NECman: Congratulations to new commander and champs

By Bill Barbknecht

Congratulations to Dr. Carl Moon of Zimmerman Post 560 for being elected 2024-25 commander for The American Legion Department of Minnesota, and to all the department officers.

I cannot thank Paul Hassing of Bloomington Post 550 enough for all he did this past year as commander. Among other achievements, he raised over $134,000 to help our veterans and their families. All the miles he traveled to spread the good word of what The American Legion does for veterans, their families and communities.

Thank you, Paul and Jody, for all your work.

Bill Barbknecht

Minnesota American Legion Baseball and Fastpitch Softball.  Thank you to all who helped sponsor teams. A lot of fundraising work is done in the winter to make these programs successful in the summer.

The American Legion World Series will be Aug. 15-20 at Keeter Stadium in Shelby, N.C. Eight teams make it from a 64-team national tournament. There are eight teams at eight sites. Donna and I hope one of Minnesota’s two qualifiers, Div. I Sr. champ Farmington Post 189 and runner-up Osseo Post 172, win the Central Plains Tournament in West Fargo.

Let’s mention the other champs: St. Cloud Post 76 won the softball title. Becker Post 193 won Div. I Jr. The team from Holy Family (outside sponsor) out of Victoria won Div. I-A. Sleepy Eye Post 7 again won the Div. II Sr. The Div. II Jr. happened after the Legionnaire went to press.

Legionville summer camp has been a big success this past year and is coming back. Thanks to all the parents and posts who sent kids this summer.

The National Convention will be in New Orleans Aug. 23-29. A large delegation from Minnesota will be in attendance.  Sunday, Aug. 25, will be the Minnesota get-together at the National World War II Museum.  The 9th District Band will be playing that evening.

As we start a new year, pay your dues. Please, it’s not the price you pay; it’s the price you paid to belong. It’s an honor to belong to The American Legion.  Be the One to sign up a new member.

Bill Barbknecht of Fergus  Falls Post 30 is the Department of Minnesota’s National Executive Committeeman.