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Detachment Membership Chairman's Report

July 6, 2021

To All SAL Members,

I wanted to get this report out before our Convention this weekend. Membership has picked up some but still have a way to go to make 100% at this time we are 1276 short of making that goal. I know all of you want to make that goal and the only way to do it is get those renewals in and start getting new Members to join. Get on the phone and contact those Members to renew now.

Again all Squadrons have had their 2022 elections and many haven't sent in a copy of your Certification of Officers along with the SDR form to Austin. National also needs a copy of the SDR form. You will not receive your 2022 cards or be updated in the blue book.

As I said before let's make our Detachment Commander Eddy Seegers proud and get that Membership in. There is no reason why you can't!!! Again get on the phone and contact those Members to renew now, if you can’t get them to renew then sign up 3 new Members to replace every one Member that won’t renew.

I'll see everyone in Austin. I will be accepting Membership so bring lot of them.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Voting Strength

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@att.net



June 28, 2021

To All SAL Members,

3 more Squadrons made 100% since the last report. Squadron 42 Gatesville, Squadron 317 Jarrell and Squadron 245 Seguin. Also we have District 10 that has passed 100% in Membership. Again a great job to those 3 Squadrons and District 10. Keep up the good work!!!

Right now there are 24 Squadrons that need 3 or less in Membership to reach their100% goal. Get on the phone and contact those Members to renew now.

All Squadrons have had their elections and many haven't sent in a copy of your Certification of Officers along with the SDR form to Austin. National also needs a copy of the SDR form. You will not receive your 2022 cards or be updated in the blue book.

We are 1324 Members short of reaching 100% Goal.

Let's make our Detachment Commander Eddy Seegers proud and get that Membership in. There is no reason why you can't!!! Again get on the phone and contact those Members to renew now, if you can’t get them to renew then sign up 3 new Members to replace every one Member that won’t renew.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Voting Strength

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@att.net



June 17, 2021

To All SAL Members,

The membership that National shows will be listed on these reports from now on, and not what our Department in Austin receives from Squadrons because Austin has to send the Membership with the Membership dues to National and that will take more time. Once National process the Membership and sends it back to our Department in Austin those are the figures that will be posted on the report.

Some Squadrons will see different Membership from report to report. National is still working on the problem and hopefully it will get worked out soon. I will talk more about this at our Convention next month in Austin.

8 Squadrons made 100% since the last report. Squadron 283 Bonham, 624 Mansfield, 586 Houston, 493 Nederland, 817 Beaumont, 554 League City, 122 Anthony and 163 Weatherford. Great job and keep up the good work.

Membership is picking up but still have a way to go to make 100% as a Detachment. Detachment is short of 1432 in Membership.

Again Don't forget to send a copy of your Certification of Officers to Austin along with the SDR form. National needs a copy of the SDR form.

Attached below is a copy of the Voting strength is included in this report and will be the one Detachment will use for electing our Officers for the year 2022. We can only use what Natiional is showing 30 days prior to the election. At large votes are not included on the report. Every Squadron will need to fill out a Certification of Convention Delegates sheet and have it turned into me by 12:00 noon Saturday 07/10/2021. No exceptions !!! I will add the at large votes when I receive this form at the Convention. At large delegates must be on the floor when voting starts.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Voting Strength

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@att.net



May 31, 2021

To All SAL Members,

Again five more Squadrons made 100% since the last report. Squadron 83 Austin, Squadron 511 Dallas, Squadron 173 Mercedes, Squadron 273 McGregor and Squadron 361 Ennis. A great job to all 5 Squadrons.

Don't forget to send a copy of your Certification of Officers to Austin along with the SDR form. National needs a copy of the SDR form.

We are 1694 Members short of reaching 100% Goal by 06/09/2021. With all posts open now there should be no reason why you can't get the Membership sent in.

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@att.net



May 11, 2021

To All SAL Members,

Five more Squadrons made 100% since the last report. Squadron 264 Burkburnett, Squadron 85 Palestine, Squadron 253 Big Lake, Squadron 12 Tyler and Squadron 667 Universal City. Again a great job to all 5 Squadrons.

As Elections of Squadrons are upon us it is very important to fill out a Certification of Officers form for 2022 and send it into our Department of Texas in Austin also include a copy of the SDR (Squadron Data Report) form with it. SDR is for Squadrons only. Also Send in a Certification of Officers form for any Districts / Divisions that are having Elections this year. It would be nice to update the Blue Book with the correct Squadron, District and Division information. This needs to be sent in as soon as your Elections are over. Here is a link for each Certification of Officers https://saltexas.org/salforms.html

SDR has to be filled out every year and sent to National and the Department of Texas. A attachment is included with the Membership Report. Again Membership will not be accepted by National or Department without a SDR form on file for the years 2021 and 2022.

Our 100% Membership date is 06/09/2021 and are 1973 short for making goal. With post now being open there is no reason why we are that short, get out there and get those renewals. Again membership will not be posted without a SDR form on file.

Annual Squadron Data Report - SDR (new form)


Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@att.net



April 14, 2021

To All SAL Members,

Two more Squadrons made 100% last week. Squadron 353 Carthage and 242 Burton. Great job to both Squadrons.

I know National is having a few problems with their new system and are having problems about getting Membership turned in on their new system. It will get worked out and every Squadron will have to Submit a SDR form to National in order to Submit your Membership before the 15th of May. All Squadrons will have to Submit a SDR for the remaining year of 2021 now and all Squadrons will have to Submit another SDR form for the year 2022. National will not accept any Membership from a Individual, Squadron or Department of Texas without a SDR form on file. Fill out both SDR Forms for each year (2021-2022) now or you won't be able to Submit your Membership.

Division and District Commanders this is your responsibility to make sure each Squadron complies with submitting the SDR form now.

All Squadron will have their Elections next month Submit your Certification of Officers to our Headquarters like you have been.

I have enclosed the SDR form and the SAL Consolidated data report in this mailing to those who gets and reads this report.

I will give your more information about this when I receive it, Do Not Call National or Department Headquarters. Right now just get those SDR forms sent in.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Squadron Data Report and Consolidated Report Information

Annual Squadron Data Report - SDR (new form) due May 1, 2021

Consolidated Squadron Report -CSR (revised) due July 16, 2021

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



March 24, 2021

To All SAL Members...

Detachment had 5 Squadrons that made 100% last week. 4 of the Squadrons were out of the 2nd Division and one Squadron from the 3 Division. The Squadrons are 618 Willis, 223 Killeen, 573 Harker Heights, 654 Houston and 533 Bastrop. A job well done to all 5 Squadrons keep up the good work.

We had 210 in membership turned in and have finally made it passed the 60% goal mark (Not Good, Not Good at all). Every Squadron really needs to achieve 90% in Membership by 04/14/2021. Most Squadrons has a meeting or two every month take some time during that meeting and start calling your Members to renew. Don't wait for them to come to you to pay their dues. Start calling them tell them how important they are to your Squadron.

Over half of the Squadrons in this report only need 10 or less in Membership to reach your goal of 100% with posts open now you can do it.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



March 15, 2021

To All SAL Members...

I'll try to make this letter quick.

First of all the Detachment only had one Squadron that made 100% this last week and it was Squadron 379 Bedford. Great job to Bedford by making goal before the American Legion Birthday today 03/15/2021

Now I've had a few Squadrons that has Called & Emailed me that they had sent in their Membership last week to make their 100% goal before the American Legion Birthday that did not show up on this report. So this is what I am going to do I will extend the cutoff date to 03/19/2021 that's this Friday. I feel this is plenty of time to help those Squadrons that just opened back up due to the virus and those who contacted me. Again this will be the final cutoff date. Maybe it will help that Division Commander who said he left his Membership at home during our DEC in Austin a week ago Saturday.

I really don't like seeing our Detachment of Texas being on the bottom of the barrel in the ranking of Membership at the National level. Our next goal of 90% is on 04/14/2021 and are 1968 Members short. Come on Guys throw another log on the fire and build up the steam in your Squadron and get those Renewals in now and start working on new Membership that can be a part of your Squadron.

Let those members that have not renewed their membership how important they are to your Squadron. Also tell those new Members what your Squadron does to help the community, State and Nation and how important they can be to your Squadron. Give every Member a reason why they should Join or Renew.

I was asked to include a link for a BBQ Cook Off coming up in Willis sponsored by the Sons of the American Legion in this letter.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



March 5, 2021

To All SAL Members...

Detachment had 3 more Squadrons that made 100% on this report. Squadron 21 The Colony, 504 Mesquite and 560 Houston. Great job to those 3 Squadrons on making their goal. Remember if your Squadron reaches 100% by the American Legions Birthday on March 15th you will received a Check. There are quite a few Squadrons that need 5 or less members to make goal to received a check.

Now that Posts will be open fully next week there should be no excuses why you cannot send in membership. Get out there and renew those members that have not paid and get working on new members. There should be no reason why you cannot make 100%. Let's make our Detachment Commander Eddy Seegars proud by reaching 100%

Again let those members that have not renewed their membership how important they are to your Squadron. Also start working on new membership.

Saturday is our DEC in Austin and I will be accepting membership even if it's just one, because everyone counts. I will be talking more about membership at the meeting.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



February 11, 2021

To All SAL Members...

First of all we had 2 Squadrons that made 100% this week. Squadron 88 Lake Dallas and Squadron 226 East Bernard. Great Job to both Squadrons keep up the good work. Who's going to be the next Squadron to make 100% will it be your own Squadron? Remember if your Squadron reaches 100% by the American Legions Birthday on March 15th you will received a Check.

Well our 75% goal date of 02/10/2021 has come and gone. Our 80% goal date is due on 03/10/2021 and are only 1733 Members short of that goal. OK enough said about that. Let's put out real a effort to at least make our 60% goal of 444 and more by that date.

Let those members that have not renewed their membership how important they are to your Squadron.

Saturday is our DEC in Austin and I will be accepting membership even if it's just one, because everyone counts.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



February 2, 2021

Detachment had 180 in membership turned in this last week. I want to say Thanks to those Squadrons that turned in membership. Our next goal is 75% on 02/10/2021 and are 1602 members short of that goal.

I know we are passed the 60% goal date and are short 635 in membership but do you think you can put in some effort and make that goal before 01/10/2021

There are several Squadrons that need 5 or less in membership to reach 100% to received a check by the American Legion Birthday on March 15th. I have sent in the list for those Squadrons that made their 100% goal before December 31st and those Squadrons should be receiving their check by mail. Department Headquarters will mail those checks out.

There are quite a few Squadrons that really need to reach out to their members to renew. Most Squadrons have worked hard on building up their membership over the year's not to lose it all in a year's time. Get those renewals in and be proud of your Squadron.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



January 19, 2021

To all SAL Members

I really wish I could give some good news on this report. Detachment only had 138 in membership turned in this last week which leaves 814 short of achieving our goal of 60% short on the 01/21/2021 cutoff date. 59 Squadrons have reached 60% or more. Thanks to the Squadrons that did send in some membership even if it's only one. As a Detachment we are not doing very good at all. Remember the American Legion Post that you belong to is sending in their membership in at a timely manner and as a Squadron of that Post you should too. You will not catch the Virus by calling a member to renew.

100% membership checks will be mailed to those Squadrons that reached their goal before 01/04/2021 and the 2nd round of 100% checks will be mailed after the American Birthday March 15th.

Let's all start by calling on your members to renew their membership. Take pride of your Squadron only you can prevent membership loss. Remember if they have not renewed their membership they are not a member of good standing. There are still Squadrons out there that have not sent in their Certification of Officers and or sent in any membership.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



January 5, 2021

To all SAL Members

We had 150 in membership turned since the last report and I want to thank the Squadrons that sent in membership. We are now 952 short of achieving our 60% goal on 01/21/2021. Only 52 Squadrons have reached the 60% out of 167 Squadrons so that means 115 Squadrons are falling behind. Now that the holidays are over lets all pick up the pace and reach out to your members and get those renewals in. For those Squadrons where the post is closed and the membership get sent to the Post you need to reach out to the Post Commander or Adjutant to get your membership and send it in.

Well 3 more Squadrons reached their 100% goal before the January 4th cutoff date. The 3 Squadrons are 310 Gun Barrel City, 202 Archer City and 93 Mission Great Job to all 3 Squadrons.

The next round of 100% goal checks has now started and will end on the American Birthday March 15th.

I am attaching a link for the Membership Manual for those who don't know how to fill out the membership report https://saltexas.org/forms/member_manual.pdf

Let all start this New Year right contact your members in your Squadron about renewing their membership. Remember if they have not renewed their membership they are not a member of good standing. There are Squadrons still out there that have not sent in their Certification of Officers.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



December 23, 2020

To all SAL Members

First of all I am extending the cutoff date to all Squadrons that are qualified to received a 100% goal check to January 4th due to the fact that Headquarters will be closed for the Holidays. This time last year Detachment had 20 Squadrons that reached 100% before the cutoff date and so far this year Detachment has 7 Squadrons qualified for the 100% check of $50.00 Here is a link of who is qualified and who is not. https://saltexas.org/member/detawards.pdf

3 more Squadrons reached their 100% goal this last week. Squadron 297 Benbrook, Squadron 120 Wichita Falls and Squadron 388 Midlothian. A job well done to all 3 Squadrons and welcome to the 100% club.

I know times are tpuhj and some post are closed but there are Squadrons in those closed posts that are still sending in membership, Good job to you for making a effort of getting the membership sent in. Detachment had 11 Squadrons that sent in 2 or less in membership last week. Like I said before everyone counts and thanks for not holding on to them.

As 2020 is coming to a end I am sending out the last 2020 membership report which shows Detachment lost 617 members. I feel you all did the best you could due to the circumstances of the Virus and want to thank you all for your effort. Any squadrons that should get any renewals for 2020 after the 1st of January membership dues will be $15.00 not $12.00 and all 2020 renewals must be sent into Austin.

Now that 2021 is almost upon us and our next goal of 60% is 01/21/2021 and Detachment is short 1103 in membership for that target date. That goal is not out of reach because we have shown progress in getting the membership in. Also there are Squadrons in every Divisions that are not certified and no membership turned in from Squadrons that are certified. All officers should have their membership due paid by January 1st or you're not a member in good standing and have no voting power or any say in your Squadron until your membership dues are paid. Squadron officers start the New Year off right and pay your Dues now and show a example to others in your Squadron. Don't forget the dues that need to be sent into National or Austin is $15.00

I do want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and New Years and be safe, Don't forget to do a buddy check. Take a plate of food or a fruit basket to someone that has no Family and Brighten up their day.

Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

Jon Kingston - PDC
Membership Chairman
jonkings@centurytel.net



December 9, 2020

To all SAL Members

We had 2 more Squadrons that reached their 100% goal this last week Squadron 507 Balch Springs and Squadron 309 Helotes. Lets welcome our newest Squadron to our Detachment, Squadron 303 Boerne that sent in 33 members and reached their 100% goal. Great job to all 3 Squadrons and keep up the good work.

I do have to say we are doing better getting the membership turned in but were still short of achieving our 45% on 12/08/2020 by 345 members. There are still quite a few Squadrons that have not even sent in any membership or their Certifications and that's in all 4 Divisions. Our next goal date for 60% is 01/21/2021 and are short by 1277 members. We have 6 weeks which is plenty of time to reach our goal but it's going to take all Squadrons to make that happen. Remember all membership counts even if you only send in 1 membership.

There is only 4 Squadron so far that reached their 100% goal by January 1st that will received a check it would be nice to see a lot more. Last year we had 20 Squadrons that reached their 100% goal before January 1st.

Don't forget to renew those 2020 members so they don't lose their continuous years of being a member those need to be in by December 31st.

I am attaching a letter and a form that was not sent in to national by your Post Commander / Adjutant with the correct information Squadron Commanders/Adjutants fill out the info on the bottom half of the form and give it to the Post Commander or Post Adjutant.

  • Every Squadron on the list in the letter is not showing up in Nationals data base for future mailings from National.
  • This has nothing to do with the Certification of Officers you send into Austin.

    Like I said before I want to hear from all Division / District Commanders on what you are doing about Membership. As of this date I only been contacted by 2 District Commanders the 4th and 13th District both in the 1st Division. Remember I am here to help but can't do anything unless I hear from all of you. Squadron Commanders you can contact me also.

    Don't forget to do a buddy check to see if anyone needs a ride to the store or a meal or even a ride to the VA Hospital.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    • November 24, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    I do have some good news this week we had 449 in Membership sent in to National. Good job to all the Squadrons that sent in Membership. If you only have 1 Membership to send in, send it everyone counts.

    Squadron 550 Pilot Point has made their goal of 100% this last week. Great job to Squadron 550.

    We are now 696 Members short of our 45% goal on 12/09/2020 That's 16 days away I know you can achieve this goal but it's going to take all of you to make it. You already showed me that you can do it because of the large amount of Membership that was sent in this last week.

    Division / District Commanders reach out to you Squadrons because some of these Squadron Commanders and Adjutants are new and don't not know how to send in Membership because and no one has showed them how to fill out the Membership and send it in.

    Again Division / District Commanders I want to know what you have been doing and who you contacted about membership. I only had one District Commander that contacted me last week.

    If you need help I am here for you and you can contact me or you can contact a PDC in your area for help.

    Department Headquarters is now closed until December 2nd because of the Virus. If you send your Membership to Headquarters keep doing that it will be process when they reopen.

    Thanksgiving is upon us and it's a good time to do a buddy check and or take a plate of food to someone and brighten up their day.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    November 13, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    I wish I could say something good in this report but I can't.

    First of all we were 530 members shorts of making the 35% goal on 11/12/2020 so that means the next goal date on 12/09/2020 at 45% is now 1681 members short. Only 3 Districts made the 35% goal. This is not good at all and very unacceptable. I know you can do better.

    Division Commanders need to contact their District Commanders about who the District Commanders contacted in their Squadrons in that District. If there is no District Commander you need to contact each Squadron in the District about Membership. If any of you can't get in contact with the Squadron you need to contact the Post Commander about the Squadron.

    Division / District Commanders I want to know what you have been doing and who you contacted about membership.

    If you need help I am here for you and you can contact me.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    November 2, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    First of all I would like to thank the 3 Squadrons that sent in 2020 membership last week. Squadron 310 Gun Barrel City with 37 members, 624 Mansfield with 1 member and Squadron 95 Huntsville with 7 members. Great job in getting those renewals in. It would be nice to see more Squadrons out there going after the 2020 renewals and not lose those members with continuous years in membership, and at least try to achieve 90% in membership for your Squadron before the end of the year.

    27 Squadrons sent in a total of 221 in membership for 2021 sent in last week . Detachment is now 608 members short of making our 35% goal on 11/12/2020 This can be done but it's going to take each and every Squadron to send in the membership to make this goal. 52 Squadrons out of 166 Squadrons has passed their 35% goal. 114 Squadrons need to pick up the pace and send in their membership. Get your Officers to pay their dues now.

    39 Squadrons have not even certified at this time and there is no reason for that. While some of those 39 Squadrons may be inactive it's up to the SAL Division / District commanders to contact those Post Commanders and have them send in a inactive Squadron letter to Bill West at the American Legion Department of Texas so we can adjust our spreadsheet and membership goals.

    Well tomorrow is voting day and a good time to do a buddy check to see if anyone needs a ride to the polling stations.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    October 23, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Detachment is now 829 Members short of making our 35% goal on 11/12/2020. Contact your Members and get those renewals in now. Start taking pride of your Squadron and get your Membership in. All officers in your Squadron should have already paid their 2021 dues and show a example to your Members.

    There are 6 Squadrons in the 1st Division, 8 Squadrons in the 2nd Division, 14 Squadrons in the 3rd Division and 8 Squadrons in the 4th Division that are not Certified. Division Commanders and District Commanders please get in contact with those Squadrons and or the Post Commander to get them Certified.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    October 12, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Sorry for the late report I had few things that came up around here and it would take 2 pages of details if I were to explain it all so I'll leave it as that.

    We had 5 Squadrons that did send in 20 Membership renewals for the year 2020 and Squadron 226 East Bernard reached their 100% goal. I want to say Thanks to those 5 Squadrons for sending in 2020 Membership. Keep those renewals coming in. We are still 683 members short for our 2020 goal.

    The 2021 Report has changed but has a couple of glitches that still needs to be worked out. The report shows each Divisions broken down to Districts and the Squadrons in that District and how that District stands on their Membership goal in the chart.

    Another Squadron reached their 100% goal and it was Squadron 275 Dallas. again good job in reaching your goal.

    Membership is coming in very slowly we are still 479 short of making our 25% goal on 10/15/2020 witched we never missed. You cannot afford to lose your members. Also it makes the next goal harder to reach. The next Membership goal of 35% is on 11/12/20 and the goal is 1100 We really need to put wood on the fire and go out and get these renewals.

    Division Commanders need to look at the new graph of this report to see where the Districts are not meeting their Membership goal and talk to each District Commander in your Division, and make sure they call or go to the Squadrons and get this Membership going. If there is not a District Commander for that District then you will need to contact each Squadron in that District yourself. Also Follow up with the District Commanders to make sure they are doing their job in contacting their Squadrons about Membership.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    September 25, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    One Squadron made 100% this last week and it was 169 Wichita Fall.

    We our only 874 members short of making our 25% goal on 10/15/2021 I know you can do it because we have always made that goal before. Squadrons get your officers and membership to renew now and achieve your goal early. A few 2021 Certifications were also sent into Austin but there are 34 Squadrons that are not Certified.

    There were a few Squadrons that sent in some 2020 membership keep sending it in and renew those members. Were still 703 short from making 100% for 2020

    Don't forget Fall DEC is this Saturday in Austin. So bring lots of membership with you.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    September 14, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    I'll make this letter short. We did make our 10% goal for the 2021 membership but were a day late for the target date of 09/10/2020. Now we are 966 short to make our next target date at 25% on 10/15/2020. Let's make that target date on time we have in the pass and we can do it again.

    No membership to report this week for 2020. As I said before Squadron Commanders contact your Members that have not paid their dues for 2020 so they don't lost their continuous years of being a member.

    We still have quite a few Squadrons that are not Certified. District Commanders contact the Posts/Squadrons in your District and help them get certified. Division Commanders need to follow up with their Districts Commanders. If there is no District Commander in your Division then you need to contact the Post/Squadrons.

    Again those Squadrons that are certified should have their officers pay their dues now and show a example to your membership and achieve your goal.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    September 7, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    2020 Membership is coming in very slowly. I hate to see our Membership has fallen so badly down by 1042 Members. I know Squadron Commanders can do more to reach out to their membership that have not paid their dues by reminding them how important they are to their Squadron and to the Organization not to mention they can lose their continuous years of being a member.

    I would like to congratulate our 1st Squadron to make their 100% goal for the 2021 membership and it's is Squadron 133 Temple well done!!!

    At this time Detachment is 68 Members short of our 10% goal by 09/10/20 for the year 2021 and also 1025 members short to reach our goal date of 10/15/20 Is there any reason why Squadrons that are certified have not sent in any membership yet. Those Squadron should at least have their officers pay their dues when they receive their 2021 membership cards.

    Also there are quite a few Squadrons that are not Certified. Division Commanders should be contacting those Squadrons and District Commanders to get them Certified. There is no reason why those Squadrons are not certified. Contact the Post Commander and inform them their Squadron is not certified I am sure they will help. Certifications need to be sent to Austin.

    If you notice on 2021 report I am missing District Commanders if anyone knows your District Commander please E-mail me so I can add them on the report.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    August 10, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Detachment had 2 more Squadrons that reached 100%.

    Squadron 15 Lindale and Squadron 122 Anthony it's good to see that some Squadron are still on board in getting their membership in and making 100% for 2020. A few reports ago I accidentally named a Squadron that got 100% the correct Squadron really is 447 Round Rock that achieved their goal of 100% Great job to all 3 Squadrons.

    There are quite a few Squadrons out there that need 3 or less in membership to be turned in to make 100% for 2020. Don't use the excuse that I can't get into the post to do membership contact your Post Commander so he can let you into the Post so you can sent in your Membership. Also you need to contact members that have not renewed so they don't lose their current years being a member. I know at this time trying to get new members will be difficult so work on the renewals. Detachment is 78 members short of making 90% in goal. All Squadrons still need to send in their 2020 membership of $12.00 into Austin

    Ok everyone should have turned in their Certification of Officers by now and only 1 District has 100% of all Squadrons that are certified and that is District 5. I am including the 2021 membership report so you can see which Squadrons are not certified also this report is subject to change.

    Don't forget to do buddy checks with your Members, Veterans, Seniors and your Neighbors. This virus is not going to go away any time soon. Do simple things like wash your hands and wear a mask when in public stay safe

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    July 19, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    First the good news Detachment had 3 more Squadrons that reached 100%.

    597 Carrollton, 89 Texas City and 122 Anthony Great job to all 3 Squadrons keep up the good work, also I've been told I missed mentioning 618 Willis.

    Now for those Squadrons that made 100% before the American Legion birthday I have sent a list of all those Squadrons to the Finance Officer with the amount and their mailing address listed in the Blue Book where the checks will be sent to. Checks will not be handed out at the DEC this time around due to the Virus over safety concerns.

    Ok now for the bad news... Everyone knows by now the membership dues are going up to $15.00 for the year 2021. Keep sending in the 2021 like you have been.

    Now for even more bad news… As of June 1st 2020 National raised the remaining 2020 Dues.

    I have attached the Resolution that was passed last August at the 48th National Convention. I know this will make some Squadrons upset and this caught Detachment and Myself by surprise but there is a work around to this problem for the remaining 2020 dues increase from National. Here is what I purpose for those Squadrons that pay their dues on line you can pay that extra $3.00 for a total of $15.00 or you can send in your Membership dues to Austin like you have done before and pay $12.00. Detachment will make up the $3.00 for a total of $15.00 for the 2020 dues only if it's sent into Austin!!!. So for now all Squadrons need to send in 2020 Membership dues to Austin. Division and District Commanders it’s your job to get this out and pass it along to your Squadrons. There is no reason for Squadrons not to send in 2020 Membership dues with this work around. Detachment still needs 123 to reach 90%

    Keep sending in the Certification of Officers which should have already been sent with the correct information so I can start working on the 2021 spreadsheet and the contact information so it can be updated in the Blue Book by Bill Kuehner. Division and District Commanders please contact your Squadrons and make sure they have sent in the Certification of Officers.

    Keep sending in your 2020 membership

    Don't forget to do buddy checks with your Members, Veterans, Seniors and your Neighbors. This virus is not going to go away any time soon. Do simple things like wash your hands and wear a mask when in public stay safe.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    June 21, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Well it's very sad week for membership only 13 turned in. Lets at lease try to make 90% we are 143 short I know you can at least reach 90%. Enough said about that.

    This is a note from the Detachment Adjutant's office. The 2021 cards are in.

    However due to what is going on, there will be a few changes implemented for a short period of time. If your Squadron has certified their new officers and there are NO PUFL members inside that Squadron, you will get your cards starting as soon as next week. However, if your Squadron has PUFL members, your cards will probably take about an additional 2-3 weeks. I will be picking up all Squadron cards that have PUFL members next week and proceed to process all PUFL members and then return the cards to Headquarters for mailing. Everyone, please be patient. I am not happy with what is going on just like you. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Bill Kuehner or myself. Anyone that gets this email, could you please forward it on to anyone else/Squadron in your area, District and/or Division so everyone will know the correct procedure.

    Please send in your Certification of Officers now so Bill Kuehner can update the Blue Book and you can get your 2021 cards.

    It's time to do buddy checks again to your Members, Veterans, Seniors and your Neighbors. This virus is not going to go away any time soon. Do simple things like wash your hands and wear a mask when in public. Stay safe and have a great 4th of July.

    Don’t forget when you do get the 2021 cards the Membership dues that you sent in to National or Austin will be $15.00.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    June 15, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    I hope everyone is safe and well and that some of you at least did buddy check to your Members, Veterans, and your Neighbors.

    We have 5 more Squadrons that made their 100% goal this last week. Squadron 243 Mt. Vernon, Squadron 453 Dallas, 208 Kerrville, 472 Pasadena and 477 Round Rock a job well done to all 3 Squadrons. This brings a total of 46 Squadrons that have made 100% there are quite a few Squadrons that need 5 or less in renewals to make their 100%. Now that more Posts are opening up, now is the time to reach out to your Members that have not paid their 2020 dues.

    Membership has been slow that why there was no report the last month due to Austin being closed. Mamie has been going to Headquarters this week and has been updating the membership that has been sent into Austin. As the stay at home order is easing some hopefully we all can try to get back on track. As some of you know National has changed the dates for our Detachment Goal. The 100% goal is due on 06/17/2020 and is 806 short. Let's not stop trying to achieve our 100% goal we might not make it by 06/17/2020 but we can still make an effort. Please contact you members to renew.

    This has been brought to my attention that a District Commander thinks he can go over everyone's heads and call National or our Department Headquarters demanding the 2021 cards. First of all the 2021 cards has not even been sent out by National. Austin might get them in a couple of weeks and then the PUFL cards has to be pulled and then the cards will be mailed out to the Squadrons that sent in their Certification of Officers. So chill out Mr. District Commander if you want to know something about Membership you contact the Membership Chairman. So quit worrying about the 2021 cards and get out there and get some renewals and new members remember we are still 806 short!!!

    Don’t forget when you do get the 2021 cards the Membership dues that you sent in to National or Austin will be $15.00.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    June 2, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    We have 3 more Squadrons that made their 100% goal this last week. Squadron 243 Mt. Vernon, Squadron 453 Dallas and 208 Kerrville a job well done to all 3 Squadrons. This brings a total of 44 Squadrons that have made 100% There are quite a few Squadrons that need 5 or less in renewals to make their 100%. Now that more Posts are opening up, Now is the time to reach out to your Members that have not paid their 2020 dues.

    Everyone should know that Membership dues will be increased to $15.00 for the 2021 cards starting in July. So send in the right amount!! District Commanders contact your Squadrons about the increase.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    May 8, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    I hope everyone is safe and well and that some of you at least did buddy check to your Members, Veterans, and your Neighbors.

    Membership has been slow that why there was no report the last month due to Austin being closed. Mamie has been going to Headquarters this week and has been updating the membership that has been sent into Austin. As the stay at home order is easing some hopefully we all can try to get back on track. As some of you know National has changed the dates for our Detachment Goal. The 90% goal is now due on 05/13/2020 which we need 328 more membership turned in. The 100% goal is due on 06/17/2020 and will let you know what we need to reach that goal next week.

    We had 4 Squadrons that have made their 100% goal Squadron 488 New Boston, Squadron 79 Alpine, Squadron 93 Mission and Squadron 227 Roscoe Great job to all 4 Squadron.

    There are a few Squadrons that needs 3 or less in membership to be turn in to make their 100% goal. I know the Virus has hurt us on achieving our goal but we can get back on track it's going to take every Squadron to pull together and make it happen.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    March 14, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Well you did it again Detachment made the 80% goal for National before the deadline of 03/14/20 with 11 members over at 80.18%. I just want to say a job well done.

    Now we have a bigger hurdle and less than a month to do it in, We need 633 members to be turned in to National by 04/11/20 to make our 90% goal. Yes it can be done but it will take everyone to do their part to make this happen.

    I made a mistake on the last report that there were no Squadrons that made 100% well there was one Squadron 36 El Paso. This week so far there is 2 Squadrons that made 100% 248 Hooks and 490 Houston. Great job to all 3 Squadrons. Since you did a great job on making the 80% goal I will extend any Squadron that makes their 100% goal, A check until 03/16/20.

    Next membership report will be next week.

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    March 9, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    No Squadron made 100% this week and only 6 Days to go until all this money I want to give away go's away. We still need 97 more members to reach our 80 goal by 03/12/20, Detachment is now at 78.50%

    Now there is still 25 Squadrons that have not sent in any Membership in. District Commanders go to those Squadrons now! Division Commanders help those District Commanders.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    March 2, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    First of all I would like to Thank John Schendel for all the work he did to establish a new Squadron 369 Westhoff in the 14th District with 50 new members. Let's all welcome our new Squadron to the Detachment of Texas. We also had Squadron 654 Houston that made 100% in membership this last week.

    This week we received 191 in membership transmittals that were sent in to national last week. We still need 163 more members to reach our 80 goal by 03/12/20, Detachment is now at 77.48% We only have about 10 days to reach that goal. Lets dig a little bit deeper in the membership pot and make our 80% goal. Time is running out if you want your Squadron to receive a check for reaching 100% in membership by the American Legion Birthday on March 15th.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    February 24, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    This last week we had 2 more Squadrons that made 100% in membership. Squadron 264 Burkburnett and 593 Converse again a great job to both Squadrons.

    This week we received 158 in membership transmittals that were sent in to national last week. We still need 354 more members to reach our 80 goal by 03/12/20, Detachment is now at 74.52% . I know we can do better than that. We only have about 21 days to reach that goal, also we only have 3 Districts that have over 80% out of 22 Districts.

    We still have quite a few Squadrons that need 5 or less members to reach their 100% goal before the American Legions birthday on March 15th. So get those memberships in. I want to give out more of Detachments money to those Squadrons that make 100% before March 15th.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    February 15, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    This week we received 174 in membership transmittals that were sent in to national last week. We did not reach our 75% goal by 02/14/20 we were 188 members short of goal. Detachment is now at 70.08% . Our next goal of 80% will be due on 03/12/20 and need 511 in membership turned into National by our next goal date. We still have quite a few Squadrons that have not sent in any membership in all Divisions.

    Now for some good news we had 5 Squadrons that made 100% in membership this last week.

    644 Channelview, 390 Raymondville, 231 Pottsboro, 388 Midlothian and 317 Jarrell Great Job to all of you...

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    February 5, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    This week we received 62 in membership transmittals that were sent in to National this week so far which brings it down to 361 more Membership we need to reach our 75% goal by 02/12/20. Detachment is now at 69.40% for our National goal. We only have 7 days to reach this goal lets show National we can do it.

    I will be accepting Membership at the Midwinter DEC this weekend so don't come empty handed even if it’s only 1 bring it every one counts. We can make the Goal this weekend we have done it before.

    See everyone this weekend drive safely.

    Until the next time THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    February 1, 2020

    To all SAL Members

    Way to go Squadron 379 Bedford for achieving your 100% Membership goal this last week.

    We received 96 in membership transmittals that were sent in to national last week which brings it down to 422 more Membership we need to reach our 75% goal by 02/12/20. Detachment is now at 68.45% for our National goal. We had a couple of Squadrons that only sent in 1 for their membership that show me that they don't hold on to their Membership they send it in as they get it every Squadron should be doing that. All Squadrons, Districts and Division's has a lot work to do to achieve our 75% goal in 10days. Let's show National we are part of the Team that can run with the big dogs and not sit on the porch. We can achieve our goal.

    It's Super bowl weekend I am sure some of you are going to your Post to watch the game please be safe use Uber or Lyft if you have to. It will be a good time to pay your dues or collect dues from a member.

    Until the next time have a happy and safe New Years.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    January 19, 2020

    To all SAL Members!!!

    We had one Squadron that made 100% this last week it was 443 Somerset a job well done.

    At this time we had 211 in membership transmittals that were sent in to national last week which brings it down to 744 more Membership we need to reach our 75% by 02/12/20. Now is not the time to let our Membership fall show Eddy our Detachment Commander that you can do it and reach our goal.

    There is still Squadrons out there that have not sent in any Membership in all 4 Divisions. Division Commanders please get out there and help these Squadrons and District Commanders get back on track.

    Until the next time have a happy and safe New Years.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    January 12, 2020

    To all SAL Members!!!

    I am proud to announce to everyone that you achieved our goal of 60% a week ahead of schedule. A great job to everyone that made this happen. Now we have the biggest challenge yet. Our goal now is 955 members needed to reach 75% by 2/12/20 I know we can do it because we have done it before.

    There are 20 Squadrons that have 6 or less members to reach a 100%

    Until the next time have a happy and safe New Years.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    January 6, 2020

    To all SAL Members!!!

    Now that the Holidays are over its now the time to really get going on the Membership we are now 139 members short of out 60% goal that is due on 01/15/2020

    1st Division has 3 Districts 1, 4, and 13 that are below 50% in Membership

    2nd Division has 4 Districts 2, 6, 8, and 11 below 50% in Membership

    3 District 10 below 50% in Membership

    4th Division has 4 Districts 16, 17, 18 and 21 below 50% in Membership

    Division and District Commanders, Please get out there and help these Squadrons get motivated on their Membership.

    District 3 is reporting over 80% in Membership also we have 3 Districts that are already passed 70% in Membership, District 7, 5 and District 19 yes District 19 only has 1 Squadron but it still counts!!! Great job to the District Commanders. Keep up the great work now go for 100%.

    I am going to repeat what I said in the last Newsletter. Remember that if your dues are not paid by January 1st your not a member of the Son's of the American Legion in good standing. Also if your an officer in your Squadron or District and Division that includes you.

    We now have 3 more Squadrons that reached 100% this last week. Squadron 21 the Colony, Squadron 275 Dallas and Squadron 817 Beaumont. Well done to all 3 Squadrons. This makes 21 Squadrons that will receive a $50.00 check for reaching their 100% goal before December 31st deadline. Now for the rest of the Squadrons you still have a chance to get a $25.00 check if you can make 100% on or before the Legion Birthday on March 15th. Here is a link for any Squadrons that don't understand the rules of receiving a check and how much you can receive. https://saltexas.org/member/detawards.pdf

    Until the next time have a happy and safe New Years.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    December 26, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    I hope everyone had a Great Christmas and now the New Years is coming up we really need to pick up the pace on our Membership. Headquarters in Austin will be closed until the 3rd of January. When I received the report I will update the list of all 100% Squadrons that will be getting a $50.00 check.

    1st Division has 3 Squadrons not reporting any Membership and 1 Squadron not Certified.

    2nd Division has 4 Squadrons not reporting any Membership and 4 Squadrons not Certified.

    3rd Division has 5 Squadrons not reporting any Membership and 5 Squadrons not Certified.

    4th has 9 Squadrons not Certified.

    This shows the Detachment that some of the Division and District commanders are not doing their Job. Remember that if your dues are not paid by January 1st your not a member of the Son's of the American Legion in good standing. Also if your an officer in your Squadron or District and Division that includes you.

    At this Time Detachment needs 348 renewal and or new members to reach our 60% goal at national before the January 15th dead line. So far 15 Squadrons have reached their 100% goal and hopefully there will be more when I received the next report from Austin.

    Now for some of you that don't know the Detachment does have a Ghost Squadron 345 it's to be use only for Members Transferring in from another State only. It is not to be used by someone who wants to Transfer from a Squadron to another Squadron. If you want to Transfer go find one yourself. It's not up to the Detachment or Headquarters to find one for you.

    Until the next time have a happy and safe New Years.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    December 16, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    28 Squadrons reported a total of 227 in membership turned into national last week. At this time we are 709 members short of reaching our January 15th goal at the national level.

    2 more Squadrons reached 100% last week, Squadron 241 Angleton and 253 Big Lake. A total of 10 Squadron have reached 100% and will be receiving a $50.00 check. Now we have 17 Squadrons that need 6 or less members to make 100% by December 31st. Get that membership in so you can receive you check!!! Remember after December 31 you will only receive a $25.00 check up to the Legion Birthday when you reach your 100%

    Right now I would like to get some feedback on who gets a 100% check and who don't. As it stands now any New or Reactivated Squadrons does not receive a 100% check for the 1st year until they establish their goal for the year. I have been contacted by several members about changing this on who gets or does not get a check. Myself I would like to see every Squadron have a chance to receive a check. Maybe set a membership goal of 13 to 15 members for any New or Reactivated Squadrons? Any changes would have to come before the membership at our DEC for a vote.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    December 9, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    21 Squadrons reported a total of 167 membership turned into National last week.

    Two more Squadrons achieved 100 % Squadron 93 in Mission and Squadron 464 in Weslaco. We now have 11 Squadrons that has achieved 100%. At this time 8 Squadrons will be receiving $50.00 checks There are several Squadrons that need 6 members or less to achieve a 100 % by December 31st.

    Detachment has made our goal of 45.42% by December 12th deadline. Great job to all Squadrons that made this happen. Now for our next goal of 60% due at national by January 15th and we are about 940 short of this goal.

    We still have 19 Squadrons that are not certified. Division and District commanders Please reach out those Squadrons and or Post Commanders.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    November 29, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    One Squadrons made 100% this week 655 Haltom City

    We still have Squadrons that are not certified in all Divisions!!!

    There was 132 in Membership turned in this week. Again our December goal is 45% and we need 112 Members to be turned in before 12/11/2019 into National. I want to Thank all the Squadrons that turned in Membership this week.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    November 25, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    No Squadrons made 100% this week

    There was 158 in Membership turned in this last week. Again our December goal is 45% and we need 235 Members to be turned in before 12/11/2019 into National. I want to Thank all the Squadrons that turned in Membership this last week

    I like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. Let's not forget our Veterans that cannot be with their Family and Friends.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    November 17, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    We have 2 more Squadrons that made over 100% Squadron 88 Lake Dallas and Squadron 511 Dallas also Squadron

    Yes it took a little while to get this report out due to the change of how we send in the membership. Still at this time National will show different membership totals than what Austin sends me. Hopefully it all will work out as time goes by.

    At this time I want to thank everyone who sent in membership. Because of you Detachment made our 35% goal. Great job to all the Squadrons that helped make it happen. Our December goal is 45% and we need 393 Members to be turned in before 12/11/2019 into National. Squadrons please don't fall behind in your membership and expect another Squadron to make up the membership.

    The Holidays are upon us and I like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. Let's not forget our Veterans that cannot be with their Family and Friends.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    October 19, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    I don't have a lot to report this week. We did have Squadron 487 Priddy, TX. that made 100% this week.

    343 in membership was sent to National on 10/17/19 we still need 167 more in membership to reach 35% on 11/14/19 with districts convention going on hopefully we can make that goal.

    There are still Squadrons that are not sending the right amount of dues to Austin. Remember dues for 2019 are $10.00 and Dues for 2020 are $12.00

    We did have a few 2019 membership in also this week. Please let your members know they can lose their current years in membership if they don't keep it current.

    There are 6 Squadron that need 6 members or less to make 100% and to receive their $50.00

    Also we have 1 new Squadron 498 Port Isabel.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    October 11, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    First of all I want to thank the Squadrons that sent in membership this week. We had Squadron 133 Temple that made 100% this week.

    When membership is received at Headquarters in Austin, Mamie sends me what she has received that day and I add it to the membership report. As I stated last week the Detachment passed 25% on that report only!!! Really it was less. The reason why is some Squadrons still have a problem with filling out the 2 parts of the membership cards that gets sent in with the dues owed or do not send in the right amount of dues. When that happens the 2 parts of the membership gets sent back to the Squadron to be filled out correctly and then returned back to Austin, and or a letter gets send out to the Squadron for the correct amount of dues owed. With that in mind it could be a couple of weeks before the true % membership is obtained.

    Now what I just said above Mamie sends the transmittals to National minus the mistakes that Squadrons made. They will not be added to the National transmittal until Mamie get the correct transmittal or dues. As you can see this creates problems for our Detachment and National in terms of reaching our true membership goal. Now Mamie sends the National transmittal on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month if she does received your correct transmittal before Wednesday of that week it will be included if not it will be added to the next transmittal. No exceptions!!!

    District Commanders and Division Commanders you need to get out there and help your Squadrons. As you can see there is problems within your Districts.

    Until the next time...

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    October 4, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    It was nice to see a good attendance at our DEC last weekend along with membership that was turned in.

    I did make some corrections to this spreadsheet. If you see any errors just e-mail me so I can correct anything else.

    We have now passed our 25% goal for 10/09/2019 Great job for the Squadrons that have sent in membership to achieve our goal. This will make Juan Torres and Eddy Seegers look good at National at the end of this month. Keep up the good work and let's start working on our 35% goal due by 11/14/2019.

    District Commanders and Division Commanders need to reach out to the Squadrons that have not sent in any membership. It's up to you if you want your District's and Division's to look good. If you don't know what to do you can E-mail me and I'll be glad to help you out.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    September 27, 2019

    To all SAL Members!!!

    There are still Squadrons that are not certified at this time. We have 3 Districts that have 100% Certified 1st, 4th, 6th Great job keep up the good work... Again I am calling on all Districts / Division Commander's to reach out and work with the Squadrons to help them get certified and show them how to fill out membership. I am sure that there are new Squadron Commanders and Adjutants that do not know what to do. Please reach out and give them all the help you can.

    I was able to correct a few mistakes on the last membership report and I am sure there is a few more. Please E-mail me so I can correct any mistakes. Also want to thank Richard Bartholomew (Squeak) for helping me with this report. I will be sending out a report this Thursday for our DEC meeting in Austin this weekend so bring your own copy.

    Again I want to thank all of you for being part of our great organization.

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net

    New report uploaded 9/27 -- webmaster



    September 6, 2019

    Team Texas

    To all SAL Members!!!

    All Squadrons should now have their Certification of officers sent in to Austin by now as I can see by this 1st report it's not been done... I am calling on all Districts / Division Commander's to reach out and work with the Squadrons to help them get certified. I am sure that there are new Squadron Commanders and Adjutants that do not know what to do. Please reach out and give them all the help you can that is one of your job duties.

    When I was at the National Convention a Couple of weeks ago I went to the Memorial Service and they listed all deceased SAL members by each state. Texas SAL had 93 Deceased listed. That does account for some of the drop in membership that I have been looking at. The other drop in membership is not getting members to renew!!! And most important is what you are doing to recruit new members to replace the ones you lost and to retain the one you have. Membership is the key for success for our origination.

    Since this is my 1st Membership report I am sure there might be an error or two so don't panic you can contact me by E-mail only. I will be updating the 2019 membership report this week and will get it out on the next report I know we have 19 members that will be in the report. We are not far away from reaching 100% for 2019 so dig a little deeper and get those renewals. I am here to help you, but reach out to your District / Division Commanders.

    I want to thank all of you for being part of our great origination.

    Jon Kingston - PDC
    Membership Chairman
    jonkings@centurytel.net



    August 16, 2019

    Team Texas

    I would like to apologize for this but i will have to retract my previous statement from a couple of weeks ago about the Detachment hitting 100%. As of last week it changed to 99.17%, with 63 memberships short of 100%. So we those of us representing the Detachment will be going in as less then 100% at National next weekend. Thom Skelley and myself have been working to find out what happened. We have reached our to Department and National and nobody seems to know.

    Also sorry about no membership reports coming out as i am no longer the Membership Chairman and have since been removed from receiving the membership emails. So hopefully we will soon be receiving reports or if you cannot get in touch with the current membership chairman i will be happy to help.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    August 5, 2019

    Team Texas

    Congratulations
    Team Texas
    100.3% to Goal

    Yes we made 100% goal before Convention, so will will have a new Ribbon to add to our flags. I would like to thank all you on the hard work you did to reach goal. Now with 2 weeks left before National Convention we only need about 293 more renewals to hit the 105% goal. I know it is a lot to ask but i know we can do it. With the pace 2019 membership came in the past 2 weeks i think we can do it. We had a few more squadrons reach 100% membership.

    As of Friday, August 2, 2019 we are sitting at 429 members. We will have our Detachment goal after National Convention. If you feel you have sent in the certification of officers to Department and not received your 2020 cards please send me an email letting me know and a copy of the certification. You can also go to the website and fill out the word doc. of the certification if you just printed it out and filled it in, then i will see what i can find out. If you haven't sent in the certification do so immediately.

    Sorry about not getting a membership report out to you since Convention.

    One last thing, Per our Detachment Bylaws, Article 1, Section 5, All newly elected officers and members of the Detachment Executive Committee shall take office immediately after the close of Detachment Convention.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    July 6, 2019

    Team Texas

    I hope all had an enjoyable 4th of July. Now the time is getting here for us to come together and let everyone know what our Squadron and Districts have done throughout the year. This is where our Detachment, Division and District Commanders let us know the effort they put in to make their year successful. I hope many of your visited or called your Squadron Commanders and expressed how important it is to fill out your Consolidated Reports.

    Well we only had 5 memberships come in this week due holiday. we probably wont get any this coming week due to Convention. So we are still sitting at 80 member short of our goal, so hopefully we will get some turn ins this coming weekend. It would be great to get that 100% then. I know its been a hard year but we can do it.

    On final note, 2020 Membership cards have arrived. On Wednesday half of those Squadrons Membership cards were mailed out. Unfortunately, due to the postage machine going down the rest will have to wait till it gets fixed, which will probably be after Convention. Please remember at last Convention we voted to rise dues sent into department $2. So as of right now we will be sending in $12 per member rather then $10. All Division and District commanders need to make sure they advise their Squadrons of this so they will not send in the usual $10.

    Please keep up the good work as i make my final Membership report at Detachment Convention and Commander Kingston takes over.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    June 28, 2019

    Team Texas

    This has been the worst in membership we have had all year. I guess many of you are more worried about getting your 2020 membership cards in rather then getting those 2019 memberships in. How is it we only had 13 Members sent in this week. Still need 105 to hit 100%. Glad to see all you Division and District Commanders did your jobs this week.

    So many of you have been calling Mamie and asking her about 2020 Membership cards. Wondering why you haven't received them if you already sent in your Certification of Officers. Well if you know the process you would know cards are sent from National. So we have to wait till Department receives them and then we have to wait till all the PUFL cards are pulled. Well just to let you know they were received today. Please do not call Mamie about them. I was told people are heading to department this weekend to pull PUFL Cards and then maybe they will sent out to those who certified this next week or after the holiday. So if you have any questions please call me.

    Lets get those memberships in for 2019 so we can hit 100%

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    June 23, 2019

    Team Texas

    So this past week a recieved a couple of emails about a couple of things that you should all know. The first one is please do not call Department or Mamie about membership cards. This also means do not email National about it either. Like i said last week once Department receives them and all PUFL cards are pulled they will be mailed out to all Squadrons who have already sent in their Certification of Officers. So once again they will be mailed out once Department has received them and the PUFL Cards have been paid. Any Question please call me.

    Next has to do with Squadron voting strength and At-Large Votes. There are members out there who feel not everyone understands what At-Large Votes are. This can be found under Detachment Bylaws,Article III, Section 7:

    SECTION 7. All Past Detachment Commanders, all District Commanders and all Detachment Vice Commanders of The Sons of The American Legion, Detachment of Texas, shall be delegates at-large to the Detachment Convention and shall be entitled to one (1) vote, such vote to be cast with respective Squadron. At-large delegates must be present at the Convention in order for their Squadrons to cast their vote. So here is an example of this through Squadron 472 with 53 members. So first we have 5 votes because we get 1 vote for every 10 members. in the Squadron we have a PDC, Detachment Vice Commander and District Commander which adds 3 At-Large Votes for a total of 8. Now the only way to get those 3 votes is if all 3 or on the floor during the vote.

    If you have any questions please call. Remember that last weeks membership report reflected the voting strength. This weeks is to show membership that was received this week. We are still 118 members short of 100%. Now this is why we should not hold membership. Got an email about a squadron turning membership at their Division Convention 3 weeks ago. Well it was just received by Department this past Wednesday, So instead of getting 5 votes they only got 3. Now since they were not received 30 days before Detachment Convention they lost votes. i don't need to be emailed back about this example because we are already in discussion about it.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    June 17, 2019

    Team Texas

    First sorry for not sending out a report last week. We had some family issues arise that kept me from even thinking about this report.

    Well we had a slow 2 weeks on membership. We had about probably 80 members come in which holds us at 146 members short of 100%. I feel we may actually hit 100% by the time we get to Detachment Convention. This was with out receiving Fridays membership due to it being Flag Day and Department was closed. Division and District Commanders please keep pushing membership till December 31 for the 2019 year.

    I know many of the Squadrons are having Elections at this time. Please be aware that Membership Cards are sent out once they are received by Department and the Squadron has sent in Certification of Officers. Just giving this info since i have been emailed asking if cards were sent out already.

    Division and District Commanders please make sure to push your Squadron to fill out the Consolidation report and send to Adjutant before Convention or if you have to collect them and carry them with you to convention that may be alright but as long as we get more of them sent in.

    This is just a FYI on Voting Strength Per our Detachment Constitution and Bylaws, Article III, Section 3:

    SECTION 3. At the Detachment Convention, each Squadron shall be entitled to one (1) Delegate,and one (1) Alternate Delegate for every ten (10) members, or major fraction thereof, provided such delegates and alternates shall be members of the Squadron electing them, and provided further that such Squadron shall have no indebtedness then due to the Detachment. Delegate Strength shall be determined by membership turned in to the Detachment thirty (30) days prior to the opening of the Detachment Convention.

    So with this being said Voting strength will be calculated off this report.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    June 1, 2019

    Team Texas

    Well we didn't do much damage to the 382 memberships we needed last week to hit 100%. We now need 313 members to hit it, so keep pushing membership. We are getting closer to Detachment Convention which means we are getting closer the deadline for voting strength. Division and District Commanders lets communicate with those Squadrons that less then 5 members to hit 100% and to those who are still at 0. Let them know how important membership is. Division Commanders i hope you are forwarding this report to your District Commanders with your own remarks. District Commanders i hope you are forwarding this report to your Squadron Commanders with your remarks. Remember Communication is key.

    I know we are all worried about what may be coming down from National when it comes to Membership. Just don't give out any information if you don't know the answer. This is why protocol is to send it up the chain if you have any questions not just go straight to National. You may always find your answer within the Detachment.

    By the way i made a mistake in last weeks email. Some of you emailed me about the report. kind of makes me think not everyone reads it. I forgot to push save when i updated it all the weeks membership turn-ins. So in saying this i sent you the report from 2 weeks ago. i did not make that mistake this time.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    May 26, 2019

    Team Texas

    WE are getting closer to 100% membership goal. It is not a race to reach by due date since it has already passed. I think we will hit 100% by the time we get to Detachment Convention and possibly hit 105% by National Convention. Do you Division Commanders and District Commanders think you can make the time to put in an effort to Reach these goals? Do you have the Communication skills to make it happen? To me seems like a lot of these Squadrons

    We have moved down to 10 squadrons not certified and 13 with no members. So if you can't do the math we have 3 squadrons, 487-Priddy, 587-Houston and 594-Houston, that have certified and still have 0 members. I know of the issue with Squadron 487 which I am addressing but lets get on those other 2.

    We will see you all in July for Detachment Convention. Remember your voting strength is based on you membership as of 30 days before Convention. So lets this membership in.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    May 18, 2019

    Team Texas

    Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership Membership

    WE had a very slow week in membership. If my math is right we had about 61 turned in this week. I know we can do better then that. What are you Division and District Commanders doing. With all these Division and District Conventions going on and we cannot get membership sent in. Communicate to your Members the importants of renewing their membership.

    Last week we had had 562 members to get to 100% membership. Can we do this by National Convention. Did you Know that you voting strength not only at National but at Detachment depends on your membership. We still have some Squadrons sitting at 0. We have some Squadrons sitting at 1 member short of hitting 100%. You Division and District Commanders need to reach out to those Squadrons and say just pay for that last member. Do the same to those Squadrons who are sitting 5 or less members short of hitting 100%. I know we can get 501 Members turned in by the 30 days before Detachment Convention which by our Bylaws is the cutoff date for voting strength.

    Any questions about membership please email or call me.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    May 12, 2019

    Team Texas

    AS we move closer to Detachment Convention we need to still push Membership. Remember that your voting strength is based on you total membership 30 days before convention. So lets see what we can do and hopefully be at 100% Membership by then. We are only 566 away from 100% and 882 from 105%. the Question is can you Division and District Commanders stand up and do your jobs and get this done.

    I have also included Blank Certification forms for the Divisions, Districts and Squadrons as this is the time for Elections.

    As many of you know, some of us made our way to Indianapolis for our Spring NEC meetings. I sat in the Membership Committee meeting and heard a lot of Great things. One of the biggest things I heard was the word COMMUNICATION. the word COMMUNICATION was used by every Vice Commander and Committee person. So as you can see COMMUNICATING with every Commander or Member from the Detachment down to the Squadron will be whats key to our Organization SUCCESS. Look at how i COMMUNICATE with you mostly every week to get you the membership numbers. One other big thing that came up in the meeting is to Communicate to those members who still have not renewed that any of the benefits that we are eligible for they are not. Also COMMUNICATE to the person in charge of sending in membership not to hold it just send it in if its only one. The reason this is important is because if they have a issue and need to apply for help through the National Emergency Fund and either they have not renewed or their membership has not been sent in to national because it is being held then they will be denied,

    I know many of you are wondering about the raise in dues and membership this year. If you were listening to the remarks given at Mid-winter you would know why some things were said. Also it was said that we would have more info after we came back from Indianapolis last weekend. Also it was said if you had any questions to contact Kevin Winkelmann or Bill Kuehner only. Even though i sat in the Finance Meeting last weekend i will leave it up to them to answer questions. Remember if you were Listening to what was being said at Mid-Winter instead of making remarks to the people around you about the increse then you would understand what is being done.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    April 15, 2019

    Team Texas

    Another week went by and we are getting slower at sending in membership. We had 1 Squadron reach 100% this week and 2 Squadrons get within 1 member of hitting 100%. We had a couple of squadrons finally move from 0 members, which actually looked like they were just holding them because of the amount sent in. We missed our 90% goal by 304 members and are 940 members short of 100% which is due by May 8th.

    I want to thank all the Division and District Commanders who sent info on those squadron who are at 0. Way to work the membership. This doesn't mean to stop pushing those Squadrons and please get with those who are almost at 100%. I know we can be a !00% Detachment by National Convention.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    April 8, 2019

    Team Texas

    Since we last met membership has been coming in very slow. Just this past week we had 2 days with no membership. What is going on with membership Division and District Commanders? Are we pushing our squadrons to turn MEMBRSHIP in? Are you needing me to get involved? Believe me some people don't like that. So i need all Division and District Commander to email me what you are doing to get these Squadrons either membership turned in. Also need to know why some are not even certified.

    DIVISION 1
    15
    71
    353    		 DIVISION 2
    7
    78
    85
    499
    578
    644
    113-NC
    85-NC
    312-NC    		 DIVISION 3
    291
    459
    533
    336-NC
    295-NC     		DIVISION 4
    79
    487
    470-NC
    370-NC
    308-NC

    So April 10 is the next Goal date for 90% which we are only 432 members away from hitting. So with that being said we are 1064 members short of hitting 100% by May 8. If we Get all the Division Commanders and District Commanders to push membership as their District And Division Convention are not happening i am sure we can make it. Then only thing it will take is you District and Division Commanders to actually do their jobs.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    March 16, 2019

    Team Texas

    Well we did not make the 80% target goal. We had 2 weeks of over 110 members turned in then i guess we just lost interest. Well our 90% goal is due April 10th and we still need 710 members to make that. So if you want to help then help. My goal is to make sure we hit 100% by National Convention for Commander Kingston.

    We had no issues this week in membership except they came in slow. I have reviewed my report compared to Departments. Any questions please don't hesitate to ask.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    March 11, 2019

    Team Texas

    We had a slow week last week when it came to membership. I think we probably had 110 memberships sent in compared to the 200+ we were getting the 2 weeks before. So our momentum shifted and it looks like we will not hit 80% goal by Wednesday. As of now we are 131 members short of that goal. We are 812 members short of hitting 90% goal by April 10. I want to thank all who have made the effort of pushing membership. As of our Mid-Winter DEC we should be getting info to our members about the upcoming changes to our Membership Dues for the 2020 year.

    Dues are a vital part of our Organization. I know if you were at mid-winter and heard the information given out by Kevin Winkleman it seems like a giant increase. Everyone should be giving out only the information Kevin sent out and nothing more. I am sure when we go to Spring NEC he will come back with more info for our Convention in Irving in July. If you should have any questions please hold them till then or you may send him an email if important. Kevin and Bill should be the only ones you contact on this manner. I only know what you know, but i plan on sitting in the finance meeting in April just to listen.

    On final note we all make mistakes. I try and compare this report to 2 other reports who use the same numbers i am sent. Sometimes i may miss a number, sent the wrong numbers and may not be sent the numbers for squadrons. Once i get the correct information i will change it but may take a day or the next report. We see many mistakes with transmittal and make our own mistakes. I will always check with you and Mamie to make sure all info is correct. So if I contact you about and get it corrected there is no reason for you to contact department if i told you i got it corrected. That just means i wasted my time and i hate to waste my time.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    March 4, 2019

    Team Texas

    First i would like to apologize for no report last week. If you follow me on Facebook you would know i was Competing in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cookoff last week. Was away from the house and computers from Wednesday to Sunday.

    Now on to the good news. We made great strides these past 2 weeks with membership. As of today we are only 246 members short of hitting our 80% goal by March 13. Please keep doing the good work that every single one of you have done. We definitely can meet this goal and all others from here on out. We will forget the last 2 months and get these next goals handled. Once again Great job to every single one of you.

    So who are some points to look at when reading this report. We have gone down to 14 Squadrons certified with 0 members paid. District 5 has gone from 4 squadrons with 0 to none. We have a bunch of Squadrons with 5 or less members needed to hit 100%. The Legion Birthday will be here soon and i wonder if they would like $25.

    oh yeah and the 2nd Division has regained the Lead.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    February 17, 2019

    Team Texas

    Well I did not do my job this week and i take responsibility for it. We did not make the 75% membership goal and are still short of it. Our next goal of 80% is due March 13, is within reach. Membership came in good this week getting us closer to goal. I know as long as we keep pushing we should achieve 80% goal by the due date. We had some squadrons hit 100% this week also, so congratulations to them. Still have many of you within 5 members of hitting 100% to goal. If you don't know, you can get $50 for hitting goal before Jan. 1st. If you didn't achieve that goal and you hit 100% goal by Mar. 15 you will receive $25 if eligible. We are less then a month away and many of you can make that goal.

    Division and District Commanders, are you doing all you can do to reach out and help your Squadrons with membership? I hear from some of you as you ask questions are just update me on whats going on with your Squadrons you are over. I don't hear from all of you and sometimes i think those are not doing anything. Division 1 has been putting in work since they have been behind Division 2 almost all year and now they are in first and could be pulling away. Honestly, most of the membership this week came from Division 1. Then I still wonder how some Members can say they are Officers throughout the Detachment from the Squadron level up to the Detachment. I say this because some of you are associated with Squadrons that have 0 Members. Once again you need to look at yourselves and say do i deserve to have this position in the Greatest Organization in The World.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    February 8, 2019

    Team Texas

    Another bad week in membership turn-ins this week as we are still 422 members short of our 75% goal which is due Feb. 13. We still have 18 Squadrons who have certified but have yet to send in membership. I included those Squadron with a Pufl member. We have 16 Squadrons yet to certify for 2019. How many of these Squadrons have a District Commander as a member? Can he be District Commander if his membership is not current? If all Division and District Commanders were doing their jobs this would not be happening. Are we just taking Offices to have the title or we taking them to actually do the job we accepted to do when we decided to run and get elected.

    Lets get that membership in. If you need help i will be happy to call a Squadron Commander myself. All Division Commander, if you cannot get the District Commander to do their job then call the Squadron Commanders yourselves. District Commanders if you cannot get your Squadron Commanders to get the membership in then talk to the Post Commanders. If the Post Commanders are not helping talk to the District Commanders. We need to get this done so we can walk into NAtional Convention in Indianapolis at 100%.

    When sending in Membership you need to send in both portions of the cards

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    February 5, 2019

    Team Texas

    This week in membership was bad for our detachment. We had a Total of 110 members turned in this week which 92 of them came from our Mid-Winter Conference. I know some of you who have not dealt with doing the Detachment Membership do not understand why it is diffrent from our National report. Well its because we only send in a one transmittal a month to National which just this past friday 329 memberships were sent. We are still 519 members short of our 75% goal and with a week to go to get those members in we need to make a big push. I know 75% goal is due Feb. 14 but we do not want to have the problem we had last month when we had the 60% but could not get it there on time. I need all Division and District Commanders to do your jobs instead of just wanting to hold a title.

    On to the next issue we have, this is one of many issues we see every week. IT is not hard to do a transmittal of membership. Before we hand over the membership card, if the member is in front of us, we need to have them verify the information on the portion we send in is correct. As the person who sends in the transmittal you need to make sure they are filled out. As you can see these 2 cards don't even have the necessary information needed like the members name. This just need to stop.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    January 25, 2019

    Team Texas

    As many of you can see from the report from National that we did not make the 60% goal. Just know we did had the Membership at Department but just could not get it there in time. I know we can get the 75% goal by Feb. 13 which we are only 662 members short. I know working with the 8th District Commander we will see hopefully some good membership come in. IF any other District Commanders Need help please don't hesitate to cal me at 713-702-6363. Leave a Message if I don't answer because I feel its not important if you don't leave a message.

    If you have any issues with my report please don't hesitate to contact me, but before you do make sure you are looking at the latest report. Example, I received an email saying there squadron should be 100% but i don't have them on the list as 100%. If they would of looked at the report closely they would of noticed the report was from the week before. You will notice before every division it says Updated on.

    I will give more information at the Mid-Winter Conference. Also if you have any membership that you need to mail in please feel free to bring it with you and turn it into me.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    January 17, 2019

    Team Texas,

    Let's Welcome
    Squadron 164 Katy
    To The Detachment of Texas

    As we welcome our newest Squadron to not only the Detachment but to the The Sons of The American Legion. They were recently Chartered and now have officially sent in their first 14 members.

    Now on to the business if membership. As we all know yesterday, Jan. 17 was the deadline for 60% goal. This is the first time this year that we were not past goal. As of this past Monday we had the enough turn ins to get us past 60%. Commander Kingston, Richard Bartholomew and I did what we could to get the membership sent into National in time. Unfortunately, we were told by Department it would not be overnighted and was just sent in as priority because it would cost to much to do so. As it was a goal of mine to try and hit all goals this year and send Commander Kingston to National Convention as probably one of the few to do so. I apologize for my failure at doing so.

    So now is them time to look towards our goal of 75%, which would be due on February 14. Yes it is due on Valentines day. As of Jan. 14 we are an easy 827 members short of our 75% goal. I know we should have some Squadrons turning in membership soon as i have been working with the District Commander to fix those sqaudrons with 0 members. Even had to fix his Squadron because he never noticed they were at 0 members which made me wonder how he could be District commender and not have his 2019 Card. So with saying this please give me a call if you still have Squadrons not certified or at 0 members and I will be happy to help by calling either the Squadron or Post Commanders.

    As we all know Mid-Winter DEC is next weekend. So all Division and District Commanders i need you all to be prepared to answer when called on how you have worked Membership. I have asked this many times in my emails and the only Person to ever send a response was Division 3 Commander Robert Ruiz. Mamie will be out of the office today and monday. I probably will not get membership reports from her next week with DEC going on. This would be a good time for you Division Commanders to call your District Commander, and District Commanders to Sqaudron Commanders. Maybe as you get ready to make your way to Austin you can stop by the Squadrons and pick up some Membership and turn it into me.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    January 11, 2019

    Team Texas,

    Happy New Year

    As a Detachment we are making great strives in meeting our goals that are set by national. Our next goal of 60% is within reach, because we are just by my calculations we are about 25 members short per the National membership report. As of last report sent out by NVC. Sierminski we were 551 members short of 60%. On Thursday Mamie sent in 526 members to National. Hopefully, we can talk Department into sending in another transmittal Wednesday if we get the 25 to hit goal.

    Unfortunately, I make mistakes when it comes to this report. I may miss putting in a squadrons membership or i may put it in twice because i didn't notice they sent in either just money or cards with their transmittal. Just remember it makes keeping this report straight when you make a mistake. With that being said we have Squadron 575 who reached 100% before Jan 1st. I have sent in a list of those Squadrons who Qualify for the $50 Check for hitting Goal before Jan 1St. Hopefully we will have checks to pass out at Mid-Winter.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    January 4, 2019

    Team Texas,

    Happy New Year

    Now that 2019 is upon us it is time to look in your wallet at your membership card and make sure you have your new 2019 Membership card in your wallet and remove your 2018 card. It is time to send out the renewal notices which I have attached to this email and you can find on the Detachments website. Lets make sure we have reached out to all our Members who have not renewed yet.

    We have made great strides since our last report. I want to thank all those who still sent in membership even though Department Offices were closed for the holidays. As of right now we are just 137 members short of our 60% goal which will be due on 01/18/2019, just 2 weeks from today. So i know we can hit this goal and make sure we hit all goals from here on out. We had Squadrons 172, 388, and 390 hit 100% in which we will look into whether they came in before Jan. 1st and receive a check if eligible. We also had a few Squadrons come close with less then 3 members to hit 100%. Remember that you can receive checks for hitting 100% before the Legions Birthday.

    Vice Commanders and District Commanders please get with those Squadrons that have not certified and those who have certified but have zero members. If you need help please email or call me and i will be happy to do what i can. Also i have corrected the spreadsheet to show the Squadrons that have certified and now have members and Corrected the one District Commander that was sent in.

    I Still have Districts that don't show a Commander yet, so if you are it or know who it is please email me with the name and i will correct it.

    Link to Membership Renewal

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    December 22, 2018

    Team Texas,

    First I would like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

    I sent out a email earlier this week about Department being closed starting Dec. 21-Jan. 4. Just because they are closed does not mean that you stop sending in membership. 60% goal is due on Jan. 18 and we are 306 members away. I know we can reach this goal and start working towards the 75% goal. Our goal should be to hit all the goals this year and hit 100% before National Convention in Indianapolis. We had Squadron 134 hit 100% this week and hope to see more when i get our next report from Mamie either Jan. 4th or 5th. Always remember this is the time we can get memberships renewed because the Posts are having their Holiday parties and those members who have not paid will probably do so if asked.

    My next report will come out after Department reopens in the New year.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    December 17, 2018

    Team Texas,

    If you are holding on to membership get it I. The mail today or tomorrow. Department will be closed lunchtime 12/21 and will not reopen till 1/03. So that means if you mail in membership after Wednesday it probably will not show up on my report till maybe Jan. 4. Also this means my last report for the year will come out this weekend.

    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    December 16, 2018

    Team Texas,

    As Christmas and New Years approaches i know we tend to focus on family and think less about membership, which we should. We must also think as we attend Legion Christmas and New Years Parties are we seeing those members that have yet to renew their membership. Lets all remember that as of December 31,2018 at 11:59Pm those cards expire. We as a Detachment have worked hard to make every goal set. As of today we are 507 members short of our 60% goal due on January 18,2019, which is the farthest we have been from a goal this year. Remember even if you just send in one member it gets us closer to our goals.

    On another note we are making to many mistakes when it comes to sending in membership to Departments. Since i took over membership duties we have had atleast 10 issues. We have had transmittals sent in with cards no checks, checks no cards and have had membership cards returned due to addresses on certifications being wrong. Lets make sure we are doing them right. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call me. If i don't know the Answer i will find some one who does.

    Congrats to Sqd. 410 Lake Hills for hitting 100%

    Still have Squadrons that nee less then 3 members to hit 100%

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    December 7, 2018

    Team Texas,

    First, I would to thank all of you for all the hard work that you are doing to get our membership in. We have surpassed our goal of 45% that was due on 12/13. Now we are headed towards our 60% goal which is set for 01/18 and we are 678 members away. At the rate we are sending in members we should hit the goal by the first week of the new year. I know we have it in us to do so. After reviewing the membership report if found that we have Squadrons 159,242,253,390,439, and 692 that are 3 or less members short of hitting 100% to goal. Lets look at our membership roster and find that one member that 1,2,or 3 members that pay every year and pay the membership because you know you will get it back.

    Division and District commander please take a close look at the report because there still are 36 Squadrons that have 0 members and about 11 of them are certified. If you cannot do it please let me know and i will call them to see what we can do to help. As many of you know you can receive checks for reaching goal by Jan. 1 and Legion birthday.

    Lets Congratulate Squadron 472 for reaching 100% to goal. Everyone Keep up the Good Work.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    December 4, 2018

    Team Texas,

    So this is the report i was suppose to send out last Friday but with the holiday kinda of forgot. This report is updated till Wednesday, November 21 which included any Membership that was received Tuesday. So if you mailed in membership either Wednesday, Friday or Saturday it will be on this coming Fridays report. Department was closed Thursday and Friday so no new turn ins were sent to me till Monday.

    We have had 4 Squadrons, 363,402,172 and 618, this month hit 100% membership before the new year. There are a few others that are very close. Congrats to all who have made goal. Vice Commanders and District Commanders please remember to get with those Sqaudrons still not certified or at 0% membership to see what you can do to help. Maybe even send a report to me saying what you did and what i can do to help. Department will be sending in 459 members this week which will put us over our 45% goal. Than you all for the hard work. I know the report said last updated on 11/29, because received no report of Membership turn in for today.

    Lastly, I want to give a brief tutorial on how membership works for those who don't know and those who think they know. Once a Squadron who is Chartered Certifies they are mailed their Squadron Membership Cards. Once the Squadron mails the Transmittal for those members who have paid to the Department of Texas, a Daily email is sent to the Membership Chairman. That email will either say no membership received or will contain an Attachment with a list of all squadrons and the number of members sent in. I, as Membership Chairman, then will update the report i send to you. Department will send all the membership to national at least once a month. So the report you received from either our National Vice Commander, Thom Skelly, or Kevin Winkleman may not match up to my report because National may not have received Membership from Texas yet. Even reports online may be incorrect. Please call me if you have any questions and if i don't know i will find some one who does.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    November 17, 2018

    Team Texas,

    Here is the updated report for this week. By my records we have surpassed the 35% target and are 347 away from the 45% target due on 12/13/2018. We have been doing vey well in membership. It has come in a steady pace. Please if you are Division Commander or a District Commander please get with those Squadrons who have between 0-2 memberships. If they just have 2 it could be PUFL members which means they still have not sent in any memberships. Congratulations to Squadron 363 Rockport for hitting 100% Membership. If you se any issues with the report please let me know.

    If you have any questions about this report please call me at 713-702-6363 and please leave a message. I usually leave my personal phone in my work truck and carry my work phone on me. If i dopnt know the number and you dont lave a message i will not call back.

    Sorry for keeping this short but having Computer issues.

    For God and Country,

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    October 20, 2018

    Team Texas,

    Just want to let everyone know i am trying to get the report out by friday like i am suppose to but it is peewee baseball season and my daughter comes first. The report will be out and there is no reason to question me about it.

    WE had Little movement this week due to some some technical difficulties at department. I only received one membership report this week with 52 memberships turned in for the week. Probably more but Mamie was out thursday and friday with her moms surgery. Sending prayers her way that everything goes well.

    On another note our 0 member Squadrons are beginning to dwindle down but we need them all to turn in membership. I can say i am at fault for Squadron 594, District 22, who i need to get with them to get them certified and membership turned in. All Division Commanders What are you doing to get membership in? District Commanders how many times have you talked to your Squadron Commanders about the importance of membership?

    Right know the report shows we are at 1913 but Mamie has us at 1924. I will try and see where I am missing those 11 Members. Congrats to Mt. Vernon for be our next 100% Squadron at 120. Remember National is giving 2 Recruitment awards. If you turn in 5 members you get the National Recruitment Award and # of those 5 gets you Commander Gibbs Recruitment Award.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    October 8, 2018

    Team Texas,

    We had no movement on our 2018 Membership. Please do not just focus on our 2019 Membership as 2018 membership is still being excepted till December 31,2018.

    As many of you know we have surpassed our 25% goal by my count but National still shows us at 1571 membership. on October 4th Department sent in 801 memberships, which will put us at 2372 or about 26.2%. We are now looking to meet our next goal of 35% by mid-November. I want to thank all of you for the hard work you have done. As of count we are 462 members short of our 35% goal which i know we will meet by the end of the month. I have also since the last report updated, Thank you Commander Kingston, the report to show all squadrons that have certified. I even colored in red the box for those who have not certified. Division Commanders please get with your District Commanders to get with the Squadron Commanders of those Squadrons that have not certified. It just may take us to get to that squadron with a certification of officers forms and help fill them out. All it takes is an offer to help to get things done. When doing this also we need to get with those squadrons who have zero memberships when they show certified. Lets make sure they received their cards if not send me an email and i will get with Mamie to see if they have been sent out.

    3 Squadrons at/over 100%

    62 Squadrons with 0 Members.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    October 1, 2018

    Team Texas,

    First i would like to apologize for not sending this out friday, but when you have kids they always want to bothewr you when your doing something. My second apology is that i started focusing on 2019 Membership and didn't say much about 2018 Membership.

    2018 Membership is coming in slowly if at all. We are still 305 members short of our 105% goal. Remember that 2018 Membership is still being excepted until December 31. So the 73 Squadrons that have not hit 100%, there is till time to do so. When looking through the report there are many of you that are less then 10 or less members short of 100%. So lets keep those 2018 memberships coming in.

    If you actually have read over the whole report you will see that we have now surpassed our 25% membership goal for the detachment and now it is time to work on our 35% goal. We are doing great as The Detachment of Texas and we need to keep this pace through out the whole 2019 year. We have met 2 out of 10 goals and I think we get to the 75% or 80% goal and we slow down. Lets make this year that we meet all 10 goals on time if not before. As always Division Commander get with your District Commanders, who need to get with their Squadron Commanders and see why some squadrons are still sitting at 0 members. Please lets get this taken care of as soon as possible.

    Congratulations reached 25% Goal

    3 Squadrons 100%

    74 Squadrons at 0 Members

    19 Squadrons with 4 or less probably due to PUFL

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    September 16, 2018

    Team Texas,

    We have made great movement on membership this past week. We are only 406 Members short of reaching our 25% goal by October 12. If you Sent in Membership last week and it got there Friday it was not reported to me as Mamie was off. I think we had a total of 263 memberships sent in this past week. Remember you do not have to wait till Fall DEC to turn in membership this week, just mail it in, but i will be happy to take it on Saturday. Congratulations to Squadron 21, The Colony, for being the first squadron to hit 100%. There are still a few other squadrons with 5 or less members needed to hit 100% and many that have 0 members, I know we have all had election of officers 2018-2018 recently and don't know how some Squadrons have 0 members paid for 2019. Are we holding membership turn-ins in hopes of getting more. If you have one paid send it in.

    1 Squadron at 100% to Goal
    83 Squadrons with 0 Memberships

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    September 7, 2018

    Team Texas,

    Here is the membership report for this week. We had 73 members sent in this week. 1 for 2017, 2 for 2018 and 70 for 2019. We are on a good pace. Just 645 short of our 25% goal due 10/12. PLease keep that membership coming in. Remember that 2018 is still being accepted till 12/31/2018. We still have no 100% squadrons but there are a few that are close. I know that we will hit all target dates this year. as always Division Commanders reach out to your District Commanders and see if they need any help. District Commanders, reach out to your Squadron Commanders and see if they need any help. Membership is what drives our Great Organization.

    Squadron 169 Wichita Falls 2 members short of 100%

    Squadron 21 The Colony 2 members short of 100%

    0 100% Squadrons for 2019

    89 Squadrons with 0% for 2019

    Division and District Commanders can we fix this.

    Thank you for your time and always remember why we are members,

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    September 4, 2018

    Team Texas,

    First let me apologize for not getting this out on Friday like i said i would. Only excuse i have is it was my Wife's birthday and had to take her out to dinner.

    Now on to the actual business of membership. As always membership for the new year of 2019 is coming in at a good pace. Our 10% target day of September 12 has already been met. Our next target of 25% is due on October 13 and we are about 715 members away from meeting that goal. Please remember to sent that membership in even if its one member. Division Commander please get with your District Commanders and make sure they are making contact with each squadron in their district weekly about membership.

    We should also still be trying to get 2018 Membership turned in also. Membership is still being accepted until December 31. I know we still have many Squadrons that are very close to hitting 100%. Yes, the 105% goal has passed but we are about 311 members short.

    WE STILL HAVE NOT HAD A 100% MEMBERSHIP SQUADRON FOR 2019
    TOO MANY SQUADRONS SHOWING NO MEMBERSHIP FOR 2019

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    August 29, 2018

    Team Texas, I want to thank each and everyone for letting me represent you as your Detachment Commander (2017-2018).

    Now that my year has finally come to an end with the ending of the Sons Of The American Legion, 47th Annual National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Now I begin my duties as your Membership Chairman and Alternate NEC.

    We have already passed the 10% goal that was set for September 13, 2018. Now we look towards meeting our 25% goal in October 13, 2018, as of now we are 771 members short. I know we can meet this goal by Fall DEC.

    In final note I want to congratulate the Detachment Of Texas for meeting the goal of 100% for the 2017-2018 year. I have the ribbon to add to our Detachment Flag.

    Once again I want to thank each of you for your efforts to support the Sons Of The American Legion and it’s programs.

    Always remember, membership is key to our organization.

    For God and Country,
    Juan R. Torres
    Membership Chairman
    Alternate NEC



    July 20, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    Welcome to our newest 100% squadrons, 579 and 493!

    This week's shout out goes to the ENTIRE Detachment of Texas! With all of our Disasters and adversities, we have done amazing! We should all be so proud!

    With Detachment convention behind us, our focus should be the last 40 members we need. I have mentioned this before. Failure is not an option!

    Let's all put every effort into this to send our Commander to National at 100%! I do not need to remind you that the clock is ticking!

    If you are only one or two members away from your Squadron or District you can sponsor them to make this goal happen.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    July 6, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    This week's shout out goes to Eddy Segers, our 3rd Division Commander, for answering Jon Kingston's challenge and rising above to be the FIRST Division to reach 100%!!!! Congratulations, you win a FREE puppy and a 50 lbs. bag of dog food....LOL! This battle has been won, but the war has not. The year ain't over with!

    With that being said, I'd like to welcome our newest members of the 100% club: Squadrons 2, 95, and 99. Also our newest District, the 20th. We are at 99.13% with only 55 members needed to hit 100%! That's less than 3 members per district. We are SO CLOSE! Let's do this! Failure is NOT an option!

    All caps and pins will be given out at Fall DEC. Certificates will be given out at Detachment Convention.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    June 26, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    You would not believe how extraordinarily busy it has been since I have returned home from the coast, but things are starting to get back to normal...kind of sort of.

    Things look good for convention!

    This weeks shout out goes out to Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew for helping me out through the last 8 months. I would love to see them come up with a Membership Emeritus for someone like him. He is the epitome of a Membership Chairman!

    With Detachment Convention right around the corner, we should be pushing to bring in membership to put our Commander on top. This is our last chance to make a push for the last 120 members to send our Commander to National at 100%. I am personally pushing for 20th District to make our goal. Every membership counts!

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    May 21, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans, Congratulations to Squadron 78 for joining the 100% Club! Everyone continue striving for 100%! As a Detachment, we are currently at 93.05%. Let's make this final push for membership renewals before our big Convention here in San Antonio!

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    May 4, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    It is my proud privileged to introduce the newest members of the 100% Club, my own Squadron (finally) 593! I am also proud to welcome Squadrons 15, 21, and 300! With the Division Conventions going on, please either take your memberships to convention or mail them in. We are getting so close!

    This week's shout out goes to Mamie in Austin for putting up with all of our short comings on all of these membership cards! Thank you, Mamie, we love you!

    Who is going to be the next district to get 100%? We already have 3 in that club! I need 17 more members. Who is going to get it before I can? Gary Paul? Roy Fowler? Richard Huntley? We are all in the running!

    Don't want to beat a dead horse, but PLEASE help your adjutants fill out new member cards correctly.

    I look forward to seeing all of you in BEAUTIFUL (I might be biased) San Antonio in a couple of months! We are so close to 100%! Let's make it happen!!!!

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    April 26, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I would like to start off by welcoming back Squadron 549 for their reactivation and their 8 members!

    This year Mamie has been overwhelmed with incomplete cards, mainly the new member blank cards. We will be starting to send those back to you to complete them. It isn't her job, it is yours. Most of you who are reading this probably already know how to complete the forms, but you should be teaching others how it should be done. I will be designing an instruction sheet to be included with your blank cards when sent out. Between now and next year, please reach out to your districts and squadrons. This needs to stop.

    We are 51 members from 90% and 684 members from 100%. We can do this guys! Let's make our Commander and our State look GOOD!

    This week's shout outs go to our first 3 Districts to reach 100%! Congratulations to Ray Hartline and the 4th District, Ken Peters and the 6th District, and the 18th District! There are many others who are very close! Everyone keep up the good work and stay focused. Reach out to the new adjutants about filling the cards out properly.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    April 20, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    We are nearing the end of our goals for the year. We are looking at 100% by May 9 and we are 797 members away. Remember to keep reaching out to those members to renew! Also, reach out to the Legionnaires who are eligible for dual membership if they are not already. When you do sign up those new members, please ensure that you are filling in ALL of the blanks...especially your Squadron number. National does send them back when all of the information is not filled in.

    I would like to congratulate Squadron 578 for entering the 100% Club! Great work guys! Eddy Seegers and the 3rd Division has pulled ahead again. Who is going to make that strong finish? Jon Kingston is not far behind! Everyone pull together with the District and Division Conventions that have yet to happen. I know that we can make this happen!

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    April 12, 2018

    I do appreciate everyone's patience during our wedding and honeymoon...especially with district conventions happening!

    It has come to my attention that we have a problem with blanks and preprinted cards. Please make sure that all the blanks are filled in on them. You cards will start to be sent back and this will delay the processing of new members and renewals.

    Congrats to the newest 100% club members. Sqds: 17, 310, 297, 618, 649, 447, 390, and 68. We almost made 90% but we still want to get 100%. We really need to push those renewals! That's where your numbers will come from at this stage in the game.

    Thank you everyone for your well wishes on our wedding. Let's get the Detachment of Texas 100%!

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    March 31, 2018

    With the wedding coming up I have been super busy. Here's is your report for this week.

    I want to congratulate everyone. We have surpassed our 80% goal. 90% is due on April 11. We are only 471 short of this goal. Welcome to the 100% club Squadrons 321, 426, 57, and 177. Great job. A special shout out to Squadron 597 for not only exceeding 100%, but also exceeding 200%!

    When you are processing blank membership cards, PLEASE make sure that you have all information filled in, especially your squadron number.

    Next week's report may be late due to our wedding on Saturday and the preparations that come before it. As I said if anyone is going to be in the Port Aransas area and would like to swing by, please feel free to call me for the details.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    March 23, 2018

    My sincerest apologies. While Mamie was on medical leave many of our numbers ended up not matching. As of today, they have been corrected and triple checked. It did not effect anyone who was at 100%, so there are no worries there. Again, I am very sorry for any confusion this has caused. My squadron was one of the ones effected, also. Any time you deal with numbers these things can happen. This is why we have ways of triple checking.

    Continue with your membership efforts. Our numbers are looking good, but we are coming into the hardest times of the year. We have come in like a lion, let's not go out like a lamb. The hardest thing is retention. Reach out for renewals. Even my Squadron is doing this. If your numbers are not matching what you see here, please make contact me. We want to make sure that everyone has the correct numbers. We all want the numbers that are being processed to match what each Squadron is reflecting in their own records.

    The following Squadrons are still "Certified" with no members:
    2nd Div:
    312 Livingston 7th Dist
    578 Houston 8th Dist
    3rd Div:
    295 Elgin 10th Dist
    390 Raymondville 15th Dist
    336 San Antonio 20th Dist
    4th Div:
    79 Alpine 16th Dist
    253 Big Lake 16th Dist
    370 Llano 21st Dist

    Division and District Commanders reach out to these Squadrons! Find out what is going on. They are not actually certified with no current memberships.

    Congratulations to Jon Kingston and the 1st Division for grabbing that first place spot again! Ray Hartline and the 4th District are making a very strong showing! The race to 100% is looking like its going to come to the finish line soon! Who is going to get it? Also, congratulations to Sqd. 96 for joining the 100% club! And of course, I continue to be extremely proud of all of the Squadrons who have exceeded the 100% mark and have even doubled it! Definitely an example for us all.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    March 16, 2018

    We almost made it, guys! Valiant effort! 79.42% (36 members from goal) definitely warrants some major congratulations to the Squadrons who have continued their efforts in achieving 100% and have EXCEEDED it! Way to go guys! This is what we should all be striving for! We are on track to have one of our best years.

    I gave you the good news, here's the bad news. Division and District Commanders, get yours pens out and write down as they apply to you! We have 8 Squadrons who are CERTIFIED WITH ZERO MEMBERSHIP. As I have been saying, if they are "Certified" with no membership, they ARE NOT CERTIFIED! Call the Squadron Commander, call the Post Commander!

    This list will exist until we have reason for it to not (i.e. Sqd has members!)! You earned your cover, now do your job!
    The following Squadrons apply:
    Division 2:
    7th District, Sqd 312
    8th District, Sqd 578
    Division 3:
    10th District, Sqd 295
    15th District, Sqd 390
    Division 4
    16th District, Sqd 79
    16th District, Sqd 253
    18th District, Sqd 635
    21st District, Sqd 370
    Phone calls should rectify this problem!

    Congratulations to Division 1 and Jon Kingston for pulling ahead again AND being the only Division not having a certified Squadron with no members! We have 2 more Squadrons joining the 100% club: 838 and 658! Way to go guys!

    Keep that finish line in sight! The next goal is 90% on 4/11. We are 669 members short of this goal.

    On a very personal note, if anyone would like to attend mine and Shelli's wedding, it will be on April 7 in Port Aransas. Contact me for more details if you are interested.

    As always, do what you can when you can.

    PDC Henry Creech



    March 9, 2018

    I hope you have all been enjoying this mild weather! Spring is great, right? Remember that District Conventions are coming and remind all of your commanders to get those memberships in! We are only 137 members short of our 80% goal. Keep pushing!

    3rd Division is still pushing hard.....can anyone beat them??? I think Jon Kingston can MAYBE pull it out.... How about you, Gary Randall? And of course, Ken Dorsett could always come from behind! Who will be the first to 100%? The challenge is out! Let's do it guys!

    Congratulations to Squadrons 22 and 267 for joining the 100% club! You guys are showing how we can all do everything we can. We should all have 100% as our goal.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    March 4, 2018

    I apologize for the late report. It has been a very busy week and weekend. Wedding planning! Ya'll know how those women get when it gets close....lol!

    We are WELL on our way to our next goal! 75% by the 14th of this month. We are only 157 members short of that! We can do this! Everyone is doing such a great job! Remember to keep reaching out to those members who have not renewed. Also, if you have a son or a grandson who isn't a member....why aren't they?

    Congratulations to our newest 100% members, Squadrons 17 and 55! You have done a great job guys! We should all strive for this goal.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    February 23, 2018

    We are SO close to our 75% goal! 12 members away! Send in those memberships! We have our 80% goal on 3/14. We can do this! Don't hold onto those memberships! They still get processed every day.

    Reminders from National have gone out. Please remember that we don't want to rely upon those. Reach out to everyone!

    Congrats to the newest 100% Club members! Squadrons 62 and 237!

    Watch out Alonzo, Ken Peters Jr has overtaken you by a little! The race is really on! WHO will have the first 100% district? Let's see who can get it!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    February 16, 2018

    Well, guys, we fell a little short of our goal of 75%. Let's pick it up and make the 80% goal due on 3/14! We can do this! We did make 75% for midwest! United we stand, divided we fall. Let's all pull together as a team. The big picture is in sight. National renewal notices have been sent out...and should have already be received by all. If you follow up with phone calls, messages, etc. they should be more receptive. We've only taken 1 step back, let's take 2 steps forward!

    Big shout out this week to Squadrons 569, 273, and 393 on joining the 100% club! Congrats for being ALL you can be!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    February 9, 2018

    The membership report I'm sending out is what we have for Mid Winter Convention. We are currently just over 65%. The offices will be closed until Monday.

    I want to thank everybody for all of their efforts. We are only 367 members away from our 75% goal on 2/14. Even if you only have 1 or 2, send them in! We can do this! We've been ahead of the curve, let's keep it that way.

    Don't rely on the renewal notices from national. Make the phone calls, send messages...reach out to them. There is a reason they joined and why they renew every year.

    Everyone keep up the good work and keep working hard.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    February 2, 2018

    The membership report I'm sending out is what we have for Mid Winter Convention. We are currently just over 65%. The offices will be closed until Monday.

    I would like to welcome back Squadron 60 from Arlington! They have reactivated and come back strong! It is wonderful to see a comeback like you guys are having!

    Congratulations to our 100% Club of the week, Squadrons 120, 402, 60, and 68! Way to get those memberships!

    I look forward to seeing all of you this weekend! I also look forward to a great convention!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    January 24, 2018

    I see the race is still on between 1st and 3rd Divisions. We are currently 433 members short of our 75% goal on Feb. 14. We haven't missed a goal yet this year, let's not start now! Which District commander will be the first to 100%? That race is still on!

    Shout out to everyone who was able to attend Mid-Winter DEC! We had great attendance and a very productive meeting.

    Welcome our newest 100% Club Squadrons: 942, and 424.

    Please keep in mind Mamie will be on leave for 6 weeks. The ladies at the office are doing a great job, already......and those have to be some big shoes to fill doing double duty while she is gone. On behalf of the entire Detachment, thank you so very much for what you 3 do every single day!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    January 20, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    If your "active" members have not renewed, please ensure that you are communicating with them. This should be the easiest time to get renewals. You need to reach out to them! Squadron commanders with a canteen, give a list to your Canteen Manager and/or Post Commander of known Squadron members who actively attend the canteen who have not renewed. They can be an advocate for memberships! This will also help to keep the Legion legal....no one wants to get into trouble.

    Shout out to our 100% Club 143, 93, and another large squadron, 493. Ya'll are definitely being all you can be! The race is still on for the first District to 100%....who is it going to be?

    PDC Henry Creech



    January 12, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    CONGRATULATIONS! As of the last transmittal to National, WE HAVE OUR 60% GOAL!!!!! Right now it should be easier to get people to renew as their cards are expired for 2017. Keep in mind, our 75% goal is February 14. The first renewal cards from Indianapolis will be coming out soon, but squadrons do better sending out personalized ones themselves as well.

    Those who are certified, thank you for sending those in....but if you have NO memberships, your officers are not members in good standing!!!! You need to send those in!!!! You know who you are.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    January 3, 2018

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year! Here's to 2018! Work is still continuing on the coast, so I am sorry for the late email.

    I am very happy with the amazing numbers we have received for the end of the year! Let's keep up this good work! Remember, you should be checking members that come into the post for their 2018 cards....perfect opportunity to get those renewals for anyone who hasn't!

    Congratulations to all the squadrons who have reached their 100% by January 1! They are: 205, 308, 597, 172, 165, 320, 111, 300, 392, 29, 198, 243, 283, 134, 388, 443, 179, 533, 71, 241, 439, and 573. We should all be striving to achieve what they all have.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    December 23, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    My family would like to wish you and your family a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! This is the last membership report for the year, and is coming out today because it includes Friday.

    I welcome this week's 100% club, Squadrons: 134, 388, 443, 179, and 533. Great job guys!

    Keep in mind our next goal is 1/18. We are close, but not close enough. Keep sending them in. The next report will be the cut off for small squadrons to get their 100% $$$. Mamie will process them when she gets back. Offices are closed until January 2.

    Remember, as you are enjoying your family and friends in celebration, keep our troops who are unable to be home for the holidays in your thoughts and prayers.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    December 15, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    Way to go Team Texas! We were announced by our National Adjutant as having over 45% membership! Each and every squadron has helped us to achieve this goal. We are currently at 50.9% of our goal. Keep pushing! Renewals, dual members, and especially NEW members! That 65% goal is sneaking up rapidly.

    Remember that the offices will be closed from the 22nd until the New Year. Get those memberships in. It is by far easier to stay ahead than to play catch up.

    Great job to Jon Kingston and the 1st division for taking over 1st place from Eddy and the 3rd division! You are truly working hard. We have 2 new members of the 100% club! Congrats to Squadrons 283 and 569!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    November 30, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with lots of delicious food and great friends and family. I know we definitely did here!

    Great job everyone, we have surpassed our 45% goal already! 60% is due in January, and as we all know, this time of the year flies by quickly. We are 784 members from that goal. Let's stay vigilant and meet our goals.

    Eddy and the 3rd Division are very close to 50%. Great job! The 1st and 2nd Divisions are neck and neck! Congratulations to Squadrons 29, 198, and 243 on joining the 100% club this week!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    November 17, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    First of all, I hope your Thanksgiving was blessed with health, happiness, and lots of food.

    On this day, and everyday, keep our veterans who are not home with their families in your minds.

    This is the eye of the Holidays. As in a storm, we need to get completely focused on the limited time we have to reach out to our members who have not yet renewed.

    With that being said, we are only 16 members from our 45% goal!

    This week's shout out is to 392 for joining the 100% Club! Way to go! Ya'll are leading the way, and the rest of us should follow!

    Another shout out to Shay Kuehner, you are doing a great job and making all of us proud! You were just here in San Antonio, sorry we missed you!

    If you bring memberships to Mid Winter, it would be greatly appreciated if it is in an envelope.

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    November 17, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    We are definitely on track to achieve our 45% goal! 60% is going to come up quickly! I am very pleased with all the numbers that have been received this week. Awesome job! Let's keep this up.

    Currently Eddy Seegars and the 3rd Division are leading Gary Randall and the 2nd Division by ONLY 1.07%! Jon Kingston and 1st Division are not far behind at all!

    Big shout out to Squadrons 111 and 336 for BOTH joining 100% Club this week! Who will be the next to join those ranks?

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    November 9, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    Membership, membership, membership! The next 2 goals are the hardest. This is not the time to become complacent. The holidays are here, so send in your membership. Even if it is only 2 or 3, don't wait. You should be sending them at least once a month. We are at 39% with only 6 days to get to 45%. We need them now.

    To all of our veterans, Happy Veteran's Day and thank you for your service.

    Our Detachment numbers are a direct reflection of the strength of every squadron. Big shout out to Eddy Segers! Its easier to stay ahead than play catch up! This week's leading district is Alonzo (again). Congratulations Squadron 320 for joining the 100% club!

    As always, do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    October 29, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    So the battle is on between Alonzo and Ken Peters! Who wants to step up to the challenge? Can any body catch Alonzo now? It isn't hard District Commanders! We hit our 35% goal already, but our future goals are going to be harder. We are barely ahead, so let's not become complacent. This is OUR year to break the Detachment goal!

    Big shout out to Eddy Seegers for pulling ahead in the division membership! Jon Kingston, the ball is in your court now! Gary and Ken, this is your time to shine! Target your dual members, and remember to look through your inactive members.

    Always do what you can when you can!

    PDC Henry Creech



    October 20, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I would like to congratulate everyone for all of the efforts. Our membership numbers are looking great! With that being said, it is easier to stay on top than it is to play catch up. All squadrons should be considering sending out renewal notices, which are available on our website.

    Big shout out to our forever 6th District, Ken Peters, for pulling into the leading District! Watch out, Alonzo, Ken has accepted the challenge! First to 100% wins!

    Everyone keep up the great work and as always, do what you can when you can!
    PDC Henry Creech



    October 13, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I would like to start by thanking Dave Paris, Bill West, and Mamie Hughes for sending in an extra transmittal to ensure that we would have our 25% membership into national on time. Again congratulations everyone, but please stay focused as our 35% goal deadline is 11/15. Let's try to get those in so we don't have another over night mail to Indianapolis.

    Big shout out to Alonzo Calvillo and the 15th district for highest membership currently! We should all try to emulate his efforts!

    Again, I apologize for the late update, with our Chicken Fried Steak night tonight, Squadron Golf Tournament on Sunday, and my work at the coast has made time this week a premium.

    Continue to do what you can when you can!
    PDC Henry Creech



    October 6, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    I am sorry for the late report. I have been working at the coast, and to say the least it is exhausting. It is amazing to see how everyone pulls together to get things done! We need to continue to put our efforts into these things! Remember, to get the help from the Relief Funds a member must be current.

    Congrats to Eddy Seegers and the 3rd District for getting ahead of the 1st! Keep it up!

    Be All You Can Be!
    PDC Henry Creech



    September 28, 2017

    My fellow Sons and Veterans,

    What an awesome Convention! With all of the turmoil and the politics that we all have endured in the last few weeks, it is amazing what the Legion family can overcome. We as a community, state, and nation need to stay resilient for the long haul, but also maintain our focus. Just remember to do what you can when you can.

    The memberships that were turned in at Convention will be sent in tomorrow and should be reflected on the next report. A big shout out to Squadrons 205, 308, 597 for achieving their 100% memberships already! The few who are just short of 100% get them in, sponsor some, and work your membership. You can do this!

    Be All You Can Be!
    PDC Henry Creech



    September 21, 2017

    My Fellow Sons,

    What an amazing start! We have surpassed our 10% goal for the Detachment in true Texas fashion. With Fall DEC being this weekend, remember to bring in any membership that you have. We are not to get complaisant as we are only 333 members from our 25% goal into National by 12 October.

    A big shout out to Gary Randall and the 2nd Division for jumping into the lead! With all of the recent events and hardships going on, a TRUE Legion Family has pulled together. Ya'll have not only stepped up for your own communities, but you have stayed focused on the real spirit of the Sons of the American Legion. I couldn't be more proud! This is why we do what we do.

    Be All You Can Be!
    PDC Henry Creech



    September 14, 2017

    My Fellow Sons,

    I'm so proud of our American Legion family for the ongoing support of those affected by Hurricane Harvey. I'm looking forward to seeing most of ya'll at Fall DEC in Austin next week. Do a last minute membership drive and bring those to Austin with you. Every member counts! A renewal in your desk drawer does not constitute someone as a current member to receive Emergency Funds set aside by the Legion family for the Legion family. Don't do anyone an injustice!

    It seems like the race is on between Divisions 1 and 2 already! Come on Divisions 3 and 4 don't let them leave you behind! Great job Division 1-Jon Kingston the sheer number of members up there is really showing the amazing effort you are putting forth!

    Be All You Can Be!
    PDC Henry Creech



    September 7, 2017

    My Fellow Sons,

    Prayers go out to all affected Posts and Squadrons. We are a family and we have always come together in times of need. We need to be there for each other. Thank you to all of the Post family members that have come to the aid of those in need. A special shout out goes out to our Commander, Juan Torres, and Past Department Commander, Butch Sparks, and Past Detachment Commander, Milton Chatham, and everyone else who has helped out with disaster relief efforts.

    Many of you have Early Bird incentives to boost membership. If your Squadron doesn't, you might want to consider this. The numbers look great and the efforts are there. Plan a goal for your 100% and make it happen!

    God bless our first responders. God bless our troops. God bless the State of Texas.

    Be All You Can Be!
    PDC Henry Creech



    August 31, 2017

    Be all you can be membership report This year the report will end on Thursday and start on Friday so you can have the report on Friday as you have been accustomed.

    Keep all of our Texas family who are effected in our prayers and do "What you can when you can".

    Henry Creech
    2017-2018 Membership Chairman



    August 21, 2017

    Be all you can be membership report

    This is my first membership report. We have made the 10% goal. We are only 763 away from 25% goal Let's do this !!!!!

    Henry Creech
    2017-2018 Membership Chairman



    August 18, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    Well, this is my final Blast!!! As I ride off into the sunset, trying to catch Kevin, please give assistance to your new Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman Henry Creech. He is going to do a great job, of this I am sure. His e-mail address is hbcreechconstruction@yahoo.com.

    The goals that you see are the official goals for 2017-2018 membership year. We have already hit the 10% target, but, as I always say, it is not official until it is recorded by National. We also have a looonnggg way to go for the 25%, so get hoping!!! Send in your 2017 membership also, if you have any left, and I know several of you do.

    Team Texas, it has been an honor to serve as your membership chairman repeatedly, but, it is time for a long rest. Remember, if you have questions or concerns pertaining to membership, contact Henry, DON'T CALL DEPARTMENT!!!!! Keep an eye on the spreadsheets for both years, and make them really pop with high numbers!!!

    Current stats are as Follows; 2017- 6155 WITH 173 left 2018 -709 WITH 871 to go for 25%.

    Again, it has been an honor to serve and I know you can count on Henry, so long, but, not goodbye!!! I will still be around!!!

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com



    August 4, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    It seems that the wind has been taken out of the sails of some squadrons, but, also, some District Commanders are really getting after it! Although 2017 membership has seen a decline in transmittals, if you have not reached 100%, renew those members!!! By the same token, if you have certified for 2018, send that membership in as well, but, remember, two different years, two different checks!!!!

    When you certify, make extremely sure that the correct address is on there to send your cards to you. We have had a few miscues, where the cards have come back, so, be ever mindful of that.

    I received the list of Constitution and By Laws on file at Department Headquarters, on the 2018 spreadsheet you will see that those Districts and Squadrons that do not have a copy on file are NOT shaded in light blue. If you have not certified for 2018, WHY? Your Squadron elections should be finalized by now, get them in!!! You will also see that I put in the goals for 2018, be aware that this will change between now and the National Convention.

    The final goal numbers will be put out with the Blast on 8/18/17. Be looking for it! I would like to ask all members to assist Henry Creech in his endeavor as your new Membership Chairman.

    Division and District Commanders, it is your job to make sure District and Squadron's are certified, let's have a stellar year for your new Membership Chairman.

    I asked Gary Winters to put two new links on the web page, they are there, one is The Youth Handbook and the other is the application for covers, check it out!!!

    We need 208 members to get to 100% for 2017, work on it!! As for 2018, we need 241 to go for 10% for 2018 before 9/13/17. One more Blast to go, and then Me and Elvis are leaving the building!!! Come on guys, let's get working membership!!!

    If you see any wrong names for Division or District Commanders, please let me know before I go!!!

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com



    July 24, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    Just an updated spreadsheet to show everyone where we are, and where to work on membership for 2018.

    To the best of my ability, I have filled in the Division and District Commanders that are on file at Department Headquarters.

    I am counting the days until it will be Henry Creech's show!! No goals until National is done.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com



    July 21, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    So, we had a pretty successful convention, with the exception of a few bumps in the road, but, that is to be expected.

    Adios to Kevin Winklemann!!! But he is not gone from the organization, he will be around, and also "Thanks Kevin for all your years as Adjutant!!!!".

    We are going to do something different this year, not only will Henry Creech be taking over as Membership Chairman, but, on this and subsequent Blast Reports, I will be putting the 2017 and the 2018 stats out. Usually, I wait till September to start the next year, but, I have decided to give you both early. To define the difference, the 2018 spreadsheet will not have goals and will be PUFL's only, the others will be posted Monday, goals will not be posted until the National convention, and the 2018 numbers will be in red. You will get two (2) spreadsheets, this is so you can see who has transmitted for 2018 thus far.

    Our new Adjutant has told me that if you do not use the new certification form, Mamie will be instructed to send it back. You can find the new form online at our web site.

    If you need help , call or e-mail me, make it quick because I am only going to be here till Sept.1, then everything goes to Henry Creech.

    Someone brought up a question about membership award checks, thinking that because his squadron was under 100 members, that he not only deserved a $50.00 check because they made goal before the end of the year, but, another check for $25.00 because they had goal by the Legion B-Day!! That's not how it works guys! Once you hit goal you do not qualify for any more awards money. It will be changed on the criteria page soon.

    Another point was brought up in Killeen, once you receive your new cards, you may transmit immediately and use your credit letter with your first transmittal.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com



    July 7, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    Well, we are one week away from the convention and we have 267 members to go for 100%!! If you have transmitted today department should get them by Monday. If you have not transmitted, but have membership, bring it to the convention!!! I would like to see us hit 100% at convention because this is my last year as your Chairman!!!

    Another note, if you have not filled out your Delegate Sheet, get it made out and sent to Kevin or bring it to the convention on Friday or BOTH!.

    Below are the forms for Delegates and Voting Strength.

    Let's make this a memorable year for Commander Creech, let's hit that 267 member goal!!!

    Here are the numbers as of today, 6,061 or 95.78% with 267 to go!!! No Matter what the Legion Web Page says, here is the correct Division Race stats, 3,1,4 and

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    Certification of Convention Delegates

    pdf version
    Detachment Convention Certification of Delegates
    word document version
    Detachment Convention Certification of Delegates

    Voting Strength

    Voting Strength



    June 23, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    First of All, I am sorry for this being so late, but, I was constructing the Credit Letters and Transmittals for the PUFL members. If your transmittal or credit letter is in correct let me know as soon as you can, I am only human. We are coming to the end of another membership year and the start of another. Get those certifications in because when we are done on Saturday, Mamie will be mailing out all the cards to those that are certified. By the Way, if anyone is interested, we will take on all volunteers to help us Saturday at Headquarters, we will turn no one away!!! We are starting at 9 a.m., so come join us for the fellowship!!

    Here are the numbers in Department such as they are; 6003 or 94.86% and 325 short of 100%.

    The Division Race has seen the 1st. come alive!!! The order is 1,3,4 and 2. Get those transmittals in!!!!!

    Again sorry for the tardiness!!!

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 9, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    TEAM TEXAS!!!

    We are moving along at a snail's crawl as far as membership goes, get with the program guys!! Not much to add, other than the new 2018 cards should most likely hit Department around or before the 20th. of this month. You know what that means, get those certifications in A.S.A.P.!!!

    Here are the numbers, 5977 or 94.45% and 351 short of 100%, and No Matter what the Legion web page says, go by my numbers.

    The Division Race is 3,1,4, and 2.

    The voting strength spreadsheet will be sent out on the 14th., so you know how many votes your squadron has plus any at large votes. Get on this membership thing, we need to be at 100% before we walk in to the Convention for Commander Creech.

    I will send out another blast in two weeks, but, voting strength next week.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 26, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, it's been two weeks and we are getting a little closer to the 100%!!! The Division Conventions have concluded but, we still need to get that membership in.

    There has been a misunderstanding about where to send your CSR forms, do not, I repeat, do not, send them to Department Headquarters!!! Send them directly to Kevin Winklemann!!!

    3rd. Division Commander Rocco wants you to send them to him first, for the 3rd. Division only, but, they need to end up in Kevin's hands to be counted. Speaking of the 3rd. Division, since there was not a quorum, Commander Rocco has called for a meeting for election purposes only to be held June 24th., at Post #83 in Austin. A call letter was sent, if you did not receive it, get in touch with Commander Rocco.

    We are doing well with the membership, but, I would like to see us at 100% before the Convention in Killeen. You all can do it!!!

    Here are the numbers, such as they are, 5,931 or 93.73% in Department, we are 397 away from 100%, so get those transmittals in!!

    The Division race is 3,1,4 and 2.

    This weekend is Memorial Day weekend, take the time to remember our veterans and help your post on any activities they may have in recognition of Memorial Day.

    See you all in two weeks here with a blast!!

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 12, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!! We have been seeing a slowdown in Membership when actually we should see an increase. That being said, Team Texas, we need to get with the program and get that membership in A.S.A.P.!!!!!

    I have made a decision that because of the slow pace, that I will go to a bi-weekly Blast. If you need assistance, I can always be reached by phone or e-mail.

    You should ALL be turning in your Squadron Certifications to Kevin, Bill, and Mamie, so get them in!!!! Let's make 100% before the Convention in July, you all can do it!!!!!

    Here are the numbers at Department, 5,825 or 92.05%, with 503 to go for 100%.

    Mamie is busy with Boys State, but she loves posting S.A.L. membership. Don't forget, this is the last time you will have to beat up on me, as I am resigning after the Convention.

    Check List, Certifications, Membership, and Certifications!!!

    The Division Race is as follows; 3,1,2,and 4.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 5, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Membership is struggling along, but, we made the 90% mark, and it was too late to be in National. The next target date is 5/10/17, and the prediction is we will not make that one either. We still need to keep getting the membership transmitted, so that possibly we can walk into the Detachment Convention with at least 100%. I for one have all the confidence that we will reach 100%, but not without due diligence!!

    Some of you may have noticed that I am downsizing my business, so, if you need to reach me, you can call 737-444-6889 or e-mail me.

    One point of interest is that as of 5/10/17, National will start printing out the pre-printed cards for 2018, that means if your card is not at National by that date, you will not get a pre-printed card for 2018. We typically get the new cards the second week of June, but, every year is different. That being said, Certify your squadrons for 2018 so that you will get your cards early. Remember to send all certifications to Kevin, Bill, and Mamie.

    Here are the numbers as of today, 5,724 or 90.46% in Department. That leaves 604 for the 100% mark, I know the Division Conventions are starting, so get the membership in!!!!!!!

    The Division race is 3,1,2 and 4.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 28, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Membership is still crawling along, but, May is next week, with a lot of activities going on including, DIVISION CONVENTIONS!!!!! Gentlemen, start working hard on that membership, National is preparing to get the new cards ready.

    Work on certifications as well, Bill Kuehner is starting the Blue Book, so, as soon as your election is over, have the Adjutant fill out the certification form and send it on. We have it online, the certification forms, you can find them on the On-Line Forms page. It is to simple, and you can e-mail them to the right people, being Kevin Winklemann, Bill Kuehner and Mamie Hughes.

    Here are the numbers in Department, 5,629 or 88.95%, which leaves us 699 short of the 100% target due in National on 5/10/17!!! Make it Happen!!!!!

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 21, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Not a great week for membership, but, we have 4 District Conventions going on this weekend that could change things dramatically, if the District Commanders get with the program!! Mamie sent 148 to National, but, we need a lot more!!!

    There is something still occurring, and I can't figure it out, some of you are transmitting all but 1 member to reach goal, what is up with that????!!! There will be more Conventions coming up, so get that membership in!!

    May is right around the corner, and that means, Division Conventions!! Just so you know, Texas is the only Detachment with Divisions.

    No more corny words or quotes, because I have had some not so positive feedback, so, if you want me to continue, let me know.

    Here are the numbers as they are; 5584 or 88.24% in Department with 744 to be in National by 5/10/17, so get working membership!!!

    District Conventions this week are, 4,7,9,and 12, two are election conventions. Not much more going on, so, get the transmittals in if you have not reached goal yet!!!

    Also, Squadrons as well as Districts should start turning in Certification of Officers, get those in 30 days before the Detachment Convention!!! It is not that hard, even Bill Kuehner can do it!!! Sorry Bill.

    As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 13, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    We are going to have to get on the membership train in a hurry because we missed the 90% target date. What exactly is happening??

    With Mamie out of the office today and they will not be in Friday, here is an early blast!

    We will have to put our nose to the grind stone, and with all the upcoming District Conventions happening, surely we can muster up some membership! Let's show the Nation that Texas is Second to NONE!!! No big events to mention at this point, but, I am certain, something will happen!!

    The numbers stack up this way; 5491 or 86.77% in Department, and we are 837 short of the 100% target, due in National on 5/10/17. Let's send our Commander to the Spring NEC with his head held HIGH!!!

    Not even Kevin is "MERETRICIOUS"!!! He He! Here is an additional section in this report, it is a quote, "Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." This applies to membership Hint, Hint! The quote comes to us from Will Rogers.

    Happy Easter!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 8, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Not such an impressive week in membership, but, I know that there are district conventions going on. We did have a new directive from National though, please look at the attachments. One is the spreadsheet and the other is the New Membership card format. Study it, and if you have any questions, please call me, because I will not be Membership Chairman next year. They have added some information boxes that National would like to have filled out, even on your pre printed cards.

    The numbers are as follows; 5443 or 86.01% in Department, and 252 short of the Target due in National on 4/12/17, my prediction is we probably will not make it, but , let's try!!!

    All in All, we have had a good year so far, keep up the good work!!!

    The Division Race stacks up like this, 3,1,4 and 2. The word of the week is, "There is no one in our organization the is "Spurious", of this I am confident. Please concentrate on membership, and take a look at the New Format for transmitting members for 2018. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 31, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Did you all miss my comments last week?? I will bet not, because only two people called me on it.

    Well, membership has slowed to a crawl again, we have to get moving so we can make the 90% target in National!! The District conventions are happening, so, make those transmittals work!

    Some issues have come up that I think we need to address, first, membership runs from July to July, on a fiscal year. The validity is Jan. to Dec., there is a difference. When you get your cards in June or July (If you certified like you should have), start renewing members right away!!!!

    Secondly, there is some conversation about Division Conventions, we need to address this at the Convention in Killeen, and discuss it in the spirit of "Detente"!

    Here are the numbers, 5369 in Department or 84.85%, and 326 short for the target date in National on 4/12/17.

    The Division race has changed again, it is 3,1,2 and 4. The word for the week, "There is no one in this organization that is "Meretricious" ". Thank a Vet when you see one. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 18, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    I forgot an award that is still up for grabs and as of this time two commanders qualify. District Commanders, if you have made both D.E.C.'s and will attend the Detachment Convention, and your District is at 100%, plus ALL CSR forms are collected and sent to Kevin, 30 days prior to the Convention. You are eligible for a $100.00 award.

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 31, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Did you all miss my comments last week?? I will bet not, because only two people called me on it.

    Well, membership has slowed to a crawl again, we have to get moving so we can make the 90% target in National!! The District conventions are happening, so, make those transmittals work!

    Some issues have come up that I think we need to address, first, membership runs from July to July, on a fiscal year. The validity is Jan. to Dec., there is a difference. When you get your cards in June or July (If you certified like you should have), start renewing members right away!!!!

    Secondly, there is some conversation about Division Conventions, we need to address this at the Convention in Killeen, and discuss it in the spirit of "Detente"!

    Here are the numbers, 5369 in Department or 84.85%, and 326 short for the target date in National on 4/12/17.

    The Division race has changed again, it is 3,1,2 and 4. The word for the week, "There is no one in this organization that is "Meretricious" ". Thank a Vet when you see one. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 17, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Well, we made the 80%, but, it was too late for National!!! Let's set our sights on the 90% due in National on 4/12/17!!

    Some interesting things happened since the last update, there was a Squadron (No Name), that transmitted 11 members, they only had one problem. The two left portions had NO Squadron number on them!! I keep saying, take your time, double check your work!!! All else seems to be running fairly smoothly! On transmittals, I have said this till I am Blue in the face, make out your cards in #2 pencil, so, that if a problem arises, it can be corrected easily. Here come the words of the week, "Don't talk "Cods wallop", when talking about someone else!". Just remember, our veterans were NOT "Poltroon!!",when they were in the service.

    Here are the numbers, such as they are, 5123 or 80.96% in Department, we are 572 off the 90% target of 5695.

    The Division race is 3,1,2 and 4, Hello 1st. Division, where have you been??

    Make a difference in membership at your District Conventions!!!

    Please note, the membership cash awards have ended!!! Look at the spreadsheet to see if you are on it. If you think I have made a mistake, get me the supporting documents and we will correct it. The checks for the Legion birthday deadline will be mailed out. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 10, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Unfortunately we did not make the 80%!!! Close but no Cigar!! You know what that means right? Start working on the 90% for 4/12/17 in National!!! We are however sending 279 to National, but, we need to get hustling the membership.

    There has been a Division Race change, 3,1,2 and 4, looks like the 1st. Division is making a comeback!!!

    The numbers stack up this way; 4998 or 79.98% in Department, 64 short of the 80% target, and 697 short of the 90% due in National on 4/12/17. You guys can do it!!!! With the upcoming District Conventions, it should not be much of a task. Division and District Commanders, look at the spreadsheet and see where you need to spend your time!!! We all need to take care of each other.

    Kudos to Ken Rodd and Alonzo Calvillo, you all are doing a bang up job.

    What still amazes me is some Squadrons will turn in a big transmittal and still be 1 member short of goal. Can someone explain that to me?

    The cut off for membership cash awards is closing in, The date is the American Legion Birthday which will be NEXT Friday!!

    If you are not on the list at the bottom of the spreadsheet, get with the program!!!! Don't be Noddy!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 3, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    It's not looking to bad but it could be a lot better!!! Guys, we need to really concentrate on membership because we probably will not make the 80% target in National. Unless we have an extremely good Monday, I cannot ask the Commander to overnight a transmittal to achieve the 80%. There are still some large Squadrons that could make the difference if they would transmit. All in All, we are doing fairly well though. With the upcoming District Conventions we should see a BIG difference.

    The numbers stack up this way, 4885 or 77.20% in Department, with 177 to go for the 80%.

    The Division race is as follows; 3,2,1 and 4. Here are the words (2) for the week.

    Do not be "Jujune" when being asked about the Sons of the American Legion.

    Second word, Do not be "Tendentious" when speaking, make it your point of view.

    Whew!!! What a deal! That was fun!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 24, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    I must confess, I made a big mistake on the last Blast, P.D.C. Arrellano had his stint surgery around the time of the Beaumont Convention. We don't want any "FAKE NEWS" here, sorry for the misinformation, I will try and not do it again.

    We continue on the right track, but, the target date to be IN National is quickly arriving. We need to start really transmitting membership as soon as you can!!! We need to show the National organization that Texas is Second to NONE!!!

    There has been some discussion about the 100% caps matching the shirts. This is a very costly proposition and I am going to recommend that we go back to the Gold caps no matter the color of the shirt. Think about it, it is your money we are wasting.

    The numbers stack up this way, 4695 or 74.19% in Department, 144 were sent to National Thursday 2/23/17. We are still short 367 for the 80% due in National on 3/8/17. Step it up guys!!!!!

    The Division race is 3,2,1 and 4. Pick up the pace Detachment of Texas!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 17, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Just when you thought you would get rid of me, I reappear!! Sorry to disappoint anyone. The events in my life took a change for the time being, so , here we

    I would like to welcome Squadron # 942 from Sugarland to the rolls!! If you have any questions concerning membership, please contact me, Mamie has her hands full with Boys State right now, so, let's reduce the trauma. We missed the 75% target, but, let's set our sights on the upcoming 80% goal due in National by 3/8/17, we are 449 behind as of today.

    More on that in a minute, if you don't know, Post 231 has a Gofundme page set up, they are trying to raise money for the finishing touches to completing rebuilding of the Post. Contact Gary Winters, and he can get you squared away on how to help.

    I just found out a couple of days ago that P.D.C. Albert Arrellano had two stints put in and is doing well.

    Here are the numbers, 4613 or 72.90% in Department, as stated, we are 449 short of the 80% target, so, get with it!!

    I know that there are some upcoming District Conventions, so get motivated!!

    The Division race is as follows; 3,2.1 and 4. The phrase for the week is this, "When at a Fellowship room don't be a Lout!!!!". Look it up gang! Transmit membership!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 10, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    First I want to start off by suggesting that EVERYONE click on this link, which is on the web page, but, since no one checks it out, here is the link: http://www.saltexas.org/planbooks/index.html.

    It shows you all the proper steps for membership paperwork and so much more.

    I have stated ALL last year that if you do not use your P.U.F.L. credit by Dec.31, 2016, you will lose that credit!! Someone tried to use it this week, not going to happen, you were warned!!

    Thanks to J.A. Paul here is a list of Squadrons that have charters but have been silent for a looonnggg time!!

    This could very possibly be my last Blast, as I have events in my life that I need to address. There have been a few of you that know what I am talking about, and the response has been dismal at best. Thanks to those who helped!

    Now, on for the word of the week used in a phase. Do not use "Invective" language when talking to one another. Look it up Guys!! The numbers stack up this way, 4558 or 72.03% in Department, 509 sent to National yesterday, we are 504 short for the 80% target on March 8th., Get with It!!!! Sadly, we DID NOT make the 75% target, work harder guys, you can do it!!

    The Division Race has changed (somewhat) 3,2,1 and 4. Till I make my decision to stay or go.

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 3, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    There has been some discussion about membership numbers, my statement to that is, National keeps pushing us to recruit, renew, and retain!! So I am saying no matter what the count, follow National's directives until further notice.

    Congrats to 10th. District Commander Rodd for being the first at going over the 100% mark!! He is followed closely by 15th. District Commander Calvillo, now everyone needs to get with the program and get the membership transmitted!!! I don't believe we are going to make the 75%, but we will see.

    We will have to have a Super Bowl type of membership by Monday if we expect to make the 75% target by 2/8/17.

    We currently stand at 4475 or 70.72%, meaning we are 271 short, come on Texas!!!

    We had an issue with a transmittal where the blank card was made out but, the membership ID# was that of a legionnaire. It will be fixed.

    The Division race stacks up this way, 3,2,4 and 1. I have had several phone calls asking me if a web page is legit, it is about me and yes it is legit, if you can assist My Wife and I would appreciate it, the address is https://www.gofundme.com/RichardB .

    Keep your sites high and get the membership in!! Great D.E.C., but keep working it!! As Always,We are getting closer to the D.E.C., this Blast is coming to you early because Mamie As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 25, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    We are getting closer to the D.E.C., this Blast is coming to you early because Mamie will not be in the office Thursday and Friday.

    Remember, we have a training session at Post#83 on Saturday morning, with a FREE Breakfast sponsored by Commander Rocco and his crew at #83. If you have not contacted Commander Rocco, do so now!! For ALL members at the D.E.C., you really should attend this training session, from what I have seen in the years, EVERYONE needs improvement. Kevin, Brad, and your humble Membership Chairman, are not doing this for our health. Show up, be educated, and be informed!!!

    Here is a word for you all to ponder, Do not thank a veteran with "circumlocution". Look that meaning up!! He He! We have 4216 members in Department or 66.62% and 530 short of the next target!! Bring them to Austin!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 20, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    I am going to start off with a function that will be upcoming at the D.E.C., and that is the training session at Post #83 in Austin. The date is January 28th. at 7:30 a.m. sharp, with a FREE BREAKFAST at 7:00 a.m. . This event is being put on by Ralph Rocco and the crew at Squadron #83, but he needs to get a count. Please call or e-mail Commander Rocco at 512-517-0176 or rrocco60@gmail.com . Please respond to Commander Rocco by January 27th.!!!!!

    It has come to my attention that some disconnected members think they are big time and contact National for a problem that can be handled on a Detachment level. Do Not do this, I am always here, and if you have a problem with membership or your Post, contact me or Kevin Winklemann first, if your local officers are un attainable! Contacting National will only irritate them, they have enough to do without petty Detachment problems.

    If anyone has received a facebook post about me from one of my friends, it is legitimate.

    You all are slacking off a little, are you sandbagging??!!!! We are currently at 4152 or 65.61%, but we are still 594 behind for the next target.

    The Division Race is as follows: 2,3.4 and 1!!!! Bring your sandbagging membership to the D.E.C., see you there!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 13, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Not bad this week, we gained some 100% Squadrons and are closer to the 75% target. We really need to buckle down and get working on membership! There are so many members out there that are not renewed! Why? I have said this a thousand times, but, I will mention it again, if you want the true figures, take a gander at the spreadsheet, regardless of what the American Legion web page says.

    This is typically the time of year that everyone sand bags!! Don't do it!! Don't just hold on to membership for the D.E.C., send it in now!!!

    The 100% awards checks will be available at the D.E.C.. If anyone needs help, I am here. For those that have reached 100%, job well done, help out the other squadrons around you. Division and District Commanders, you will get a pay deduction if you don't start doing your job!! J ust Kidding!!! Help the Squadrons out, that's your job!!

    We are currently at 4056 or 64.10% at Department, with 690 to go for the 75% target in February!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 6, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    We made the 60% target,but, it is not at National yet, Mamie will be transmitting on Thursday 1/12/17. Some of you have been sending in cards and a check, but, no transmittal sheet!! If you need help (Squadron Adjutants), CALL ME!!!!

    I am not to sure about Eddy Seagers comment about" Membership Emeritus", I will be ending my tenure at the Convention in Killeen. Let's not worry about that for now, we have a real chance at making the 75% target that is due We are currently 920 short as of today. Membership is at 3826 or 60.46%, go team , GO!!!

    The Division Race is stacked up this way,3,2,4 and 1.All Commanders, look at this sheet, and work on your weak points!!

    The next Awards date is the American Legion Birthday in March, so, don't let up, get that membership in!! Everyone is doing an outstanding job thus far, DO NOT STOP!!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 3, 2017

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    We had quite a turn in from the holidays!!! We received 209 members,but we need to work hard to get to our 60% goal with 43 more needed in National by 1/19/17. If you will notice, we have quite a few 100% Squadrons. Everyone else needs to follow suit!

    We currently stand at 3754 members or 59.32%!!! Everyone needs to keep working hard on membership, I am always available, so, if you need help, CALL OR CONTACT ME!!!!

    The division race has made a change, it is 3,2,1, and 4.

    Again, great job everyone, let's keep it up, I will send out another blast on Friday 1/6/17. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 22, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    This spreadsheet shows the end of the year membership numbers, because, Mamie will be out till Jan.2, 2017!!! That is when the cut off for Squadrons with a goal of 99 or less have a chance for a membership award check. Check the spreadsheet to see how many more you need so that you can get a check at the Mid Winter.

    Division and District Commanders, help out your Squadrons!!! As soon as I get the goal for 2017 from National I will post it,but, in the meantime work on your membership transmittals.

    The current stats are as follows; 3545 or 56.11% in Department, with 246 short of the 60% target!!! We have 21 Squadrons at 100%, and 22 that have yet to certify. Division race is 3,2,4 and 1!! Come on ya'll, get on the stick, get that membership in for Jan.2,2017!!!! I know you all can do it!!!

    The next blast will be on Jan.2,2017, so be looking for it!!! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 16, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    We made the 45% target!!!! Congrats to all!!! There were a few mistakes made while Mamie was out but they have been corrected, so, look at the spreadsheet.

    I have said this till I am blue in the face,"Don't rely on the web page!!!!", check the spreadsheet, it is up to date on everything from Actual,goals, etc.. The AIMS program has a lot not to be desired. That's why you have me for the last time!!

    You heard it right, I am retiring as membership chair at the end of this membership year. I assume that everyone has received there Newsletter, if not contact Bill Kuehner.

    Mamie will be in headquarters until Thursday 12/22/16, and then she will return on Jan. 2,2017.

    That being said, get those transmittals in!!!! If you have not hit 100%, you have until Jan.2,2017 NO EXCEPTIONS!!!! You have been warned. Here are the stats as of today, 3378 members or 53.47% in department. We are 413 short of the 60% target, which must be in National by 1/19/17.

    The Division race stacks up like this, 3,2,4,and 1! While members are coming home for Christmas, get out there and renew them!! You may not have the opportunity again!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 9, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Surprise! Surprise! Surprise!

    I thought with Mamie on vacation we would have to wait for the membership to be posted. That is not true, Emily has been doing it and I have a current list on the spreadsheet. Whatever you do, do not refer to the web page membership, it will not be updated until Mamie gets back Monday.

    Now for membership, we did not have any mind altering turn ins but it was good none the less. Keep them coming!!! We did hit the 45% at National!! Great Work Guys!!!! Let's set our sites on the 60% now.

    We have a District leader in Alonzo Calvillo in the 15th., he leads with 88.64%, you other District Commanders, see if you can catch him!!

    The division race shapes up this way, 2,3,4 and 1! We have 3144 or 49.76% in Department, that is 647 short for the 60% target, get with it guys!!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 2, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership needs to pick up gentlemen!!! We are 790 short for the 60% target that needs to be in National on 1/19/17!!! Mamie will be on vacation next week, so let's get those transmittals in so she has a lot to post. Do Not forget your credit letters, if you have a P.U.F.L. member and have not used your credit letter, do it now!!! You only have till 12/31/16 to redeem it.

    Some fantastic news, Squad.297,12th. Dist., and the 1st. Div. are now certified!!!! We have 9 Squadrons at 100%, surely we can do better than that!!!

    The current stats are,3001 members or 47.50%!! We sent 292 members to National Thursday. The Division race is as follows; 2,3,4, and 1!! Division and District Commanders, look at the spreadsheet, see where your membership is lacking and reach out to those Squadrons and Districts!!

    The fat man in the red suit will be coming soon, so get together with your membership before hand and get the renewals!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 23, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Since Department is closed Thursday and Friday, I figured I would submit an updated blast!

    First off, we made the 45% target, and Mamie will be mailing it next Thursday. That being said, we really need to get serious on the upcoming 60% target due in National on 1/19/17. We are currently 902 members short, with Thanksgiving, it gives you a great time to visit with members that are home from college or whatever. Get them to renew!! Let's see a BIG turn in on Monday, what do you say??

    In Department at this time we have 2889 or 45.73%, which is good, but we have a long way to go!!

    Kudos to Commander Waddell, the Detachment has hit 100% for 15-16!!! The Division race is as follows, 2,3,4 and 1.

    Wishing ALL a Happy Thanksgiving and be Safe!!!! As Always,

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 18, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are moving in the right direction but need a push to make the 45% to be in National by 12/14/16!!!

    Again, Squadron Adjutants, please be careful when filling out your transmittals!! We had another Squadron that sent a check and a transmittal sheet, with NO cards!!! Take your time, because mistakes like this only delay the posting process. We had two Squadrons hit 100% this week, they are #172 and #57, Kudos Guys!!!! Don't forget to use your credit letter, if you have one.

    Another thing, with the upcoming holiday (Thanksgiving) , this is a great time to get the membership renewed from those members your don't see all the time. Keep in mind that we have the hardest target coming up in Jan.2017, and we are currently 995 short!!

    The stats are as follows; 2796 in Department or 44.25%, 47 short of the target. The Division race is still the same at 3,2,4, and 1.

    Department will likely be closed next Thursday and Friday, so get the transmittals in!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 18, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are moving in the right direction but need a push to make the 45% to be in National by 12/14/16!!!

    Again, Squadron Adjutants, please be careful when filling out your transmittals!! We had another Squadron that sent a check and a transmittal sheet, with NO cards!!! Take your time, because mistakes like this only delay the posting process. We had two Squadrons hit 100% this week, they are #172 and #57, Kudos Guys!!!! Don't forget to use your credit letter, if you have one.

    Another thing, with the upcoming holiday (Thanksgiving) , this is a great time to get the membership renewed from those members your don't see all the time. Keep in mind that we have the hardest target coming up in Jan.2017, and we are currently 995 short!!

    The stats are as follows; 2796 in Department or 44.25%, 47 short of the target. The Division race is still the same at 3,2,4, and 1.

    Department will likely be closed next Thursday and Friday, so get the transmittals in!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 10, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This blast is coming to you a day early, due to Department being closed for Veterans Day. That reminds me, please help the American Legion with ceremonies wherever you can, it's our job!! Thank a Veteran if you see one, just say "Thank You for Your Service!!", it goes a long way.

    Squadron 89 will get there cards, but, Mamie had to put in a request for a second copy from National. If you do not receive your cards within one week from submitting your certification, call me, do not bother Mamie, please.

    Just to highlight, District 15 Commander Calvillo, has the highest percentage of goal at 75.76%!!! You other District Commanders need to try and catch him!! Kudos Commander Calvillo!!!

    We are doing well, but, there is always room for improvement, just 3741 members to go for 100%!!! Here are the numbers as of today, 2571 or 40.69% in Department, with 272 to make the 45% by 12/14/16. Please keep in mind that the 60% is right around the corner on 1/19/17, and we are 1220 short. If you have any credit letters to turn in, get it done soon, because, they expire on 12/31/16!!

    The 3rd. Division has a slight lead in the percent of goal, the standings are, 3,2,4,and 1!!

    One more thing, if you need any assistance on membership, DO NOT bother Mamie, she has a tough enough job, contact me!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 4, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had some impressive membership transmittals this week!! Keep it Up!!!! We will make the 35% target, Mamie sent 325 out yesterday which gave us a good cushion.

    Currently we stand at 2413 members in Department or 38.19%!! We need to work harder though, the 45% is upcoming on 12/14/16, and we are 430 short as of today. The Division standings are as follows; 3,2,4,and 1. We have 7 100% Squadrons to date, we need more!!!! There are also some un certified Division and Squadrons, Get-R-Done !!!!!!

    Please plan to attend the training at Post #83 the weekend of the Mid-Winter Convention. There will be a lot of good information to be had. Also, 3rd. Division Commander Ralph Roco is serving a free breakfast to the attendees. This is for ALL members regardless of your Division. It will be held on the Saturday morning of the Convention. Contact P.D.C. Gary Paul with any questions about your C&BL's!!

    Get the membership in guys, District Conventions are still ongoing, so, get them rounded up!! As Always,

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 28, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We did it!!! We made the 35%, but it is not in National yet. We need to see more transmittals from you all!!! I know that the District Conventions are going on, but, besides that, we need to work on membership all the time.

    We had a stand up Division Commander that got with the program!!! Commander Ralph Roco, kudos to you sir, he took it upon himself to get the caps and pins for the 15th. District. We still do not have any answers to the mystery behind who took them from the Convention.

    Again, Adjutants, be careful when filling out your paperwork, check and double check before mailing them off. If anyone has questions or concerns about membership, feel free to contact me, I am always here.

    The Division race stacks up this way, 3,2,4,and lastly 1. The numbers are as follows, 2227 members in Department, or 35.25%, which leaves us 616 away from the 45% target due in National by 12/14/16. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 21, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    WE are looking pretty good in the membership department. Some District Commanders are asking me for spreadsheets early, and I have no problem with that, just contact me.

    Now for the numbers, 2011 members in Department, and 200 short of our 35% goal due in National by 11/16/16!!

    We only have 6 Squadrons that have reached 100% so far, the rest of you guys need to step it up a notch!!

    The Division race is on, and it shapes up this way 2,3,4 and 1!!! I know there are several District Conventions going on, so, get the membership in!!!

    One last note, does ANY one know where the caps and pins are for the 3rd. Division??? Please contact me!! As always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 14, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had some pretty good turn ins, but we are still behind for the 35% target date of 11/16/16 by 310 members!! Let's pick up the pace so we can be ahead of schedule.

    There was a squadron that did not send a transmittal sheet along with there check and cards, please be very careful before transmitting guys!!! Also, another Squadron transmitted but were not certified, I don't know how that happened, but, Mamie sent them back!!

    There are District conventions this weekend, so, get those members in!!!

    Here are the stats; 1901 members in department or 30.09%, we still lack 310, so, transmit!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 7, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    WE MADE IT!!!!! The 25% target was reached ahead of time, but, probably will not be recorded till Wednesday 10/12/16. Bottom line, we did it together!

    Remember that the 35% target is to be in National by 11/16/16.

    There are District Conventions going on and we need to think membership, and also, work with the Legion when it comes to helping out and securing your meeting room.

    We sent our Commander to Indianpolis knowing the Detachment has hit the 25 % target. Great work All!!!

    Here are your numbers, 1700 members in Department, 511 to go for the 35% target, so, get with the program!! Look at the spreadsheet to see who has already hit 100%. Division race is as follows,2,3,4,and 1. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 30, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    It was good to see all the members at the D.E.C. in Austin last week!

    We had a pretty good turn in on membership and this week has proved to be good as well. We are currently only 90 members away from our 25% target for October, keep up the good work on membership guys!!! Do not forget, if you have a credit letter for a P.U.F.L. member, you must use it by December 31st., or you lose it.

    Division and District Commanders, look at the 2017 spreadsheet, see who has not transmitted or is not certified and get with them. Something I did not say at the D.E.C., instead of raising the dues, let's see if we can recruit more members and retain them!!

    If you have any questions concerning membership, call or contact me!! For all other issues, contact Kevin Winklemann. We need to keep all issues in house, do not try and reach out to National, we can settle it here in Texas on a Detachment level. Keep up the good work!! As always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 16, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    The state of the Detachment is well!! Our numbers are coming up slowly, but, surely. I can really tell which Division and District Commanders are talking to there Squadrons and which are not, just look at the spreadsheet. As of today, we reached the National goal of 10% at National and are number 23 Nationwide. Time to shift gears and knock out the 25% target before the end of September!! We had a few careless mistakes, but, those have been resolved, just be careful when making out your transmittals!!!

    There have been some calls to Department Headquarters regarding different issues, if you all will just go to the web page, ALL the information you need is right there!! Do not call Department, they have enough to do, and if it has to do with membership, call me!!

    Again, the D.E.C. is Sept. 23-25 in Austin, make a note of it!!!

    Mamie will be out of the office next Thursday, so the next report will be next Wednesday.

    The Division standings are 2,4,3 and 1, the numbers shape up this way, 1084 in Department or 17.16% and 496 off the target date for 25%.

    Let's get out there and start transmitting membership!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 9, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are starting to get to that point where we need to set our sights on the 25% target date of 10/12/16, and we are 562 short currently. On the bright side, we will have accomplished our 10% at National!

    It seems we have an issue in the 8th. District, more specifically Squadron #499 Galena Park. The issue is with membership and the protocol for transmitting, all I can do is quote the C&BL and hope that they are not holding membership back that they have already been paid on. The C&BL suggestion says in Article VII, sec. 3 the following," Section 3. The Squadron shall pay to Department Headquarters the National and Detachment annual membership dues within thirty (30) days from receipt thereof for each paid member of the Squadron". Simply put, when you receive dues for membership, transmit it!!!! If you do not do this it effects the Squadron and the individual member. Squadron #499 needs to get with the program, we do not do things the way that you want to, there are policies and procedures!!! If this is not resolved, I feel that a letter will be sent to the Post Commander, District Commander, Our Detachment Commander and Adjutant. The problem will be addressed and resolved, trust me!!

    Now for the stats, we have 1018 members in Department or 16.11%, we are also 562 short of the 25% target. Don't hold them till the D.E.C.!!!! If you have any concerns about membership till the D.E.C., contact me.

    If it can be verified that any Squadron is holding membership deliberately, they will be disqualified for any monetary awards. This of course will be brought up at the D.E.C. for passage. I believe that most Squadrons are on the up and up, but, for those who are not, beware!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 2, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    The 2017 membership has slowed a bit, I hope there are no sandbaggers out there thinking they will look big time at the D.E.C.. We have seen a very different start to the year, with the 4th. Div. in first place followed by the 2nd.,3rd. and lastly the 1st.. Come on guys, you looked good out of the gate, don't slow down now!!!

    Please, ALL Commanders, take a good look at the spreadsheet and work on your weak points, it is only three weeks to the D.E.C.Sept.23-25, but Do Not Wait till then to transmit. There is a race between some Squadrons for reaching 100% way before the end of the year, jump on the bandwagon, let's get moving!! Although I am doing the Blasts right now, your go to guy should be PDC Waddell, but you can call me if you can not reach him, if it has to do with membership. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 26, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    In this weeks blast you will find a list of PUFL members, I just thought you all might want to know. Also, the goals have been set, the spreadsheet here is official, so take a good look at it. Shortly Mamie will have them up on the Legion web page. I must inform you, regardless of what the Legion web page says, my numbers are correct.

    The numbers stack up this way, 2016-6250 or 98.92% or STILL 68 short of 100%!!! 2017-835 or 13.22% and we need to work on the 25% target due 10/12/16, of which we are 745 short.

    Depending on the Commanders call, I may or may not continue the Blast after the D.E.C., which is from Sept. 23-25 in Austin. membership is rolling in, but we need to work harder!! Up until the Commanders call, if you have membership problems, do not hesitate to contact me. Adjutants, please make certain that all your paperwork is filled out correctly, Mamie does not have the time to correct careless mistakes. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 19, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had very interesting things happen in the way of membership this week, first of all Mamie updated the Legion/SAL membership page,but there are a few glitches. The total membership figure is wrong, pay attention to my spreadsheet for the correct totals.

    We still need to work on 2016 membership though, we have 6240 in Department which is 98.77% or 78 of the target. On the other hand, 2017 is looking good with 631 or 9.99% and 1 short of the 10% target.

    If you all will notice, the 2017 has goals and Commanders names on it, this is subject to change depending on what we get in for 2016. I will let you know the official goals when it happens.

    Keep pushing membership, and again the 8th. District Commander Anthony Lambert is really making a difference, by October he promises to have all his Squadrons at 100% and all C&BL's submitted.

    You will see some Squadrons marked inactive, that is generally because they have failed to turn in membership in the last two years, it is not official yet.

    Once again it seems that we need to pay attention to our transmittal practices, it was submitted to me that a squadron sent in two checks (One for each Year), but only ONE transmittal sheet. You must submit at transmittal sheet for each year as well as separate checks!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2016-2017 Membership Committee
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 12 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    What is happening to the 2016 membership???It is slower than a trickle now, and we are almost there!! I have had a lot of calls from some District Commanders saying that they will have there Districts at 100% by December!! I hope that dream comes true and that the rest of you follow suit!

    As the Adjutant said, there was a misprint in the newsletter concerning the DEC dates, they are Sept.23-25 in Austin.

    As you will see on the 2017 spreadsheet, I have put some names down for Division and District Commanders, if they are incorrect, let me know. Our Asst. Adjutant is going to get me the ones he has on file.

    As an addition to the regular spreadsheets, I am attaching the list of Divisions, Districts and Squadrons that have C&BL's on file at Department, check it out on the Detachment Info page.

    Here are the stats as they are, 2016- 6221 members or 98.46% or 97 to go. 2017- 539 members or 8.53% or approx. 93 to go. If you need assistance on Membership concerns, contact me!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 5, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    The 2016 year is slowing down considerably and 2017 is just getting started, but don't forget, we still need to hit the 100% for 2016! As some of you might have seen, I sent out a 2017 preliminary sheet, it only shows what membership is in at this point. When the goals are set, it will be sent out again with all the pertinent information on it. After the goals come out, PDC Waddell with be your contact point for membership.

    JA Gary Paul is still trying to get those that need C&BL's to get them done.

    Just an observation, the 1st. Division was low on the membership count this year, but, I am optimistic that it will change in 2017.

    To all Commanders, I feel I must make this statement, You are the presiding officer over all official meetings and the Commander's P.R. man for your respective Division/District. If you have problems with a Squadron, do not take it upon yourself (because you can't), address it to Kevin Winklemann, he will settle all disputes.

    On the bright side, here are the current stats, 2016-6213 members or 98.34% and 105 off the 100% target. 2017 - 396 members or 6.27% with at least 236 for the 10% goal in National. If you feel the 2017 spreadsheet is in error, contact me. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 3, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This is just a little added extra early!! Check the spreadsheet for the 2017 membership year!! It DOES NOT have goals or Commanders names yet, but it DOES HAVE the Squadrons that are certified (according to Mamie), and the membership turned in already for 2017. When we set the goals, you will be getting this sheet and the one for 2016. This should give the Division and District Commanders a heads up on where they need to work!!

    Hint ! Hint!! Next Blast will be on Friday.

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    July 29, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well so passes another week, we received some membership but we still have not reached the 100% mark yet.

    The 2017 cards are coming in fairly well with an estimated 324 already in Department,don't let up on 2017 , but also, 2016. That is roughly 5% but we need to get to 10% before the goals are set.

    That reminds me,after the National Convention, the goals for 2017 will be sent out. We have a real go getter District Commander in the 8th., Anthony Lambert is kicking some butt!! He has reinstated 658 and is working on Tomball, his key, calling the Squadrons in his District and keeping in contact with them. That is something the rest of you can learn from, think about it!!

    Because of a minor situation we had this week, I ask ALL Adjutants to be very careful when sending in a transmittal, check it twice or three times if necessary. We have been having some careless mistakes being made, if you don't know the answer, ASK!!!!!!

    Current stats 6194 in Department or 98.04% and 124 short. Keep sending the membership . As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    July 22, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    First of all I want to clear the air as it would be. I sent out an e-mail during the convention stating that I was done with the Blast. There were proceedings happening at the convention that I did and do not agree with. Then I got to thinking, it is not about me, it's about the Detachment, so here I am. I will continue at least till the National Convention. Our newly elected Commander Creech has talked with me, so, I may be here for 2016-2017, Good Grief!!

    Now that is off my shoulders, the membership is slowing down for 2016, but, on the bright side, Mamie tells me she is receiving 2017 membership. That is good, keep it up Team Texas!!! We have to follow tradition and have the 10% goal in early September.

    There is something that needs addressing, if you have a member that changed there address, PLEASE make sure it is corrected with Department!!

    While we have had a good turnout on certifications, we still need everyone to get them into Kevin,Bill, and Mamie A.S.A.P.!!! Remember, membership is our life blood, without it we are nothing. If you need assistance, contact your District or Division Commanders, and if all else fails, contact me.

    We are currently at 6107 or 96.66% in Department, with 211 to go for 100%.

    Remember, it is not about you as an individual, it is for the Veterans and Detachment!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    July 8, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This will be the last blast until Department gets back from Convention. All the information will be forwarded to Thom Skelley for the report at Convention.

    Although we had 70 Squadrons hit 100%, we are still not at 100% for the Detachment, I saw the National standings, and we were number 50, What's Up????

    We had some P.U.F.L. membership cards come back because of bad address', I am trying to get this fixed and have them re sent. This is why it is so important to update your address if it changes.

    Enough of that, if you have not received your credit letter,(If You Have A P.U.F.L. member in your Squadron), please contact me. They were mailed out to the address in the Blue Book, so, make sure Asst. Adjutant Kuehner has the correct information. Since I will not be at the Convention, turn all concerns to Thom Skelley, and then resume to me after the Convention.

    Here are the stats, 6059 into Department or 95.90% with 259 to go. The goals will be set at the rap of the gavel at National Convention on Sunday. Certificates and caps and pins should be available at the Convention. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    July 1, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership is not where we need it to be,but, keep working it!!!

    I have been informed that the cutoff for Squadrons able to get a ribbon for 100% membership is July 1,2016, but talk with Kevin. If you will look at the spreadsheet on the bottom, it will show the 100% Squadrons and the date they achieved it.

    Please send prayers for P.D.C. Gary Paul's wife, apparently she was diagnosed with mold in her lungs, and we should pray for her speedy recovery.

    The credit letters for P.U.F.L. members is being mailed today, so you should get them soon. If you all only knew the job of opening the envelopes from Department, I would get some sympathy, trust me!! But it is done!! We are thinking of posting them on the web page next year, but, give me your feedback.

    We are currently at 6045 members or 95.68% at Department, with 273 to go.

    I will not be at the convention, but, Thom Skelley is going to fill in for me. If you need any help with membership, do not hesitate to contact me, that is what I am here for. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 24, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Once again membership is moving at a crawl, this is the time when we should be at 100%, but, we are around 48th Nationwide. What is happening guys?? There are only 3 Districts at 100% and they are, 15,8 & 14. We need to really get down to business and transmit membership!! The 1st. Division is in last place, I can't recall when they were ever that far behind. Let's pick it up a notch!! The stats are as follows in Department, 5995 members or 94.89%, with 323 short of 100%. Nationally, we look real bad, we are at like number 48, we need to improve on that.

    I will be in Austin Saturday with Kevin and Juan de los Santos pulling the P.U.F.L. cards, which means, if you have certified, (And You Should Have By Now), Mamie will be mailing them out on Monday. If you have not certified, get the certification in A.S.A.P.!!! I don't know what else to say other than, As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 17, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    As most of you have seen (Those that read the e-mails), I have sent out the voting strength minus any at large votes. There has been some discussion about the date to set the strength, the C&BL states "In Detachment 30 days before the Convention", this should be a topic of discussion at the Convention. Adjutant Winklemann wants any of you that have access to a computer to fill out your delegate sheet in advance and e-mail it to him, you should also copy Judge Advocate Gary Paul. The only reason I am asking you all to do this is in the interest of time.

    Another issue is the Consolidated Report Form, if you have NOT received it contact your District or Division Commander, because I assure you, Adjutant Winklemann sent them to the Division Commanders.

    Here are the stats as of today 6/17/16, 5941 members at Department or 94.03% and 377 off the 100% goal, come on guys!!!

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 10, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership is still at a crawl, but we are moving along, and we have moved up Nationally to 42nd. place!! That is kind of embarrassing, because I know we can do better!! Detachment stats, 5847 members or 92.55%, and still 471 off the mark! Let's get with the program guys!!!

    Get those certifications in ASAP!!! The 2017 cards are expected by next week, but, nothing is guaranteed. Remember, you can NOT get your 2017 cards without being certified.

    We are coming to the final stage of membership, let's make 100% before the Detachment Convention!!!!!

    I assume that all Squadrons have received there CSR forms, if not, Contact your District and/or Division Commander!! These forms go to Kevin Winklemann directly. NOT to Department, is that clear?? Start sending in the membership guys, I know it is out there.

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 4, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    The Third Division Convention is this weekend and that will be the end of all District and Division Conventions, therefore, ALL Certifications should be submitted. Once again, I say, Division and District Commanders, reach out to the Squadrons and get those certifications IN!!! Membership is trickling in, when we have so many left, let's get with the program!!!

    I would like to take a minute to express my thanks to those who called me about the un timely death of Richard Grimes, our P.U.F.L. Chairman. He has gone to the Squadron Everlasting!

    Now back to the numbers, at Department 5784 or 91.55%, which leaves 534 still out there, how can that be??

    Because of an incident this week, I am going to give each member a little advice, DO NOT get involved with the Legion or Auxiliary matters. They can handle there own, and we have enough to take care of ourselves.

    I would like to see a big push in membership this week!! The cards are not in and are not expected for two more weeks, remember, only those certified will get them mailed after the P.U.F.L. cards have been extracted. AS ALWAYS, As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 27, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    There is a lot going on in the Detachment, but I am sorry to say, it is not in Membership.

    Our numbers at Department are as follows, 5766 members or 91.26% and 552 off the 100% target!! Kevin mentioned something about certifications, ALL certifications should have been processed by now!!! No

    Now for what I want to concentrate on, there has been an enormous amount of turmoil between Post's and Squadron's. After thinking about this, I have come up with something for you all to think about, the policies and procedures for protocol between Post and Squadron were written in the 1930's, it is about time for ALL of us to revise them. After all, we are not children like when we were first admitted to the "Legion Family". I have the utmost respect for the veterans, but we need to bring the policies and procedures to reflect the change in time. We all as S.A.L. members enjoy raising money for the American Legion and it's programs. With the current restraints put on us by the I.R.S., in respect to the percentage of membership versus the Legion, the government has held us back in growing. Think about it, this is 2016 not 1930, and our average age is way higher than before. In closing, Squadron Adjutants, be more mindful of your job, make sure ALL information is filled out when transmitting. As Always, As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 20, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership is moving very slow lately, so get going!!! There have been some events that have taken place since the last Blast that I want to talk about. It seems that some squadrons are having trouble trying to work together with there sponsoring Post. My opinion is, there are way too many Posts that appreciate there Sons, so if you are still at logger heads with your current Post, transfer to somewhere close. This is supposed to be a "Family", but too many times, the Sons are being treated like Kindergartners, we are not munchkin's anymore. By no means am I asking you to piss off the Post, just quietly transfer. We do way to much good for something like muscle flexing to come between what we do for Veterans and Children and Youth. Pick up the low morale and move on gentlemen. That being said, here are the Department stats; 5703 Members or 90.27% and 615 off the 100% goal. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 13, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    With all the District Conventions over with, we need to see what we have not seen!!! Membership and Certifications!!!!!

    Why is it a hard concept to get the paperwork done?? I have offered my assistance, as have several others, are we just to lazy and would rather hang out in the clubroom? What does that accomplish??

    Soon enough, I will not be the Membership Chairman, but until that time, get with the program and get the paperwork DONE!!!!

    Some Squadrons have come in late, but, at least they came in. Division and District Commanders, if you don't want to do the job, RESIGN NOW!!!! Don't let the membership bear the burden because you don't want to do your job!!!

    Now that that's over with, here are the current stats in at Department, 5660 members or 89.59%, and 658 members off the target of 100%. No more glitter stories, so, As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 6, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership is moving very slowly, what seems to be the problem? We need to beat the streets for Commander Waddell, help him hold his head high when someone talks about Texas!! One new district Commander brought a mistake to my attention, that tells me that some of you are reading the Blast!.

    Let's dig and get that membership in!!! We are at 5546 in Department or 87.78% and 772 of the mark. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 29, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Where has all the membership gone??? We are really slowing down, and with all the District Conventions going on.

    Here are the stats as of today, 5487 Members in Department or 86.85%, and 831 off the target of 100%!!!

    Come on Texas, let's get with the program!!! Division and District Commanders, this low membership is on your shoulders heavily!! You guys need to get on the phone, or go in person and help out, that's why you all get paid the big bucks!!! And have that cap, it's not just for show!!!

    Just think for a moment, if the veteran that you qualify for membership through just gave up, like you all are doing, we would all be speaking German!! But they never gave up and you shouldn't either!! Rebuild the Legacy!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 22, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are getting membership in at a snails crawl, what is happening out there? Some issues have come up since last week, if you have a complaint, contact Kevin or John Schendel our Advisor. Don't just talk stuff and then not follow up, if you truly have an issue, get it resolved the right way. Let me by crystal clear on something, you DO NOT have to meet at the American Legion for your meetings (Although it is Recommended). Our Advisor has told me that if you have a fundraiser for a specific charity, that is the only place that the money goes, nowhere else!! You need to earmark it in a meeting and have the supporting documents, such as minutes of the meeting.

    It does not surprise me that the membership numbers are down, with this tom foolery going on. The current stats are as follows; 851 off the Target date of 5/11/16, currently in Department 5467 or 86.53%. With the District Conventions going on , I would expect more, come on guys!!! For those having elections both District and Squadron levels, get those certifications in!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 15, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well, this week was a little disappointing,not only did I have the target date wrong,but we didn't make the target anyway. We are currently at 5325 or 84.25%, which relates to 993 members off the 100% target date of 5/11/16. There has been some concern about S.A.L. members that are also Rider members as a result of there membership in the Sons. Let me make this very clear, if you are a Rider by virtue of your S.A.L. membership, make certain that it has been transmitted. If not, you technically are not a member in good standing, get that Sons membership transmitted. I suggest, that you talk with your Squadron Adjutant, just to be sure. If you have your 2016 card and your transmittal has not been made, you and your adjutant need to talk. If you qualify through the Legion, that is there situation, not ours. The Riders do a lot of good things, all I am asking, is to make certain your sons membership is in good standing.

    If you have been approached about the Free Insurance that the Legion offers, there is a very simple way to register online. Go to www.thelit.com and get signed up, it is Free!!

    Think Membership!!!!!!

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 8, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Mamie was absent for roll call this morning, so I will give you what I have. We are currently 488 members short of the 90% target that is due in National on 4/19/16. Our current membership in Department is 5198 or 82.27%, and as you can see we have a long way to go.

    I know there are numerous district conventions going on, so, get out there and transmit the membership. Do not show "Intemperance", when trying to get the membership Please look at the spreadsheet, see where your weakness' are, and make me feel like the word is getting out, instead of talking to myself.

    District and Division Commanders, step it up!!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 1, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We made 100% ! NOT!! April Fools!!! But seriously, we need you all to start transmitting!! What is going on out there?? I know there are and have been a lot of District Conventions going on, so, get that membership in.

    In the 15th. District we finally got 101 certified, and I helped out with this. If you need assistance, do not hesitate to contact me!!

    T.J. in the 8th. District is working hard to get his district to 100%, if he can do it why can't the rest of you? We only have to the 19th. and we are 565 members behind!! All Commanders, check out the spreadsheet, see where your weakness' are and assist these squadrons.

    Kevin has sent (or will) the Consolidated Report Forms, fill them out and return them to Kevin ONLY????

    Keep working the membership guys, don't be Fractious when getting the membership turned in. Remember As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 11, 2016

    Team Texas!!!

    Memebership report has been posted.

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 4, 2016

    Team Texas!!!

    Memebership report has been posted.

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 19, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had an OK week, two squadrons made 100%, and they are 143 & 644. Just look at the spreadsheet, also, I have listed those Squadrons that have not certified, I can't believe that this late in the year that we have un certified squadrons. Do you guys not care??

    Our numbers are as follows, 4681 members or 74.09%, we are 373 short of the 80% target date of 3/9/16. The division race is as follows, 3,2,4,1.

    What is happening?? I have gotten negative feedback on my words that I post, so, this time , I will not post anything.

    Division and District Commanders, take a GOOD look at the spreadsheet, see who is not certified and who has zero for members. I can't do it for you, contact me if you are having problems. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 12, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well, Well, WE missed the 75% target, but Mamie sent 609 to National yesterday (Thursday 2/11/16), but we still fell short. We had a Squadron come on this week, Squadron 242 Burton is on the books, and they are at 190% but not eligible for a check this time. Welcome aboard 242!!!!!!

    Here are our numbers as of 2/12/16, 4,516 members or 71.48%, we are 538 short of the 80% target due in National on 3/9/16. Guys, go out and get those memberships renewed, they are there for the taking!!

    The Division Race is interesting, 3,2,4, and 1. I am still working on a spreadsheet for a possible increase in dues, but, don't get excited, I will send it out when I get it tweaked!!

    Division, District and Squadron Commanders, get with the program of membership!!!!

    Education time, Don't be "Verecund", when recruiting membership!!! I am always available if you need help, just contact me!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 5, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    It was great to see you all at the D.E.C., we have a hard road ahead though. We are currently 298 members behind and the target date to be in National is Wednesday 2/10/16!! We could still pull it off if everyone puts the effort forth!!! I will be watching! I can't stress it enough, be careful when filing out your transmittals, we had an incident where Mamie received the transmittal sheet and check but NO Cards!!

    We are currently at 4441 members or 70.29%, please pay attention to the spreadsheet, because sometimes the web page is in accurate. What ever you do, don't be "Louche", when recruiting or promoting membership. If you need any help, please contact me if it pertains to membership, I will be here till National Convention, and then the cowboy is going to ride away. Don't ever forget,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 22, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This is an early blast because Mamie is out of the office and at the D.E.C..I strongly recommend that you bring any transmittal(s) to Austin with you!!! We are at 4,198 or 66.45%, and we need 541 more members for 75% in national by 2/10/16!!!! As always, if anyone needs assistance, just bring your documents with you.

    In the last blast, I forgot to thank Kevin Winklemann and Bill West for getting the membership into National!! Check the spreadsheet and let's have a BIG turn in at the D.E.C.!!! See you all in Austin!!! Don't be" Miscreant", at the D.E.C. this weekend. As I always say,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 22, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well, we made the 60% target, so let's start working on the 75%!! We had two Squadrons hit 100% and they are, 12 and 618, Kudos Guys!!!!

    I do not understand why we are at 49.??% renewals at National, are there really that many members that have not renewed?? The Detachment numbers are; 4036 members,63.88% and 703 off the target mark!! Guys, start working the membership, we have over 50% of our membership that has not renewed, that is about 3,000 members!!! If you need assistance, contact ME!!!! Take a good look at the spreadsheet Division and District Commanders, do the job you were elected to do!! No one has the right to be" popinjay", or a" snollygoster", get out and renew these members!! If you are sandbagin, you better bring the membership to the D.E.C., that's all I gotta say!!! as I always say,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 15, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    With the help of Adjutant Winklemann, we had a transmittal sent yesterday 1/14/16 so that we could hit the 60% target at National, Thanks Kevin!!!!!

    I regret to inform the members of Squadron #159, Mamie made an entry error, therefore, you all are NOT eligible for the $50.00 check, but hey, try for the deadline by the Legion Birthday. I can't stress it enough, Adjutants, please take more care in filling out the transmittal, check and double check!!

    We have sent a total of 774 members to National, and will make the 60% target, but, we need to work on the 75% target in National by 2/10/16. We are 831 short as of today. Once again, Alonzo Calvillo in the 15th. District is creeping on the 100% District.

    Our numbers are as follows, 3908 members or 61.86% at Department, remember, they don't count until National records them. I want to extend my help if anyone needs it, and also, we have Squadrons sending in all but two members to reach 100%, WHY???? Keep up the good work guys, we need to make the 75% target, and the rest will fall into place.

    In closing, remember, membership is our life blood, as I always say,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 10, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    You guys rock!!! We made the 60% target by our numbers and then some!!! We are currently 28 over the number required. I will contact the Commander and see if we can get a special transmittal to National so that we can have it recorded. Mamie sent 599 Thursday to National so we are only 41 short and we received 51 today!!!

    There were some accounting errors on Monday, my apologies to Squadron 516, you have not reached 100%. Furthermore, Squadron 491 DID hit 100%! Kudos!!

    Other significant notice, there were 2 Duplicate members sent back, and I deducted them from the spreadsheet, 1 from Squadron 7 and 1 from Squadron 121. We also had another unique situation, there was a Squadron that transmitted I believe 8 members , but the only problem is they used the 2 left portions from 2014. It was corrected at National and credited to 2016. Please, Squadron Adjutants, be careful when filling out your transmittals. If anyone needs assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me!! We have resources on line to help you, just go to our web page, under membership, and you will see the link.

    The 15th. District is still in the lead and creeping up on 100% District, the Division race is 3,2,4,1. Our new goal from National is officially 6318. Now, we need to work on the 75% target, we are 920 off the mark, so, let's get crackin'.

    One last note, something is wrong with the AIMS program, but, I assure you the spreadsheet is correct. In closing , as I always say,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 5, 2016

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    I see that some of you actually read the blast! You all did a bang up job over the holidays, we gained 6 more Squadrons that made 100%, and they are, 71, 223, 248, 392, 472 and 516!!!! Kudos Gentlemen!!!! We are 174 behind for the 60% that has to be in National by the 20th. of this month! Let's bear down and get the membership transmitted!!!!!! It seems that 15th. District Commander Calvillo is going for the Ralph Rocco award, being only 11 members shy for a 100% District!! It can be done!!!!

    You guys amaze me sometimes, current numbers in Department are 3613 members or 57.25%, let's make the 60%!!!!!

    Congratulations to Commander Skelley for reaching 101.218% for his year!!! Kudos Commander!!!

    Another notable mention is National has set our goal at 6318, that's official and will not change. Sorry for the oversight.

    One last note, some of you are sending in all but 2 members, what is up with that???? That said,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 24, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well, the year has ended for all intents and purposes,and we don't look too bad, but, we need to work membership while Department is on break! We had 3 more Squadrons hit 100% and they are,533,220, and 439, Kudos Guys!!! Great Job!!! Keep in mind that January 4th., 2016 is the first cutoff for membership awards! The 15th. District is in the lead for now, and the Division race looks like this, 2nd.,3rd.,4th. and 1st.. We only need 481 for 60% target in National, let's get with the program!!!!! Here are the numbers if you don't want to look at the spreadsheet, 3306 members or 52.38%, remember these are our numbers, in January I will give you the final goal from National.

    Advice, don't be Quidnunc or Noddy, look them up. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!! Be safe out there, and remember,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 18, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are still turning in membership, but at a snails crawl. Keep in mind that the 100% awards for small Squadrons ends on 12/31/15, but you have till 1/4/16, which means get the membership in!!!! We had some new 100% Squadrons this week, and they are, 418,121, and 43. Squadron #43 is new in the 15th. District, so the monetary award is not available to them because there goal is 10. Kudos to you all for achieving the 100%!!!!!!!

    Here is where we stand, 3178 members or 50.36%, still short 609 members for the 60% target in January. Remember, Department will go on there Christmas break on 12/23/15 for two weeks. Visit with the members that you have not seen all year, and get them to renew!!!

    PDC John Kingston called me and complained about the spreadsheet numbers on our web site versus the Legion web page. Do not pay much attention to the Legion web page, it is a valuable tool but not as accurate as the spreadsheet on our site. Rememver, We do not control any of the membership numbers on the Legion site.

    By the way, John and the 1st. Division are in last place Detachment wide, John, help getting the numbers up instead of complaining to me!!

    John Schendel asked that I appeal to any Squadron needing help with there Post sponsor, to call me or him. He is here to help you, if you have been experiencing any conflicts.

    We will have another Blast on 12/23/15, which will be the last one till the new year. I can't stress it enough,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 14, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well, Mamie is back, and because the phones were not working this morning this report is hot off the press. We didn't do as well as I had thought, but we will take it! We only had 155 turned in, and we need 713 in National by 1/20/15. Don't forget to redeem all credit letters before the end of the year, or you lose it.

    We can add Squadron 166 to the 100% list, Kudos Guys!!!! Squadron 220 sent in all but two members, it still amazes me why some Squadrons do this,but, I will never know the reason.

    I will send out another Blast on Friday, and before Headquarters goes on the Christmas break. Which brings up another point,you will have until January 4th. to hit 100%, after that Squadrons with a goal from 12-99, go to the $25.00 bracket by the Legion Birthday. Let's transmit this week and till the middle of next week!!!! No Sandbagging aloud.

    One last note, because I work closely with 15th. District Commander Alonzo Calvillo, he is making some major moves in his membership and getting Squadrons back on board, Salute Alonzo!!!! Remember,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 25, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Membership is doing well, with a few bumps in the road, but nothing major. By our numbers here is how we stand, 2786 members, 45 short of the 45% target due in National by December 9th.

    The 3rd. Division is still in first place by a very thin hair. Squadron 159 hit 100% !!!! Kudos Guys!!!

    I have a subject that is sensitive, so I will be as easy as possible, if there are any squadrons experiencing difficulties with American Legion leadership, please e-mail me so John Schendel our Legion Advisor can correct any misunderstandings.

    Have a Great Thanksgiving Everyone!!!! And Remember,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 20, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had one Squadron hit 100% this week, Kudos to Squadron 159!!! That being said, we are still 73 short of the target for 12/9/15, so get those transmittals in!!!

    I would like to see us at 45% before the Thanksgiving Day Holiday, which brings me to the subject of Headquarters hours, they will be off from Wednesday 11/25/15 until 11/30/15. Transmit as soon as possible!!!

    We need to stay ahead of the game!!! Our numbers are as follows, 2758 members or 43.84%, we need those 73 members A.S.A.P.!!!

    If you need any help with anything membership, contact me!!! Don't be tetchy (look that one up)!!! As always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 13, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    You all did it!!!!!!!!! We made the 35% target, we are #30 in the Nation with a percentage of 36.052%! That's the good news, now for the serious part, we need to get moving on the 45% target due on 12/9/15. We are 283 short, but, like I said before, talk to the members that are home for the holiday. Two Squadrons made 100%, Squadrons 248 and 241, Kudos Guys!!!! Great work!!! Our numbers shape up this way, as of 11/13/15, 2548 or 40.50%, you guys can do it!!!! Please look at the spreadsheet, it will show you where your weakness' are. Reach out to those squadrons and give them a helping hand. Do Not hesitate to contact me if you need any help to anything membership!!! Squadron 83 and 177 have a technical glitch on the spreadsheet, but, it will be fixed. Let's hit 45% before the end of November!!! You guys can do it,I know it!!!!!!

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 6, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This week we had some fair turn ins, and some returned membership, but, all in all, a good week!! First, we made the 35% goal by our numbers, and it should be confirmed by National next week. Mamie transmitted 413 on 11/5/15. I also received an e-mail from a Commander on a transmittal issue, it was good to see that some of you are taking me up on my offer!!

    National has changed our goal to 6291, but, not to worry, we still made the 35% with some to spare. We need to concentrate on the 45% target due on 12/9/15, we need 478, so get with the program!! I know that Thanksgiving is coming up, which typically means , those members that you have not seen in a while, are back home from college or where ever. Seize the opportunity and get them to renew there membership!! Squadron 424 hit 100% , but as I explained, will not receive a check because of the S.O.P. that is set up. Remember, your goal needs to be 12-99 for small squadrons to receive a check.

    The 15th. District is in first place and the 3rd. and 4th. Division are neck and neck. Don't give up guys,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 30, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We are getting closer to the 35% target, but, the date is fast approaching as well!! We are currently 34 members short, and , there are still District Conventions going on, so get that transmittal made and sent off. Currently by our numbers we stand at 34.46% or 2165 members. Let's show National what Texas is made of!!!! There are two more squadrons to add to the 100% club, and they are, Squadron 172 and Squadron 271, Kudos to you all, now you don't have to worry about your membership and it gives you more time to work on fund raising for the programs. Remember 34 MEMBERS!!!!!!! Contact me if you need assistance!!!!

    As always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 23, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    This week had some pretty good membership turn ins, as a matter of fact, Squadron 227 hit 100%!!!! I know of another in the 15th. District that will follow suit on Monday. There seems to be some confusion on the Goals, well it is quite simple, if you look at the spreadsheet it says Detachment Goal 6750, and National Goal 6282, all we need to worry about is the National Goal!! Speaking of the National Goal, we are currently at 30.58% or 1921 members by our numbers. Remember also, it is what National has posted, not what we show. We lack 278 for our target date of November 13, there are a lot of District Conventions going on, so get the membership in!!! Sorry this report is late,I got busy at work, but, here it is. If you have any questions concerning membership, do not hesitate to call me or e-mail me, I am here to help!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 16, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had quite the week, because of a communication breakdown, we did NOT make the 25% target. That has got to be the first time in years that we have not made the second target. We had the membership in Department,but, the communication was either slow or non existent. All we can do is dust our self off and set our sites for the 35% target. We have less than a month to transmit 609 members. We have had a couple of returns from National, but, not that many. If I get returns, I am sending them to Bill Kuehner, who will in turn send them to the perspective adjutant. If you doubt the return , contact me with supporting documents and we will get to the bottom of it. Division and District Commanders, get out there and assist these squadrons and get the job done!!! Juan Torres from the 2nd. Division is leading right now, but, he is followed closely by the other 3 Divisions. If you have questions or concerns about membership, CALL ME!!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 9, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We have not reached the 25% target yet!!! Why??!!!!! We are currently 24 members short, surely we can muster 24 members. If we do and they hit department on Tuesday, because they are closed for Columbus day, We could overnight the members and reach this goal. There are a lot of district conventions this weekend, so, get with the program guys!!!!

    We haven't had very many returned members (so far), so be very careful when transmitting. I will send out a link that shows and explains how to properly fill out a transmittal.

    Division and District Commanders, look at the spreadsheet and get on those that are either not certified or have 0 membership. If you have any issues concerning membership contact me!!! As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 2, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    We had a fair week, and we are still 82 short of the 25% Target, remember, it has to be in National by 10/14/14!!! No one has hit 100%, but there are some squadrons that are oh so close!! There are District Conventions coming up, but, don't wait, send the membership in A.S.A.P.!!!!

    These Blasts will be available as early as possible on Friday so that District Commanders can discuss membership with there respective districts. If I am not mistaken, the Commander will be in the 11th. District this weekend, let's see how many members get transmitted. As Always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 25, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Had a great time at the D.E.C., last weekend, but I have some bad news for Squadron 208. It seems they have not reached 100% yet, they forgot (I am sure) that there goal went up by 2, so, get those two in 208!!! Mamie sent 482 members to National yesterday (Thursday), but, we are still 133 behind for the 25% target on Oct. 14th.. That reminds me, Squadron 208 is paying for there members to reach 100%, but , if you are going to do this make sure it is a 5 year member or greater. Kevin Winklemann had me look up our All Time High in membership, and it so happens that the figure is 6641 in 2011. Let's see if we can bust it this year!!! Keep those transmittals and certifications coming in, and as always, if you have any questions concerning membership, reach out and contact me!!

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 16, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Since Department headquarters is traveling to San Antonio today (Wednesday 9/16/15), I figured that I would put out an updated spreadsheet as of 9/15/15. If you have membership, please bring it to the D.E.C.!!! We are 490 off the mark for the 25% date of 10/14/15, that means, posted by National.

    We had an incident this week that was kind of funny in a way, it seems that National had a Member Data form on a member dated 8/26/15. They informed Mamie that this member was Deceased as of 3/16/15 by there records. I saw the form and it was a transfer, with nothing concerning a death. Well, come to find out, the member is alive and well!!! Wheww!!! None of us is perfect, but, we are keeping a closer eye on National this year for this very reason. Check the spreadsheets which are up to date, I will have a few copies at the D.E.C., bring on the membership!!!

    I will see you all in San Antonio, bring any question you have concerning membership to me. As always,

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 4, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Team Texas!!!

    Well we had quite the interesting week, on the first e-mail there were Squadrons that had not certified and those that certified after the Detachment Convention. We had a Squadron that certified, but , with a South Dakota form!!!! We have our own guys, and the short form is the one to use, not the dinosaurs from years past. All the forms that you may need are on the web page, take some time and navigate it to find the form you need. Gary Winters does not do it for his looks, he does it for the Detachment.

    If there are any Squadrons that need assistance with membership issues and can not get in touch with your District Commander, call me, I am here to help.

    When making out your transmittals, take your time, check and double check your work. REMEMBER, when transmitting two (2) different years, make out two (2) different transmittals and two (2) separate checks!!!!!

    We are doing rather well, so far, but we are 714 short of the 25% target next month, so get the membership transmitted!!!

    I would like to make mention that Alonzo Calvillo of the 15th, District has gotten Squadron 93 up and running, Salute Alonzo!!!

    Please look at the spreadsheet, see where the zero squadrons are and contact them. I am sure there are Bar-B-Q's going on this Labor Day weekend, spend some time with the membership and get them to renew or sign up a new member. Let's have a good turn in this week, don't sandbag for the convention!!! That's about it for now, but......

    Think Membership!!!!!!


    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 3, 2015

    Gentlemen, Below this blast you will find a link of a list of those Squadrons that failed to certify before the Detachment Convention and those that have yet to certify. Take a good look at it, and if you can prove it incorrect, prove it with the proper documentation. If you prove it, I will make an apology! The way you prove it is e-mail or fax me a copy of your certification that is stamped by Department. This list will stay posted and updated on the web page. If you do not know where to get the certification, go to this link and you will find the proper form http://www.saltexas.org/forms/cofsquadron.pdf. All your forms are on the web, use them!!! I will have more in the morning with an updated membership spreadsheets for both 2015 and 2016.

    Squadrons not Certified as of September 3, 2015

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 1, 2015

    Gentlemen, Here is an example of carelessness. National kicked this card back because of NO address. Come on guys!

    faulty membership tranmittal card
    click image for larger view

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 31, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    As promised, we have posted the spreadsheet for 2016 membership year. You will notice a new feature in the bottom right, it is a graph for the Divisions. It also has updated (as of today), certifications, if you dispute that your squadron is certified but it is not reflected on the sheet, send me proof and I will change it.

    A couple of new rules this year, first, Chairman Kuehner announced at the Convention,i

    f you were not certified by the Convention, you will NOT be eligible for any Membership awards. Secondly, the small squadron is defined as 12-99, not 0-99, but common sense would tell you that. Thirdly, if you certify and do not send in membership 30 days after that, I am removing you from the rolls and I will contact the Sons and Legion District Commanders. We are going to have a GREAT year, I can feel it. We need to set our sights on the next target dates, the 25% is creeping up very fast, so transmit your membership A.S.A.P.!!!!

    That is all for now, and as always, I will have the reports out hopefully before noon on EVERY Friday, unless I die.

    Again, Well, another year is starting, and you all have me back again, for the last time as Membership Chairman. First of all, Congrats and Kudos to the Detachment and Commander Skelley for a fine job!! We will have some criteria changes this year, and I will explain them in my next Blast on Monday 8/31/15, which will also have the 2016 spreadsheet, along with the new goals for 2016. We already have 753 members for 2016, which means we made the 10% target, but, let's get to work on the 25% goal in October. The 2016 will be out on Monday, and then both of them until Dec. 31st..

    Think Membership!!!!!!

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    Living in Exile
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    August 28, 2015

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, another year is starting, and you all have me back again, for the last time as Membership Chairman. First of all, Congrats and Kudos to the Detachment and Commander Skelley for a fine job!! We will have some criteria changes this year, and I will explain them in my next Blast on Monday 8/31/15, which will also have the 2016 spreadsheet, along with the new goals for 2016. We already have 753 members for 2016, which means we made the 10% target, but, let's get to work on the 25% goal in October. The 2016 will be out on Monday, and then both of them until Dec. 31st..

    If you have any questions that have to do with membership, feel free to contact me.

    Look for the new goals and spreadsheet on Monday!!!

    Think Membership!!!!!!

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    E-Mail: truckbroker57@aol.com
    2015-2016 Membership/Internal Affairs Chairman

    August 17, 2015

    Attached is the membership report for the week ending 8/14/15. Gentlemen, here are the hard facts - based on the transmittals that Mamie has sent to National and what she is showing on today's report, our membership is inflated by 20 members. The actual number that we should be seeing is 6262. The National report shows them processing 30 less members than what we have transmitted due to duplicate transmittals and transfers. That boils down to the fact that our numbers actually stand at 6232 and we are still 10 shy of goal before the National convention. Surely we can come up with 10 more members before Mamie submits another transmittal (by Thursday).

    Once again, an awesome membership year. Remember our Sept 10th deadline for 2016 membership. Get those numbers transmitted to Department as well. I will be putting out one more report and then will happily hand this back over to Squeak for the new year! Thank you for a great year and your patience! Greetings Detachment of Texas. Slowed down a little in getting the membership report out after convention, but the attached report is current through today (July 27th). We are 24 short of 100%. It would sure be nice to send our Commander off to National with 100% and a front row seat. Get that last push momentum going and let's make this happen.

    Bill Kuehner
    Assistant Adjutant

    July 28, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas. Slowed down a little in getting the membership report out after convention, but the attached report is current through today (July 27th). We are 24 short of 100%. It would sure be nice to send our Commander off to National with 100% and a front row seat. Get that last push momentum going and let's make this happen.

    As of today, the Blue Book has been completed with the information that we received. Those who did not turn in their Certification of Officers will have last years information deleted and a blank space for your contact information. You have until this Thursday to get that form to me -- I must have everything turned in to Department this weekend. I received several after Detachment convention -- as stated, any not received by the time we left Beaumont would not be eligible to receive the monetary award for achieving 100%. A list will be put out this Friday of those who are not eligible due to late turn-in and those who did not turn one in at all.

    We have had a tremendous year -- I can't thank you all enough for the hard work we have accomplished with this year's membership. Thank you for everything you have done!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    July 2, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas - attached is the Membership report for the week ending June 26th. We are 76 short of our goal as of Friday. Surely, we can find those 76 by Convention next week!

    I have asked for 2 months for you to send me your certifications to be included in the 2015-2016 Blue Book. To date I have received 2 Divisions, 6 Districts, and 24 Squadrons. I have picked up many from Mamie at Department today while I was in Austin. According to the Detachment constitution, Article 8, Section 2, elections should be held 30 days prior to the Detachment convention and your certifications are to be turned in no later than 20 days prior to Detachment convention. If your 2015-2016 certifications are not received by me before I leave Beaumont, your Squadron will not be eligible for any membership award for the 2015-2016 membership year. This will be reiterated by me and the Judge Advocate at convention. If you have not already done so, get your certifications to me and Mamie ASAP but no later than July 12th.

    Having said that, those Squadrons whose certifications are not received in time will have their information blank in the Blue Book.

    Again, thank you for your outstanding work this year! Hope to see you all in Beaumont.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    June 24, 2015

    Team Texas!!!

    This is an early note, that , because I am very gullible, and have lost my mind, I was asked to be Membership Chairman for 2015-2016. I accepted!! What was I thinking? Well, be that as it may, after the rap of the gavel of the National Convention, I will take over membership. Until that time, direct all questions to current Chairman Kuenher, Please get your 2016 certification in a.s.a.p., to Kevin,Bill, Mamie, and myself. I can't understand why ALL Squadrons are not certified by now! Anyway, I will take over in August, so get ready to have a great year!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 23, 2015

    Once again, I apologize for getting this out so late. Once again (again!), we had some number discrepancies that seem to plaque us quite often with membership. The attached report reflects changes made to fix those discrepancies, and have been checked by several of us so I am hopeful that between us, we may have it right this time. (Thank you Squeak). If you notice anything that doesn't seem correct, please let me know right away. One of these was an entry made in December to the wrong Squadron, but it wasn't noticed until now (and it was a 14 member difference).

    I appreciate your patience with me this year, and especially appreciate all the hard work each of you have given to put the Detachment of Texas at 98.22 %. We are very close that 100% goal......

    Convention is just 3 weeks away - Shay and I look forward to seeing you in Beaumont

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    June 15, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas - only 4 weeks till Detachment Convention and we are at 98.11% in membership. Four weeks to get those last memberships in to put our Commander over the top.

    Your hard work has definitely been appreciated throughout the Detachment.

    I've had several emails from Squadrons who want to know why their information was not updated in this years Blue Book.....if you wish to be included in the 2015-2016 Blue Book, you must send me your Certifications for that information to be published - we can only enter information that we have. District Commanders - it is your responsibility to let each of your Squadrons know this requirement and have them send their information to me within the required timeline. In order for the Blue Book to be printed and ready for distribution in a timely manner, I must have ALL information (Certification of Officers forms) no later than the weekend of the convention (July 12th). Otherwise, their information will not be entered or available. Squadrons that do not certify by the end of the convention will not be included in the Blue Book.

    These must be sent to me, Mamie Hughes, Kevin Winkelmann, and Richard Bartholomew. Email is preferred, but make sure that it is sent to all 4 individuals listed above. Thank you for your cooperation.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    June 8, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Attached is the Memership FlyBy for the week ending June 5th. Current membership is at 97.66%. It's time to make that last push gentlemen. We have four weeks until we convene in Beaumont - let's gather those last minute memberships and show Commander Skelley that the Detachment of Texas can make it to the top!

    If I can be of assistance, please don't hesitate to call on me. Looking forward to seeing all of you there!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    May 29, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Attached is the updated Membership report for the week ending 5/29/15. Please take note of the Squadrons listed to receive a membership award check. There was an adjustment that needed to be made to the list. The program automatically copied those who reached 100% by the designated time, however new Squadrons are not eligible and one had to be removed from the list.

    I apologize for the delay the last few weeks -- we have had a number of family issues that required my attention. I appreciate your patience.

    We continue to have a number of squadrons at zero --- please follow up with these asap and get those memberships turned in. We are at 96.76% -- very close!

    I hope all of you had an opportunity to honor our men and women who have served our Country, not only this past Memorial Day weekend but every day that we enjoy the freedoms they fought for us to have.

    Hope all of you had successful and enjoyable conventions as well. I will be in Austin next weekend to help get the newsletter out. I HAVE ONLY RECEIVED A HANDFUL OF CERTIFICATION OF OFFICERS REPORTS. If you want to be included in the blue book, I must have this information no later than convention in July.

    Hope to see all of you in Beaumont....

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    May 10, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Membership FlyBy for the week ending 5/8/15. We are at 93.88% -- less than 400 members from hitting our goal. District & Division Commanders - note that there are still several Squadrons at zero, please contact these Squadron or Post Commanders and see what you can do to help them get their membership turned in.

    As Kevin previously noted - all Squadrons must email their Certification of Officers to Mamie immediately following their elections - even if there are no changes. Please cc: Kevin and me so that your Squadron information will be listed correctly in the blue book.

    I would like to thank everyone for all their hard work this year - let's finish the year off in keeping with Commander Skelley's slogan - PRIDE: Promote, Recruit, Instill, Dedicate, Educate - by accomplishing our mission of service and membership

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    May 4, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Attached is the Membership FlyBy report for week ending 5/1/15. We are at 93%, getting very close to that 100% goal. We appreciate everyone's hard work.....

    Division conventions are upon us -- this is a great opportunity to push for those last minute renewals, and to work on strategies for recruiting new members. If I can be of help, don't hesitate to call on me.

    Hope to see everyone in Beaumont!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    April 26, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Attached is the membership report for the week ending 4/24/15. Congratulations to Squadrons 198 (106.67%), 593 (101.87%), 667 (100%), and 426 (109.09%) for meeting or exceeding the 100% goal. We are at 92.04% - just a short jump to that 100% goal for the Detachment of Texas. The upcoming District and/or Division conventions are a great opportunity to push that membership.

    Please remember to include me when you send in your certification of officers (to Mamie & Kevin). I will be working on the blue book this coming year and the certification ensures that you will be included.

    Please keep the Skelley family in your thoughts and prayers - Amy Skelley lost her mother recently and we want them to know that they have our comfort and support.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    April 20, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Membership report for the week ending 4/17/15. We are getting closer to that 100% mark -- we're currently at 90.40%. Momentum has slowed a little, which is not unusual for this time of year but we need to get moving on that and show our Commander that we can make that 100%.

    Certification of Officers for the 2015-2016 year need to be turned in by Department Convention in July. Please email to Kevin Winkelman, Mamie Hughes, and me.

    Thanks for our hard work!!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    April 14, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Greetings Detachment of Texas:

    Sorry for the delay -- had a numbers question. Congratulations to Squadron 516 and 649 for surpassing the 100% mark! Keep up the good work everyone. We are at 88.72%

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    April 6, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Greetings Detachment of Texas:

    The Membership FlyBy for the week ending April 3, 2015 is posted. Congratulations to Squadrons 275 and 838 for reaching 100% this week

    Keep up the good work - we are at 87.22%, very close to reaching that 100% milestone. I hope that everyone has a successful and informative District and Division convention.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    March 30, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas -

    Membership turn-in has slowed down somewhat which is not unusual at this time of year, however we still have a ways to go so lets get out there and get those last minute renewals and new memberships.

    hough Commander Skelley has announced that he will not be able to attend upcoming conventions, let's continue to push those numbers and show him the PRIDE that the Detachment of Texas has in his service to our organization and the programs of the American Legion Family.

    I'd like to recognize Squadrons 310, 37, and 635 for reaching and/or exceeding the 100% goal this week!

    On another note, as we approach elections for the upcoming year, please make sure to send in your Certification of Officers immediately following elections and no later than August 25th. When you send them to Mamie, please cc: me as I will be preparing the Blue Book for next year. If we don't have your Certifications, we can't print accurate information.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    March 24, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas. Congratulations to Squadron 308 for making 100% by the American Legion birthday. Thanks to all Squadrons who met this goal - we appreciate your hard work.

    Please note on this weeks report that there are changes to Squadrons 96 and 111 - apparently there were adjustments made to these numbers that I was not aware of. I appreciate your patience, and the help of Squeak Bartholomew, in getting these numbers and reports reconciled.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    March 16, 2015

    Membership FlyBy report for the week ending 3/12/15. Congratulations to Squadrons 21, 393, and 592 for reaching 100% this week..

    We have met our latest goal of 80% -- we are at 82.17% this week. Thank you all for your hard work.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    March 9, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas - check out the membership report for the week ending March 6th. We are at 79.62% and were hoping to reach the 80% goal this coming week. If you have memberships, please get them to Department asap. Also, don't forget those upcoming Coffee Tours - great opportunity to collect membership and visit your Squadrons.

    A big thank you to the Post 208 Family in Kerrville -- we had an awesome time at Commander Skelley's homecoming. As usual, they outdid themselves with their hospitality, good food, and fun. It was an honor to be there to recognize Commander Skelley for his accomplishments this year.

    If you haven't made plans for Detachment Convention in Beaumont, there is still time. All the details are on the Department website.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    March 2, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas. For the membership report for the week ending 2/27/15. Welcome a few more squadrons to the 100% list - 321, 245, 364, and 42. Congratulations!

    We are 104 members short of our March 12th goal. Any membership you can turn in next week to help us meet this goal would be greatly appreciated! Many of you have "Coffee Tours' coming up soon - these are a great opportunity to turn in membership to your District Commander or representative.

    A special thanks to our Detachment Advisor John Schendel for his efforts in helping Squadron 364 turn in 31 members, putting them at 147%. This is one of the many ways our advisor works for us and supports the Sons of the American Legion. Thank you John!

    Hope to see all of you at Commander Skelley's homecoming this weekend!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    February 16, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas. Attached is the membership report for the week ending February 13, 2015. We welcome 9 more Squadrons to the "100%" group, having reached 100% or more after January but before the Legion birthday. Congratulations to Squadrons:

    Division 1 - 62, 96, 111, 356, & 418
    Division 2 - 491
    Division 3 - 89 & 300
    Division 4 - 410

    We were 35 short of the February 12th goal, but lets get that momentum going a little bit stronger and hit the next one of 80% by March 12th. We continue to have far too many Squadron's with zero membership turned in. Commanders - get with these guys and see what we can do to help. If I can be of help in this regard, don't hesitate to contact me.

    Hope everyone is involved in planning their District and/or Division conventions in the coming months. Hope to see you at Commander Skelley's Homecoming in a few weeks!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    February 9, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas.

    We are at 72.49% which is 157 short of our next goal date of February 12th. We haven't missed a goal yet, let's not stop now. We still have a number of Squadrons at zero -- please get with these guys and see what you can do to help get their membership in. I am here to help if you need me.

    Thanks to everyone for all their hard work -- we are more than halfway through the year and looking good. Keep up the good work.
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    January 16, 2015

    Greetings Detachment of Texas.

    Attached is the Membership report with the final numbers for the Division Commanders race. Congratulations to everyone on a job well done. We still have a ways to go, but we are making ground and heading to 100% membership!

    I will have a full report to present on Saturday at MidWinter in Austin. Hope to see you there!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    January 12, 2015

    Outstanding job with membership! Thanks to all our members who helped us obtain our 60% membership goal! We are currently at 60.68%. What an awesome job - I thank all of you for your dedication and hard work.

    I'd like to acknowledge those Squadrons who reached or exceeded their 100% goal by January 5th. Congratulations - Squadrons 7, 22, 71, 76, 83, 121, 177, 220, 223, 241, 271, 283, 291, 317, 339, 353, 368, 388, 392, 439, 443, 447, 459, 487, 533, 578, 653, 655, & 692. A JOB WELL DONE!

    Another special acknowledge to District 10 for 100% membership from every Squadron in the District. This is a first for the Detachment of Texas! Congratulations Commander Ralph Rocco for a job well done!

    Let me clarify something that I reported wrong last week. There is not a $100 award for membership as of January 1st, large or small Squadrons. All Squadrons making this goal will receive a $50 award.

    The larger Squadrons have until the Legion birthday to be eligible for the $50 award; smaller Squadrons may receive a $25 award if they meet the goal by the Legion birthday.

    Division Commanders - the cut-off date for the Commander's race will be Thursday, January 15th. All membership turned in by then will determine the winners of the Division Commander's race. Get your membership in by Thursday!

    Thank you for your hard work in getting your memberships turned in - this is the lifeblood of our organization and our numbers are vital to calculating next years budget.

    Hope to see you in Austin this weekend for MidWinter Conference.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    January 5, 2015

    Hello Detachment of Texas:

    Now it's time to get back to work. As it stands, we are at 56.63% of our membership goal. Division Commanders - please check the attached report as many of our Squadrons have still not certified. If you notice one that has certified but is not marked, please notify me immediately.

    We continue to have a number of Squadrons that have not sent in membership (certified and non-certified). We are missing opportunities to stay ahead of our National goal. It is important that you get out and visit these Squadron's, offering your help in any way possible to achieve their membership goals.

    The next membership report will reflect those Squadrons who have achieved 100% by the deadline to receive their full check of $100 or $50 as applicable.

    We have done a good job so far in membership - keep the momentum going and let's show Commander Skelley that we can achieve our 100% goal prior to Detachment Convention in July.

    If you have any questions regarding membership or certification, please feel free to email or call me. Hope to see you at Mid Winter this month.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    December 22, 2014

    Sorry for the lateness of the report, we had technical issues with the data which was resolved today. We still have 40 Squadrons that have turned in zero membership; but on a more positive note we now have 26 Squadrons that are at or above 100%.

    Congratulations to the 10th District for making 100% with EVERY Squadron in the District. That is a feat never seen before in this Detachment to my knowledge. What a great way to work the membership and support the programs of the American Legion Family. Congratulations Commander Ralph Rocco!

    Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and safe and Happy New Year!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    December 15, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas. Outstanding job in membership turnout this week - we received 195 renewals for the week ending 12/12/14.

    We currently have 39 Squadrons who have zero membership turned in for 2015; and 30 Squadrons that have not certified their officers with Department. Division & District Commanders - please contact your Squadrons and help them get these turned in.

    Note -Squadrons with PUFL credits need to have them turned in prior to the Christmas break or they will lose those credits for 2015.

    Thank you for your hard work. We hope to see you in Austin in January!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    December 9, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas -- my apologies once again for getting this out late, but attached is the membership report as of 12/5/14. As always, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have questions or note a discrepancy.

    I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday, and am looking forward to seeing you at the MidWinter DEC in Austin next month. If you haven't already made your reservation at the Omni, I hear they are going fast so make that phone call soon. The DEC is always a great opportunity to network and learn more about the Squadrons and accomplishments of the Sons of the American Legion in the great state of Texas!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    November 21, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a pretty interesting week!! We had a couple of Squadrons hit 100%, they are listed on the bottom left of this report, Kudos Guys!!!!

    Take note, Mamie will be on vacation the first week of December,but don't let that discourage you from transmitting, the only thing is, that week, we will probably not have a report.

    By OUR numbers, here is how we stand, 2847 members,45.97% and are 869 away from the 60% goal for 1/21/15. Again, if all goes as planned Bill will be giving the next report, and I don't know about you, but I am hoping that statement is true. He He! A little bird told me that we may have history in the making, it seems that the 10th. District may be the first District to reach 100% with ALL of the Squadrons at 100% also. I have never seen this, but it might happen. Which brings up the question, why can't our other squadrons follow suit??!!

    Keep that membership coming in!!! THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 14, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, we are moving along like a well oiled machine!!! Membership turn in was pretty good this week, considering we made the 35% target, that you will probably see when Kevin sends it out from National. Accomplishments of note are, 100% Squadrons this week are 76 and 339, 76 will not receive a check because there goal was 10. Another notable thing is, as of 11/14/14 we only have 18 more Squadrons to certify, keep working it guys!!! We are currently at 2681 or 43.29% by OUR numbers. Still 106 away for the 45%, let's Git-R-Done! Remember, we have the hardest target coming in January, keep that in mind. We will probably be going back to your regularly scheduled updates from Bill Kuehner in about two weeks, but until that time you have me! Keep those cards and letters coming!!!! THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 7, 2014

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,Ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    At the direction of Commander Skelley, I was asked to put a few updates out due to PDC Kuenher's work schedule, etc. . So, here we go!!!

    Things are shaping up real well, we nailed the 10%, 25% and we have nailed the 35%!!! It is time to start working on the 45% due in National by 12/10/14, and with only 255 to go at this date, I believe we will make it.

    As a reminder, if any Squadrons have a credit letter for a PUFL member, it will expire on December 31st. With Department on vacation about the 23rd. of Dec., I would advise to get it in A.S.A.P.!!!

    With the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday, it is a good time to get those members that are off at College or for whatever reason.

    Please take some time Tuesday and remember our Veterans in which ever way you prefer.

    One last note, the race is on between the Divisions, take a look and help out your Division Commander!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 20, 2014

    Team Texas! Like last week, here are the numbers for the District Commanders use at your Conventions. The Membership Chairman will send out his thoughts later. He has a real job, so, I am helping out.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 6, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas -- attached are the 2014 and 2015 Membership Reports for the week ending 10/3/14. We are currently at 24.79% of our goal. District & Division Commanders - we have many Squadrons still at zero membership. Please check your reports and follow up with those Squadrons. We should not have any Squadrons that have not sent in any memberships at all....

    Keep after those renewals and be on the lookout for new members. Membership drives our organization and keeps us providing the services that help OUR VETS.

    We appreciate all of your hard work. If I can be of help in any way, don't hesitate to call me!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    September 25, 2014

    Hello Detachment of Texas. Another good week of turn-in for membership with 175 memberships turned in. This makes the 1st quarter Vice Commander's race a very tight one.

    You'll notice that this report covers the dates Monday - Thursday due to the short week of the Department office due to DEC this weekend. We will update next week's report with all memberships received after today.

    Certifications have been updated; please let me know if you feel that a Squadron has certified but isn't shown here.

    See you in Austin! .

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    September 21, 2014

    Hello Detachment of Texas. I have updated the 2015 Membership Report for the week ending 9/19/14 and the the Squadrons Certifications -- please let me know if you have sent yours in and it isn't shown here.

    At this time 72% of the Squadrons have certified, leaving 28%who have not. District and Division Commanders - look into this and de what you can to help these Squadrons get certified.

    Also notice, there is no 2014 report as there were no 2014 memberships turned in this past week.

    Please turn your memberships turned in to Mamie no later than Thursday to count on this quarters Vice Commander's membership competition.

    See you in Austin! .

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    September 14, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas! Attached are the 2014 and 2015 membership reports as of Friday, September 12th.

    We have a few weeks until the DEC and right now the Vice Commander races are looking very good. Keep up the good job with your membership turn-ins, and remember that our organization can only grow with membership. Keep them coming in and we hope to see you in Austin!

    My commitment is to give you the membership report on a weekly basis -- the numbers will always represent the numbers as of Friday, though you will most likely receive it on Saturday or Sunday. I will strive to maintain that consistent effort and appreciate your patience.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    September 8, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas,

    We are now posting membership reports for 2014 and 2015, links are on Membership page.

    Congratulations on your efforts in getting your memberships in as quickly as possible. In the following weeks we will add the certifications to the 2015 spreadsheets - if you haven't turned yours in yet please do so NOW.

    We are off to a good start for 2015 (and we are at 100.18% for 2014!!!) - keep up the good work! Hope to see all of you at DEC in Austin later this month.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    September 3, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas,

    Per the 2014 Membership Report as of 8/29/14 the Detachment is at 100.08%!!! Thank you to each and every Squadron and member for their hard work in achieving this awesome goal.

    The 2015 Division Commander race is looking very good at this point. Keep your 2015 membership coming in -- that report will be coming out with the next 2014 update. Reports will go out each weekend, based on the Monday-Friday weekday reports from Department.

    Vice Commanders - please note that you are to have your wagers amongst each other into the Detachment Commander by September 12th or he will place the wagers for you.

    Thanks for all your hard work. District conventions are coming up this fall -- please encourage your members to attend as they are a great way to network and learn about our organization. Hope to see yall in Austin at the Fall DEC.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    August 25, 2014

    Greetings Detachment of Texas,

    I apologize for getting this out late however we were at the National Convention this weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina. What an awesome time we had! I strongly encourage anyone who has the opportunity to attend a National convention to do so.

    At this time, I would like to congratulate the entire Detachment of Texas for your membership dedication last year. Turn around and hand shake each others hand and say 'thank you' for achieving 100% membership for 2013-2014 as of today (Monday). The membership report reflects the numbers as of Friday, 8/22/14, but we had 6 turned in today that brought us to 100%. ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING.

    2015 stats will start coming out next Friday - keep your 2014 and 2015 transmittals separate. (Separate checks and forms). This helps to avoid delays in turning them in to Department. Numbers are already looking good for our new fiscal year!

    I would also like to thank the guy that pushed you all through last years membership for all his work and dedication to the Detachment - Mr. Richard "Squeak" Bartholomew.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    August 16, 2014

    Hello Detachment of Texas.

    Another good week in membership turn-ins. Thanks you your hard work, it looks like we will hit our membership goal before National Convention.

    As of Friday, we are at 99.8% which means our numbers are at 6182 members. This is only 11 short of our goal.

    Keep up the good work. When we hit our 100% mark I will send out that report and will follow up next week with the entire report.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    August 3, 2014

    Hello Detachment of Texas. We had a pretty decent turn-in this week, but they are still trickling in. As of Friday, we had 22 transmitted, leaving a total of 92 short of our goal. Let's make our Detachment proud by achieving your 100%. You have worked so hard this year on membership -- make your delegation to the National convention proud!

    2015 memberships are coming in - those squadrons who have not certified their officers please do immediately so that you can get your 2015 membership cards and begin transmitting those members as w

    Please join me in supporting Commander Tom Skelley and keep the 2013-2014 momentum going by giving him a 100% year for 2014-2015.

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    July 25, 2014

    Hello Detachment of Texas. I apologize for getting the report out late again, however I have hopefully figured it out and will send it on a weekly (every Friday or Saturday) basis from now on.

    For consistency, the attached report reflects our membership as of Friday, 7/25, and all subsequent reports will be the same (as of Friday).

    Membership is trickling in at a snails pace, only 2 were transmitted this week. We are still needing 114 to hit our 100% goal. If each squadron were to submit one more membership, we would meet that goal. Let's get the momentum back and send our delegation to the National Convention with 100%!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    July 21, 2014

    Attached is the Membership Report as of Monday, July 21.

    From now on, it will come out each Friday as I update the numbers for the week. Please let me know if you have any questions.

    At this point, we are 116 short of our 100% goal for 2014. Let's get that last push in and send your delegates to the National Convention with 100%!

    Bill Kuehner
    Past Detachment Commander
    Internal Affairs Chair

    July 3, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    It's the last blast from me!!!!! Well, it been real and it's been fun, matter of fact it has been real fun!!! You all have done a great job this year, but don't give up, we are 183 away from 100%, and since Commander Kuehner is taking over what I consider early, keep that driving force to make 100%. Also, those that have reached 100%, start on your 2015 membership year.

    I will be assisting Bill in setting the goals for 2015, but he is totally capable of doing it himself. Remember, just because I am not the Membership Chairman, you can still call or e-mail me, but I much rather you contact Bill.

    The numbers are; 6010 members or 97.05%, remember these are our numbers and are not official until National posts them.

    Again, it has been an honor and pleasure to be your membership chairman, just keep reaching for the top of the membership list.

    See you all in McAllen in about a week!!

    The reason this is early is, Department Headquarters is off due to the 4th. of July holiday.

    Remember the Veteran in your life!!! For the last time, "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 28, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    One more blast and I am toast!!! I would like to say that you all are doing a great job, we are so close, 215 members to go! Remember, the 4th. of July is next Friday and Department Headquarters will be closed, so, this is a great time to get your membership transmitted and walk into the Convention at 100%!!!

    It has been confirmed, Mike Fossum, NASA Astronaut, and personal friend of Charlie Ward, will be on hand to speak to us. This is a great honor,and there will be another honor bestowed upon us, National Commander Joe Gladden will also be on hand.

    Please make this a memorable year for Commander Kuehner, let's make 100%!!!!!

    Don't forget my special award to a District and Division Commander, that said let's go to the numbers, our numbers reflect 5978 members or 96.53% and just 215 short!!!!

    Squadrons 251 and 227 joined the 100% club, Way to Go Guys!!!!!

    Thanks to All, and we need to make one last push on membership!!! Remember......

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 20, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    You all are almost rid of me as the Membership Chairman, what a relief for the Detachment.

    Membership is still coming in a trickle at a time, but at least you all are transmitting, we still need to get those certifications in. VThe PUFL crew, for the lack of a different title, will be pulling and processing the paid up for life cards this Saturday, so, that means that any Squadron that is certified, your cards will be in the mail Monday. As you get your new cards, renew your officers as soon as you can, but do not forget, we are still working on 2014.

    I was asked a question about 100% Ribbons and when the cut off is, from our Detachment Adjutant Kevin Winklemann, he said up to the close of the Convention in McAllen. Keep in mind that Mamie will be leaving the headquarters office on Tuesday of the Convention, so get those members transmitted!

    One other note, Bill Kuehner, our Detachment Commander said he will take over as membership chair after the convention, I aint complaining. Let's make one last heavy push on membership, so that our Commander can say to the National Commander , "We are at 100%!!!".

    We are currently at 5911 or 95.45%, with only 282 short.

    New 100% Squadrons are as follows,402,828,& 50 Great Job Guys!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 15, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Sorry Team Texas in getting this blast out late! I am trying to get the Commander to fire me, but it aint working!!

    We are getting ever so close to the 100% mark, and with your help, we WILL make it. By our numbers we are at 5871 or 94.80% of goal, after all the commander has done this year, let's pay him back by making 100% by convention. We only need 322 and we have 16 days to do it in, come on Team Texas, let's get with the program!!!

    I was in McAllen the last three days, and they are ready for us, please get the membership and CERTIFICATIONS IN A.S.A.P.!!!

    Don't forget, there is a special award for the lowest percentage of goal for the District and Division Commanders, so don't be caught at the bottom.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    June 6, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    What can I say???

    Membership is rolling in but not as fast as I would like to see it, although, we had two Squadrons hit 100%, and they are,426 and 300, Kudos Guys!!!

    The important thing is we are way down on the expected certifications, we have 44 Squadrons certified at 27.50% of the Detachment, and look at the date. We have about 35 days left for you to get your Squadron certified, if you are having difficulty, DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP!!!!! Also remember, it is important to get them to Kevin and Mamie, I am not that important.

    As I told Kevin, 30 days before the Convention , I will send out a spreadsheet of Delegate strength, the only thing I will not have listed is the At Large votes. Let's take a look at the numbers 5816 or 93.91% by our numbers, or 377 short of goal, come on guys, let's be at 100% going into convention because our National Commander will be in attendance.

    You all have been doing a bang up job but don't stop now, by the way, I have two special awards for Division and District this year, so, word to the wise, get the membership in(Hint,Hint).

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 31, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Another week closer to the convention, and membership keeps trickling in, a little at a time. I guess it is better than nothing. Commander Kuehner needs all hands on deck to get the membership in, we need to be at 100% by convention, and you all have shown in the past that you can do it!!!

    Now, on to certifications, they are slow in coming, but they are coming in just the same. I know, for the most part, all of you all can tie your shoes, well, the certification form is similar to tying your shoes. SIMPLE!!!!!! As always, should you need assistance, I am just an e-mail or call away, and will be glad to help. You must remember, if you are not certified you lose your chance to receive the bonus check for 100% and you will not get your cards until this is complete. I will post the list of Certifications on the membership link on our web page, but make sure that Kevin Winklemann has it to get the proper posting, to the best of my knowledge, my list is up to date because I get my information from Mamie at Department. That brings up a good point, please refrain from calling Mamie right now because she is deeply involved in Boy's State right now, I will field calls concerning membership until after Boy's State.

    Now, to the numbers,these are ours and not official till National records them, 5780 members or 93.33%, 413 short!! We had three squadrons obtain 100% and they are, 95,181,and 490!!! Kudos Guys!!!! Also, the Districts at 100% are 3,10 (First to Reach Goal), and 14. Kudos to the District Commanders!!! Let's get to work guys, you can do it!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 23, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    This was another week that came and went with low membership turn in, the bright side is one Squadron made 100%, and it was Squadron 95!!! Kudos Guys!!

    I got to say one thing, it simply amazes me, we as a Detachment try to make the certification process easier, and yet some of you still file the old form, Good Grief!!!!. The important part is, you are filing them and getting them in, that's all that counts.

    We will be having our National Commander Joe Gladden at our convention this year, so, let's show him the Texas hospitality. Also, on the slate for guest speakers is N.A.S.A. Astronaut Mike Fossum, but the red tape is still being figured out, that's all I want to say about that.

    Get those certifications in for those who have not sent them in yet, I can't stress this enough!!!

    Here is the latest list of certifications in at Dept. Hdqtrs..

    Membership numbers stack up this way, 5710 (Our Numbers), or 92.20%, we are 483 short of 100%, let's get to work Team Texas!!! If not for the Detachment, let's make 100% by Convention for our Commander Bill Kuehner, he has done an outstanding job this year.

    District and Division Commanders, get with the program and help!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 16, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Another week is gone, and we had two (2) Squadrons hit 100%, and they are 339 and 488, Kudos Guys!!!!!!

    Since my attempt to send out two attachments at once failed, I will send out a separate e-mail with the Division,District, and Squadron certification update.

    We have all kinds of tools for you all to use on the wide web page, make use of them!!!

    PDC Gary Paul had a bout with his health, but he is back up and running, good to have you back Commander!!

    We are down to Division Conventions, so that means that all of the District Conventions are over, therefore, we need to see your certifications!!! District Adjutants, get the paperwork done, it only takes 15 minutes max., also, Squadron elections should be concluded, so, Squadron Adjutants, get with the program!!!

    Our numbers stack up like this, 5664 or 91.46% (these are our numbers), we are 529 short of 100%, the goal is, since we did not make the National target, let's at least hit 100% going in to our own Convention. Two Districts hit 100% which are District 2 and 14!!! Kudos District Commanders!!!

    I have attached the certifications in to Dept. Hdqtrs..

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 9, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Another week has passed, but this week we had no Squadrons hit 100%! Keep transmitting those members.

    the certifications are off to a slow start, and some of you all are still mailing the certifications. The choice is yours how you send it, but, we are trying to make it simpler and less expensive. I also saw that someone sent a certification via form letter on Facebook, that is unacceptable!!! Send your certification on the correct form or it will not be processed. Again, anyone that has difficulty filling out the form on line, I am just an e-mail or call away. District and Division Commanders, reach out to the Squadrons and assist with membership transmittals and certifications!!!

    Some Squadrons have expressed to me that they did not have a quorum for elections in May, well, get it to together guys, reach out to the members and let's take care of business!!!

    There will be a "Celebration of Life", memorial for PDC Abel Silva's wife Andrea, to be held at Post#321 Plano,Tx., on May 17th. from 4-6 p.m..

    Now on to the numbers, we show 5589 or 90.25% and are 604 from 100%!

    I have attached the certifications in to Dept. Hdqtrs..

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    May 2, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had one Squadron hit 100%, it was 89 Texas City, good work guys!!! Now that District Conventions are winding down, it is time to submit the Certification of officers. It can be done online and you can e-mail them to me, Kevin and Mamie. If you need assistance please call me, it's quite simple.

    That brings me to another subject, Mamie is busy with Boys State, so it is to everybody's advantage to e-mail the certifications to her.

    Again, myself and Gary Winters spent time tweaking the forms, so let's use them.

    As Kevin stated, when he sends out the Call Letters, those Districts (Even Only), that had elections, send in your certification or the Call letter will go to the previous District Commander.

    We lost a member last Saturday, Joel "Grumpy" Franklin went to the Squadron Everlasting, his memorial will be at Squadron 50, in Cleburne at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday May 3rd..

    Now for membership news, we show 5541 members or 89.47%, remember, it is not official until national receives it, that leaves us 652 short of 100%, let's see if we can walk into the Convention with 100%!!! I am adding another spreadsheet to the blast, it shows the Squadron,Districts, and Divisions that have submitted there certifications shaded in Aqua Blue. This list is as of today in Department, I will continue until I am told to stop. The Second division was the first Division to certify, by e-mail I might add.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 25, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a pretty good week this week, but only had two Squadrons hit 100%, and they are: Squadron 231 and Squadron 838, Great Work Guys!!!!

    I had some feedback to my statement about certifying by June 15th., it was rather convincing input, so, I believe we will extend the deadline to the Detachment Convention. I will not extend it again, but, when our Detachment Commander takes the lead, he may change it, but don't count on it. On this subject, I have yet to receive ANY certifications, I can't speak for Mamie or Kevin, but I am sure they would notify me. Let's get with the program!!! Get those certifications in!!! This goes for Districts also!!

    On a bad note, PDC Abel Silva's wife passed away this week, please say a prayer for Abel and his family, Andrea was a very big hearted woman, as well as a close friend of myself and my wife Polly. Arrangements have not been set as of yet, and Andrea was cremated at her request. For those that did not know Abel and Andrea, I can sum it up by saying,together they loved the American Legion and all the people associated with it. To know Andrea was to love her.

    Back to membership, our numbers show us at 5516 or 89.07%, that is 677 away from 100%, look at the sheet and work on your weak areas.

    One last note, sometimes the web page membership sheet goes haywire, do not worry, we have the real numbers on the spreadsheet.

    Well, enough for now, and as always "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 17, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Sorry this report is coming out late, I had some computer issues and some personal ones as well...

    Membership is just creeping along, we had two Squadrons make 100% this week, and they are,Squads.521 and 504!!!! Kudos Guys!!! We need to pay more attention to getting the membership in, and where oh where are the certifications???

    I had some feedback from my statement concerning the certifications by June 15th., well I must say, we need to straighten up and fly right!!! It's not that hard, and this year you can e mail it!!! Really guys, you only have to certify Three people, what is so hard about that?? Let's start getting the District and Squadron certifications in A.S.A.P.!!!!!

    The reason I have not reported on our National standings is because we are way down the chain. I will report when we get in the top 25 Detachments, so make it work guys!! By our numbers we have 5421 members or 87.53%, we are 772 behind for the 100% mark to National on 5/14/14. Kevin sent out an e-mail stating he needs to Consolidated Reports by June 1st. not June 15th. as previously stated.

    As always "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 12, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, another exciting week in the membership department!! Only problem is, we missed the 90% target and are 849 behind for the 100% in National by 5/14/14. So that being said, work the membership, get out there and make the effort!! It can and has been done, NO EXCUSES!!!!

    Also, we have NOT seen ANY certification of officers, get off your hands guys and e-mail those certifications!!!

    I had a great time at the 9th. District Convention, Thanks to the 9th. District, and more specifically, Robert Sonnier and Commander Mathews!!

    Seriously guys, there is no excuse why we can't start seeing some certifications,and don't forget to fill out your consolidated report forms that need to be sent to Kevin Winklemann only!!!

    One other thing we need to work on is getting the constitution and by laws submitted to Department!!

    Just for information purposes, those of you who do not know how the chain of command flows, he we go, if you have a problem on a Squadron level, take it to your District Commander, if he can't (or won't handle it), contact your Division Commander, if the problem is not solved, take it to Kevin or the current Commander. No matter what you have been told, this is how we solve our problems, these guys don't hold these positions for the great pay, so contact them.

    On membership, you may come directly to me , but I would much rather you try the S.O.P. first!! Get that Membership In!!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    April 4, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    While in the 15th. District last week, we had some issues, but as always we got them ironed out. I believe Paul Miller our P.R. Chairman has posted a link from the Television news story, if he did, check it out!!

    Membership was less than impressive this week, but , we will take it!! There are a lot of District Conventions going on, so don't hold back, transmit!!! I will be in the 9 th. District this weekend at the request of the Commander and I am hopeful for a good membership turn in.

    I can't stress enough to get your certifications in a.s.a.p.!!! That goes for Districts and Divisions as well, remember you can e-mail the short form to me, Kevin, or Mamie or all three, what could be easier??

    For one of my last mandates, I am going to let you all know what I intend on doing, if a Squadron does not certify by June 15th., you will NOT be eligible for the $50.00 or $25.00 check, in the membership awards. This is not a hardship, it is just getting the work done before the kick back time comes. When you e-mail your certification, document it!!! That way if there is a question, you will have the documents to back up your case. I would expect that some Squadrons have already had there elections, so send them in!! Also, get to work on the Constitution and By Laws for your Squadron, these are also necessary.

    As always should you have questions about anything membership, you may always contact me!!

    We are currently at 5175 or 83.56% by our numbers, we need 399 in National by 4/19/14 to make the 90% target.

    I almost forgot, Squadron 597 hit 100% this week, Kudos guys!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 28, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Membership is trickling in a little at a time, but we still have District Conventions going on, so get going guys!!!!

    Last week I absent mindedly for got to mention that Squadron 179 made 100%!!! Way to go Squadron 179!!!!!

    This week we had another squadron hit 100%, and that would be Squadron 134, good job guys!!

    We continue to have a problem with Squadrons not knowing how to fill out transmittals, Guys, ASK!!!!! I will be in the 9th. District at there convention to help out, but those in any other district, ask your District Commanders or Division Commanders!! If they don't know the answer to your membership question, I am just an e-mail or phone call away. I am going to set a new precedent, I want ALL Squadrons to certify by June 15th.!! Don't tell me it can't be done, you can e-mail the new short form to me, Kevin, or Mamie, how easy is that???? If you do not have the short form, seek it online, on our web page, it is there. No More Excuses!!!! This goes for Districts and Divisions as well!!! If you have any questions about anything membership, get in touch with me.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 21, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Guys, not a very impressive week in membership, but I know that there are District Conventions coming up. District Commanders get with the Squadrons and get the members transmitted, also, Kevin has sent out the paperwork for you to fill out. If you have not seen the new certification form, check it out on the web page, it is not necessary to fill out all officers, just the Commander, Adjutant and Advisor. On that note, I expect to see some certifications soon, with Squadron and some District elections coming up. Remember, you can e-mail it to Kevin and Mamie, or me, up to the National Convention,then I am toast.

    Just a reminder, as mandated by Kevin Winklemann, you must hit 100% by June 15th. to receive a 100% ribbon, and remember, 30 days prior to the convention is the time for your voting strength. Membership numbers by the Detachment are ; 4982 or 80.45%, which means, since we missed the 80%, let's work hard to get the 90% in National by 4/19/14. We only need 592, let's get with the program!!!

    As always if you have questions or concerns about membership either e-mail me or call.

    Division and District Commanders, this is your time to shine, work the membership!!! Look at the spreadsheet and turn the zeros into numbers!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 14, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Another week has come and gone, we did make some headway though, 100% Squadrons added to the list are 363 and 414!!! Kudos Guys!!!

    I failed to mention last week that Squadron 522 hit 100% and is a 100+ Squadron, SORRY COMMANDER Arellano!!!!

    As Kevin said, for 100% ribbons, you must make 100% by June 15th., and of course I will be the one sending him the Information. Typically, the ribbons will be handed out at the Fall D.E.C..

    Now, to membership info., by OUR numbers, we stand at 4901 or 79.14%, that means we missed the 80% target, but we have upcoming District Conventions, we need 673 members in National by 4/19/14, you all can do it!!! As I said in my Fly -By, there are so many of you that are 1,2,or 3 members away from goal. Get those members in because you have until March 17th. to receive a check, so it is up to you!!

    Convention News is, we are at the Hampton Inn in McAllen as I was told, as I know it we will meet at the Convention Center, by I will confirm that next weekend.

    Lastly, get the renewals and all membership transmitted A.S.A.P.!!!!!!!! After talking with the Commander, we will hand out the remaining checks at the Convention.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 11, 2014

    Team Texas!!!!!

    This is just a short note to let you know I forgot to mention Squadron 522, a 100+ Squadron that made goal last friday.

    Also, I am trying to motivate you all to transmit membership!!! The cut off date for membership rewards, will be March 17th.,that's right, next Monday!!! There are so many of you that are just 1,2 or 3 members away, get it done!!! I expect to start seeing higher numbers, with the upcoming District Conventions!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    March 7, 2014

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had one Squadron make 100% and the winner is 692!! Kudos guys!!! By OUR numbers we are at the following; 4814 or 77.73% and we need 140 in National by 3/12/14 for us to make our 80%,

    I must say things are picking up, but, we need to get a little faster pace. Last week I mentioned that Squadron 297 hit 100% in the 100+ category, well I was wrong, they did make 100% , but they are an under 100 member goal squadron. Sorry for the mistake. Squadron 560 only needs 1 (one) more to make goal, I can't understand why they did not send one more member, but so goes the story.

    Attached is the form for Certification of Officers. Use this form!!! It is shorter, you can either e-mail it to me, Kevin or Mamie. A pdf version can be found on the forms page.

    Division and District Commanders, get out the word and let's see some membership!!!! THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!! GIT-R-DONE!!!!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 28, 2014

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    My job as membership Chairman also has Internal Affairs Chairman, with that said, I would like to bring up an event that happened recently. It seems that one of our outstanding,long time member and personal friend of mine has lost his father. Jimmy Don Dixon, lost his father on 2/12/14 and he was found 2/26/14, if any of you have lost your parent whether it be mother or father, as I have, you can understand the emptiness that overwhelms you.

    If at all possible, give Jimmy Don a call, letter, or Gary Winters has set up a web site account on gofundme.com. The address to make a donation is www.gofundme.com/76a3ro , see what you can do to help off set the funeral costs, and they are trying to set up a scholarship fund in Mr. Dixon's name.

    Now for Membership news, we had 3 squadrons make 100%, they are 344,and 2 over 100 member squadrons,75 and holy moly, 297 the Commanders Squadron, way to go guys!!!! Kudos!!!

    We are at 4663 by our numbers or 75.29%, we still need 291 by the 12th of March. The membership has to be in National for it to count, remember that.

    The upcoming District meetings need to yield a lot of membership, let's get with the program!!!

    Attached is the form for Certification of Officers. Use this form!!! It is shorter, you can either e-mail it to me, Kevin or Mamie, how simple is that?!

    If any of you are at the Commanders Homecoming, I will be there if you have any membership questions.

    Again, Division and District Commanders, get to work, help out the Squadrons and get them transmitted!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 21, 2014

    March 7, 2014

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had one Squadron make 100% and the winner is 692!! Kudos guys!!! By OUR numbers we are at the following; 4814 or 77.73% and we need 140 in National by 3/12/14 for us to make our 80%,

    I must say things are picking up, but, we need to get a little faster pace. Last week I mentioned that Squadron 297 hit 100% in the 100+ category, well I was wrong, they did make 100% , but they are an under 100 member goal squadron. Sorry for the mistake. Squadron 560 only needs 1 (one) more to make goal, I can't understand why they did not send one more member, but so goes the story.

    Attached is the form for Certification of Officers. Use this form!!! It is shorter, you can either e-mail it to me, Kevin or Mamie. A pdf version can be found on the forms page.

    Division and District Commanders, get out the word and let's see some membership!!!! THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!! GIT-R-DONE!!!!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a pretty good week, three more Squadrons reached 100%, 81,7 and 55, kudos guys!!!! Squadron 55 has reactivated so they will have to wait till next year to be eligible for a membership check.

    I have had a lot of members asking me where the Convention Hotels are located, so, when I was in McAllen about a week ago, I ask the Post Commander. He told me the S.A.L. hotel was the Hampton on Expressway 83 and the Legion hotel was the Renaissance on Main St.. I furthered my investigation and asked Bill West if this was confirmed, he told me via e-mail, that there is an issue with one hotel, but it should be worked out and they will post it on the Legion web site in Mid March like they always do. So actually, I am not sure myself, we will have to wait till Mid March I guess.

    Please say a prayer for Jimmy Don Dixon, seems his father left the house and did not return, my understanding is there is a whole host of people volunteering in the search. I hope that all turns out well, and they find him unscathed. If you can help, contact him via facebook.

    Back to the numbers, WE have 4515 in to department,at 72.90% or 439 needed in National by 3/12/14. Spring Conventions are coming up so get those memberships paid!!! We missed the 75% but let's knock out the 80% Team Texas!!!

    Today 2/21/14 is the cut off date for attending the Commanders Homecoming in Benbrook, if you wish to attend check out the web page for information, sounds like it is going to be a good time. Lastly, Division and District Commanders, look at the spreadsheet, and get to work!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 14, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    What can I say, we had two more Squadrons join the 100% club and they are, 135 and 667, what's holding the rest of you all up???

    We are currently at 4377 or 70.68% of goal by our numbers, that puts us 577 away from the March 80% target on 3/12/14.

    I know everyone has upcoming District Conventions, but, see if you can transmit before that and have more 100% squadrons going into Convention.

    The last deadline for receiving a check from Detachment, from the membership financial award that was set up years ago is upon us. Division and District Commanders, get out there and get these members transmitted!!!!! I know they are out there, don't be afraid, ASK!!!!!!

    Don't forget, squadrons with a goal of under 100, you can make an effort before the Legion Birthday and make 100% and then receive a check for $25.00. Squadrons with a goal of over 100, you have a chance also, make 100% by the Legion Birthday and receive a check for $50.00!!! It is easy when you think about it. Keep the cards and transmittals coming!!!

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    February 7, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    This week was fairly eventful, we had 4 more Squadrons hit 100%, and they are 12,159,29,and 364, kudos to you all!!!!

    As most of you know, Department has had some asbestos issues to deal with and they are getting them resolved. As a result, it has probably been hard to get anyone on the phone. Be patient, they will get it fixed, but in the mean time if you absolutely need to contact Mamie, try and e-mail her at mamieh@txlegion.org. If myself or Kevin can help you , please contact us first.

    We stand at 4274 members which is 69.01% of goal, or 371 away from the target date of 2/12/14. Unfortunately, unless we have a super fantastic Monday, I honestly do not see us making the goal and have it in National by the deadline.

    Next month starts the Spring Conventions, but,don't wait till then, get that membership in NOW!!!!!!

    Guys, Remember TOGETHER we can make this happen!!!

    As always, if you need any membership questions answered, please do not hesitate to contact me.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 31, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a real productive D.E.C., for those of you that were unable to attend, and I must say, seeing the Commander go in the pool and reactivate an old tradition was spectacular!!! Bet he hasn't drawn a crowd like that in a while. The Commander raised $1,200.00 for the two charities,($600.00 a piece), what an effort by the Detachment of Texas. Kudos Guys!!! The last statement from the Commander was "If I go in today, ALL Past Detachment Commanders that have not taken the plunge, will do so at the Detachment Convention in McAllen!".

    Now on to Membership, We had a surprise on Monday after the D.E.C., there was membership waiting on Mamie, so much so that we had three Squadrons hit 100%!!! They are Squadrons,88,598,and 439, keep up the good work guys!!!! By our numbers here is where we stand, 4,076 or 65.82%. We have exactly 12 days to raise 569 members, EVERYONE, let's get crackin!!!

    There was not the response I had expected on the filing for DD-214's , but so is life! Don't forget. it is not official till National records it !

    There was also a question of how many members are necessary to re activate or start a Squadron, it is stated in the Nation C&BL, Article 9 Section 2, That the formation of a Squadron shall consist of 10 members. Nuff Said on that!!!!!!

    Keep the transmittals coming and we will see what happens next week.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 22, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Short week and Mamie had a personal emergency, that said, this will be short and sweet. We are looking pretty dismal (Not Good), I checked out the National Report, do you all realize we are 42nd. Nationally???? Renewals are at 47%, which could be worse, but let's get going Texas!!! I hope you all have some super fantastic turn ins, is all I can say.

    Don't forget the Commander goes in the pool, and I will be on hand for anyone wanting to file for the DD-214 of the veteran that they qualify through.

    Be safe traveling to the D.E.C., and I will see you there.

    "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 17, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We hit the 60% target, only problem is we are 2 days late!!! If you do not have membership on it's way, bring it to the D.E.C., we are only 7 days away. I would like to see a turn in of at least 200 members at the D.E.C. in Austin. We must focus on the 75% target date since we missed the 60% on time.

    Don't forget that the Commander is going in the pool, and I would like to see how many individuals or Squadrons can match my personal donation of $50.00.

    P.D.C. Gary Paul's wife is out of the hospital and doing better, but as with any husband and wife,when Shirley was getting better, Gary came down with the same thing!! Go Figure! He is now on the road of mending.

    Don't forget, I will be available for those that want to file for the DD-214 of the veteran that you qualify through if you wish, bring all information on the veteran that you can get. I will give the next blast on Wednesday 1/22/14.

    On a sad note, Robert Wigman of Waco 121 lost his mother, but he plans on attending the D.E.C., let's offer our condolences at that time.

    Not much more to say except, "THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!". Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 10, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a mediocre week in the way of membership, and of course, we are out of the running for making the target of 60% at National. Don't get discouraged, that is a hard target to hit, let's dust ourselves off and get to working on the next target of 2/12/14 for 75%.

    We have a lot of Squadrons that still only need 2-3 members for the Squadron goal, get those memberships in!!!

    Those of you that are certified but have yet to send in membership,it is about time you send it in!

    By our numbers we are at the following; 3422 Members,55.45% of Goal. and 281 away from the 60% goal. Take a good look at the sheet, it shows an up to date listing of the Squadrons that are certified, and certified with NO membership.

    We did not get a report from Mamie today due to, from what I understand, environmental hazards at department.

    Don't forget, the Commander is going into the pool at the D.E.C., get those matching donations against mine of $50.00 ready.

    I do have some rather bad news that I received today, Dual Member Robert Wigman of Waco 121, lost his mother this morning. If anyone can, please send him a card, if you do not have an address, I will get one from Joe Edd Neal.

    That is all for now, just keep THINKING MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!! Git -R-Done!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 6, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    After a little investigating, it was determined that there was membership received on Friday but not recorded. With that in mind, here are the correct and updated totals, interestingly enough, Squadron 42 is added to the 100% Squadron list!! Way to go Squadron #42!!!

    If you look at the spreadsheet in the bottom right corner, you will see a list of those Squadrons that hit 100%. I made a call that it would not be fair to Squadron #42 if we did not include them because the transmittal did not get to Mamie.

    We are still 347 off the mark, get with the program Team Texas!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    January 3, 2014

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Good News and Bad News!!!

    Bad news is Mamie is not in the office today as anticipated.

    Good news, those of you that put off sending membership, have a stay of execution, so to speak.

    Also, the 100% totals can not be done until Mamie gives me the report.

    What does that mean??

    All of You All that meant to send in membership for the year end, Do It NOW!!!!!

    We have till 1/6/14, so let's get busy. I will send out a blast as soon as I get it on Monday.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!

    Git-R-Done!!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 24, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Merry Christmas Fellow Sons!!!!!!!!!

    Yesterday we picked up another 100% Squadron, it is 36 El Paso, kudos to David Blair and members of #36!!!

    The reason I am doing a holiday edition is to let you know we are still 600 members off the mark!!!! I know that P.D.C. Gary Paul and the members of Pilot Point #550 are sending 67 members, but we still need 533 and 20 more for a cushion. This is extremely important guys!!! We stand at 50.28 % or 3103 members by our numbers, we need to have a BIG turn in when Mamie gets back.

    The news on the Commander going in the pool is confirmed!! He also will have company, The American Legion Commander, and there is talk, that they are trying to convince the American Legion Auxiliary President to join them. Get those matching donations ready, match me with a $50.00 donation, and we will decide which program to donate it to. This should be fun, we are also in the embryo stage of organizing a power wheel chair race, the Detachment entrant is none other than P.D.C. Joe Ed Neal!!

    Have a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year, this will be the last blast until 1/3/14, I almost forgot, if you have Internet access, send me an e-mail with the amount of membership you will be turning in.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 20, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Merry Christmas Fellow Sons!!!!!!!!!

    This week we had some good turn ins and Mercedes Squadron#172 joins the 100% club, way to go Alonzo Calvillo and members of #172.

    With Department off for the holidays we need to focus on membership, we still need 674 in National by 1/15/14 for the next target. I have a little side bet with Mamie, I said we can make the 60% goal by the time she returns, and she said "I don't know", so let's prove her wrong and send all the membership we can!!!!

    Division and District Commanders, let's step it up a notch, reach out to your Squadrons, and let's make the target together.

    That reminds me, first I said Department would be back on 1/3/14, P.D.C. Gary Paul said no, it was 1/6/14. Well I was right, they will be back in on 1/3/14, but I appreciate Gary Paul for keeping me alert!!!

    We have been talking and I agreed along with Commander Kuehner, we are going to revise an old tradition. The Commander goes in the pool at the hotel on Saturday. We are trying to raise money for our many programs, so open that wallet and make a contribution. This is only for the Sons Commander so far, we may get the Legion and Auxiliary to participate as well. So, see if your Squadron or maybe you personally can donate for admission to see the Commander go in the pool. It should be fun!!! I believe I was the last one to take the plunge in 2006. I am going to donate $50.00 personally, does anyone want to match me??? We have been talking about a wheelchair race also, but the jury is still out on that one. The Commander is trying to have a little fun while we work hard on membership and the programs.

    Lastly, have a safe and joyous Christmas!!

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 13, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    It seems that we are moving forward at a snails pace, the good news is we made the 45% target and it is posted at National.

    Team Texas, we need to dig deep and get the membership in for Commander Kuehner!! With all the ice storms in the state, I know it has been difficult, but please put in the effort and get your transmittals into Department A.S.A.P.!!!!! We have 821 to go and be posted at National by 1/15/14, if nothing else for the Detachment of Texas, it can be done!!

    We are currently at 2882 or 46.70%, but that is what we show in Austin, come on guys, let's get with the program!!

    Do not forget, those Squadrons with a Goal of under 100 receive a check for $50.00 if they obtain 100% by 1/6/14 postings.

    Squadrons with 100 or more have until the Legion birthday in March, there are so many of you that are 2 or 3 away from goal, get them in!!

    P.D.C. Gary Paul brought something to my attention last week, the actual cut off is 1/6/14 not 1/3/14 as I previously stated, sorry guys, I am not perfect.

    Also, in talking with the Commander, he has approved having a little sit down workshop for those of you that want to obtain your DD-214 paperwork. I will be on hand to file it for you but also, to teach those Commanders how it is done. Bring all pertinent information on the Veteran that you qualify through, the more the merrier.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 6, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had a pretty good week this week, but, the hardest is upon us. Here are the numbers, 2845 members in to Department,we sent 172 to National and only needed 112 for the target, 46.10% as of Department numbers. We still need 858 members into National by 1/15/14, so the race is on!!! Mamie will be out of the office from the 9-13, so, let's get those transmittals in so we can have a good turnout before the office staff breaks for Christmas and New Years.

    A quick reminder, if you have not used your credit letter yet, remember they expire 12/31/13!!!!

    Again, members that have not been around in a while will probably be in town for Christmas, so get those renewals!!!

    I will be getting the membership totals that are turned into Department in Mamies absence, so send them in!! Also, if you hit 100% by 1/3/14 when Mamie gets back, you will be eligible for the bonus check, the money is there so transmit!!!

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    December 2, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Here in membership land we have some significant news!!!!

    We made the 45% by our numbers with 5 to spare.

    Let's start working on the 60% for January right now!!!!! We need 926 members, so get crackin Squadron,District and Division Commanders!!!

    I will resume the regular schedule for Blast updates this Friday, I just thought it was worth mentioning. THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!

    Oh yeah, I almost forgot, Squadron 635 made 100%, great work guys!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 27, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We had kind of an interesting week, first off, I heard that we DID transmit 510 members last Thursday (11/14/13). We also transmitted 171 this week, but keep in mind, we need it to post at National before it is official.

    Right now is a key time to renew those members that you may not see for a while, so don't lose the drive to go out an get those members. By our numbers, we show 2673, which is 104 off the 45% target amount,barring any increase at National. Our percentage is 43.32%, which is great, but we need to hit the 45% before Mamie goes on Thanksgiving break.

    There has been some concern about DD-214's, I am going to work with the Commander to see if we can have a workshop at the Mid Winter. Also, I am trying to see if we can get request put in at Mid Winter for those that want to file for a DD-214, I will be there to assist. It's easy and it's free to next of Kin. If you wish for me to submit a request, have the following with you; Veterans Name,D.O.B., service number if you have it,SSN number, etc. Any extra information you can bring will be appreciated. It takes about 11 Business days to receive it in the mail.

    There will be a blast on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, let's see if we can get enough for the 45% target!! Keep thinking Membership!!!!!

    One last note, there are so many of you all that are 1 or 2 members away from goal, get them in and get your check!!!

    Remember the veterans that can not be home with there loved ones this Thanksgiving.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 27, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    We have had a good week, but I was hoping I was going to say, "We Made the 45%!!!", this unfortunately is not the case. We are 29 away, what happened?? Everybody concentrating on Turkey instead of membership? Don't blame you!! What does Thanksgiving do? It in most households,it brings family and friends together, and so should be the same for your other family, "The American Legion Family", when you are at the post, see if there is a member you have not seen in a while and collect his dues. This is one of the most perfect times to visit, and talk up membership.

    From last weeks Blast, I have talked with the Commander, and he is all for a workshop on how to submit your request for a DD-214. So, that being said, we will set aside some time for education and submitting your request, just bring as much personal information on the veteran that you qualify through.

    Again, if you have any questions about membership, first contact your Division or District Commander, if they can't answer your question I am always reachable.

    Have a Safe Thanksgiving, and again remember the veterans that are unable to be with there families this year.

    Lastly,.....THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!

    Git-R-Done!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 15, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, we have another week behind us, and due to circumstances beyond our control, Department was unable to transmit to National so that we could meet the 35% target. Fear not though, we are on track for the 45% target in December.

    We are 245 short for the 45% target that is due on 12/11/13, and 1170 short for the 65% in January. So you see, we have a hard road ahead, but you guys are doing a fantastic job, just don't stop doing what you are doing!!!

    Mamie has been out all week for medical reasons, and I am asking Squadrons to send her a get well card to Department addressed to her.

    Right now we are at 2532 or 41.04%, but I must caution you, it is not official until National posts it.

    I know everyone is preparing for the upcoming holiday, so keep in mind, those members that were out of town are coming home, so hit them up to renew there membership. Let's see if we can get past the 45% before Thanksgiving and start early on the 65%.

    One last thought, if any Squadrons are having difficulty filling out transmittals, get with your District or Division Commanders, after all that is what they are there for.

    Keep Veterans in your daily thoughts, and thank them if you run into them anywhere.

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!! As always,.........

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 8, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, here I am at the Commanders appointment, we had a pretty good week!!! Our National Goal increased to 6170, but we still transmitted enough to be at 39.45% by 11/8/13. We have 343 to go for 12/11/13, everyone seems to be coming alive because we have two more Squadrons to add to the 100% list, and they are 459 and 493, but 493 needs to wait until next year to prove themselves and receive a check.

    Click here for a report of the updated list of Squadrons and District's without a C&BL's, I will update it again after the D.E.C. (If I am still Membership Chairman). There are some Squadrons that have sent in C&BL's, but they will be reviewed by the American Legion at the D.E.C., for approval.

    Guys, what I can not figure out is, why do some of you send in a transmittal but lack only 1 or 2 members for goal? Just send them in if you can trust them and receive a $50.00 check, if it is in by the end of the year. This does not apply to Squadrons with a goal of ten, you all need to wait till next year, but don't let that stop you from making goal this year, before the end of the year.

    If you still have a credit letter for a P.U.F.L. member in your Squadron, you only have until 12/31/13 to submit it or it is invalid. Considering that Department will be closed for two (2) weeks over the Christmas holidays, there is no time like the present.

    Talked to an old friend of mine from Squadron #75 the other day, his name is Roger Hensley, he seems to be doing well after his heart surgery, WELCOME BACK ROGER!!!.

    Let's get to work,hit the streets, and get that membership transmitted. We need to show National we are still a contender!!

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    November 2, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, the reason this report is so late is I have to wait for the Commander to tell me to send it, but, we had an incredible week!!! The District Conventions were a real success!!! I would like to think it is because of the blasts, but who knows?

    There has been some talk about having your DD-214's from the veteran that you qualify through on file at your Squadron. The Commander informed me that we are supposed to have at least 75% of our Squadron membership with a DD-214 on file. So, if anyone read my blast from a few weeks ago, it gave you a web address to go to online and obtain it. If you lost the e-mail or need more information on how to file it online, I am always here. Just e-mail me or call me and I will be glad to assist. I did my own on Wednesday and got a response today saying it would take approx. 10 days. The only thing you will need is, veterans full name, D.O.B., place of birth, service number (if you have it), Social Security Number, approx. dates of service, etc.. You also have to sign a release and fax it or mail it to the address' they give you, it is absolutely FREE to next of kin.

    Enough about that, you guys simply amaze me sometimes, with the turn ins this week we are 172 above goal and have 443 to go for the 12/11/13 45% target.

    Team Texas, you can do it, since the Conventions are done, now is the time to hit up all the members that may be home from college or for the holidays.

    Keep in mind that the hardest target is coming up in January 2014!!

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!!!!

    GIT-R-DONE!!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 27, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary,ships at Sea and All our World Wide friends;

    Well, the news of my demise is premature, (Sorry Larry Black), but other than that we are doing well.

    I only got 4 reply's from my last blast, it seems no one is reading the reports!!!

    We had 4 District Conventions this week, I hope that they can muster up the 140 members we need for our 35% target. Remember, as always, it is not official till National posts it, so get in the membership.

    There was a Squadron (Not Naming Names), that sent in a huge transmittal, only problem was only 16 members were done right. It seems they sent in approx. 22 members with blank cards and applications attached. Guys, Mamie has better things to do than do your work, check and double check to make sure it is done right. If you have a question, ask your District Commander or Division Commander.

    Commanders, look at the spreadsheet and work on the 0 squadrons!!!!

    I am doing this blast at the Commanders request, but please listen to the message and don't shoot the messenger.

    Remember to support the most important program of our organization MEMBERSHIP!!!!! We are 25th. Nationally, but I know we can do better.

    To all the veterans out there (Male and Female) a heartfelt "Thank You For Your Service !!!

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    As of October 18, 2013

    The Detachment of Texas currently has 1,575 members recorded at National which is 25.63% of our goal. We have achieved our 25% goal and our 35% goal of 11/14/13 due to National is 575 members short.

    Here in Texas we have membership recorded at 1,729 members or 28.2% of our goal of 6,131.

    Keep it coming.

    Jeff Alvis
    Internal Affairs Chairman

    *************************************************************************************

    October 18, 2013

    Team Texas!!! Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide Friends;

    Well here we are again, not a bad week for membership , but it could be better. The following Squadrons are leading the race with 100% already; 163,291,618, & 692. What is going on with the rest of you all??? We are 356 members short of the upcoming target of 45%, on 11/14/13. Let's see how many Squadrons can transmit AT LEAST THE OFFICERS!!

    Kudos to Squadron 184 for making goal but because you are new you have to wait till next year for a check, but, keep up the good work!!!

    There has been some talk of getting the DD-214 from the member that you qualify through, it is necessary, if you don't have it, here is a link to where you may obtain it www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel .

    Let's get back on track, I know that there are many District Conventions going on so if you have been sand bagging, turn in that membership!!!

    Division and District Commanders, LOOK at the spreadsheet and reach out to the 0 Squadrons!!!

    I would like to see who really reads the blast, so if you would reply to me at my e-mail address and type in Read in the subject, this is only a test.

    One last thing, pay attention to the list that was sent out of the District and Squadrons without C&BL's,we got a response from Robert Sonnier in the 9th., and he had the proof, so check!!!

    In closing, guys, the Detachment can only support the American Legion and Veterans if we keep our membership strong!!! You are the backbone of this organization!!!

    If you note the goal from National went up to 6144.

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 11, 2013

    Team Texas!!! Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide Friends;

    Well, Well, it seems with the help of Whitney #522 and the Commander, we made it to National in time for the 25%Target!!!

    Great Work Guys!!!!

    We still have 465 to go before the 11/14/13 35% target date. I did a little research, and if all the Squadrons would transmit at least the officers we would have 370 more members.

    Kudos to the following Squadrons for making 100%, Squads #618 Willis and #692 El Paso!!!! Division and District Commanders, please take a good look at the spreadsheet and make those calls to get the officers transmitted!!!! Mamie says she is bored with the S.A.L. membership, let's give her something to do and transmit!!!

    Just a note, the spreadsheet has the up to date list of certifications as of 10/11/13, check it out!!!

    You all made it possible for the Commander to hold his head high when he goes to the N.E.C. this weekend, and he thanks you all for that.

    Let's get busy guys, if the four Squadrons that have obtained 100% can do it, why can't the rest of you? The members will renew, but they will not renew if nobody asks, catch my drift???

    This message was approved by the Commander!!

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 8, 2013

    Team Texas!!! Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide Friends;

    Due to technical difficulties I have been called upon by the Commander to send out a report.

    Since the DEC we have had some good transmittals, so much so, that we (TEAM TEXAS), MADE our 25% target for National. The Commander called Department and asked to send an overnight package today so it would arrive on time. Great Job Everyone!!!!!!!

    Now we must concentrate on the next Target Date (11/14/13-35%), we have 570 to go, so let's get to work. What amazes me, is , when I look at the spreadsheet and there are so many certified Squadrons with NO membership. You should at least send in your officers to set the example for the rest of the membership. Stay focused and get those officers transmitted!!! The Division Commanders met with me at the DEC, all are trying to get the word out that they are there to help. We are doing good, but we can do a lot better, I have seen you all do it before. Division and District Commanders, check the spreadsheet out, just don't close this e-mail, it will tell you where you need to concentrate your efforts.

    With all the upcoming District Conventions, if we are still experiencing the technical difficulties I will be back again on Friday 10/11/13, so that you may have the numbers in hand.

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 25, 2013

    Team Texas!!! Fellow Sons,Legionnaires, American Legion Auxiliary, Ships at Sea and All our World Wide Friends;

    Well, we have had a good half week of membership and if you will notice, our National Goal changed to 6131. This will continue to change until 12/31/13.

    We need to have a good turn in of membership this weekend, no sand baggers!!! Mamie will not be in the office the rest of the week, so that is why I am doing this now.

    We are at 1236 or 20.16%, but we have a fast approaching target date in October, we need to send our Commander to National, by meeting or exceeding the target.

    I have had reports of some good turn ins coming our way, but remember this, IT DOES NOT COUNT UNTIL NATIONAL POSTS IT!!!!!!! Last year we had a sluggish year (for the lack of a different term).

    The Commanders training is Saturday at 8 a.m., I highly suggest EVERYONE attend!!! We have Commanders this year that will be here to help when needed, so call the Division or District Commanders, if they don't know the answer they can find it , and help get the membership in. Get those certifications in A.S.A.P.!!!!!!

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 21, 2013

    Team Texas!!!

    Because our Immediate Past Detachment Commander (Jeff Alvis), who is suppose to be membership chairman, has gone MIA, the Commander has asked me to take over until we find Jeff.

    First of all, Kudos to Gary Paul, who stepped up to the plate and took over when Jeff Alvis could not be located. The only reason that I accepted to do this is simple, the Detachment should not suffer because someone thinks they are above doing the duties as mandated to him before he became Commander. This will be my third year as Membership Chair, but my motivation for doing it is, I truly love and believe in OUR organization, seems others become Commander for their resume.

    That being said, we already have 2 squadrons that hit 100%, they are Squadron 291 and Squadron 163!!! Kudos guys!! My question is simple, if they can do it, what is happening to the rest of the Detachment??? It is like trying to get rid of an ugly significant other, it's hard to do. Just the same, it is hard for you guys that are set in your ways to change and get things done!! If you have any issues or concerns so far as transmittals, please feel free to e mail me or call me.

    For those that have yet to send in your certification of officers, "What's Up?", you should have all had your elections and the certification should have been filled out before Adult beverages were consumed. There is no excuse for this very important paperwork to not be completed.

    The Detachment has Four very qualified Division Commanders this year, don't be shy if you have a question, ask them!! Think for a moment if you will, what do you think would have happened if the veteran in your life just sat back and didn't answer the call to duty?? That is why we need to support our veterans by our membership and continue to support the programs.

    We have 394 members to go for the next target date,

    Let's Git R Done!!!!

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    September 13, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 20 members turned in. Our membership total is 6169 with a percentage of 92.92%.

    2014: This week the Detachment of Texas had 101 members turned in. Our membership total is 978 with a percentage of 16.02%.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 6, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 9 members turned in. Our membership total is 6149 with a percentage of 92.62%.

    2014: Division 1- 13.01% Division 2- 16.55% Division 3- 11.72% Division 4- 10.77%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in. Division Commanders please check this report and contact the squadrons that are not certified. Thanks

    Goals are set for 2014. Any questions or concerns Please contact me. We still have till December 31st for 2013 so keep sending them in.

    As of 9/6/2013 National has us at 602 with a percentage of 9.91%. We are in 20th place at National and 4th in the Mid West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 30, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: Our membership total is 6142 with a percentage of 92.51%.

    2014: Our membership total is 785 with a percentage of 11.82%

    As of 8/30/2013 National has us at 6072 with a percentage of 91.46%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 18, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 2 members turned in. Our membership total is 6100 with a percentage of 91.88%. We are still 539 short of 100%.

    We have 56 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.67% Division 2- 86.19% Division 3- 88.95% Division 4- 88.88%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in.

    Goals will be set next week for 2014. We still have till December 31st for 2013 so keep sending them in.

    I'd like to Thank you for allowing me to do this job for the past 2 years. It's been an Honor.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 8/16/2013 National has us at 6017 with a percentage of 90.63%. We are in 48th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our renewal rate is at 72.71%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 9, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 20 members turned in. Our membership total is 6098 with a percentage of 91.85%. We are still 541 short of 100%.

    We have 56 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.67% Division 2- 86.19% Division 3- 88.83% Division 4- 88.88%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 8/6/2013 National has us at 6017 with a percentage of 90.63%. We are in 48th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our renewal rate is at 72.71%

    As of 7/30/2013 National has us at 6020 with a percentage of 90.67%. We are in 48th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Our renewal rate is at 72.71%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 2, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 13 members turned in. Our membership total is 6078 with a percentage of 91.55%. We are still 561 short of 100%.

    We have 57 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.67% Division 2- 85.17% Division 3- 88.77% Division 4- 88.88%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 7/30/2013 National has us at 6020 with a percentage of 90.67%. We are in 48th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Our renewal rate is at 72.71%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    July 26, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 6 members turned in. Our membership total is 6065 with a percentage of 91.35%. We are still 574 short of 100%.

    We have 57 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.70% Division 2- 85.17% Division 3- 88.48% Division 4- 88.88%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 7/23/2013 National has us at 5926 with a percentage of 89.26%. We are in 49th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Our renewal rate is at 72.50%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    July 19, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 25 members turned in. Our membership total is 6059 with a percentage of 91.26%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 912 short. We are still 580 short of 100%.

    We have 55 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.49% Division 2- 85.11% Division 3- 88.48% Division 4- 88.88%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. So get those Certs in.

    I would like to Thank Gary Winters for his hard work on redoing our Membership spread sheet.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 7/19/2013 National has us at 5926 with a percentage of 89.26%. We are in 49th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Our renewal rate is at 71.77%. On 7/18/2013 we transmitted 94 members to National.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    July 8, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 40 members turned in. Our membership total is 6034 with a percentage of 90.89%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 937 short. We are still 605 short of 100%.

    We have 55 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 86.08% Division 2- 85.00% Division 3- 87.89% Division 4- 88.58%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. All elections should be over by now. So get those Certs in.

    I would like to Thank Gary Winters for his hard work on redoing our Membership spread sheet.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 7/5/2013 National has us at 5926 with a percentage of 89.26%. We are in 48th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our renewal rate is at 71.77%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    June 28, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 29 members turned in. Our membership total is 5994 with a percentage of 90.28%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 977 short. We are still 645 short of 100%.

    We have 54 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 85.04% Division 2- 84.30% Division 3- 87.77% Division 4- 88.58%.

    2014 cards are in. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. All elections should be over by now. To everyone who has certified your cards were mailed this week. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 6/21/2013 National has us at 5806 with a percentage of 87.45%. We are in 49th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our renewal rate is at 70.81%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    June 21, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 64 members turned in. Our membership total is 5965 with a percentage of 89.85%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1006 short. We are still 674 short of 100%. Voting Strength is set as of 6/12/2013

    We have 54 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 100%. Division 1- 84.92% Division 2- 83.60% Division 3- 87.60% Division 4- 87.59%.

    We have a Squadron reactivated this week for the 2013 year it is 89 Texas City out of the 9th District. Welcome back

    2014 cards are in. After PUFL's are pulled and mailed then you will receive your Squadrons cards. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. All elections should be over by now. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 6/21/2013 National has us at 5806 with a percentage of 87.45%. We are in 49th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. On 6/20/2013 we transmitted 123 members to National. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our renewal rate is at 70.81%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    June 14, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 49 members turned in. Our membership total is 5901 with a percentage of 88.88%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1070 short. We are still 738 short of 100%. Voting Strength is set as of 6/12/2013

    We have 52 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 83.80% Division 2- 82.40% Division 3- 86.89% Division 4- 87.29%.

    We have our 1st District to make Goal. And that is the 4th Great Job to Everyone WTG!!!!

    2014 cards are in. After PUFL's are pulled and mailed then you will receive your Squadrons cards. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. All elections should be over by now. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 6/11/2013 National has us at 5750 with a percentage of 86.60%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    June 7, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 27 members turned in. Our membership total is 5852 with a percentage of 88.15%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1119 short. We are still 787 short of 100%. If we're going to make Goal we need to get busy!!!

    We have 49 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 83.01% Division 2- 81.00% Division 3- 86.83% Division 4- 86.99%.

    2014 cards will be in shortly. To receive them your certification of officers must be turned in to Department. All elections should be over by now. So get those Certs in.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 6/4/2013 National has us at 5728 with a percentage of 86.27%. We are in 49th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. On 6/6/2013 we transmitted 57 members to National. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    Detachment Membership Chairman's Report

    May 31, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 38 members turned in. Our membership total is 5825 with a percentage of 87.74%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1146 short. We are still 814 short 100%. If we're going to make Goal we need to get busy!!!

    We have 48 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 82.80% Division 2- 80.35% Division 3- 86.60% Division 4- 86.40%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 5/28/2013 National has us at 5474 with a percentage of 82.45%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region.

    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    May 24, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 45 members turned in. Our membership total is 5787 with a percentage of 87.17%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1184 short.

    We have 47 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 82.35% Division 2- 79.91% Division 3- 86.13% Division 4- 85.30%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 5/23/2013 National has us at 5474 with a percentage of 82.45%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    May 17, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 69 members turned in. Our membership total is 5742 with a percentage of 86.49%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1229 short.

    We have 45 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 81.56% Division 2- 79.86% Division 3- 85.54% Division 4- 83.81%.

    From ALA Department of Texas
    American Legion Family members are praying for the residents of Granbury, Cleburne, and Ennis areas. 3 year Members may request AEF from the ALA, TAL and SAL members may request help from NEF. Forms will be distributed at the Posts in the areas. We can't get into the area where Granbury Post 491 is and will report when we know if there was major damage there. Cleburne Post 50 is OK. Don't know about Ennis Post. There was concern about 491's roof and everyone was evacuated - Commander Alex is trying to get in to assess the situation. Update on Tornado Victims, This morning there is an emergency meeting of 6th District it will take place in Granbury at noon today. Department will also be present. For those who do not know 6th District encompasses all the affected areas Granbury, Cleburne and Ennis. I will have more information on what we can do to help after hearing from our Comrades and Sisters directly on the ground that need our help. To remind you all how close this was to being us!! As with West I know we will rise up to this disaster and help our Brothers and Sisters and Neighbors as much as we can!! May God Bless Texas, Commander Rhonda Land

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 5/14/2013 National has us at 5474 with a percentage of 82.45%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    May 10, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 35 members turned in. Our membership total is 5673 with a percentage of 87.00%. Our 105% Goal Date is 7/24/2013 we are 1298 short.

    We have 42 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 79.40% Division 2- 78.94% Division 3- 85.54% Division 4- 83.81%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 5/8/2013 National has us at 5474 with a percentage of 82.45%. We are in 50th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    May 4, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 137 members turned in. Our membership total is 5638 with a percentage of 84.92%. Our 100% Goal Date is 5/8/2013 we are 1001 short.

    We have 41 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 79.36% Division 2- 77.64% Division 3- 85.42% Division 4- 83.02%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 4/30/2013 National has us at 5319 with a percentage of 80.11%. We are in 47th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 65.69% As of 5/3/2013 National has us at 5479 with a percentage of 83.52%. We are in 45th place at National and 10th in the Mid West Region.

    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    April 22, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 89 members turned in. Our membership total is 5433 with a percentage of 81.83%. Our 100% Goal Date is 5/8/2013 we are 1206 short.

    We have 35 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 75.34% Division 2- 77.42% Division 3- 82.01% Division 4- 79.48%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 4/16/2013 National has us at 5073 with a percentage of 76.41%. We are in 49th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 62.49%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone's Responsibility.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    I know all of you are praying for the people of West and want to know what you can do to help. As you were told yesterday, the ALA Dept headquarters is accepting funds that you wish to go towards helping the victims in West’s tragedy. In many cases it will be money that is needed to help them with temporary living, food and other necessities. We will be working directly with Legion Post members in West and ALA members living there and nearby to be sure the right help at the right time is there for them.
    ALA Dept of Texas
    PO Box 140407
    Austin TX 78714

    Memo: West

    Various locations will be established to take tangible donations (ie: clothing, furniture, toys, kitchen and household supplies). Those of you in North Central Texas may contact the Alvarado Post #426 to arrange to deliver things to then be sent to West. We will be announcing other locations and if you wish to be such a location please contact ALA Dept office – leave a message and either I or someone will return your call. A location in the Houston and San Antonio, East Texas, South Texas along with others would be helpful. Volunteers will be needed to sort the items and box them at each location.

    Contact numbers:
    ALA dept office 512-476-7278
    Alvarado Post 817-790-0997
    Marty 817-475-2885 marty54@sbcglobal.net
    Brad Pack 512-789-5692 bpackd2b@yahoo.com
    Barbara Kundert 214-668-0496

    The ALA is working closely with SAL Brad Pack that was instrumental in organizing the Bastrop Fire victims help last year.

    Those of you that are on Facebook, please check for updates there as well on the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Texas page.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    April 15, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 36 members turned in. Our membership total is 5345 with a percentage of 80.51%. Our 100% Goal Date is 5/8/2013 we are 1294 short.

    We have 32 Squadrons at or over 100%. Division 1- 74.18% Division 2- 76.99% Division 3- 79.13% Division 4- 78.39%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 4/11/2013 National has us at 5073 with a percentage of 76.41%. We are in 49th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. On 4/11/2013 we transmitted 250 members to National. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 62.49%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 22, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 109 members turned in. Our membership total is 5199 with a percentage of 78.31%. Our 90% Goal Date is 4/10/2013 we are 776 short.

    We have 39 Squadrons at or over 90%. Division 1- 73.31% Division 2- 73.90% Division 3- 78.25% Division 4- 73.11%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 3/29/2013 National has us at 5075 with a percentage of 76.44%. We are in 45th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 58.43%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    April 5, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 110 members turned in. Our membership total is 5309 with a percentage of 79.97%. Our 90% Goal Date is 4/10/2013 we are 666 short.

    We have 44 Squadrons at or over 90%. Division 1- 73.73% Division 2- 76.61% Division 3- 78.84% Division 4- 77.09%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 4/5/2013 National has us at 5075 with a percentage of 76.44%. We are in 47th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 62.49%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 22, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 109 members turned in. Our membership total is 5199 with a percentage of 78.31%. Our 90% Goal Date is 4/10/2013 we are 776 short.

    We have 39 Squadrons at or over 90%. Division 1- 73.31% Division 2- 73.90% Division 3- 78.25% Division 4- 73.11%.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 3/29/2013 National has us at 5075 with a percentage of 76.44%. We are in 45th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Our renewal rate is 58.43%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 22, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 132 members turned in. Our membership total is 5090 with a percentage of 76.67%. Our 90% Goal Date is 4/10/2013 we are 885 short.

    We have 37 Squadrons at or over 90%. Division 1- 72.23% Division 2- 72.60% Division 3- 76.78% Division 4- 69.72%.

    Membership Awards Program is over the list is on the Membership spread sheet at the bottom.

    Congratulations to those Squadrons. Thanks Guys WTG!!!!

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple.

    As of 3/22/2013 National has us at 4680 with a percentage of 70.49%. We are in 48nd place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. On 3/22/2013 we transmitted 395 members to National. Our renewal rate is at 58.43%

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 15, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 100 members turned in. Our membership total is 4958 with a percentage of 74.68%. Our 90% Goal Date is 4/10/2013 we are 1017 short.

    We have 34 Squadrons at or over 90%. Division 1- 68.34% Division 2- 71.52% Division 3- 76.19% Division 4- 68.92%. We had 2 Large squadrons make goal this week. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be on March 18 Legion Birthday.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City.

    As of 3/13/2013 National has us at 4661 with a percentage of 70.20%. We are in 47nd place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 8, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 156 members turned in. Our membership total is 4858 with a percentage of 73.17%. Our 80% Goal Date is 3/13/2013 we are 453 short.

    We have 49 Squadrons and 3 Districts at or over 80%. Division 1- 66.85% Division 2- 70.06% Division 3- 74.07% Division 4- 68.82%. We had 2 squadrons make goal this week. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be on March 18 around Legion Birthday.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City.

    As of 3/8/2013 National has us at 4661 with a percentage of 70.20%. We are in 42nd place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    March 1, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 77 members turned in. Our membership total is 4702 with a percentage of 70.82%. Our 80% Goal Date is 3/13/2013 we are 609 short.

    We have 48 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 80%. Division 1- 64.15% Division 2- 69.09% Division 3- 72.84% Division 4- 63.65%. We had 2 squadrons make goal this week. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup.

    As of 2/26/2013 National has us at 4448 with a percentage of 66.99%. We are in 45th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. On 2/28/2013 we transmitted 215 members to National. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our Renewal rate is 52.18%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    February 22, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 145 members turned in. Our membership total is 4625 with a percentage of 69.66%. Our 80% Goal Date is 3/13/2013 we are 686 short.

    We have 47 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 80%. Division 1- 62.95% Division 2- 68.38% Division 3- 71.90% Division 4- 61.75%. We had 2 squadrons make goal this week. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup.

    As of 2/22/2013 National has us at 4448 with a percentage of 66.99%. We are in 47th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our Renewal rate is 52.18%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    February 15, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 141 members turned in. Our membership total is 4480 with a percentage of 67.48%. Our 80% Goal Date is 3/13/2013 we are 831 short.

    We have 40 Squadrons and 1 District at or over 80%. Division 1- 59.26% Division 2- 66.14% Division 3- 71.43% Division 4- 61.75%. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    We still have these Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup.

    As of 2/13/2013 National has us at 4175 with a percentage of 62.88%. We are in 47th place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region.

    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. Our Renewal rate is 52.18%.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    February 8, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 146 members turned in. Our membership total is 4339 with a percentage of 65.36%. Our 75% Goal Date is 2/13/2013 we are 640 short.

    We have 3 Districts and 49 Squadrons at or over 75%. Division 1- 55.08% Division 2- 65.43% Division 3- 69.84% Division 4- 61.75%. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday. We had 1 Squadron to make Goal this week 443 Somerset WTG!!!

    Division Commanders PLEASE contact the following Squadrons that are not certified 157 Bandera, 93 Mission, 594 Houston,133 Temple,198 Archer City and 418 Troup. Is anyone paying attention to this? It doesn't matter who gets these Squadrons to certify, if your driving by or you know someone from the Squadron Please contact them to help them get certified ASAP!!!!! Thanks.

    Everyone please keep Steve Davis' wife Tammy, Gary Winters' wife Donita and Jerry Beaird's wife Nell and their family's in your thoughts and prayers.

    As of 2/7/2013 National has us at 4175 with a percentage of 62.88%. We are in 43rd place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    February 1, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 95 members turned in. Our membership total is 4193 with a percentage of 63.16%. Our 75% Goal Date is 2/13/2013 we are 786 short. We have 2 reactivated Squadrons this week they are 42 Gatesville 11th District and 312 Livingston 7th District. Welcome gentlemen glad to have you in this Great Organization.

    We have 2 Districts and 42 Squadrons at or over 75%. Division 1- 54.33% Division 2- 63.31% Division 3- 68.67% Division 4- 54.88%. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    Division Commanders the following Squadrons are not certified 157 Bandera, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup. Please contact them to certify ASAP. Thanks

    Everyone please keep 1st Division Commander Steve Davis wife Tammy in your thoughts and prayers. Reports are she is getting better and still recovering in the Hospital. Steve said they received a card from the Detachment and thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers.

    As of 1/29/2013 National has us at 3817 with a percentage of 57.49%. We are in 43rd place at National and 9th in the Mid West Region. On 1/31/2013 we transmitted to National 360 Members. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    January 25, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 196 members turned in. Our membership total is 4099 with a percentage of 61.74%. Our 75% Goal Date is 2/13/2013 we are 880 short.

    We have 37 Squadrons at or over 75%. Division 1- 53.96% Division 2- 62.47% Division 3- 72.69% Division 4- 54.28%. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday. Division Commanders the following Squadrons are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup. Please contact them to certify ASAP. Thanks

    Everyone please keep 1st Division Commander Steve Davis wife Tammy in your thoughts and prayers she is still recovering in the Hospital.

    As of 1/25/2013 National has us at 3817 with a percentage of 57.49%. We are in 40th place at National and 8th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    January 18, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 44 members turned in. Our membership total is 3903 with a percentage of 58.79%. Our 75% Goal Date is 2/13/2013 we are 1076 short.

    We have 35 Squadrons at or over 75%. Division 1- 50.77% Division 2- 60.92% Division 3- 62.01% Division 4- 50.80%. Don't forget our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday. Division Commanders the following Squadrons are not certified 157 Bandera, 485 San Antonio, 93 Mission, 594 Houston, 133 Temple, 198 Archer City and 418 Troup. Please contact them to certify ASAP. Thanks

    Everyone please keep 1st Division Commander Steve Davis wife Tammy in your thoughts and prayers. I have requested Chaplain Palasota to send a card this morning. Anyone else wanting to send a card please contact me for Info.

    As of 1/15/2013 National has us at 3466 with a percentage of 52.20%. We are in 35th place at National and 7th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    January 11, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 170 members turned in. Our membership total is 3859 with a percentage of 58.13%. Our 60% Goal Date is 1/16/2013 we are 124 short. On 1/10/2013 we transmitted 351 to National.

    We have 67 Squadrons and 6 Districts at or over 60%. Division 1- 50.27% Division 2- 59.49% Division 3- 59.50% Division 4- 49.90%. Our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    As of 1/11/2013 National has us at 3472 with a percentage of 52.29%. We are in 30th place at National and 7th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    January 4, 2013

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  Final Membership Report for the Detachment of Texas total is 6692 with a percentage of 100.77%.
    Nationals Final Report is 6639 with a percentage of 99.97%. We ended up in 33rd place at National and 8th in the Mid West Region. Our renewal rate was 80.15%

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 179 members turned in. Our membership total is 3689 with a percentage of 55.57%. Our 60% Goal Date is 1/16/2013 we are 296 short.

    We have 67 Squadrons and 3 Districts at or over 60%. Division 1- 46.51% Division 2- 57.68% Division 3- 57.50% Division 4- 49.90%.
    We had 9 Squadrons receive checks for Membership Awards. Great Job Guys !!! Congratulations
    Our next Membership Awards will be in March around Legion Birthday.

    As of 12/27/2012 National has us at 3204 with a percentage of 48.32%. We are in 32nd place at National and 8th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    December 21, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 22 members turned in. Our membership total is 6692 with a percentage of 100.77%

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 99 members turned in.Our membership total is 3511 with a percentage of 52.87%Our 60% Goal Date is 1/16/2013. We are 474 short. Also when Department returns from the Holiday break that will be the cut off date for 1st go round of Membership Awards. So keep that membership coming.

    We have 56 Squadrons and 3 Districts at or over 60%. Division 1- 44.66% Division 2- 55.53% Division 3- 53.45% Division 4- 47.63%.

    As of 12/18/2012 National has us at 3204 with a percentage of 48.34%. We are in 30th place at National and 8th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    From Shirley and I we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Enjoy your Holidays and be safe. See you at DEC in Austin.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    December 15, 2012

    Apparently we did have membership recorded last week we had 185 members turned in. This takes our membership total to 3410 with a percentage of 51.35% we are 575 short of our 60% goal date which is 1/13/2013. Also we had 2 Squadrons make Goal. 399 San Antonio and 459 Hempstead, Great Job Guys !!!

    I would like to give PDC Bartholomew a big THANKS for his help.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    December 14, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6670 with a percentage of 100.54%

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Mamie was on vacation. Our membership total is 3225 with a percentage of 48.56%. Our 45% Goal Date was met. Great Job Everyone!!!

    We have 75 Squadrons, 11 Districts and 2 Divisions at or over 45%. Division 1- 41.02% Division 2- 49.53% Division 3- 50.60% Division 4- 43.79%. Don't forget our 60% Goal Date is 1/16/2013. With Department being closed for the Holidays and a 15% increase we'll be cutting it close. So keep that membership coming. Also when Department returns from the Holiday break that will be the cut off date for 1st go round of Membership Awards. So keep that membership coming.

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 12/11/2012 National has us at 3204 with a percentage of 48.34%. We are in 21st place at National and 5th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    From Shirley and I we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Enjoy your Holidays and be safe. See you at DEC in Austin.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    December 7, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6670 with a percentage of 100.54%

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 155 members turned in. Our membership total is 3225 with a percentage of 48.56%. Our 45% Goal Date is 12/12/2012 we are 237 over. With what was transmitted Thursday we should reach our 45% goal.

    We have 75 Squadrons, 11 Districts and 2 Divisions at or over 45%. Division 1- 41.02% Division 2- 49.53% Division 3- 50.60% Division 4- 43.79%. Don't forget our 60% Goal Date is 1/16/2013. With Department being closed for the Holidays and a 15% increase we'll be cutting it close. So keep that membership coming.

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 12/7/2012 National has us at 2755 with a percentage of 41.56%. We are in 33rd place at National and 7th in the Mid West Region. On 12/6/2012 we transmitted 449 members to National. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    Detachment Membership Chairman's Report

    November 30, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6670 with a percentage of 100.54%

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 307 members turned in. Our membership total is 3070 with a percentage of 46.23%. Our 45% Goal Date is 12/12/2012 we are 82 over. We had 4 squadrons make goal this week 182 Little Elm, 177 Luling, 363 Rockport and 368 Richardson. Great Job !!!

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 11/30/2012 National has us at 2755 with a percentage of 41.57%. We are in 26th place at National and 5th in the Mid West Region. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    November 23, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6677 with a percentage of 100.54% We still have renewals for 2012 out there we have till December 31st.

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 146 members turned in. Our membership total is 2762 with a percentage of 41.59%. 45% Goal Date is 12/12/2012 we are 226 short.

    We have 58 Squadrons, 5 Districts and 1 Division at or over 45%. Division 1- 33.84% Division 2- 41.99% Division 3- 45.69% Division 4- 37.28%.

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.
    Dst.1 Sqd. 488
    Dst. 2 493
    Dst. 3 Sqd. 353, Sqd. 418
    Dst. 9 Sqd. 166, Sqd. 350, Sqd. 503
    Dst. 11 Sqd. 133
    Dst, 12 Sqd. 60
    Dst. 13 Sqd. 198
    Dst. 15 Sqd. 93, Dst. 20 Sqd. 443, Sqd. 485
    Dst. 18 Sqd. 54
    Dst. 21 Sqd. 157
    Dst. 22 Sqd. 594

    As of 11/20/2012 National has us at 2422 with a percentage of 36.54%. We are in 29th place at National and 6th in the Mid West Region. On 11/21/2012 we sent 333 to National.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    November 17, 2012

    Late breaking news, this just in. As of 11/15/2012 National has us at 2422 with a percentage of 36.54%.

    We are in 27th place at National and 6th in the Mid West Region. Weeeeeee!!! made our 35% Goal.

    Great Job Detachment of Texas !!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    November 16, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  TThis week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6677 with a percentage of 100.54% We still have renewals for 2012 out there we have till December 31st.

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 157 members turned in. Our membership total is 2617 with a percentage of 39.41%. 45% Goal Date is 12/12/2012 we are 371 short.

    We have 57 Squadrons, 4 Districts at or over 45%. Division 1- 32.23% Division 2- 40.56% Division 3- 41.13% Division 4- 37.28%. Don't forget our Membership Awards Program.

    Here is the link for the Awards Criteria.

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Dst.1 Sqd. 488, Dst. 3 Sqd. 353, Sqd. 418, Dst, 12 Sqd. 60, Dst. 13 Sqd. 198, Dst. 2 493, Dst. 11 Sqd. 133, Dst. 22 Sqd. 594, Dst. 9 Sqd. 166, Sqd. 350, Sqd. 503, Dst. 15 Sqd. 93, Dst. 20 Sqd. 443, Sqd. 485, Dst. 18 Sqd. 54, Dst. 21 Sqd. 157.

    As of 11/13/2012 National has us at 2052 with a percentage of 31.01%. We are in 30th place at National and 5th in the Mid West Region. Keep that Membership coming and let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it. I'd like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    November 9, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 17 members turned in. Our membership total is 6677 with a percentage of 100.54% We still have renewals for 2012 out there we have till December 31st.

    2013:  This week the Detachment of Texas had 132 members turned in. Our membership total is 2460 with a percentage of 37.04%. 35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 136 over. We had 1 Squadron make goal this week 121 Waco. Thanks and Great Job to Everyone !!!

    We have 64 Squadrons,12 Districts and 2 Division at or over 35%. Division 1- 30.21% Division 2- 30.34% Division 3- 36.51% Division 4- 34.58%. Don't forget our Membership Awards Program.

    Here is the link for the Awards Criteria.

    Certification of Officers for 2013:  Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 11/6/2012 National has us at 2052 with a percentage of 31.01%. We are in 28th place at National and 5th in the Mid West Region. On 11/8/2012 we transmitted 370 members to National.

    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 386 short.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    November 2, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6660 with a percentage of 100.29%

    2013:This week the Detachment of Texas had 119 members turned in. Our membership total is 2328 with a percentage of 35.05%. 35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 4 over. Thanks and Great Job to Everyone !!! Great Job Everyone!!!

    We have 59 Squadrons,11 Districts and 1 Division at or over 35%. Division 1- 28.59% Division 2- 38.30% Division 3- 33.94% Division 4- 33.52%. Don't forget our Membership Awards Program.
    Here is the link for the Awards Criteria.

    Certification of Officers for 2013: Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 10/30/2012 National has us at 2052 with a percentage of 31.01%. We are in 21st place at National and 4th in the Mid West Region.
    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.
    35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 386 short.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    October 19, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6660 with a percentage of 100.29%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 185 members turned in. Our membership total is 1938 with a percentage of 29.18%. Our 25% Goal Date was 10/17/2012 we are 214 over. Also we made our 25% goal date Great Job Everyone!!!

    We have 48 Squadrons, 3 Districts and 1 Division at or over 35%.
    Division 1- 24.84% Division 2- 36.05% Division 3- 24.30% Division 4- 24.90%.
    Don't forget our Membership Awards Program.
    Here is the link for the Awards Criteria.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 10/17/2012 National has us at 1710 with a percentage of 25.84%. We are in 27th place at National and 4th in the Mid West Region.
    Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together weeeeee!!! can do it.
    35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 386 short.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    October 12, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6660 with a percentage of 100.29%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 118 members turned in. Our membership total is 1753 with a percentage of 26.40%. Our 25% Goal Date is 10/17/2012 we are 93 over. We have 58 Squadrons,11 Districts and 1 Division at or over 25%. Division 1- 21.56% Division 2- 32.14% Division 3- 22.76% Division 4- 24.14%. Good Job WTG !!!

    I would like to Thank Gary Winters for the new look of our Membership spread sheet. Let us know what you think.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 10/9/2012 National has us at 1565 with a percentage of 23.64%. We are in 21st place at National and 2nd in the Mid West Region. We Transmitted 130 members to National on 10/11/2012. If it reaches National in time weeeeee !!! will make our 25% Goal Date. Keep the Membership coming let's make this a record year for the Detachment of Texas together we can. 35% Goal Date is 11/15/2012 we are 571 short.

    Here is the link for the 2013 Individual Recruitment Award. Please take advantage of this Award,

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    October 05, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6660 with a percentage of 100.29%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 50 members turned in. Our membership total is 1635 with a percentage of 24.62%. Our 25% Goal Date is 10/17/2012 we are 25 short.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 10/2/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.54%. We Transmitted 52 members to National on 10/4/2012.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 29, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had 3 members turned in. Our membership total is 6660 with a percentage of 100.29%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 184 members turned in. Our membership total is 1539 with a percentage of 23.17%. Our 25% Goal Date is 10/17/2012 we are 121 short. We had 2 Squadrons reactivate this week they are 459 Hempstead 9th Dist.& 177 Luling 10th Dist.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications. Thanks

    As of 9/25/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.54%. We are in 45th place at National and 8th in the Mid-West Region. We Transmitted 951 members to National on 9/27/2012.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 25, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 21, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had no members turned in. Our membership total is 6658 with a percentage of 100.26%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 378 members turned in. Our membership total is 1355 with a percentage of 20.40%. Our 25% Goal Date is 10/17/2012 we are 305 short.

    As of 9/18/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.54%. We are in 43rd place at National and 8th in the Mid-West Region. We have 783 to Transmit next week.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 18, 2012

    I would like to report we had a Great turn in this weekend at DEC with 127 members, and was also greatly surprised to receive from Mamie Monday morning a total of 266 members from this weekend. I'm also proud to announce weeeee!!! have our 1st Squadron to achieve 100% It is 291 San Leon out of the 9th District. Their goal was 35 they sent in 41 for a percentage 117.14%, Great Job Guys!!!

    As of 9/17/2012 the Detachment of Texas stands at 1273 members turned in, which gives as a percentage of 19.17% Our 25% Goal Date is 10/17/2012 we have a good start to achieving this Goal!!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 13, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had 3 members turned in. Our membership total is 6658 with a percentage of 100.26%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 81 members turned in. Our membership total is 1007 with a percentage of 15.16%

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    As of 9/12/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.54%. We are in 35th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. Our 15% Goal Date is 9/12/2012

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    September 7, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had 4 members turned in. Our membership total is 6655 with a percentage of 100.21%

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 75 members turned in. Our membership total is 926 with a percentage of 13.94%

    Certification of Officers for 2013
    We need the 12th, 20th and 22nd District Certifications turned in. This is the last time I'm requesting these District certifications. someone needs to get on the ball here. Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    As of 9/4/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.54%. We are in 24th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. Our 10% Goal Date is 9/12/2012

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 31, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2012: This week the Detachment of Texas had 15 members turned in. Our membership total is 6651 with a percentage of 100.15%. WTG Weeeeeee!! did it. Thanks to everyone for job well done.

    2013: This week the Detachment of Texas had 92 members turned in. Our membership total is 851 with a percentage of 12.81%. Our 1st Target Goal Date is 9/12/2012. We've got a Good start 2013 keep that membership coming.

    Reminder: New goals have been set. If you find any discrepancies please call me so we can correct it.

    Certification of Officers for 2013
    We need the 12th,20th and 22nd District Certifications turned in. Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    As of 8/28/2012 National has us at 562 with a percentage of 8.53%. We are in 22nd place at National and 5th in the Mid-West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 23, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 5 members turned in. Our membership total is 6636 with a percentage of 99.92% We are 5 short of our 100% Goal.

    We got a good start on 2013 membership 733 turned in as of today.

    Reminder: New goals will be set after National Convention.

    Certification of Officers for 2013
    We need the 12th,20th and 22nd District Certifications turned in ASAP.

    Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    As of 8/23/2012 National has us at 6584 with a percentage of 99.14%. We are in 30th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. We are short of National Goal by 52 Members.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 17, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 29 members turned in. Our membership total is 6631 with a percentage of 99.85% We are10 short of our 100% Goal.

    We got a good start on 2013 membership 553 turned in as of today.
    I had a couple of calls this week asking can we turn in 2013 membership.The answer is YES. Please start turning it in so weeeeee!!! can get a big jump by Fall DEC for Commander Alvis and the Detachment of Texas.
    Reminder: New goals will be set after National Convention.

    Here are the 2012-2013 Target Dates

    Certification of Officers for 2013
    We need the 12th,20th and 22nd District Certifications turned in ASAP.

    Attached is a listing of Here is a list of all squadrons not certifiied. District Commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in their certifications.

    As of 8/14/2012 National has us at 6519 with a percentage of 98.16%. We are in 32th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. We are short of National Goal by122 Members. 2012-2013 Target Dates are set see attached file.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    August 3, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 0 members turned in. Our membership total is 6575 with a percentage of 99.01% We are 66 short of 100% Goal. Last chance to get those renewals, together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Get certifications turned in Please.

    Attached is a listing of Squadrons not certified. Division and District Commanders Please contact them to get them turned in. Thanks

    As of 8/3/2012 National has us at 6518 with a percentage of 98.14%. We are in 32th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. We are short of National Goal by 123 Members.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    July 27, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 4 members turned in. Our membership total is 6575 with a percentage of 99.01% We are 66 short of 100% Goal. Last chance to get those renewals, together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Get certifications turned in Please.

    As of 7/26/2012 National has us at 6518 with a percentage of 98.14%. We are in 30th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. We are short of National Goal by 123 Members.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    July 20, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 70 members turned in. Our membership total is 6571 with a percentage of 98.95% We are 70 short of 100% Goal. As you can see below we are 123 members short of National Goal we need to dig deep to get that membership out. To use a sports analogy " it's the 9th inning 2 outs the Detachment of Texas is up to bat the count is 3 and 2" last chance to get those renewals, let's knock this out of the park together weeeeee!!! can do it.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Get certifications turned in Please.

    As of 7/20/2012 National has us at 6409 with a percentage of 96.50%. We are in 31st place at National and 5th in the Mid-West Region. We are short of National Goal by 123 Members. There is a 23 member difference between National and Department. Don't know the problem, but I'm told it will catch up later.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2013

    June 29, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    I am sitting in for Gary Paul at his request, due to his schedule. We really didn't work membership this week, did we?? 26 turned in for the week... uuugghhh!!! I know from experience that it is tough this time of year, but don't give up !!!! DO NOT SANDBAG TILL CONVENTION!!! If you have certified and received your 2013 cards, try and get the 2012 out of the way first. If you have not certified, WHY???? The certification is important for two reasons, one so you can get your new cards and work on the next year, and secondly, so you will be submitted in the Blue Book. Communication is the Key, get on the phones or do whatever is necessary to get those renewals transmitted. This is not only for Squadron Commanders, it is for District and Division Commanders as well, we are only 147 off the mark, that is 37 members per Division. Get with the program guys!!! Just think for a moment, if the veteran that you qualify through, just gave up after a battle, they might win the battle but they would have lost the war. Treat membership the same way, instead of , "Oh Well, We'll get to it later". Let's try and walk into the Convention in Houston with 100% already accomplished. Gary Paul approved this message and will be back next week.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be,
    "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile

    June 25, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    I was asked by our Membership Chairman to send out this note , due to his limited Internet access. The P.U.F.L. cards have been pulled and mailed to the P.U.F.L. members directly. What does that have to do with the rest of the Detachment you ask?? Well, those that are already certified will get the 2013 cards in the mail this week. The suggestion comes to mind, if you have had your elections, but have not filled out your certification of officers, get it done NOW!!! You can e-mail it to Kevin Winklemann, Mamie Hughes at Department, and Gary Paul. It's very simple, so simple even a caveman can do it!! If you are certified by the convention, Kevin will present your cards to you at the convention, but only if he has your certification. So, in closing, let's get with the program Team Texas, and get a jump on 2013 membership.
    Gary Paul approved this message....

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be,
    "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile

    June 22, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 77 members turned in. Our membership total is 6425 with a percentage of 96.75%

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 43 members turned in. Our membership total is 6468 with a percentage of 97.39% . We are 173 short of 100% Goal. Certification of Officers for 2013 Get certifications turned in Please.

    As of 6/19/2012 National has us at 6289 with a percentage of 94.70%. We are in 30th place at National and 4th in the Mid-West Region. We transmitted 125 to National on 6/21/2012

    CWF Final Report is linked below, give it a look. Thanks
    CWF Report

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    June 15, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 77 members turned in. Our membership total is 6425 with a percentage of 96.75%

    We need our Division and District Commanders to get out and push membership really hard before Detachment Convention. We have a lot of renewals out there still waiting for you to contact them. Our renewal rate is 75.76% So let's go get them together Weeeeeee !!! can do it. We are 216 short of 100% Goal.

    Certification of Officers for 2013 Elections should be winding down we need to get them in ASAP. District Commanders Please encourage your squadrons to get them to Department, 2013 cards are in. Just spoke with Mamie we have approx 50 who have turned in their 2013 Certifications.

    Consolidated report forms are out, Please get them Filled out and send to: Kevin Winklemann @ 9235 McDade Houston, TX 77080 Thanks.

    As of 6/13/2012 voting strength has been set,also 100% goals which was 30 days prior to Detachment Convention. We had 65 Squadrons and 6 Districts that made 100% Goal.

    Here is the 100% List, please review to make sure know one was left off. Any questions please contact me ASAP, again great job and congratulations to all!!

    As of 6/14/2012 National has us at 6289 with a percentage of 94.70%. We are in 28th place at National and 4th in the Mid-West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    June 8, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 74 members turned in. Our membership total is 6348 with a percentage of 95.59% We have a lot of renewals out there still waiting for you to contact them. We are 293 short of 100% Goal.

    Last call for Consolidated report forms Please get them Filled out and send to: Kevin Winklemann @ 9235 McDade Houston, TX 77080 ASAP Thanks.

    Reminder: Voting strength will be determined 30 days prior to Detachment Convention the date will Wednesday 6/13/2012 so will 100% Ribbons so get that Membership in.

    National has us at 6197 with a percentage of 93.31%. We are in 31st place at National and 4th in the Mid-West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    June 4, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 20 members turned in. Our membership total is 6274 with a percentage of 94.47% We need our Division and District Commanders to get out and push membership really hard before Detachment Convention. We have a lot of renewals out there still waiting for you to contact them. Our renewal rate is 75.58% So let's go get them together Weeeeeee !!! can do it. We are 367 short of 100% Goal.

    Consolidated report forms are out, Please get them Filled out and send to: Kevin Winklemann @ 9235 McDade Houston, TX 77080 Thanks.

    Reminder: Voting strength will be determined 30 days prior to Detachment Convention so will 100% Ribbons so get that Membership in.

    National has us at 6197 with a percentage of 93.31%. We are in 28th place at National and 4th in the Mid-West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    Detachment Membership Chairman's Comments

    May 18, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 79 members turned in. Our membership total is 6194 with a percentage of 93.27%. We need our Division and District Commanders to get out and push membership really hard before Detachment Convention. We have a lot of renewals out there still waiting for you to contact them. So let's go get them together Weeeeeee !!! can do it. Our renewal rate as of today is 74.24%, We have 4 Districts at 100% CONGRATS TO THEM!!

    Consolidated report forms are out, Please get them Filled out and send to: Kevin Winklemann @ 9235 McDade Houston, TX 77080 by June 1st. Thanks.

    Reminder: Voting strength will be determined 30 days prior to Detachment Convention so get that Membership in.

    National has us at 6063 with a percentage of 91.29%. We are in 36th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    May 11, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 132 members turned in. Our membership total is 6115 with a percentage of 92.08%. We fell 534 short of our 100% goal date.

    It's time for elections. Please send your certification of officers in as soon as your meeting is over. Let's not sit on them, and get them in. Thanks

    Consolidated report forms are out Please fill them out and return them ASAP.

    Message from Detachment Adjutant
    Please remember that all consolidated report forms need to be mailed to my home address at least 30 days prior to Detachment Convention. It would be beneficial if you could get the reports to me by June 1st. All District and Division Commanders please pass on this email. Thank you!

    Kevin Winkelman
    Detachment Adjutant

    Please mail to Kevin Winkelman 9235 McDade Houston, TX. 77080

    National has us at 5898 with a percentage of 88.81%. We are in 41th place at National and 8th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 6/26/2012 for 105%. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    May 4, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 42 members turned in. Our membership total is 5983 with a percentage of 90.09% and we are 658 short of our 100% goal date.

    Consolidated report forms are out Please fill them out and get them turned in ASAP.

    National has us at 5898 with a percentage of 88.81%. We are in 35th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 5/9/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    April 27, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 28 members turned in. Our membership total is 5937 with a percentage of 89.43% and we are 702 short of our 100% goal date. We had 2 new Squadrons to join us this week it's 281 Gladewater from the 3rd District and 402 Livingston from the 7th District. Welcome Gentlemen !!!

    Consolidated report forms are out Please fill them out and get them turned in ASAP.

    National has us at 5778 with a percentage of 87.05%. We are in 36th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 5/9/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    April 20, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 77 members turned in. Our membership total is 5904 with a percentage of 88.90% and we are 737 short of our 100% goal date.We have 2 Districts at 100% 1st and19th WTG !!!. We also had 2 Squadrons reactivate 241 Angleton in the 9th District and 363 Rockport in the 14th District Welcome back !!!

    Consolidated report forms are out Please fill them out and get them turned in ASAP.

    National has us at 5780 with a percentage of 87.03%. We are in 35th place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 5/9/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    April 13, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 96 members turned in. Our membership total is 5827 with a percentage of 87.74% and we are 814 short of our 100% goal date.

    National has us at 5597 with a percentage of 84.27%. We are in 39th place at National and 8th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 5/9/2012.On 4/12/2012 183 members were transmitted to National. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    April 5, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Chairman Paul asked me to send out the update due to family obligations he has. As always I am glad to assist. This was a bad week for membership but I assume it is because of Squadrons sandbagging before there respective District Conventions. Commanders, get on the phone or Internet, make contact with the membership teams and let's see a big turn in after your conventions!! In the meantime, Squadron Commanders, you may certainly transmit before your convention, look at the report, really, LOOK at it!!! See where you are and let's get with the program!!! Department will not transmit to National this week, so,

    THINK MEMBERSHIP!!!!!! I know that we do not match the National figures, but they will never match!!! Enough rambling, if you need help, call a commander near you , or Gary Paul will be glad to assist.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be,
    "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile

    March 30, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 153 members turned in. Our membership total is 5726 with a percentage of 86.22% and we are 251 short of our 90%goal date. We had 7 large and 23 small squadrons to make goal by Legion Birthday checks should be mailed out next week. Great Job Guys !!!. Spring District Conventions are starting. Division and District Commanders Please call all squadrons and have them bring membership to your Conventions

    National has us at 5363 with a percentage of 80.75%. We are in 38th place at National and 8th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 4/11/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember – “renewals” are the key to success.

    Keep going…Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    March 23, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 181 members turned in. Our membership total is 5573 with a percentage of 83.92% and we are 260 short of our 90%goal date. We also had 9 squadrons to make goal this week Great Job !!!.

    National has us at 5198 with a percentage of 78.27%. We are in 40th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 4/11/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember – “renewals” are the key to success.

    Keep going…Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    March 15, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 59 members turned in. Our membership total is 5392 with a percentage of 81.19% and we are 585 short of our 90%goal date. We also had 3 squadrons to make goal this week Great Job !!!. We had 167 transmitted to National this week.

    National has us at 5198 with a percentage of 78.27%. We are in 38th place at National and 7th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 4/11/2012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Remember – “renewals” are the key to success.

    Keep going…Remember, Membership Is Everyone’s Responsibility!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    March 13, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    "Membership Award Checks":

    The Legion Birthday date has been extended to Monday March 19, 2012.

    You still have time so get that membership in.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    March 9, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 108 members turned in. Our membership total is 5333 with a percentage of 80.30% and we are 20 over our 80% goal date which is 3/14/2012. We also had 4 squadrons to make goal this week Great Job !!!.

    National has us at 5207 with a percentage of 78.40%. We are in 29th place at National and 5th in the Mid-West Region. Our next goal date is 4/11/1012. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    March 2, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 77 members turned in. Our membership total is 5225 with a percentage of 78.68% and we are 88 short of our 80% goal date which is 3/14/2012. We also had 5 squadrons to make goal this week Great Job !!!.

    National has us at 4993 with a percentage of 75.18%. We are in 32nd place at National and 6th in the Mid-West Region. We are 319 short of 80% goal date.We had 214 transmitted on 3/2/2012. If my math is right next week when the 214 is posted at National we should be at 78%. So we need to push for 110 members next week. So keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    February 24, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 134 members turned in. Our membership total is 5146 with a percentage of 77.49%. We are 167 short of our next goal date.

    We had 4 squadrons make goal this week Good Job Guy's !!!. I have added a list of squadrons that are really close to making goal. District Commanders Please call these squadrons. Please see attached list.

    Remember the American Legion Birthday is coming up next month March 15th thru 17th. You have till then to make goal for our membership awards checks.

    National has us at 4993 with a percentage of 75.18%. We are in 23rd place and 4th in the Mid-West Region, we are 319 short of 80% goal date 3/14 /2012. Keep the membership coming in and weeeeeee!!! will make this goal date.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    February 17, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 178 members turned in that takes us to 5014 with a percentage of 75.50%. We are 299 short of our 80% goal date.

    On 2/16/2012 we had 285 members transmitted to National.

    As of 2/14/2012 National shows us with 4708 with a percentage of 70.89%%. We're 604 short of the 80% goal date which is 3/14/2012 we are in 34th place at National and 7th in the Mid West Region .

    REMINDER We have several squadrons that are really close to goal Division and District Commanders PLEASE encourage them to make goal ASAP. Remember the American Legion Birthday is coming up next month, it will be coming up 3/15–17/2012.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    February 10, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week the Detachment of Texas had 110 turned in to Department which takes us to 4836 with a percentage of 72.82%.

    We didn't make the 75% goal date.With what was transmitted last week to National we stand at 70.89% with 4708 members turned in as of 2/9/2012. At Department we have 110 members along with what ever is collected by Wednesday to be transmitted to National which will be next Thursday 2/16/2012.

    As of 2/9/2012 we were in 31st place at National, and 6th in the Mid-West Region. Please find attached copy.

    At this time we have 1 Division, 8 Districts & 38 Squadrons at or above 75%. With 19 Squadrons at 100% Great Job Guys !!!

    Our next Goal Date is 3/14/2012 we are 477 short we need to have a big push to achieve this next goal date. I know Weeeeeeee!!! can do it.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    February 3, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had 86 turned in this week for a total of 4726 with a percentage of 71.16%.

    We are still 255 short of our 75% goal date which is next Wednesday 2/8/2012.

    Our next goal date is 80% on 3/14/2012 as of right now we are 587 short of this goal date.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    January 27, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had a great turn in at D.E.C. of 198 members. We had even a BIGGER surprise Monday morning we had more to add to the week-end to give us 290 members turned in. Great Job Everyone !!! This week we had a total of 335 members turned in, which takes our total to 4640 with a percentage of 69.87%.

    The 75% goal date is 2/8/2012, as of today we are 341 members short. I strongly urge Division and District Commanders to call all squadrons to solicit membership so weeeeeeee! can achieve this goal date. Thanks

    "REMINDER" We still have a membership awards to give out by Legion Birthday !!! March 15-17

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    January 24, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    After it was all said and done this weekend. Weeeeeeee! had 198 members turned in which took our membership to 4503 with a percentage of 67.80%. After this weekend we are 478 members short .

    REMINDER Next target goal is 75% the date is 2/8/2012.

    It was great to see everyone this weekend "Remember together Weeeeeeee can!!"

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    January 13, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had 190 turned in this week for a total of 4198 to date, which brings us to a percentage of 63.21%.

    We are 783 short of our 75% goal. Due on 2/8/2012.

    We have 12 Districts that are over 60%. This goal date isn't due until 1/19/2012,

    Looking for a GREAT TURN IN at DEC next weekend. Hope to See you there.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    January 6, 2012

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Hope everyone had a Great Holiday Season.

    2011 Membership year is over and there are still some renewals out there. We ended up with 6641 with a percentage of 102.95%. We ended up 17th in the nation. We also had a 80.75% renewal rate and an All Time High. Great Job Everyone. Congratulations !!!

    2012 membership year is in full swing and we are looking really good. We had 285 turned in this week for a total of 4008 collected. With today's turn in it put us at 60.35%. We've met every goal date so far with the 60% goal coming up on 1/19/2012.

    We are on our way to the 75% goal that will be due on 2/8/2012 that's a 15% jump, so we'll need a big turn in at Mid Winter DEC. I encourage all District Commanders to contact all of their squadrons and really push membership, so we can achieve this goal date also. Thank You.

    We had 12 squadrons to receive 100% membership award checks. Congratulations.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    December 23, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    No turn In's for 2011 this week. So this will be the last report for the 2011 membership year we ended up with 6641 with a percentage of 102.95%. Great Job Everyone !!!

    We had 202 turned in for 2012 this week which takes us to 3723 with a percentage of 56.06%. Our next goal date is 1/19/2012 which is 60%.as of now Detachment is 259 members short of this goal. Keep that membership rolling in and this goal date will be met.

    A few reminders:

    Department will be closed for the Holidays but the mail will be running, so you can still send in membership.
    Any credit for your PUFL'S is no good after mail is opened at Department on January 2, 2012.
    This also goes for membership awards, at this time we have 11 checks to hand out, but we have a few really close.

    We had 1 certification turned in this week, but we still have several out there. Division and District Commanders, Please contact these Squadrons which have not certified. Thank You.

    Again I would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    December 16, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2011 Membership year is winding down still some renewals out there, but none turned in this week. so we still stand at 6641 with a percentage of 102.95%.

    278 turned in for 2012 which takes us to 3524 with a percentage of 53.06%. Goal date of 45% was 12/14/2011. We have 80 Squadrons, 14 Districts, all 4 Divisions and Detachment that are over 45% at this time, as well as we have several Squadrons that are really close to this goal. Great Job Everyone !!!

    Department will be closed from Dec. 23 to Jan. 2, we have about 2 weeks left to get membership in for our membership awards. We had 2 squadrons make goal this week, this gives us 9 squadrons that will receive checks so far. but on that note we also have 7 more that only need from 1-3 members.So Gentlemen lets get those memberships in as soon as you can.

    From the Paul Family to your Family We would like to Wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Have a Safe and Wonderful Holiday Season !!!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    December 9, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2011 membership year is winding down, we had none turned in this week but we still have a few weeks left to get those last renewals in. Membership totals still stands at 6641 and 120.95%.

    No membership turned in for 2011 so we still stand at 6641 with a percentage of 102.95%.

    We had 77 turned in this week for 2012 which takes us to 3264 with a percentage of 48.88% Our next goal is 45% and it's due date is 12/14/2011. Detachment is 258 over..

    We have several squadrons that are not certified. Please work on getting these squadrons certified ASAP. Also I'm going to suggest to Kevin that we send a letter out to each Post to see if they can help us get them certified.

    The calls I made to District Commanders a couple of weeks ago seems to be paying off, we've had some membership trickling in and promises of more coming next week. " I'm proud of you guy's keep up the good work"

    Next subject 0 squadrons at this point in time in the membership year their should be no 0 squadrons on our membership report. District commanders PLEASE call these squadrons and get them to turn in some membership, Thank You. We had 2 squadrons to make goal this week and we have several that are any where's from 2 to 6 members short of making goal. To date we have 7 to receive checks for our membership awards.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    December 2, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    2011 membership year is winding down, we had none turned in this week but we still have a few weeks left to get those last renewals in. Membership totals still stands at 6641 and 120.95%.

    We had 110 turned in this week for 2012 taking the total to 3169 for a percentage of 47.72%. At this time we are 181 over our 45% goal which is not due until 12/14/2011. WTG GUY'S GREAT JOB !!!

    We need to keep the membership coming in thru the holidays because our 60% goal date is 1/19/2012. Which is right before Midwinter DEC.We still have a few squadrons really close to 100% for the membership awards

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    November 23, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had 1 turned in for 2011 this week which takes us to 6641 and 102.95%. We had 134 turned in for 2012 for a percentage of 46.05%.

    We need to start working on the 0 Squadrons out there. I called several District Commanders this week to ask them to call for membership from these Squadrons, hopefully these 0's will disappear. Certification of Squadrons need to be worked on too. We have 13 left, I also talked to the Commanders about this. I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    November 18, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    No turn in for 2011, so we still stand at 6640 with a percentage of 102.93.

    We had 217 turned in for 2012, so we are at 2924 with a percentage of 44.04. This leaves us 64 short of our 45% goal which is due on 12/14/2011.

    We have all 4 Divisions and 14 of our Districts that are over the 35% goal, That was due this past Wednesday. Great Job Everyone !!! " Let's keep working that Membership."

    We sent a reminder Last week about the Membership Goal Checks, saying "The dead line date is 12/31/2011". However Department is closed for the Holidays, so whatever day Mamie returns to the office, be it the 2nd or 3rd of January that is the cut-off day. So get those members in ASAP. We have 3 Squadrons so far to receive checks and a few that are really close.

    I would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    November 11, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    I would like to start out by "Thanking all Veterans for their service to this Great Nation." Gentlemen please join me on this day by giving Thanks to all that have served and those that are still serving.For our freedom and our way of life we enjoy every day. We owe it all to them.

    Membership for 2011is at 6640 with102.93%.

    We had 118 turned in this week for 2012 for a total of 2707 with 40.77%. Great job everyone!!

    On 11/10/2011 we transmitted 125 to National.

    The 35% goal date is 11/16/2011 for those squadrons who have not achieved it you still have time.

    REMINDER

    The Deadline for 100% goal checks is December 31st. There are a lot of squadrons who are real close. The next date will be Legion Birthday.

    Please find attached copy of Membership Awards Program.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    November 4, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Gary Paul asked me to do the update this week because he is on the road for Commander Slaughter. We turned in 241 this week, which is good but we need to stay focused and transmit, we are coming upon the holiday season, so this is a great time to see members that you haven't seen in awhile. When you see them hit them up for there dues. 3rd. Division Commander Barnes edged his way ahead of Commander Chatham this week, but I suppose that will not last long. We still have District conventions going on, so get those renewals and send them in. We transmitted 234 to national on 11/3/11, but it is not official until National posts it. We are only 399 away from the 45% target, let's see if we can obtain it before December because then we have the hardest one coming up which is the 65%. District Commanders, for all those squadrons in your district that are not certified, Git-R- Done!!!!. One last note, the Boys State members have also been posted, get there information and contact them so that you do not lose them.

    Until Next We Meet We Will Always Be, "The Sons"

    Richard "Squeek" Bartholomew
    P.D.C. 06-07
    Living in Exile
    E-mail: truckbroker57@aol.com

    October 21, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had1 turned in for 2011 for a total of 6634 with a percentage of 102.84.This week for 2012 we had 96 turned in for a percentage of 32.95.

    I've attached the membership criteria for awards. This is also on our website.

    Also remember those that have PUFL credit it has to be used by December 31,2011

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    October 14, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    No turn ins for 2011 this week. So everything stays the same 6633 102.82%.

    Received 129 for 2012 this week for a total of 2100 members turned in to date for 31.66%.

    All 4 Divisions and 13 Districts are at or above 25%. And the Detachment has surpassed the 25% too. WTG!!! The 25% goal is next week 10/19/2011. We're 424 over.

    Next goal date is 11/16/2011 for 35%

    It's time for fall conventions, looking for lot's of Membership!!! Wishing all a Great and Successful District Convention.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    October 7, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Received this week for 2011, which brings this total to 6,633 & 102.82%.

    110 Received for 2012 which gives us 1,969 at 29.68%.

    We had 3 certifications turned in this week. Thanks for these, still have several out there to get.

    We are 313 over the 25% Goal Date which is 10/19/2011.... The next Goal is 35% , Due on 11/16/2011... GREAT JOB EVERYONE!!!

    It's time for fall conventions, looking for lot's of Membership!!! Wishing all a Great and Successful District Convention.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    September 30, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Great DEC last weekend, good to see everyone. We've Really had week for Membership!!!

    363 turned in, this takes our numbers to 1,859 which equals 28.05%. We also had 4 more turned in for 2011, this now takes those numbers to 6,627 with 102.73%.

    Division and District Commanders Please contact your Squadrons that are not Certified.. let's get the red off of the Membership Report.

    Department Transmitted 10 members for 2011and 474 for 2012. as of 9/29/2011.

    The Detachment has surpassed the 25% goal, 2 Divisions also have surpassed it, and the other 2 Division's are really close GREAT JOB!!!

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    September 22, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    This week we had no 2011 turned in so we still stand at 6623 with a 102.67%.We still have renewals for 2011 out their.

    We had 130 turned in for 2012 that takes our percentage to 22.59%

    25% Goal date is 10/19/2011 we're only 160 short WTG!!! Guys

    We received 6 certifications this week. We are looking good in this area, still need 18 to have all certified Squadrons. Good Job Everyone.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    September 16, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We received 17 turned in for 2011 which gives us 6623 for a 102.67%. We had 4 certifications turned in this week,Thanks to those of you who sent these in.... We still have more to go. We had a total of 117 for the 2012 membership this week, which takes us to 1366 for 20.64%. Again next goal is 25% the date it id due on is October 19, 2011... we are 290 short as of this report.

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work and dedication to this great organization.Gary

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    September 9, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We have 3 more turned in for 2011 this week, so we're at 6,606 which put us at 102.40%.

    This week we received 123 turned in for 2012. Our membership as of 9/9/2011 is 1,250. This puts us at 18.93%.

    Our 25% Goal Date is 10/19/2011, and at this time we are only 402 short.

    We have 3 Squadrons above 100%. WTG Guys!!!!

    Division and District Commanders we still have several squadrons not certified. Please contact them ASAP.

    Looking forward to seeing everyone at DEC in Austin.

    Remember Membership,Membership,Membership!!!!!!

    To all members who are helping with the Bastrop Co. Fires, Please remember to keep up with what you and your Squadron are doing to help. Whether it be with, needed items, money or man hours. Brad Pack & I want to hear from each of you, so We can send it into our PR Committee to have them compile everything. We then will forward this on to National to be put in the newsletter

    Thanks to all for your hard work and dedication to this great organization,

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    September 2, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    We had 5 turned in for 2011, we now have 6603 which brings us up to 102.36%, we still have 2011 renewals out there that we need to retain especially those that want to keep their continues years..

    We had 81 members turned in this week that brings us up to 1138 at 17.25% we have already met over the 1st goal of 10% that is due 9/14/2011 by 478 members WTG!!! Our next Goal Date is 10/19/2011 for 25% and we are only 511 short.. Nice...

    Goal Dates have been set, I am attaching it and the membership reports to this message... Please Print the Goals out and Post them were they can be seen by the members

    Our New National Commander Jim Roberts Membership Theme for this Year is:

    The Great 2012 National Membership Trail Ride

    He Also reminds us to remember the "3 R's in Membership"

    Renew - Recruit and Reinstate

    Thanks to everyone for your hard work & dedication to this Great Organization,

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012

    August 26, 2011

    Hello, Team Texas !!!

    Here we go with our 1st membership report; as of today our 2011 membership stands at 6,598. Great job Team Texas!!!

    2012 membership as of 8/26/2011 is at 1,061... What a great start to Commander Slaughter's year. 2012 goals have been set.

    Elections should be over by now and certification of officers should be in.

    Division and District Commanders check the spread sheet all squadrons in red are not certified. Please contact squadrons ASAP and make sure they turn the certifications in.

    You'll find 2011 & 2012 report attached, we'll run the 2011 report until December 31st.

    Thank you all for your hard work and dedication to this great organization!!!!

    Gary M. Paul
    Internal Affairs/Membership Chairman
    2011-2012







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