE 49th DETACHMENT CONVENTION SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION JUNE 9 & 10 2017 FRIDAY JUNE 9, 2017 Detachment Commander Edward Villard (114) called the