A training plan for The American Legion |
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Dear American Legion Family and Friends,
As we mark our first century of service to communities, states and nation, we have much to celebrate and generations of Legionnaires to thank. From our founders to today’s post officers, The American Legion is successful because of hard-working, passionate and caring individuals. Our success can also be directly attributed to the internal training that molds our leaders. For scores of Legionnaires, including me, national Legion College was essential, and I strongly recommend it. The deadline for departments to submit applicants for this fall’s Legion College is July 31. While the most notable, Legion College is not the only way to groom the next generation of leaders. Many departments are creating their own versions of Legion College. California, for example, debuted its class this past April. In Maine, the department has launched a three-pronged approach — beginner, intermediate and advanced sessions that graduates complete within the same calendar year. Revitalized earlier this year, the Basic Training module on the national website provides valuable information. It’s a great resource for recruiters so new members can familiarize themselves with the Legion and find their place in it. When I reviewed the course recently, I found it to be a great refresher and full of valuable resources. I am sure other longtime members would have the same experience. Our national membership team has revitalized the August membership workshop into three training groups: long-term membership planning, district commanders and department membership chairmen. The leading candidate will have a two-hour session one day with department leadership and a two-hour session the following day with his department commanders. I am excited to see how this approach works. At national convention next month in Minneapolis, there will be plenty of training opportunities for our members:
Of course, much of this year’s national convention will be dedicated to paying tribute to our first century of success. At the same time, we need to dedicate ourselves to training the next generation of leaders who will lead The American Legion to a second century of national leadership, supporting veterans and expanding patriotism. Family First. |
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Denise H. Rohan National Commander |