2025 SAL Detachment Convention
The Sons of The American Legion Detachment of Minnesota held their annual convention at the Morris American Legion, hosted by Squadron 29 on June 27 and 28. The convention was well attended with 25 squadrons, and a special guest, Past National Commander (PNC) Earl R. Ruttkofsky of MI who was vacationing in the area and stopped by to visit.
The Sons of The American Legion, Detachment of Minnesota, just completed another outstanding year. Our membership reached 97% of Goal, with an 86% renewal rate. Minnesota switched Regions at National this year. Previously we were in the Central Region and now we are in the Midwest Region. We are currently the Largest Detachment in that region.
The Sons continue to support the programs The American Legion such as Brain Science Foundation, Veterans and Children’s fund, Children and Youth programs, Boys State and the Child-Well Being Foundation. At Convention, we were able to raise over $3740.00 for CWF through donations and Auction. This stands as one of highest fund-raising dates we have had for CWF. Four resolutions were presented, but only Three were passed, going on to Department for their approval. See Attached. The Sons also help support each of the Legion Family’s Projects with a donation of $1000.00 to each.
The annual John Zgoda Disabled Veterans Deer Hunt/ Turkey Hunt is continuing strong this Fall. The Deer hunt will take place on Oct. 1-2, with 9 hunters participating this year. The First-ever Turkey hunt will take place on Oct 4th & 5th, to coincide with the state’s fall turkey Hunt. 2 hunters have been chosen to participate in the Inaugural Hunt. The Committee is always taking applications for these hunts.
Elected at our recent Detachment Convention in Morris, Jeremy Copher from the Minnetonka/Mound Squad #398 was elected as our new Detachment Commander. Others that were Elected were:
Vice Commanders: Glenn Neville, Shawn Kosbab, Stu Sonnee, Robert Cadreau, Dennis Blue
Chaplain: Matt Verkuilen Sgt at Arms: Tim Weaver
Historian: Shawn Davis NEC: Robert Bristo
Finance Officer: Steve Bilderback
Appointments: Adjutant Jason Voss, Assistant Adjutant Doug Bible, Membership Director Dave Arends, and Parliamentarian Doug Bible. Alternate NEC Casey Lenort is serving the second year of his term.
The Sons are very proud to be part of The American Legion Family, and we are here to assist in all the Legion does. Please remember to include the Sons in your programs. To the members of The American Legion Family, thank you for the support that you have given to the Sons of The American Legion in the past and we look forward to working together in the future.