URGENT UPDATE: National and state leaders of the American Legion convened at the Trujillo-Sheets Legion Post 28 in Durango, Colorado on July 27, 2023, to engage with local veterans over doughnuts and coffee. This meeting, led by National Vice Commander Ben Headen, aimed to address pressing issues affecting veterans in the community.
Headen emphasized the importance of grassroots interactions, stating, “We’re run from the bottom up. All resolutions that impact veterans start at a local post.” Such visits enable leaders to connect directly with veterans, ensuring that their voices shape the policies the Legion advocates for in Congress.
One critical focus of discussion was the Richard Star Act, a legislative proposal aimed at providing full military retirement pay to disabled combat veterans forced to retire before serving 20 years. While the bill has yet to pass, it enjoys bipartisan support and highlights the ongoing struggles faced by veterans. Headen remarked, “We’re the only federal employees that have their retirement checks offset by disability. This needs to change.”
The meeting also underscored the Legion’s commitment to mental health resources for veterans. Greg Jackson, an Alternate Executive Committeeman, introduced a unique initiative involving poker chips featuring a QR code. Scanning the code directs veterans to the Legion’s website, offering vital veteran suicide prevention resources and the Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 then 1).
In addition to policy advocacy, the post plays a crucial role in community engagement. Mike Crowe, the Department of Colorado Commander, noted that the Legion’s community events, such as chili cook-offs and concerts, help break down stigma and foster connections between veterans and local residents. “We’re part of the community. We’re part of the human race,” Crowe stated.
The Legion also promotes initiatives like the Lee White Memorial Motorcycle Dice Ride and veterans’ train rides on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. These events not only raise awareness about critical issues like the Richard Star Act but also provide opportunities for veterans to join the Legion, gaining access to essential health care, benefits, and educational resources.
As the American Legion continues its mission, the emphasis remains on listening to veterans’ needs and advocating for necessary changes at the federal level. Upcoming initiatives and community events will further empower veterans, ensuring their voices are heard loud and clear in Washington.
Stay tuned for more updates as the American Legion works tirelessly to support veterans and their families in Durango and beyond.
