Americanism Notes: It is September and we are back in full swing following a terrific National Convention in New Orleans. Education is the the key to being successful in any place or project. In doing our best for Americanism we promote the Service to veterans, children & youth. Where do we go to learn so we can teach others. First, Legion College which is coming up October 26th for the East & Central sections and November 2nd for the Western section. Applications are online and very user friendly. Get registered as soon as possible. Then we have the training to help identify and help our brother & sister veterans in suicide prevention. There is training on line at legion. org, plus department holds podcasts for training. This year following the September DEC meetings they will be holding a class also. Another way to work is to attend the National conventions. The national organization puts together many workshops for all interested to learn to "Be the One"

Now, that school is back in full swing the Essay Contest information is out as well as the Oratorical Contest information. How, many parents are have students looking to go to higher educational facilities following high school? Most of them & the cost is high. It is our responsibility to help them by promoting and working with them and their student to earn scholarship money. Make sure your post tries to help them as much as possible, if they don't participate it is them leaving big bucks on the table.

On the community service side of our projects; Remember this Wednesday is Patriot's Day for September 11th. Following next week with POW?MIA Day Sept 20th. Do a ceremony of some type to remember all those who have not come home yet or gave the ultimate gift to our country, their lives.

Be the One: take the time to learn so you can Be the One to teach others, take the time to share what you have learned so you can help others and lastly dedicate your life to service to Be the One to be recognized in your community as the go to person for our country. Happy September!

Susan Patchin

via Facebook American Legion Department of Pennsylvania page