american legion essay 2023

Naperville, IL

Americanism Essay Contest

AMERICANISM AND CITIZENSHIP

About the contest

The American Legion Department of Illinois,

American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion are cosponsors of this AMERICANISM ESSAY CONTEST.

It's purpose is to aid the schools of Illinois in the teaching of AMERICANISM and GOOD CITIZENSHIP.

Eligibility

        CLASS I - 7th and 8th grades

        CLASS II - 9th and 10th grades

        CLASS III - 11th and 12th grades  

All contestants must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States of America and a bona fide student in a Junior or Senior High School.  Home schooled will be competing at their own grade level according to age.  

Eligible participants in the contest shall be citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States.

Competition will be at Naperville Post 43 and continue on to the Auxiliary District and Division level. 

Contest Rules

Essay entry must include:

Title page with Essay subject name on it

Students name and home address (including city and state)

Grade in school

Name of school

Name of sponsoring Post (Post 43)

ALL the above information MUST PRECEDE THE ESSAY!

The essay shall be no more than 500 words in length (not counting a, an, and, the).

The essay may be either typed or written in ink on regular theme paper.

No decorative borders, pictures or other graphics.

Pages must be numbered at the center bottom, starting with the first page of the essay and paper clipped together.  (PLEASE No staples

All essays must be submitted to a local American Legion Post.

"Why am I proud to be an American"

BASIS FOR JUDGING - points

1.  Content

A.  Originality and Presentation  25

B.  Relation to topic  15

C.  Essay must be  factual  10 

2.  Organization of Subject Matter

A.  Unity (avoid irrelevant matter)  10

B.  Emphasis (good  proportion and  arrangement of parts)  10

C.  Coherence  (clearness)    10

3.  Correct Usage

A.  Choice of words  (free from overused  expressions)  10

B.  Effective sentences  (correct grammar,  spelling, punctuation and neatness)  10

TOTAL  100

The essay must reach the local American Legion Post by:

FEBRUARY 1, 2024

All Illinois School students in the 7th and 8th grades and Junior and Senior High School are invited to participate in this contest. 

The contest is divided into the following three classes.

CLASS I - 7th and 8th grades

CLASS II - 9th and 10th grades

CLASS III - 11th and 12th grade

How to Submit

Thank you for your interest in the Americanism Essay Contest .  

The essay must reach the local American Legion Post:

Submit electronically in either Word or pdf format to:

[email protected]

Or by mail to:

American Legion Post 43

Americanism Essay Contest PO Box 4 Naperville, IL 60566

Neal Kemp Chairman

[email protected]

Americanism Essay Contest provides opportunity for youth across the country

• "ALA Scholarship"
• "Children of Warriors National President's Scholarship"
• Scholarship

ALA Mission Statement

In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to 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.

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PLANS & REPORTS

CLICK HERE FOR AMERICANISM REPORTS

• Americanism Program Engagement Plan-2024-2025

Unit Year End Reporting 2024-2025

District Year End Reporting 2024-2025

• 2024-2025 Americanism Tracker

OTHER LINKS

ALA Americanism Facebook Page

• Americanism Essay Contest Rules
• Americanism Essay Rubric

Americanism Essay Cover Sheet 2024-2025

Flag Etiquette

• Proper Flag Disposal

Star Spangled Kids

The Constitution of The United States Fun Facts

Thirteen Folds of the Flag

• When to Fly a Flag

The Americanism work of the Auxiliary includes all activities tending to perpetuate American ideals and to uphold the principles of American democracy. The security of America lies in a citizenry in whose minds and hearts is ingrained a true understanding of and love for those ideals and principles upon which the nation was founded; a citizenry awake to the duties of citizenship and willing to perform these duties even at the cost of great personal sacrifice. Americanism work is largely educational in character and is usually divided into three phases: work with the youth, the adult, and the community. All matters pertaining to the flag or patriotic education are rightly classified as Americanism activities.

Patriotic Education

Every citizen should have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the Constitution of the United States. Therefore, the Auxiliary has a very definite objective in emphasizing through its Americanism program the teachings of good citizenship.

Five-Point Program

Active Americanism in the home; active Americanism in the Unit; active Americanism in youth groups; active Americanism in adult groups; and active Americanism in our community.

Revitalize our personal patriotism. Be able to answer "What kind of an American am I?" Take an interest in our country's affairs. Express our belief in our love for America in our words and deeds. Inspire children and young people in our homes and schools to develop fine characters, high ideals and a sincere appreciation of our heritage. Be tolerant in thought and deeds towards others. Vote intelligently after careful study of candidates and issues.

Appoint an active Americanism chairman. Sponsor study classes for the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, flag etiquette, and great American characters. Plan a patriotic conference. Observe patriotic holidays. Display the flag, keep it clean, and fold it properly. Distribute flag etiquette brochures.

Youth Groups

Present Americanism awards in schools. Sponsor debaters and essay contests. Present flags to schools. Encourage formation of student councils in elementary schools. Present records and/or tapes of the Star-Spangled to Banner to schools. Sponsor Boy and Girl Scout Troops.

Adult Groups

Sponsor citizenship classes and present flag codes, American Creed, and small American flags to new citizens. Hold Americanism meetings and Community forums. Place flag study course in night schools for foreign-born.

Plan Town Meetings and other study groups, presenting both sides of a question. Help with community observance of patriotic holidays. Present flags where needed. Use both printed and electronic media when presenting Americanism programs. Watch for subversive group activities and report to proper authorities. Visit local government groups in action and show interest in school boards, City Councils, County Boards, and Town Meetings. Plant trees as memorials and study conservation programs.

Cooperative Effort

The Americanism program of The American Legion embraces a multiplicity of activities. It necessitates real, honest, unselfish effort on the part of all members of The American Legion. The members of the Auxiliary can effectively make patriotism a personal matter and they can select and successfully carry out projects adaptable to the needs of their communities.

Spirit of Youth Fund

This fund was established by the American Legion Auxiliary to support programs for young people. Tax deductible contributions from individuals, organizations and estates are the basis of this permanent endowment fund for youth. The funds are expended for programs that benefit the youth of our nation an to enrich those programs which already exist. Two such programs are the Americanism Youth Conference conducted each spring for the Auxiliary by Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania and the four year "Spirit of Youth Scholarship" for Junior Members.

Pocket Flag Project

The American Legion Flag Advocacy

The Citizens Flag Alliance

DEPARTMENT OF WISCONSIN

aMERICANISM

Diane burkhalter, department chairman email: [email protected].

Job Description ​

Program Engagement Plan

The purpose of the Americanism program is to inspire, recognize, and perpetuate responsible citizenship through education and acts of patriotism, as well as raise awareness and increase appreciation of the price paid for our fundamental freedoms. The program includes increasing flag etiquette awareness in communities, awareness and participation in youth activities that promote proper respect for our flag and loyalty to our country, and promoting Auxiliary participation in The American Legion Americanism programs.

Units should be active in promoting ALA Badger Girls State, the Americanism Essay Contest, Flag Day, Americanism in schools, Veterans in Community Schools, study of the U.S. Constitution, observations of patriotic holidays, scouting, and history of the Pledge of Allegiance. Units are urged to participate and assist with The American Legion programs such as American Legion Baseball, American Legion Softball, Badger Boys State, the Oratorical Contest, Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy, and Junior Shooting Sports.

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2025 Americanism Essay Contest submission form

Americanism Essay Criteria & Rubric

Americanism Essay Flow Chart ​

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www.usflag.org

www.ushistory.org/betsy ​

How to promote Star-Spangled Kids

Let's be Right on Flag Etiquette

​booklet is available for purchase from American Legion Flag & Emblem (item # 755.200) for $1.00 each or buy 100 for .80¢ each.

I Spy,You Fly - home

I Spy,You Fly - business

2023-2024 Americanism Essay Contest Winner's List

2022-2023 Americanism Essay Contest Winner's List

2024-2025 District Chairmen:

​District 1 - Vacant                          

District 2 - Mary Petrie         

District 3 - Carol & Bill Ridgely

District 4 - Donna Jensen

District 5 - Vacant

District 6 - Linda Lefky

District 7 - Vacant

District 8 - Vacant

District 9 - Vacant

District 10 - Teresa Steinke

District 1 1 - Nancy Schultz

District 12 - Betty Stone

2024-2025 National Americanism Program Awards Deadlines and Submission Requirements

Thank you for taking the time to share a favorite story about the positive impact you or someone you know has had on our mission! Your story may inspire another member into service. It also helps us tell the world who we are, what we do, and why we matter.

Here are the national awards for this committee:

Americanism Essay Contest

All unit entries must be submitted to the department chairman by March 15th . The current essay question and other important information may be found in the Americanism Program Engagement Plan.

Unit Award: Dorothy Pearl Most Outstanding Unit Americanism Program for Central Division

​ All unit entries must be submitted to the department chairman by April 1st using the entry form in the Americanism Program Engagement Plan .

Authorization to Release Personal Information:

Award submissions become property of the American Legion Auxiliary. Through submission of reports and award entries, the submitter grants non-exclusive reproduction and publication rights to the materials submitted and agrees to have their names and submission published for ALA use or commercial use without additional compensation or permission.

Please fill out the information as completely and accurately as possible. Award certificates will be completed using the information provided on the entry form, so please be sure to complete it in its entirety.  Please refer to the webpage for the specific criteria such as photographs, narrative length, submission deadline, and point of contact. All awards will be mailed to the department office after ALA National Convention.

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• Special Focus

Legion Auxiliary announces Americanism essay winners

The essay subject was “What patriotism mean to me.”

Class II first place Gianna Roybal, second place Liam Mezick, third place Nadia Noble.

Class III first place Charles Guntherman, second place Shane Lafferty, third place Chase Esposito, Honorable Mention Shaelyn Fountain.

Congratulations students!

PHOTO CAP: Pictured from left, Gianna Roybal, Liam Mezick, Nadia Noble, Mrs. McGoldrick (OLG Teacher), Helene Hartman (Essay Committee), Sue Sutter (Americanism Chairman), Charles Guntherman, and Shane Lafferty.

Cottonwood's American Legion Post 746 hosts 50-year tradition Veteran's Day dinner

by Tyler Van Dyke

COTTONWOOD, Calif. — A free dinner was held for all veterans at the American Legion Post 746 in Cottonwood on Veterans Day Monday night.

Post commander for the American Legion 746 Marsha Keeran told the Northstate’s News Tyler Van Dyke why they’ve been doing the dinner for veterans event for more than fifty years now.

“This is to recognize the veterans and the service they provided for our country,” Keeran continued, “we try to make it the best event that we can and as you can see we have a lot of people here and we believe that it shows them that we care and that we’re here for them.”

Quite a few veterans showed up for the dinner with their families.

Keeran mentioned, the estimated turnout seemed to be a bit more than last year. She said they were expecting to serve between 150 and 200 meals this year nearly doubling last year’s totals.

The post was decorated in a patriotic theme with American flags to honor veterans including an empty seat symbolizing the ones who didn’t make it home.

As well as various military banners, flags, and other armed forces related items were also featured throughout the post.

Van Dyke also spoke with local veteran Ben Meeks who talked about his admiration for the post and all they do for him and his fellow veterans.

“This is a great organization, we love this organization and we have a special love for our veterans, and they also have a love to help the veterans that need help and that’s what it’s all about, camaraderie it’s a good thing, a very good thing." local veteran Ben Meeks continued, “we did this last year and it turned out real good and we did it again this year and we’re really, really happy and satisfied with the results.”

Post Commander Keeran said the event wouldn’t be possible without the many people who volunteer their time to help ensure it goes smoothly.

On a personal note, Van Dyke said with both of his grandfathers serving, it was wonderful to get to meet and talk to other veterans, hear their stories, and be able to honor those who served and fought for our freedom. Hopefully you too had the chance to thank a veteran on Monday.

Take a walk through the most ancient Kremlin in Russia

The Novgorod Kremlin, which is also called ‘Detinets’, is located on the left bank of the Volkhov River. The first fortified settlement was set here during the reign of prince Vladimir Yaroslavich, the son of Yaroslav the Wise. During these times, all the state, public and religious life of Novgorod was concentrated here. It was the place where people kept chronicles and copied the texts of books. The Novgorod Kremlin, the most ancient one in Russia, was founded here in the 15th century.

St. Sophia Cathedral (11th century), The Millennium Of Russia Monument, Episcopal Chamber (15th century) and the main exhibition of The State Novgorod Museum-reservation located in a public office building of the 18th century are all situated in the Novgorod Kremlin. The exhibition will tell you about the whole Novgorod history from ancient times to the present day. There are also restoration workshops, a children’s center, a library and a philharmonic inside the Kremlin walls.

Send a letter with the State Novgorod Museum-reservation stamp

While visiting the main building of the Novgorod Kremlin museum, you’ll see a small bureau near the souvenir area. Two more bureaus like that can be found in the Fine Arts Museum and the Museum information centre. This is the Museum Post, the joint project of the State Novgorod Museum-reservation and Russian Post.

The tradition to exchange letters (at that time written on birch bark sheets) dates back to the 11th century so it’s hardly surprising that such a project appeared here. The bureaus are desks and mailboxes at the same time, so you can send your friends a postcard with a view of Novgorod right from the museum.

Find the famous Russian poet Alexander Pushkin among the figures of The Millennium Of Russia Monument

In 1862, 1000 years after the Varangians were called to Russia, a monument dedicated to this event was launched in Novgorod. To tell the story of Russia’s one thousand years, the sculptor used 129 bronze figures: from state and military leaders to artists and poets.

One of figures portrays Afanasy Ordin-Nashchokin, a politician and reformer who was responsible for Russia’s diplomatic relations in the middle of the 17th century. He is believed to be the father of international and regular mail in Russia. He was also the person who came up with the idea of the first Russian Post official emblem — a post horn and a double-headed eagle.

Cross the Msta River over the first arch bridge in Russia

The steel bridge in Borovichi town that connects two banks of the Msta river was built at the beginning of the 20th century. The project of the bridge was created by Nikolay Belelyubsky, engineer and professor of St. Petersburg State Transport University. This is the first arch bridge in Russia.

In 1995, it was included in the national cultural heritage register. More than 100 bridges across Russia were developed by Belelyubsky, but only this one is named after him.

Cast a virtual bell

When in the Novgorod region, you’ll definitely hear bells ring and learn about the Novgorod Veche Bell. During the siege of the city, tsar Ivan III ordered to remove this bell from the bell tower and send it to Moscow. Legend says that the bell didn’t accept his fate, fell to the ground near the border of the Novgorod region and broke to pieces against the stones.

In the biggest Museum Bell Centre in Russia located in the Valday town, you can see bells from across the world and learn why Novgorod bells are unique. The museum’s collection represents bells from different countries and ages, some of them dating back to the 3rd century BC. You’ll learn about the history of casting and modern bell-making technologies and also play games on a touch table. For example, harness virtual ‘troika’ (three) horses with bells or cast a virtual bell.

Spot the pigeon on the cross of St. Sophia Cathedral

St. Sophia Cathedral was built in Novrogod between 1045 and 1050 by Kievan and Byzantine masters. It was conceived as the main cathedral of the city, and during its first years it was the only stone building in Novgorod. So where does the pigeon on the cross of the cathedral’s biggest dome come from?

Legend says that while tsar Ivan the Terrible and his Oprichniki were cruelly killing peaceful city folk in 1570, a pigeon suddenly sat down to the cross of the city’s main cathedral. It looked down, saw the massacre, and was literally petrified with horror. Since then the pigeon has been considered the defender of the city. People believe that as soon as the pigeon flies away from the cross, Novgorod will come to an end.

Visit a monastery, that was founded by Patriarch Nikon

The Valday Iver Monastery is situated on the island in the middle of the Valday lake. It is considered to be one of the most important and picturesque orthodox shrines.

The monastery was founded in 1653 by the initiative of Nikon who had just been elected Patriarch. Nikon wanted the monastery to look like the Iviron Monastery on Mount Athos, including the architectural style and monk’s clothes. Legend says that Nikon saw the spot for the monastery in a dream.

Check out Fyodor Dostoevsky’s country house

Fyodor Dostoevsky, a famous Russian writer, first visited Staraya Russa town in 1872 during a summer trip with his family. They liked it so much that the next year they rented a house near the Pererytitsa River’s embankment and spent every summer here ever since.

Dostoevsky loved this house, called it ‘his nest’ and considered it the perfect place to work and to be alone. In Staraya Russa he wrote his novels ‘The Adolescent’, ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ and ‘Demons’. Today, this place is a museum where you can explore what Dostoevsky’s house looked like and see his family’s personal belongings, photos and letters.

Visit an authentic Russian ‘izba’ (wooden house)

If you want to really enjoy the atmosphere of the old Novgorod, you should come to the Vitoslavlitsy Museum of folk wooden architecture that is located on the Myachino lake not far away from Veliky Novgorod. In this open-air museum you’ll see the best examples of Russian wooden architecture, including authentic old ‘izbas’ (wooden houses), rural chapels and churches.

During the year, the museum hosts fairs of crafts and folklore, christmastides, and even an international bell ringing festival.

Learn what Brick Gothic looks like

The Episcopal Chamber of the Novgorod Kremlin is the only non-religious German Gothic building of the 15th century preserved in Russia. You can have a good look at the facets of the gothic cross-domed vaults inside the chamber. This is why this building is also called ‘Faceted Chamber’ or ‘Chamber of Facets’.

The chamber was part of Vladychny Dvor, the place where all important city events took place: court hearings, gatherings of the Council of Lords of the Novgorod Republic, ambassador’s receptions and feasts. The seals of the city’s lords were kept here. The decree of tsar Ivan III on merging the Novgorod Republic with the Moscow State was first announced in 1478 in Episcopal Chamber. This is when the name of the new state, Russia, was first pronounced.

See the murals by Theophanes the Greek

The Byzantine Empire had a huge impact on the development of the Russian culture. Many works of art and architecture in ancient Russia were created by Byzantine artists and masters. Theophanes the Greek was one of them. He was born in Byzantine and created icons and murals in Constantinople and Caffa (modern Feodosia). After that he moved to Novgorod where he was commissioned to paint the walls of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior on Ilyina Street. You can enjoy his unique and expressive style if you look at the murals inside the dome of the church and the Trinity side chapel.

The most recognizable and the only monumental work of Theophanes the Greek that is preserved today is the chest-high portrait of the Savior the Almighty in the dome of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior.

Take a photo with an ancient Novgorod citizen who is learning how to read and write

In 1951, a letter written on birch bark dating back to the 14–15th centuries was found in Veliky Novgorod. Many decades later, in 2019, a sculpture designed by Novgorod artist and sculptor Sergey Gaev appeared on this exact site.

The sculpture portrays an 8–year old boy sitting on a stool and holding a piece of birch bark. At this age children in Novgorod started to learn how to read and write. During archaeological excavations in Novgorod, scientists often found ancient handwriting practice books and children’s drawings on birch bark sheets.

Feel like an ancient viking or prince Rurik’s guest

Novgorod is one of the waypoints of the famous trade route from the Varangians to the Greeks. The route passed through the Volkhov river. In the 9–10th centuries there was a fortified settlement of the Viking Age here.

Some scientists believe that Novgorod is named after this area which was called ‘Stary Gorod’ (‘Old City’) at that time. Some historians and archeologists consider this place to be the residence of Prince Rurik who was asked to rule the city in 862. That’s why this ancient settlement is called ‘Rurikovo Gorodische’ (‘Ruruk’s Old City’).

Learn more about the Soviet modernist architecture

On the bank of the Volkhov river near the Novgorod Kremlin, there is an incredible building that looks like a spaceship and contrasts strongly with the ancient buildings of the city.

This is the Fyodor Dostoevsky Theater of Dramatic Art that was built in 1987. It is one of the most striking examples of the Soviet modernist architecture. The theater was built for 10 years according to the project of architect Vladimir Somov.

See what an everyday life of Old Believers looks like

The Krestsy town in the Novgorod region has always been considered to be the center of the Novgorod Old Belief community, and it still is. Before the Soviet revolution there were three Old Believers churches here.

The Lyakova village, which is located not far from the town, used to be inhabited completely by Old Believers. You can learn more about their lifestyle in the local interactive museum. You’ll be introduced to Old Believers’ traditional crafts and ceremonies, drink tea with healing herbs and learn how to chop wood and use an old spinning wheel.

Buy a traditional embroidered tablecloth

A unique embroidery style that is now famous all over the world was born in the Staroye Rakhino village in the Novgorod province. By the middle of the 19th century, it had become a folk craft. Since then, linen tablecloths, towels and clothing items decorated with unusual ornaments have been popular not only among the locals, but also travellers.

In 1929, the first cooperative partnership of embroidery masters was created in Kresttsy. Later it turned into a factory that still operates today. The factory has a museum where embroidery traditions are preserved and new ornaments and technologies are created.

Find yourself in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, Staraya Russa town could be called ‘the salt cellar of Russia’. That’s because salt making was the main trade here up to the 19th century. A few years ago, the old craft was brought back to life, and construction of salt works began. Later, an interactive museum was launched based on the results of archaeological findings.

This museum recreates a typical medieval manor of Staraya Russa of the 12th century with living rooms, a bathhouse, workshops, a livestock pen and traditional peasant household items. In this museum, you can also buy salt which is made in the same way as 1000 years ago.

See the place where Suvorov started his Italian campaign

Alexander Suvorov’s manor in the Konchanskoe village, which has now become the museum of the great commander, was originally the place of his exile. Suvovor openly disagreed with the reform of Russian’s army based on the Prussian model, and Emperor Paul the First didn’t appreciate such behaviour. He first fired Suvorov and then sent him away to his family estate.

However, the exile lasted for only two years. The great commander started the military campaign straight from his house in the Konchanskoe. During this legendary expedition, he crossed the Alps and defeated the French army.

Become a real hiker

If you dream of having a hike in the Novgorod region, but at the same time you are afraid that a tourist’s life may be too hard, you should try the Big Valday trail. This is a five-day 59-kilometer walking route. Its central part goes right through the Valday National Park’s territory.

You won’t have to cope with difficulties and inconveniences of camping life here. The route is marked with signs, and there are camping sites where you can find everything you need for an overnight stay from shelters and places for a fire to toilets. The trail finishes at the Dunayevshchina village where you can take a bus back to Valday. To take the trail, you have to fill out a special form and register on the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation website.

Russian Post has launched a limited series of products dedicated to the cultural heritage of the Novgorod region.

In autumn 2020, Russian Post announced an open contest to create the design for its limited series dedicated to Novgorod region. The project was supported by the Government of the Novgorod region, ‘Russ Novgorodskaya’ (Novgorod Russia) project, the State Novgorod Museum-reservation and Yandex.

Stamps and envelopes are traditionally used to spread information about historic dates and figures and famous landmarks. Now we can also use parcel boxes, packaging tape and postcards. The limited series products will travel around the world, introducing the most popular Russian attractions to six million Russian Post clients daily.

The participants were to create the design for the limited series featuring three iconic attractions of the Novgorod region, the Novgorod Kremlin, the Millennium Of Russia Monument and the Belelyubsky Bridge in Borovichi. Moscow designers and graduates of the Higher School of Economics’ Art and Design School Alena Akmatova and Svetlana Ilyushina won the contest. Their project was chosen via an open vote and by the expert jury.

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Legion Family members again reminding communities the importance of Veterans Day

Posts, units and squadrons nationwide will lead or take part in various commemorations. Please share your efforts on Legiontown.

This Monday, Nov. 11, marks Veterans Day, the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918 and what now serves as a day to honor all veterans. 

The American Legion will be represented in Washington, D.C., where National Vice Commanders Gary B. Leach and James C. Kellogg will be in attendance at two annual events. Leach will be at Arlington National Cemetery, along with other American Legion Family leadership, to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Kellogg will be at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to perform a similar function.

And across the nation, American Legion posts, districts and departments – with their respective American Legion Family members – will observe the day by participating in or hosting parades, luncheons, ceremonies and other events that remind their communities of why Nov. 11 is important.

The following are a small sampling of how Veterans Day will be observed throughout the nation by the American Legion Family. All those in the organization are encouraged to share their Veterans Day commemorations via stories and photos at www.legiontown.org.

In Yuma, Floyd G. Jefferson American Legion Post 56’s Legion Family is hosting a Veterans Day celebration for the community that includes raffles, a 50-50 drawing and lunch. 

In Cabot, Criswell-Robinson American Legion Post 71 is hosting a Veterans Day ceremony that will include Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, who is a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves.

In Sebastian, American Legion Post 189 Historian Ray Osborne has organized a virtual presentation on local military and veteran history that will include a memorial tour on Find A Grave.

·       In Danville, American Legion Post 210 is conducting its 8th Annual Veteran's Day 5K Fundraiser. The day will include a send-off performed by Post 210’s honor guard for 5K participants; dog tags presented to all finishers, as well as trophies for the top male and female finishers; and an after-party that includes free chili, a guest speaker and a silent auction. Funds raised from previous Veterans Day 5K events have been used to help local veterans with clothing, food, blessing bags and more, as well as renovations to the post.

·       In Newton, American Legion Post 20 and Sons of The American Legion Squadron 20 will set up flags around the Jasper County Courthouse to honor veterans who have passed away. The flags will remain up from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Post 20 also will conduct a ceremony and then host a meal.  

In Great Bend, American Legion Post 180 will take part in the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Avenue of Flags at Veterans Memorial Park. Post 180 will join other veterans service organizations in advancing the colors, which will be followed by a speaker and live music.

The post also will take part in the dedication of the new Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which is being erected adjacent to the Avenue of Flags. American Legion Riders Chapter 180 will provide a flag line around the memorial during the dedication ceremony.  The Riders also will visit four local assisted-living facilities to meet with the veterans residing there.

In Severn, Howard L. Turner Auxiliary Unit 276 is staging a drive to collect hygiene products, warm clothing, blankets, games and other items that are needed for patients at the Baltimore, Loch Raven and Perry Point VA Medical Centers.

Massachusetts

American Legion Post 443 in Cherry Valley will conduct a ceremony at the town’s World War I memorial, followed by a flag retirement ceremony with a local Scouting group and a community cookout provided by Auxiliary Unit 443 and SAL Squadron 443.

In Menominee, American Legion Post 146 will provide a breakfast for all veterans in the area.

Mississippi

In Gautier, American Legion Post 1992 will conduct its annual ceremony in front of the Veterans Tribute Tower at Gautier City Hall. Included in the event is a wreath-laying ceremony and guest speakers, as well as a meal at the post following the ceremony.

·       In Hannibal, American Legion Post 55’s color guard will carry the color to start the Veterans Day parade, as well as attend an elementary school’s Veterans Day event to post the colors. On Nov. 9, the post will host its annual Veterans Ball fundraiser, which generates money to fund assistance to veterans, youth scholarships and Toys for Tots.

·       In Joplin, American Legion Riders Chapter 13 will take part in the Nov. 9 Veterans Day parade.

In Corvallis, Terry Nobles Post 91 will stage a parade downtown while local K-12 students line the streets to view it. The students will bring with them signs and artwork to show their appreciations for veterans in the community.  

Later in the day, the post will host its annual dinner for all American Legion Family members. Many of the members will not have to pay for their meal because they renewed their dues by Sept. 11 as part of the post’s Early Bird program. “This has been an effective way to jump start our membership drive for the coming year,” said Post 91 Finance Officer Patrick Clover.

American Legion Post 252 in Williamstown will host a ceremony and then a luncheon.

James Cooke Post 931 will observe Veterans Day with a public program at Victor Town Hall.

·       In Bellville, American Legion Post 535’s Legion Family will visit a local nursing home to visit the veterans living there, as well as provide food care packages for veterans who are in need, single and widowed.

·       In Plymouth, Ehret Parsel Post 447 will participate in the breakfast and Veterans Day program at Plymouth High School on Nov. 8, and Auxiliary Unit 447 will provide a dinner and short program on Nov. 11. on Friday and our auxiliary unit will provide dinner on Monday and a short program and post

·       In Minerva, Don V. Cross Sons of The American Legion Squadron 357 provides a pizza party for veterans living in the local nursing home.

·       In Newburgh Heights, Post 627’s American Legion Family will provide food, raffles and prizes for area veterans during an event on Nov. 10.

·       In Avon Lake, American Legion Post 211 is hosting a dinner for area veterans and their spouses. The dinner itself will be provided by chefs from the Cleveland Akron-Canton chapter of the American Culinary Federation. Last year, Chapter 211 Legion Riders assisted with providing transportation assistance to veterans in nursing homes and helped those wheelchair-bound veterans in and out of the post.

·       In Trotwood, Fort McKinley Memorial Post 613 will provide a program open to both veterans and the entire community that will include guest speakers, the opportunity for veterans in attendance to share their stories, music and a lunch provided by Auxiliary Unit 613. Speakers will include a VA Vet Center representative and staff from the Clark County Veteran Service Office.

In Skiatook, American Legion Post 131 and VFW Post 7977 are hosting the ninth annual Veterans Day parade on Nov. 9. Following the parade, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 131 will provide a free spaghetti luncheon.

In Ontario, American Legion Post 67 hosted the 23rd annual Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 2. Community members, first responders, Scouts and local businesses are joined in the parade.

South Carolina

American Legion Riders Chapter 147 took part in the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System/City of Charleston Veterans Day parade.

·       In Gallatin, American Legion Post 17 is presenting the Veterans Day Parade of Gallatin on Nov. 9.

·       In Ripley, American Legion Post 86 is joining with the Lauderdale County Mayor’s Office, the Lauderdale Chamber/Economic Development Commission and others to put on the Veterans Day Celebration at First United Methodist Church. There will be door prizes, a luncheon, and speakers that will include Post 86 Historian James T. Hall.

·       In Wichita Falls, Thomas Fowler American Legion Post 169 took part in the North Texas Veterans Council’s Veterans Day Parade that drew hundreds of spectators. The parade included floats, cars, and personnel from the Wichita Falls police and fire departments, and Sheppard Air Force Base.

·       In Madisonville, a multi-county Veterans Day parade is being organized by members of Austin Reed Post 84. Included in the event will be games, live music, food vendors and a fly-over with sky divers.

In St. Nazianz, American Legion Post 477 will conduct Veterans Day programs at five different schools on Nov. 11-12. The post also will take lunch to veterans working at a local business that shows strong support for veteran causes.

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Veliky Novgorod Region: Why you need to see the jewel in Russia’s ‘Silver Necklace’

Valday Iversky Monastery

For those of you making the trip to Veliky Novgorod Region, here is a list of unmissable activities and places of interest to really get you acquainted with the area and its history.

1.    Learn the history of the Russian state in Veliky Novgorod

Of course, this city is unmissable; being the historical center of Russian statehood with the most ancient cathedral in the country, Sophia Cathedral, erected more than one thousand years ago, is a place of power for the whole of Russia. The city was the first-ever Russian settlement straddling both sides of a river (Volkhov), with the imposing Kremlin on one side, and medieval churches and buildings in the historic market district on the other.

Veliky Novgorod Kremlin

You can spice up the historical tour with various custom ones available, including the ancient cemetery at night or an alco-tour of the city (where you get to try local food and drink). For more information on the city excursions, you can go here .

2.  Explore traditional folk craft at the workshop in Kresttsy settlement

Krestetsky stitching is a traditional Russian pattern - a folk craft that was born and developed in this area since the 1860-s. In Soviet times a small factory producing original unique linen products was built here. During Perestroika it was nearly closed due to the catastrophic economic crisis in the country. The risk for the Krestetsky stitch being completely forgotten was quite real. It is now a private factory and shop with guided tours.

NOVGOROD REGION, RUSSIA - JANUARY 24, 2019: Linen products of the Kresttsy Stitch clothing factory reviving and implementing the Kresttsy stitchery, a traditional local embroidery technique dating from the 1860s, in the village of Kresttsy, Novgorod Region

The pattern is very beautiful and difficult to master, so the possibility to observe the birth of a masterpiece is quite unique. Head over to the factory website for more details.

3.  Meet the old believers in the village of Lyakova

Russia’s so-called ‘old believers’ did not accept the reformation of Orthodox Christianity in Russia in the 17th century, choosing instead to keep the old traditions in church services and rites, in defiance of the state’s persecution, lasting centuries. Old believers are divided into two groups, those who accept the church hierarchy and those who do not accept priests at all, pray in their own houses, and are governed by the community leaders. At this time there are about one million old believers scattered around the country with no official statistics to confirm that figure.    

The old believers of Lyakova village will gladly welcome you in the old traditional peasant’s house, explaining how it was organized, and how life, in general, looked in the distant peasant past.  This immersion is accompanied by a traditional dinner with borsch, salo (pork scratchings) and tea brewed in a traditional samovar. Book your ticket here .

4.  Take the eco-trail at the Valdai national park 

This national park is one of the largest specially protected natural areas in the European part of Russia. Russian president Vladimir Putin has one of his ‘datchas’ here. The territory of the park that covers an area of 159 thousand hectares includes several lakes (Borovno, Valdai, Velje, Seliger) as well as rare animals and plants.

Many nature lovers come here to hike, swim in the lakes and camp. This year the big eco-trail was opened. If you enjoy hiking, you can walk all 59 kilometers in five days, starting from the town of Valdai and covering around 12 kilometers a day. On the way, you will have all the facilities needed for camping and spending time in nature, from toilets to camping equipment and various amenities. Visit the park’s website for more info.

5.   Visit the Valday Iversky Monastery

Located on an island 10 kilometers from the town of Valday, this monastery appears to be floating on the lake, when you look at it from a distance.

This is a male Orthodox monastery established in 1653. It was one of the three monasteries founded by the Patriarch Nikon (his reformation of the Orthodox Church in Russia and its unification with the Greek Orthodox church caused the split between ‘old’ and ‘new’ believers). The icon of the Mother of God – Iverskaya – is the treasure of the monastery and the reason for the active pilgrimage to this place.

6. Ring the bells at the Valday Museum of Bells

The region of Novgorod was the center of Russian statehood under the rule of the Rurikovich dynasty. After the collapse of Kievan Rus’, the region was an autonomous Russian state with a republican form of government, the symbol of which was a big Bell that every citizen could ring in order to gather the townspeople for a vote or resolve a community issue. So it is not by accident that the first-ever Museum of Bells in Russia was opened here.

Valday Museum of Bells

If you manage to get Nadezhda Yakovleva for a guide, you are guaranteed a one-person performance along with your historical facts, it’s fascinating and great fun as well.

 7.   Immerse yourself in 10th-century life at the settlement in Lyubytino village

This village of ancient Slavs has been restored in order to give tourists the impression of life centuries ago. Different types of Russian wooden cottages (izba) are represented here, as well as utility buildings and the ancient burial mounds, used by Slavs for burial rites.

Lyubytino is an urban locality (a work settlement) and the administrative center of Lyubytinsky District of Novgorod Oblast, Russia, located on the Msta River. Municipally, it serves as the administrative center of Lyubytinskoye Urban Settlement

For those seeking total immersion, there is the possibility of getting dressed in the traditional clothing of the time and have a photo session.

 8.   Visit the museum of local lore in the town of Borovichi

This is one of the oldest museums in the region, established in 1918, and located in a 19th century stone house with a mezzanine. It is devoted to the history of the region from the Stone Age to the Revolution of 1917.

By the end of the 19th century, Borovichi became an industrial city that attained fame in Europe due to the first international agricultural handicraft and industrial exhibition held here, which was established under the auspices of the Prince of Oldenburg, who underlined the importance of this region between the two Russian capitals. France then presented half of the items at the exhibition.

The region is also known for a unique material produced here: Franco-Russian pyro-granite plants of Prince Golitsyn were located in Borovichi, and the recipe for producing it remains secret to this day. This material got a large silver medal at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1889.

We highly recommend that you take a guide here, as there are many activities including role play and various fun games, as well as just beautiful stories told during it. Find out more here .

If you need some guidance in the area, feel free to address the Rus Novgorodskaya touristic center.

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