Americanism
Chairman:  Kathryn Wood - Bacher

In lieu of having a blank page, I left the previous Americanism information on the site,
as soon as the Current chairman's information is approved and received, it will be posted...

New Publications Immediately Available Online

The American Legion recently released two new publications for distribution to the public throughout the 2008 elections.  The American Legion, VOTE America ’08, Guide to Promoting the “Get Out the Vote” Program encourages voter registration, voter education and voter participation in all elections.  This pamphlet suggests activities on how American Legion Posts can increase the turnout.  Veterans traditionally respond to this call to become actively involved in the electoral process and are the most likely to cast their ballots on Election Day.  The American Legion’s goal is to encourage more Americans, especially veterans and the military family abroad, to vote.

The other pamphlet entitled, The American Legion, Policy on Illegal Immigration, A Strategy to Address Illegal Immigration in the United States offers The American Legion’s assessment of illegal immigration and a strategy on how to effectively address this issue.  Everyone is encouraged to read and understand this booklet as illegal immigration will be one of the most fiercely contested issues in many state and congressional elections, as well as the presidential campaign.

"Everyone is strongly encouraged to "spread the word" about these pamphlets and their availability for use during the 2008 campaign season."

Both pamphlets are also available for downloading on The American Legion National website. Click on the following link Publications & Resources icon and scroll down the Publications page to the Public Relations section.

Can you define the word “Americanism?"  This special, unique word has many meanings to many people.  It is pride we have in our country, pride in our flag, and pride in the men and women in the military.  Our Veterans are the living proof of sacrifice and loyalty to a Nation they so dearly loved.  Their dedication and perseverance allows us the freedoms we have as American citizens.  It is our job, as members of the American Legion Auxiliary and American Legion Family, to continue this pride and teach our youth the values of Americanism.  Have your Units in conjunction with the Legion members sponsor a special flag burning ceremony.  Conduct a youth rally with the Junior members and show them the correct way to respect our flag.  Through our programs we can educate our future generation.  For each child we teach, they become the benefactors of our knowledge. 

It is the responsibility and privilege of every American to Vote!  Encourage everyone to register – encourage everyone to vote.  This is how our democracy works and your vote does count!

Many people do not know the importance of flag etiquette.  Go to you local schools, community functions and educate.  Discuss the proper way to fold our flag, display the flag and encourage the correct manner to dispose of our flag.  Obtain flags for distribution through your local politicians.

This conference is conducted by Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge in Pennsylvania and is offered annually to high school students.  It focuses on leadership, patriotism, and the history and principles upon which America was founded.  The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors this program through your contributions to the Spirit of Youth Fund.

Check your local community organization directory and plan a visit to an existing scout troop.  Ask if they have a flag.  Join forces with the Brownies and Cub Scouts and sponsor a “Flag Etiquette Day.”  The Auxiliary has many resources available to children of all ages.
Don’t forget our Girl Scout of the Year Award.

This publication is distributed to every citizen of the Empire Girls State program. It contains information regarding our Nation's Constitution. Each Unit is asked to donate $3.00 to ensure every Girls State Citizen may receive a copy. Unit Treasurers are asked to send checks to the County Treasurer. County Treasurers are asked to make checks payable to:  Treasurer, American Legion Auxiliary

Mail to:
American Legion Auxiliary
Dept. of New York
112 State Street, Suite 1310
Albany, New York 12207

Unit Chairmen:  Please send reports to reach your County Chairman by November 1, 2008, March 1, 2009 and May 1, 2009.

County Chairmen:  Please send reports to reach the Dept. Chairman by November 10, 2008, March 10, 2009 and May 10, 2009.

Chairman: Kathryn Wood - Bacher
Department Americanism Chairman
Email: Kathryn Wood-Bacher

For chairman's physical address, contact Department Office

Note: Forms are in (PDF Format ) and can be filled out using your computer keyboard. However, you cannot save data typed into any  forms unless you have the Full Version of  Adobe Acrobat software! Please print at least 2 copies of your completed form, mail one to the chairman, and save one for your  records. If you try to e-mail it without the Full Version of  Adobe Acrobat software, the chairman will receive a BLANK PAGE...