6th District Commander’s Report

Greetings from the BIG 6th District.

So here we are, in the beginning of the fall season. National Convention is over, and we have a new national commander, Dan K. Wiley from Kansas. The weather in Tampa was hot, humid and rainy. But overall, we had a good time, and it was great to see old friends and make new ones.

Camporee weather was just the opposite of Tampa, except for the rain. That week was cold, windy and rainy. The 6th District Fish Fry was once again a success. Thank you to our volunteers and most of all, those that attended.

After that we had our annual 6th District joint meeting at Camporee. It was once again my privilege to welcome all the American Legion Family leadership. And as always, it is great when we can do things as the 6th District American Legion Family.

Especially this year since I have the privilege of serving our Big 6th District alongside my wife, Wendy, our 6th District Auxiliary president. Truly, it is an example of my theme, “Together We Can!”

Our department leadership and others even offered themselves up in the dunk tank again this year. What brave souls!

We also had the National Security/Foreign Relations Weekend at Camp Ripley. On Sunday there was an open house on camp. It was wonderful to see all the people that showed up to look around at what our Minnesota National Guard is doing. We should all be very proud of those young men and women.

Now comes the time of year when our diets are challenged by all of the membership dinners and special events we are asked to participate in. Wendy and I are honored to be invited to your events and look forward to seeing you. Next up for all of us is the Department Fall Conference in St. Cloud on Oct. 23-25. Please make attending this a priority.

There is so much to learn, and so many opportunities to build relationships and networking. As I said before “Together We Can” do wonderful things. If you are a post commander or adjutant, it is especially important for you to attend these events. You are the face and voice of your post. I’m looking forward to the Big 6th District turning up in force at this event.

Membership is in full swing, and we here in the Big 6th are doing well. While we still have work to do, we have started out well. The good news here in our district is that Jim Lucas is back leading the charge.

And as you can guess, we are ahead of last year. As of Sept. 19, we are at 63.86 percent, so we are on track and ahead of the schedule that has been published. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Until next time, have a safe, blessed fall and remember to Be the One!