6th District Commander’s February 2025 Report

Greetings from the Big 6th District.

We have now turned the corner into a new year. I hope everyone had a safe, wonderful, blessed holiday season.

Now it is time to get back to work. Membership is going well, but it can always be better. Working together, we can keep our current members, and together we can recruit new Legionnaires.

Remember that you don’t always need to figure out a way to “go where they are.” You are already there. You can see veterans almost everywhere you go … at the grocery store, the hardware store, the gym, out ice fishing, at youth sporting events and many other places.

If you strike up a conversation, maybe just ask,” Are you a Legionnaire?”

What’s the worst they can say? “No, and I’m not interested.” You never know until you try. Together we can keep The American Legion strong.

It is also that time of year when we start preparing for awards and reports. Please keep an eye out for deadlines and reporting requirements. These reports are important as they are what we use when meeting with legislators at all levels. The more information we have, the better we can communicate what our veterans want, need, and believe in.

While our main focus has always been veterans, and veteran issues, remember our four pillars (Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, Americanism, National Security, Children & Youth) also tells us we focus on our community. Part of that focus should be that we reward those that go above and beyond. Both within our ranks, and in our community. So please, make sure we are nominating those that deserve to be recognized.

This is also the time of year when we need to “Be the One” more than other times. The snow and cold mean that there are many that are shut in their houses and apartments. “Be the One” to reach out to someone you haven’t seen in a while. “Be the One” who goes over and shovels a sidewalk or driveway for an elderly neighbor. “Be the One” who takes the time to take someone to the grocery store, or out for a quick lunch. “Be the One” who shows that there is someone out there who cares. You never know when one act of kindness, one reason to smile, saves a life.

There are many events coming up around the entire Department of Minnesota, at all levels, and I hope to get a chance to see many of you at these events.

Until next time, stay safe, stay warm, and “Be the One” because together we can do wonderful things.