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.