American Legion Post 36

Tue, 05/12/2020 - 7:30am

Last week, members of the American Legion and others from the community placed American flags at the graves of all members of our community who served in defense of this country. As you drive by these cemeteries, you will get an appreciation of just how patriotic our community is. When you think that less than 10% of our citizens nationally have served, you quickly see that far more of our men and women from this region rose their right hand and committed to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. We have the opportunity to recognize our veterans with three holidays; Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day. This Saturday, May 16, is Armed Forces Day. Armed Forces Day is the day to recognize the people who are currently serving in the Armed Services. On Monday, May 26, we honor those who died in while serving our country. And, on Nov. 11, we honor all veterans, living and deceased for their service.

Last week I attended via Webex the quarterly VA Togus update meeting. The director of the Maine VA healthcare system, Tracye Davis, reported on the current status of the COVID-19 at Togus and within the overall New England VA system. Togus has tested 190 veterans with 29 tested positive. Of those, nine have been resolved. There have been two employees with the virus, both have been resolved. While the VA is still experiencing patients with the virus, Togus is able to manage the situation well enough that they are able to provide staff to the VAs in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and the Hudson Valley where this is a critical staffing need. New England, MA, CT, and RI continue to experience an increasing trend of COVID-19 cases. Director Davis stated that they are expecting and prepared for multiple waves. At this time, she reported, there is no plan to reopen. Chris Smith, the regional director of the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) located at Togus, reported that they are working on a reopening plan. As a reminder, the VBA is the VA organization that manages claims.

While the Memorial Day parade has been cancelled, the Legion will have a ceremonial team conduct a brief ceremony, placing a wreath at each memorial on Memorial Day. Any member of the Legion who would like to be part of one of the ceremonial teams should contact the Hall at 633-4487.

Please call the Hall (633- 4487) if you know of a veteran family in need during this difficult time.