Detachment of Missouri Spring Conference - Jefferson City, MO - February 17-19, 2012

On this trip I got to sleep in a bit after a busy week at work and needed a little more rest, as my flight did not leave Orlando until 12:15pm. This trip took me from Orlando to Memphis and then onto Columbia, MO all-in-all the flights were very good.

I have to say that the Columbia airport is small...WOW!!! So far the smallest airport I have flown into. Walked off the plane and was greeted by a firefighter/police officer/paramedic and they were all the same person. Went into the terminal and blew by baggage claim without realizing it when I bumped into Detachment Commander Bill Basey. We turned around and went back into the room where I walked out of to see the conveyor belt for the luggage, which was only 20ft long. No worries, I got my luggage and we headed off to Jefferson City for the conference.

Once we arrived we got checked in to the hotel which was a few blocks from the Capitol Building. I had an opportunity to change clothes for dinner and the evening meetings. I attended the meeting for the Truman Day events that the Department of Missouri Legion Family participate in to honor President Harry S Truman who was the first Legionnaire to become President of the United States. A piece of history that I did not know. After that meeting, I met many of the Detachment officers during their Detachment Executive Committee Meeting where they were taking care of business. Had a good dialogue with the officers after the meeting.

Saturday morning it was breakfast with Commander Bill, NEC Joe Monti & his bride. Today was a busy day as we started with a visit to The American Legion Auxiliary to bring greetings. It was a lot of fun being with them. I am learning that like our Auxiliary members in Florida, Auxiliary members across the Nation are very creative. They appeared to be working hard on some projects.

After we met with The American Legion Auxiliary, we visited the Sons of The American Legion, where I was introduced early, but would give remarks later. After a short amount of time with the Sons, NEC Joe and I went to visit with The American Legion, where again, I was able to bring remarks and greetings on behalf of the Sons. I spoke of our program for the year and what we as Sons hope to accomplish and I have to tell you the feedback was great from the entire American Legion Family. I was honored to be in the room when American Legion Post 911 honored a Gold Star Family by naming their post of after Edward Myers a Missouri Serviceman killed in action in the War on Terrorism. I also attended the Department's Four Chaplain's Service which was nicely done.

Once this was over we had lunch and then back to the Sons meeting where I had an opportunity to give my remarks on what we needed help with this year. Expressed the program and what our goals were and those that attended genuinely appreciated the remarks and my visit. The final trip was to visit Post 5 in Springfield for dinner and I had a pork steak for dinner and it was a big'n. Had an opportunity to look around before heading back to the hotel to get ready to head home.

Sunday was a very early morning as NEC Joe and I were out the door at 4:15am to head for Columbia so I could catch my flight. I actually arrived at the airport before the Delta agents and TSA...how about that. Still amazed at the size of the airport...only one gate. This made the trip through security a breeze.

My thank to the entire American Legion Family of the Department of Missouri for making me feel a part of your family for the weekend and I look forward to serving with you this year. i truly appreciate all of the hospitality.

Springfield, Illinois - Lincoln Pilgrimage - February 10-12, 2012

Been a busy time with travel leading up to this trip. I was away on business for work and returned home on Thursday (2/9) to unpack and pack again for this trip. So as always it was late to bed and early to rise to travel to Illinois.

I arrived in Springfield, IL a little early, just before 10 local time, and was greeted by Past National Commander Tommie Cisna, his wife Kathy and NEC Bill Geary. Got my luggage and headed to the vehicle for the trip to visit the Illinois Department Headquarters. Once we arrived we met with their staff and I got the nickel tour. They have a great facility and learned that they do all of their own printing to include Legion Family publications. The really cool thing they do is they make all of the materials for the poppies at HQ also. I was told that they make enough materials to make 1 million poppies, that is awesome. Before I left I gave them all one of my pins and thanked them for all of the support they give to The American Legion Family.

From HQ it was off to lunch with Tommie, Kathy, Bill and Detachment Adjutant Jeff Van Horn. Good time we had along with discussing a few items relating to the education of membership moving forward. Sounds like they have some really good ideas.

NEC Bill and I then headed to Springfield to get checked into our hotel. Once there I saw National Commander Fang Wong and his Aide Doug Malin and we chatted before heading up to my room to drop off my things. I got a history lesson that afternoon as NEC Bill, PNC JR Stillwell and I went to the Abraham Lincoln Museum & Library. I must tell you that the museum was awesome and the shows were great. I had an opportunity to see all of the exhibits. Did you know that Lincoln was one of 4 Presidential candidates in 1860? Did you know that he did not get 40% of the popular vote. After the museum visit we returned to the hotel to get ready for a dinner that would make my doctor cringe. Dinner was at Darcy's which is home to the Horseshoe. This was a behemoth of a meal, but it was good. Two pieces of bread on the bottom, your choice of meat (I had ham & bacon), topped with french fries and to top it all off ladles of white cheese. I was told it was a heart attack on a plate. It was good and I almost ate it all, left a few fries.

Saturday was a very good day as I accompanied Commander Butch, National President Kris Nelson and others to the St John's Children's Hospital for a presentation and a tour. Kris and I had a great time on the tour, because we presented Josh Dogs to the kids. After the hospital we visited the Illinois National Guard Museum and took the tour of their Hall of Flags. A lot of history dating back to the Civil War. Finally we visited the home of Abraham Lincoln and took a tour given by the National Park Service. After the tour I had some downtime before the evening events.

Saturday evening we went to dinner at the Old Luxembourg Restaurant - real good food including a fried Lobster. Never had that before, but I got a taste and it was good. I was treated by Squadron 32 in Springfield and their Commander Dave.

Sunday, was the final day n Springfield, but it was the day most of the activities took place around the Lincoln Pilgrimage. Had breakfast with the Detachment staff and members of Squadron 32 before heading off to the Tomb of Lincoln. Once at the tomb, I placed a wreath on behalf of the Sons of The American Legion and gave remarks. Had to have some help with that and I thank PNC Joe Mayne for his assistance.

Commander Fang, President Kris and I did have our picture taken touching Lincoln's nose outside of the tomb. From there we visited the war memorials at the cemetery for WWII, Vietnam & Korea. My last stop of the day was back to the hotel for the luncheon where I gave remarks again and thanked everyone for allowing me to be a part of this event.

My thanks to Squadron 32 in Springfield, IL and the Illinois American Legion Family for the great time - I am honored to have been a part of this event.

Detachment of Louisiana Mid Winter Conference - Alexandria - January 20-22, 2012

Friday was a really early morning, I mean really, really early. 0300 Early. Good thing that I packed up the night before and checked in using my Delta App on the phone. Made it to the airport and through security with no issues. I got bumped into first class and slept the whole way to Atlanta. I was so tired, I didn't remember taking off. Arrived in Atlanta and made it to my next gate with a small layover. We boarded our flight to Alexandria, just to be taken off the flight due to mechanical problems. No worries, they moved us to another gate and got a fresh plane. We were about 2 hours later than expected but all was good.

When I arrived I was met by Detachment Adjutant Enos and a member of his Squadron Bobby. They made sure that I got to the hotel alright. There was another conference that was in the hotel during the day which caused a delay in getting into our rooms, but we made it and I got a little downtime before the evening meetings. I attended the Department Executive Committee with Detachment Commander Camille and Past National Commander Byron where all of the guests were introduced - National Vice Commander Larry Sheets (FL), Candidate for National Commander Dan Dellinger (VA) and I are the guests for the weekend. We stayed while the business was conducted until we had to leave for the Detachment Executive Committee Meeting. The Detachment Executive Committee Meeting was well attended and some good business was transacted. After the meeting I was treated to a great dinner with Commander Camille, PNC Byron and Detachment Vice Commander Al.

Saturday began with breakfast with PNC Byron and Commander Camille before the Joint Opening Session for The American Legion Family of Louisiana. The session was a good one that started with the West Monroe High School Air Force JROTC gave the best POW/MIA table ceremony that I have ever seen. It was a very moving ceremony that brought tears to the eyes of many, including mine. I had an opportunity to give my remarks to the Louisiana Legion Family. I didnt think that my remarks were too long, but I got a feeling that they may have been a little too long. Lesson learned as it relates to joint sessions - need to tailor comments for future sessions like these.

After the joint session we went to the Sons Conference. This was a very well attended conference with a lot of good business that was discussed. Ihad the opportunity to meet a couple of young SAL Members during the visit and I encouraged them to keep on being involved in the activities of the Sons, because we need more of our young members to stay interested. This past year the Sons made a coin to benefit the Boys and Girls State Governors. and they were able to present $200 to each of them from the money raised with last year's coin. This year 13 year old Darrin McCarthy designed the coin and they were selling like hotcakes.

The evening Membership Party was hosted by The American Legion Auxiliary with all of The American Legion Family participating. Even me. Tonights theme was super heroes. You had to come as a super hero or wear your PJs. Good for me I didn' have to wear my PJs. Detachment Commander Camille and I participated and his idea was to come in as Troy and Jacob from Swamp People. Good Idea and I was on board. The fun things we do to promote membership. Camille and I were a hit, we paddled down the aisle in our boat (parogie) Camille, as Troy, and I as Jacob. He hollored "CHOOT EM" and I did. Pulled out the rifle and shot the alligator. Camille and I won the contest and we decided to donate our winnings ($25.00) to the Department President's project which is the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

I had a great time during my visit to Louisiana and I would like to thank the Louisiana American Legion Family for the wonderful hospitality.

Detachment of Alabama Mid Winter Conference - Montgomery - January 13-15, 2012

Well it was an early Friday morning to travel to the Detachment of Alabama, the flights were very good with no problems. Of course I checked the weather before I left and knew it was going to be cold. It was about 40 degrees in Alabama. I arrived at the airport in Montgomery and was greeted by NEC Buddy Miller and NECA Tom Glander. It was a good ride from the airport to the hotel in Montgomery. Had to make a quick change once I arrived as I was speaking after lunch. Lunch was a taste of the local BBQ which was awesome. The restaurant was local restaurant named Dreamland and I must say it was very good.

After lunch I was introduced to The American Legion Department of Alabama and by what I have heard and been told the message was very well received. In the audience was Larry Sheets from Florida who is serving The American Legion this year as a National Vice Commander and it was good to have him there to see me in action. After my remarks i had the opportunity to sit in on the Department of Alabama Membership Workshop. The Department Membership Chairman was doing a fantastic job at presenting the information to those present.

After this I had some downtime until the Detachment Executive Committee Meeting that evening. They conducted a little business before dinner. NEC Buddy and I along with Commander Mike, his guest and Detachment Vice Commander Andy & his wife went to Post 122 in Millbrook for dinner. The nights menu was steak, potato and a salad. Of course, I am a carnivore and steak is always good. Had an opportunity to socialize with members of the Post Legion Family and then eat a superb meal. My thanks to The American Legion Family of Post 122. From there we went to Post 133 in Plattville. They had karaoke and a large crowd attending. NEC Buddy and I met the Squadron Commander Shawn, Post Commander Willie and Post 1st Vice Michael. We had a good time talking to them and listening to singers.

Saturday was an early morning, not too early though. NEC Buddy and I had breakfast prior to the beginning of their conference. The meeting was well attended and I gave my remarks to the Sons just after the opening. Of course I met Detachment Historian Josh who is 13 and has been a member for all his life. It was a busy morning with a visit to the Legion Riders and my thanks to Director Lee for allowing me the opportunity to speak and then onto to The American Legion Auxiliary and my thanks to Department President Brenda for the great introduction and the opportunity to speak. After lunch we came back to sit in the Americanism workshop and there was a lot of information that was given to the membership. Department Commander Jeff brought me back up to the podium for a few words and to present me a gift on behalf of The American Legion. Very much appreciated.

The wrap up for the day was the evening Department Banquet that was very well attended by the Alabama Legion Family. Meal was good and so was the entertainment.

Sunday will be attending the Memorial Service before heading back to Florida to get ready for my next visit which will be Louisiana.

My thanks to Department Commander Jeff, NEC Wayne & NECA Willis - Detachment Commander Mike, NEC Buddy & NECA Tom, Riders Director Lee, Department President Brenda and the entire Alabama American Legion Family for all of the true southern hospitality. I really appreciate all that you do for the organization.

Commander Roberts' Christmas Message

My Fellow Members of The American Legion Family,

I am so thankful to see that we are doing well this year and I am proud of the work that you all are doing for this great organization. The Christmas season is upon us and it is a time to celebrate with friends and family. It is also a time to be thankful for all of the blessings that we have received and celebrate the birth of our Lord.

Our most heartfelt and sincere thanks to our Nation’s servicemen & women and our Nation’s Veterans. It is because of their sacrifice and the sacrifices of their families that keep our Nation free and safe. Many of those who have been serving in Iraq are coming home hopefully in time for Christmas, but if not, they will be  very soon and I know that many holiday wishes are coming true. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice and will not be coming home ever again, so I ask that you pray a special prayer for them and keep their families in your thoughts and prayers this Holiday Season.

In the spirit of the season, my wife Anita and my daughters Jessica and Jasmine wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Jim Roberts

National Commander

Sons of The American Legion

Detacment of Hawaii Visitation - December 6-10, 2011

This was a short week for me at work as I was bound for the Aloha State of Hawaii to be with The American Legion National Commander Fang Wong (NY) and The American Legion Auxiliary National President Kris Nelson (MN) to represent The American Legion Family during the events surrounding the 70th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

My day started early Tuesday morning with my flight from Orlando to Atlanta and then the long ride from Atlanta to Honolulu. I arrived in Honolulu on Tuesday afternoon and was met by Department Adjutant & SAL NEC Bernard who presented me with a lei and then made sure I got to the hotel safely. Nothing to do the first day, so I grabbed dinner and hit the sack.

December 7th - Very early rise to head down to the USS Arizona Visitor's Center for the ceremonies. I traveled with Bernard for the day. We arrived and I was in awe at what I saw. I have always been fascinated with the history surrounding the attack and I just kept thinking what it was like that day, 70 years ago. The ceremonies were great and nicely done. There were over 120 Pearl Harbor Survivors in attendance which, from what I have heard, is more than in previous years. I was very honored to be there amongst them.

Once the ceremonies were finished, we had an opportunity to visit the visitors center exhibits and there were many and lots of survivors. We then took the launch over to the USS Arizona Memorial so we could view our wreaths and drop a flower from them into the harbor to honor the memory of those 1,177 men who perished aboard the ship. Squadron 291 in California also sent a wreath and I dropped a flower on their behalf also. During our visit to the memorial, there was a brief service conducted by the National Park Service. After the service, Daniel Martinez of the NPS and I spoke briefly and he thanked the Sons of The American Legion for their wreath and said that it means a great deal to many that we take the time to honor those that lost their lives, but also those survivors. I thanked him and told him that is what we do - We honor those who served and those who serve.

From the Arizona Memorial we went to get a quick bite to eat for lunch at Schooner's before heading over to Ford Island. Once on the island we visited the Battleship USS Missouri and were treated to a guided tour. Doc was our tour guide and he did a fantastic job and I learned a lot by listening to him give his presentation. After we finished at the Missouri, we headed to the other side of the island to visit the USS Utah Memorial. A little piece of trivia for you. Did you know that the USS Arizona and the USS Utah are the only 2 ships that remain in Pearl Harbor from the attack? I didn't until this trip. This was the end of the days activities for us. We went back to the hotel for some free time.

December 8 we all got to sleep in for a little while and we departed the hotel about 8:30. Today, I rode with Department Commander Joe McCloskey, Legion National Commander Fang and his wife Barbara. We started off our day at the National Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl Cemetery) where I was honored to place an American Legion Family Wreath with National Commander Fang and National President Kris at the cemetery. Additionally we had The American Legion Band from Post 6 in Holland, Michigan that played during our visit with them. Great band and one of only a few that have been together for over 70 years. We continued our visit to the cemetery by visiting the maps at the top of the stairs and then placed flowers at the Sons of The American Legion monument on the walkway.

From the Punchbowl we had lunch and then drove over to the Honolulu VA and had a tour of the facility and learned about the process that Veterans go through to get their benefits. It was all very interesting. We didn't get to the clinic due to some time constraints and we needed to get back to the hotel to get ready for the banquet.

We arrived at the banquet and met a Pearl Harbor Survivor - CSM Sterling Cale and he presented Commander Fang, President Kris and I with commemorative coins for the 70th Anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack and an autographed calendar. CSM Cale is 90 years old. I was so moved to have received the gifts from him. This was the highlight of my day.

December 9 was another early morning as we were going to Hickam Air Force Base to observe the Repatriation Ceremony for the arrival of remains from several locations across the globe including Laos, Europe, Canada and Papa New Guinea. When we arrived I had the opportunity to meet several national leaders from the other Veterans Service Organizations and Major General Stephen Tom the Commander of the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC). Sons NEC Bernard Lee asked if I wanted to sit or stand. Of course, I wasn't sure what that meant but I saw the formation and chose to stand with them to welcome home our nations fallen dead.

Other than being at the Pearl Harbor Ceremony, this ceremony was the most moving event that I have ever taken place in. I stood with National Commander Fang Wong, National President Kris Nelson and the National Leadership of the other VSOs. I was overcome with emotions as the remains of 6 servicemen were taken off of a C-17 aircraft by an honor guard, made up of servicemen & women from each of the Armed Services, passing by where we stood and placed into a special bus for transportation to JPAC. That was just plain amazing and I was very humbled and honored to be there to represent the Sons with The American Legion Family.

After the ceremony we visited JPAC and met with JPAC Commander, Major General Steven Tom he was very interested in the Sons of The American Legion and we spoke about what we do in support of The American Legion Family. It was a good discussion and we both agree that we need to make sure that our younger generation knows about the services and sacrifices that our men & women in the Armed Services had made to keep our Nation free. I was able to present him with a pin and thanked him on behalf of all of the Sons of The American Legion for his service and what he is doing to make sure that no US Service Personnel are left behind. Once our briefing was completed we took a tour of the facility and it is amazing the amount of work that is done to identify the remains of those brought back or those who are listed as unknowns.

Today was another great day to be the National Commander of the Sons of The American Legion. Words can't express my feelings and emotions for this visit.

I go home tomorrow with one more function and that is the Department of Hawaii Executive Committee Meeting in the morning I was told no necktie, so I will be in traveling attire.

Special Thanks to Bernard, Joe, Andy and The Hawaii American Legion Family for making me feel welcomed and for all of the hospitality. I had a great time and I look forward to being able to return again.