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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Blackwell, Morton: Files
Folder Title: American Legion I:
American Legion - Correspondence
(3 of 3)
Box: 42
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
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Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
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The
American
Wile
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N. W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
(202) 393-4811
*
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
April 2, 1981
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Morton Blackwell
Special Assistant to the President
SUBJECT:
Attached Telegrams
The attached telegram is being sent to the President by T.Y.
Chao, Chairman of the Vocational Assistant Commission for Retired
Servicemen, Republic of China, Taipei, Taiwan offering their best
wishes for the speedy recovery of President Reagan.
They have asked us to forward the message. For your information,
the Vocational Assistance Commission is their counterpart to veterans
organizations here in the United States. Would you please forward
this to the proper personnel in the White House. - sent apr 17
Morton, also attached for your information is a copy of a
telegram to National Commander Kogutek from the Nova Scotia Command
of the Royal Canadian Legion.
ROBERT Bof W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
Attachments
ШИ
western union
Telegram
WF A015(0540)(1-002097A091)PD 04/01/81 0539
1981 APR -1 AM 5:45
ICS IPMWGWC WSH
02461 04-01 0433A EST
ICS IPMWF08
1-020953G091 04/01/81
ICS IPMIIHA IISS
IISS F M WUI 01 0228 NL
PMS WASHINGTON DC
UWA8451 FWU 452 CB0002 00571 GBA0020
UWWA HL CNTP 069
TAIPEI 69/68 1 1356
LT
MR MICHAEL J KOGUTEK NATIONAL COMMANDER THE AMERICAN LEGION 1608
''K'' STREET N.W.
WASHINGTONDC 20006
PLEASE FORWARD THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN
W.U. 1201-SF (R5-69)
ШИ
western union
Telegram
I AM SHOCKED TO LEARN THAT YOU SUFFERED A BULLET WOUND ON BEHALF
OF MYSELF AND ALL CHINESE VETERANS I SEND YOU OUR SINCEREST
SYMPATHY AND BEST WISHES FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY T. Y. CHAO CHAIRMAN
VOCATIONAL ASSISTANCE COMMISSI ON FOR RETIRED SERVICEMEN TAIPEI
COL LT MR MICHAEL J KOGUTEK NATIONAL COMMANDER THE AMERICAN LEGION
1608 "K"" STREET N.W.
RETR MSG
NNN
0413 EST
NNNN
W.U. 1201-SF (R5-69)
western union
F 4063(0944) (1-0060354091)PD 04/01/81 1 AM 9:49
ICS IPMWAVG WSH
07217 1-177380G089 03-30 531 P EST
ICS IPMWF08
ICS IPMIIHA IISS
IISS FM CNT 30 1715
CYD0121 ЧАНН 356 58 FR
TDHX HALIFAX NS 30 1805
COMMANDER, AMERICAN LEGION
WASHINGTON DC 1608 K ST NW
THE OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE NOVA SCOTIA COMMAND OF THE
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION, BEAR WITH YOU IN YOUR MOMENT OF CRISIS
THROUGH THE UNFORTUNATE CIRCUMSTANCES OF THIS DAY. OUR PR AYERS
GO FORWARD FOR YOUR PRESIDENT AND THOSE WHO WERE INJURED IN THIS
TERRIBLE ACT
W.U. 1201-SF (R5-69)
western union
Telegram
TOVA SCOTIA COMMAND, ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION, PO BOX
7116, HALIFAX NS 33K 5J5
NNNN
.V.U. 1201-SF (R5-69)
natt. Commander
The
American
Legion
bulletin
NATIONAL VETERANS AFFAIRS AND REHABILITATION COMMISSION
1608 K STREET, N.W.
*
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
For God and Country
W.F. LENKER, Chairman
R. E. LYNGH, Director
No. 10-81 (20-6)
March 26, 1981
TELEGRAM FROM NATIONAL COMMANDER KOGUTEK TO PRESIDENT REAGAN
On March 25, 1981 National Commander Michael J. Kogutek sent
a telegram to President Reagan, text of which is included below.
The telegram was initiated by reason of a series of recent events
in Washington causing deep concern by The American Legion as to
the long-range commitment of the Administration to the veterans
health care system.
R.R. R. E. G. LYNGH, Director
TELEGRAM
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
The signals The American Legion and all veterans are getting
from your administration are causing much concern and confusion.
We are wondering at this point if you intend to propose a basic
change in the way Americans have viewed assistance to veterans since
the administration of Abraham Lincoln.
We are not referring only to your proposed budget cuts which
will: eliminate 5,500 health care personnel in the VA system;
close 60 hospital wards; scrap plans to buy needed new equipment;
defer construction of two replacement hospitals; severely cripple
veterans employment services, and close Vietnam Veterans Outreach
Centers. We are concerned now that your intention is to eliminate
the entire VA health care system.
- 2 -
Administration witnesses at a House Veterans Affairs Sub-
committee hearing today would not support H.R. 1969, a bill to
formalize the use of VA hospitals as a backup to the military
system in case of the outbreak of hostilities overseas. Does this
mean that you do not want to make any long term commitment to the
VA system?
Mr. Stockman told the Senate Budget Committee recently that he
is working on plans for a more efficient system of veterans health
services. And we have heard there are plans to experiment with a
system of vouchering veteran patients into private commercial
hospitals at two locations in the U.S.
Add to all of this the fact that appointment of a new VA
Administrator evidently has had a very low priority at the White
House, and you may be able to appreciate our growing concern. The
VA is the only remaining major agency that has no head to represent
agency interests in budget negotiations with OMB.
Americans have always recognized veterans assistance as a
debt owed and willingly paid by society to those who have served in
time of war and national emergency. It has never been considered
a handout to the weak or charity to the needy. It has been an
earned compensation for sacrifices borne and service rendered.
We would like to have an expression of your view of this
concept in today's environment so that we might better understand
your plans.
MICHAEL J. KOGUTEK
National Commander
The American Legion
The
American
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N. W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
(202) 393-4811
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
March 26, 1981
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Morton C. Blackwell
Special Asst. to Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
SUBJECT:
Attached telegram to the President
As we discussed by telephone and at last night's reception
The American Legion has filed the attached telegram with the President
of the United States. We believe signals outlined in the telegram
to be fact. Therefore, we ask for the Administration's expression
of viewpoint towards the questions outlined.
As you are aware this continues to be of increasing concern,
not only to The American Legion, but to all veterans groups--but
more importantly to thirty million veterans. As we pledged to you
there is no question about our support for the President's programs,
however, on the issues that we may have disagreement in relation to
the VA, I will keep you informed.
For your information, I have attached a copy of a memorandum
from another veterans organization which lists sixteen likely VA
Hospital closures. We know this not to be fact and issued a
Bulletin to our leadership negating this accusation.
BoB
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
CC: Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Asst. to the President for Public Liaison
PLEASE CHARGE TO ACCOUNT #CWA 054 661, The American Legion, 1608 K Street, N.W., Wash. D. C.
MAY WE PLEASE HAVE A CONFIRMATION COPY. ATTN: ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
TELEGRAM
WESTERN UNION
STRAIGHT WIRE
March 25, 1981
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
The signals The American Legion and all veterans are getting from your
administration are causing much concern and confusion. We are wondering at this
point if you intend to propose a basic change in the way Americans have viewed
assistance to veterans since the administration of Abraham Lincoln.
We are not referring only to your proposed budget cuts which will: eliminate
5,500 health care personnel in the VA system; close 60 hospital wards; scrap plans
to buy needed new equipment; defer construction of two replacement hospitals;
severely cripple veterans employment services, and close Vietnam Veterans Outreach
Centers. We are concerned nów that your intention is to eliminate the entire VA
health care system.
Administration witnesses at a House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee hearing today
would not support H.R. 1969, a bill to formalize the use of VA hospitals as a backup
to the military system in case of the outbreak of hostilities overseas. Does this mean
that you do not want to make any long term commitment to the VA system?
Mr. Stockman told the Senate Budget Committee recently that he is working on
plans for a more efficient system of veterans health services. And we have heard
there are plans to experiment with a system of vouchering veteran patients into
private commercial hospitals at two locations in the U.S.
Add to all of this the fact that appointment of a new VA Administrator evidently
has had a very low priority at the White House, and you may be able to appreciate
our growing concern. The VA is the only remaining major agency that has no head
to represent agency interests in budget negotiations with OMB.
Americans have always recognized veterans assistance as a debt owed and
willingly paid by society to those who have served in time of war and national
emergency. It has never been considered a handout to the weak or charity to the
- 2 -
needy. It has been an earned compensation for sacrifices borne and service
rendered.
We would like to have an expression of your view of this concept in today's
environment so that we might better understand your plans.
MICHAEL J. KOGUTEK
National Commander
The American Legion
DEPARTMENT
MERICANT
Motta: "If I cannot speak good of my comrade, I will not speak ill of him."
ESTERANA
DISABLED AMERICAN
NATIONAL SERVICE and LEGISLATIVE HEADQUARTERS
807 MAINE AVENUE, S.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024
(202) 554-3501
Memo To: ALL Members of Congress
From:
Stan Pealer, National Commander
Subject:
VA Budget Cuts for 1982
Date:
March 20, 1981
According the close to per anglie Scott it.
On August 18, 1980, candidate Reagan said, "To me it is unconscionable that
veterans in need are denied hospital and medical care because of inadequate funding
which has closed hospital beds and cut health care perconnel within the VA.
On March 10, 1981, however, OMB Director David Stockman submitted to the Congress
the Fiscal Year 1982 budget revisions for the Veterans Administration calling for
cuts amounting to $744 million.
Frankly speaking, if a reduction of this mignitude takes place within the
Veterans Administration, it will result in the closing of VA hospitals and regional
offices nationwide. Here are some of the proposals associated with the $744 million
cut in VA programs:
*Centralize all VA claims processing into one center containing some 12,000
personnel, thereby closing or reducing to contact points all VA's regional offices
located in each state-transforming the system into an ineffective shambles.
*Eliminate the VA hospital system through continual reductions in personnel (5,181 in
FY l982), closing hospital beds (1,800 in FY 1982), reducing outpatient visits (1.7
million in FY -1982), cutting the number of nursing care patients (3,628 in FY 1982)
and by cancelling and deferring VA's ongoing replacement and modernization construc-
tion program (Baltimore and Camder cancelled and Brooklyn, Chillicothe, Denver, East
Orange, Gainesville, Long Beach, Palo Alto, New Orleans and Washington, D. C.
deferred indefinitely).
In testimony before the House Appropriations Subcammittee on HUD and Independent
Agencies, VA officials stated that studies for consolidation of VA regional offices
and closure of VA medical facilities will take place in the Spring 1981 review.
We are appalled that the recent actions of the Office of Management and Budget to
slash VA programs by $744 million are in direct contradiction to the President's pre-
election statements-apparently only made in order to court veterans' votes.
Please find enclosed a list of those hospitals likely to be closed in the event
that the OMB budget cuts are adopted by the Congress and a copy of our recent testi-
mony before the House Budget Committee regarding these reductions in VA programs.
On behalf of the more than 685,000 members of the Disabled American Veterans, I
urge you not to accept the President's reductions in VA programs stated for Fiscal
Year 1982.
Stan Pealer
VA HOSPITALS
Marlin, Texas
Big Spring, Texas
Fort Lyon, Colorado
Iron Mountain, Michigan
Saginaw, Michigan
Miles City, Montana
Ft. Harrison, Montana
Grand Island, Nebraska
Muskogee, Oklahoma
Livermore, California
Los Angeles, California
Newington, Connecticut
Pt. Wayne, Indiana
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Fargo, North Dakota
Boise, Idaho
Boston, Massachusetts
New York, New York
Chicago, Illinois
The
American
Legion
it WASHINGTON OFFICE if 1608 K" STREET, N. VV. x WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
2021 590 4811 *
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
March 26, 1981
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Morton C. Blackwell
Special Asst. to Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
SUBJECT:
Attached telegram to the President
As we discussed by telephone and at last night's reception
The American Legion has filed the attached telegram with the President
of the United States. We believe signals outlined in the telegram
to be fact. Therefore, we ask for the Administration's expression
of viewpoint towards the questions outlined.
As you are aware this continues to be of increasing concern,
not only to The American Legion, but to all veterans groups--but
more importantly to thirty million veterans. As we pledged to you
there is no question about our support for the President's programs,
however, on the issues that we may have disagreement in relation to
the VA, I will keep you informed.
For your information, I have attached a copy of a memorandum
from another veterans organization which lists sixteen likely VA
Hospital closures. We know this not to be fact and issued a
Bulletin to our leadership negating this accusation.
BoB
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
CC: Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Asst. to the President for Public Liaison
PLEASE CHARGE TO ACCOUNT #CWA
The American Legion, 1608 K Street, N.W., Wash. D. C.
MAY WE PLEASE HAVE A CONFIRMATION COPY. ATTN: ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
TELEGRAM
WESTERN UNION
STRAIGHT WIRE
March 25, 1981
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
The signals The American Legion and all veterans are getting from your
administration are causing much concern and confusion. We are wondering at this
point if you intend to propose a basic change in the way Americans have viewed
assistance to veterans since the administration of Abraham Lincoln.
We are not referring only to your proposed budget cuts which will: eliminate
5,500 health care personnel in the VA system; close 60 hospital wards; scrap plans
to buy needed new equipment; defer construction of two replacement hospitals;
severely cripple veterans employment services, and close Vietnam Veterans Outreach
Centers. We are concerned nów that your intention is to eliminate the entire VA
health care system.
Administration witnesses at a House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee hearing today
would not support H.R. 1969, a bill to formalize the use of VA hospitals as a backup
to the military system in case of the outbreak of hostilities overseas. Does this mean
that you do not want to make any long term commitment to the VA system?
Mr. Stockman told the Senate Budget Committee recently that he is working on
plans for a more efficient system of veterans health services. And we have heard
there are plans to experiment with a system of vouchering veteran patients into
private commercial hospitals at two locations in the U.S.
Add to all of this the fact that appointment of a new VA Administrator evidently
has had a very low priority at the White House, and you may be able to appreciate
our growing concern. The VA is the only remaining major agency that has no head
to represent agency interests in budget negotiations with OMB.
Americans have always recognized veterans assistance as a debt owed and
willingly paid by society to those who have served in time of war and national
emergency. It has never been considered a handout to the weak or charity to the
- 2 -
needy. It has been an earned compensation for sacrifices borne and service
rendered.
We would like to have an expression of your view of this concept in today's
environment so that we might better understand your plans.
MICHAEL J. KOGUTEK
National Commander
The American Legion
For Godand Country
National Public
Relations
U.S
NEWS RELEASE
Division
NEWS HOTLINE
(800) 428-2686
Wm. M. Detweiler, Chairman
(INDIANA)
(317) 637-6649
Frederick Woodress, Director
P.O. Box 1055
THE
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
(317)-635-8411
AMERICAN
CONTACT:
Bob Hermann/Washington
1608 K St., N.W.
LEGION
Washington, D.C. 20006
(202)-861-2792
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SUBJECT SUMMARY: The American Legion sent a telegram to President Reagan
March 25 voicing fear he may intend dismantling the Veterans
Administration health care system and criticizing him for
failing to appoint a head of that agency after two months in
office.
WASHINGTON, D.C.--American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek
sent a telegram to President Reagan March 25 voicing fear the new Administration
may intend dismantling the entire Veterans Administration health care system and
criticizing the President for failing to appoint a head of that agency after two months
in office.
Legion concern for the future of the VA network of 172 hospitals was sharpened
when Administration witnesses from the Defense Department and VA withheld support
for H.R. 1969 in testimony the same day before the House Veterans Affairs subcommittee
on hospitals and health care. The bill would designate VA as the principal emergency
backup to military medical facilities in case of a national emergency involving military
casualties.
Following is the text of National Commander Kogutek's telegram:
"The signals The American Legion and all veterans are getting from your
administration are causing much concern and confusion. We are wondering at this
point if you intend to propose a basic change in the way Americans have viewed
assistance to veterans since the administration of Abraham Lincoln.
"We are not referring only to your proposed budget cuts which will: eliminate
5,500 health care personnel in the VA system; close 60 hospital wards; scrap plans
to buy needed new equipment; defer construction of two replacement hospitals;
- 2 -
severely cripple veterans employment services, and close Vietnam Veterans Outreach
Centers. We are concerned now that your intention is to eliminate the entire VA
health care system.
"Administration witnesses at a House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee hearing today
would not support H.R. 1969, a bill to formalize the use of VA hospitals as a backup
to the military system in case of the outbreak of hostilities overseas. Does this mean
that you do not want to make any long term commitment to the VA system?
"Mr. Stockman told the Senate Budget Committee recently that he is working on
plans for a more efficient system of veterans health services. And we have heard
there are plans to experiment with a system of vouchering veteran patients into private
commercial hospitals at two locations in the U.S.
"Add to all of this the fact that appointment of a new VA Administrator evidently
has had a very low priority at the White House, and you may be able to appreciate
our growing concern. The VA is the only remaining major agency that has no head
to represent agency interests in budget negotiations with OMB.
"Americans have always recognized veterans assistance as a debt owed and willingly
paid by society to those who have served in time of war and national emergency. It
has never been considered a handout to the weak or charity to the needy. It has been
an earned compensation for sacrifices borne and service rendered.
"We would like to have an expression of your view of this concept in today's
environment so that we might better understand your plans."
(end)
DEPARTMENT
Motts: "If , cannot speak good of my comrade, I will not speck ill of him."
PATERANS
DISABLED AMERICAN
NATIONAL SERVICE and LEGISLATIVE HEADQUARTERS
807 MAINE AVENUE, S.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20024
(202) 554-3501
Memo To: ALL Members of Congress
From:
Stan Pealer, National Commander
Subject:
VA Budget Cuts for 1982
Date:
March 20, 1981
Accorday / the close net to per Scott, the to
On August 18, 1980, candidate Reagan said, "To me it is unconscionable that
veterans in need are denied hospital and medical care because of inadequate funding
which has closed hospital beds and cut health care perconnel within the VA.
on March 10, 1981, however, OMB Director David Stockman submitted to the Congress
the Fiscal Year 1982 budget revisions for the Veterans Administration calling for
cuts amounting to $744 million.
Frankly speaking, if a reduction of this mignitude takes place within the
Veterans Administration, it will result in the closing of VA hospitals and regional
offices nationwide. Here are some of the proposals associated with the $744 million
cut in VA programs:
*Centralize all VA claims processing into one center containing some 12,000
personnel, thereby closing or reducing to contact points all VA's regional offices
located in each state--transforming the system into an ineffective shambles.
*Eliminate the VA hospital system through continual reductions in personnel (5,181 in
FY l982), closing hospital beds (1,800 in FY 1982), reducing outpatient visits (1.7
million in FY 1982), cutting the number of nursing care patients (3,628 in FY 1982)
and by cancelling and deferring VA's ongoing replacement and modernization construc-
tion program (Baltimors and Camden cancelled and Brooklyn, Chillicothe, Denver, East
Orange, Gainesville, Long Beach, Palo Alto, New Orleans and Washington, D. C.
deferred indefinitely).
In testimony before the House Appropriations Subcammittee on HUD and Independent
Agencies, V.4 officials stated that studies for consolidation of VA regional offices
and closure of VA medical facilities will take place in the Spring 1981 review.
We are appalled that the recent actions of the Office of Management and Budget to
slash VA programs by $744 million are in direct contradiction to the President's pre-
election statements-apparently only made in order to court veterans' votes.
Please find enclosed a list of those hospitals likely to be closed in the event
that the OMB budget cuts are adopted by the Congress and a copy of our recent testi-
mony before the House Budget Committee regarding these reductions in VA programs.
On behalf of the more than 685,000 members of the Disabled American Veterans, I
urge you not to accept the President's reductions in VA programs stated for Fiscal
Year 1982.
VA HOSPITALS
Marlin, Texas
Big Spring, Texas
Fort Lyon, Colorado
Iron Mountain, Michigan
Saginaw, Michigan
Miles City, Montana
Ft. Harrison, Montana
Grand Island, Nebraska
Muskogee, Oklahoma
Livermore, California
Los Angeles, California
Newington, Connecticut
Pt. Wayne, Indiana
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Fargo, North Dakota
Boise, Idaho
Boston, Massachusetts
New York, New York
Chicago, Illinois
The
American
Legion
* WASHINGTON OFFICE it 1608 'K' STREET, il. VV. T WASHINGTON 0. C. 20008 *
202 39: 4811 13
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
March 20, 1981
Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Assistant to the President
for Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mrs. Dole:
The American Legion wishes to thank you for arranging the visit of
our National Commander and seven Vietnam veterans with the President on
Monday, March 16. Though we encountered some logistical problems and
some miscommunication, as we begin to understand the functioning of your
office and you understand the functioning of our organization this mis-
communication will not take place.
It was unfortunate that we received the final word that the meeting
would not take place late Friday before the intended visit. Up to that
time reports had been favorable and we, like you, were faced with a
communication problem since most of our leadership was on a travel schedule
bringing them to Washington. However, since the situation rectified itself
on Monday morning and the meeting went well, this is now history.
The American Legion fully believes in the strong communciation policy
you outlined to us during our first meeting in February. We believe in
our country and our support for the President should be and will continue
to be unquestioned.
We do, however, reserve the right to disagree with Administration
policies as they effect the constituent group we represent. Any disagree-
ments of this kind can normally be overcome by communication with all
parties concerned such as the briefings that were held between veterans
organizations, OMB and your staff.
If we then disagree we will necessarily represent our constituent
group in Congress through the proper committees and submit testimony before
the appropriate Congressional committees.
-2-
Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
March 20, 1981
I realize this is somewhat lengthy, however, I do thank you for
your assistance in arranging the meeting of our Commander and the Vietnam
veterans from across the country on March 16. Each of these young men
and lady reported back that the President was kind in his comments, and
were appreciative of the time that he spent with them. These represent-
atives may have disagreed with specific veterans programs and the
Administration's current positions, but came away from the meeting
optimistic.
They reported to their fellow Vietnam veterans at the luncheon
that the President was deeply concerned about veterans. We therefore
look at the meeting in a most positive way because communication can only
create understanding and trust.
With warmest regards, I am
Sincerely yours,
BoB
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
CC: Mr. Morton Blackwell
Special Assistant to the President
The
American
Legion
20/9
A WASHINGTON A 1608 K STREET it WASHINGTON i)
202
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
March 20, 1981
Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Assistant to the President
for Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mrs. Dole:
Attached is a Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation bulletin which
concerns itself with the false rumor started by another organization
concerning the Administration's plans to close 16 VA hospitals. Of
course, this is not true, but it has caused much political and
constituent consternation in the United States.
As you can see by the attached bulletin that has gone to our
leadership, we are trying to squelch false rumors about the budget.
The direct communciation with your office and OMB at an early date
thwarted a possible frustrating situation for both the Administration
and veterans.
With warmest regards, I am
Sincerely yours,
BOB
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
Attachment
CC: Mr. Morton Blackwell
Special Assistant to the President
The
American
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N.W.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20006
*
(202) 861-2700
For God and Country
March 19, 1981
MEMORANDUM TO: Department Service Officers/Rehabilitation
Directors
Department Rehabilitation Chairmen
Members of the National Veterans Affairs
and Rehabilitation Commission
SUBJECT: There is No Government List of VA Medical
Centers to be Closed
There appears to be information circulating throughout
the country to the effect that sixteen VA Medical Centers
are scheduled for closing. The American Legion has checked
with authoritative sources in Congress, at VA and with a
high official of the Office of Management and Budget. The
fact is there are presently no VA Medical Centers scheduled
for closing, and no prospective list of hospitals to be
closed has been developed by the Department of Medicine and
Surgery, or by any of the authorities mentioned above.
In the event any authority within the Federal Govern-
ment proposes the closing of VA hospitals, all Department
Headquarters and Department Service Officers will be
promptly notified of that fact by this office.
National Rehabilitation R. E. E Lingh LYNGH, Veteráns Director Commission Affairs
and
file
\
Legion
3-11-81
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
WASHINGTON OFFICE
Dear Morton
Thanks for the great
bunch and conversation
your assistance to The
american Legion and vetuans
is appreciated
Morton t look forward to
working with this administration
and your office to rebuild
our gust country
Bol Damyl
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
WASHINGTON OFFICE
February 27, 1981
Dear Wayne:
During the budget briefings over a week ago attended
by various veterans groups including The American Legion,
we met with Don Moran from OMB who has oversight of the
Veterans Administration budget. During that meeting we
understood that when a new or acting Administrator was named
for the Veterans Administration a budget briefing would be
held on any line item cuts of the VA budget.
I am therefore requesting such a meeting since Max
Cleland's resignation has been accepted by the White House
and Rufus Wilson has been named Acting Administrator.
From my understanding of the process, this meeting would
have to be held prior to March 16.
I look forward to hearing from you. With warmest
regards, I am
Sincerel yours,
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Mr. Wayne Valis
Special Assistant to the President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
file
The
American
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N. W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
OFFICE OF THE
NATIONAL COMMANDER
February 27, 1981
Mr. Morton Blackwell
Special Asst. to the President
The White House, Room 128
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. Blackwell:
You are cordially invited to attend a reception to be held at the
Capital Hilton Hotel in the Federal Room on Sunday, March 15, 1981 from
7:00 to 9:00 p.m. honoring Vietnam veterans from each state and other
distinguished Vietnam veterans from a cross section of the leadership of
our country.
This reception is being held in conjunction with the March 16
presentation of The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal (the
highest award of The American Legion) at Arlington National Cemetery in
recognition of those killed or missing in action during the Vietnam War.
Those in attendance at this Sunday evening reception will include Vietnam
veterans from all 50 states as well as numerous guests such as Larry
Wilcox, Star of ABC's CHIPS, F. Lee Bailey and C. Ross Perot, to name but
a few, as well as other Vietnam veterans who have distinguished themselves
in public and private life.
We hope that you will be available to share with us in this rare
opportunity to recognize the sacrifices made by these young men to their
country and that your personal schedule will allow you to attend.
Sincerely yours,
Michael.,Foguth MICHAEL J. KOGUTEK
National Commander
RSVP on or before March 10, 1981
(202) 861-2716
The
American
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 STREET. N. W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
861-2700-
Simpson
Am. Legion
Baker
OFFICE OF THE
62 years old
Tower
NATIONAL COMMANDER
TR Sr. Povis 1919
John Paul
Birthlay week
Hammersomidt
February 27, 1981
85 When bene
most All
vict Name
vets
MEMO TO: Morton Blackwell
Pr
Special Assistant to the President
SUBJECT: Distinguished Service Medal - Vietnam Veteran
This is in response to your telphone inquiry and will supplement our letter
to the President of February 2 from our National Commander Michael J. Kogutek
and my letter of February 19 to Wayne Valis.
There will be three functions connected with the presentation of The American
Legion's Distinguished Service Medal on behalf of the dead and missing of the
Vietnam War at Arlington National Cemetery. The itinerary is as follows:
SUNDAY, MARCH 15
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Distinguished Guest Reception, Federal Room of the
Capital Hilton Hotel - Distinguished Guests are as
follows:
200 Vietnam veterans from each state of the union.
These Vietnam veterans were selected by state units
of The American Legion and 100 of them will have their
expenses entirely paid by the Legion. Of the additional
100, at least 50 are being sent at the expense of our
state units. The other 50 are either Congressional
Medal of Honor holders, Vietnam veterans active in
governmental agencies in Washington, or are coming in
at their own expense.
Distinguished Guests who have accepted thus far at
national headquarters expense are Larry Wilcox, star of
TV series CHIPS, combat veteran of Vietnam, and his wife
Holly; C. Ross Perot, Chairman of the Board of Texas
Instruments who has been very active in assisting Vietnam
veterans; Tom Sneva, one of the top 30 race car drivers
in the United States, and who will be involved in the
Atlanta 500. His automobile will be named "Vietnam
Veteran Special"; and F. Lee Bailey, distinguished trial
-2-
lawyer who has been very active in supporting Vietnam
issues such as the recent Vietnam Veterans Memorial
to be constructed in the Constitution Gardens per
legislation passed by Congress and signed by the President.
Other invitations waiting to be confirmed by next week,
pending adjustment of their personal schedules, include
Bob Hope, Martha Raye, Rocky Blier, and Roger Staubach.
As you probably are aware, these personalities were
either involved in entertainment during the war or as
in the case of Rocky Blier, actually a Vietnam veteran.
MONDAY, MARCH 16
7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Distinguished Guest Prayer Breakfast, South American
Room of the Capital Hilton Hotel.
This breakfast will be open only to distinguished guest
Vietnam veterans and personalities. We wanted Billy Graham
to conduct this service, however he will be out of the
country, and so we have issued an invitation to the Most
Reverend James A. Hickey, a Bishop from Washington, D.C.
10:00 - 10:45 a.m. Presentation of the Distinguished Service Medal and
wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National
Cemetery.
One wreath will be presented at the Tomb of the Unknowns
by Michael J. Kogutek, National Commander of The American
Legion on behalf of our organization and our 600,000
Vietnam veteran members. One wreath will be presented by
the President of the United States if he accepts our
invitation to do so.
The Distinguished Service Medal will be presented in the
Memorial Room (formerly the Trophy Room) by Michael J.
Kogutek to Raymond Costanzo, Superintendent of Arlington
National Cemetery who will present the Medal to Major
General Arter, Commander of the First Military District.
The Medal will then be permanently affixed to the wall
of the Memorial Room.
As you are aware, all ceremonies at the Tomb itself are
silent. Therefore I believe the ceremony will move quite
expeditiously.
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Distinguished Guest Luncheon, South American Room of the
Capital Hilton Hotel.
This will be a stand up luncheon prior to departure from
Washington, D.C. by all invited guests.
-3-
Morton, as I explained by phone, our distinguished guests are the 200
Vietnam veterans. They come from all ranks of the military and are in
fact from all walks of life. Some are in wheel chairs, some are 100%
disabled, and some served their 13 month tour in Vietnam without being
wounded, returned to civilian life and married, entered business and are
raising a family.
As a Vietnam era veteran and one who was President of the largest Vietnam
veterans organization in America in the late 1960's and early 1970's which
worked within the system and took pride in America, I can think of no time
in my 13 years of experience when a group of Vietnam veterans such as this
has visited Washington. The ceremony is for the dead and missing of Vietnam.
These 200 Vietnam veterans are a small cross-section of their fellow veterans
and are indeed the distinguished guests.
I am sincerely hopeful that the President can attend the Arlington ceremony
and the prayer breakfast. The commitments the President and Mrs. Reagan
made while he was Governor of California to the returning disabled Vietnam
veterans are well remembered. His commitment to our country is outstanding
towards all veterans but most importantly, a visit to this group would
demonstrate that commitment to the Vietnam veteran.
If this group could visit their President in the White House, I know it
would be something that they would remember and I feel would go a long way
towards healing the divisive factors created by Vietnam.
I am asking each of these distinguished guests to complete a biography,
which I should start receiving next week. These biographies on their own
merit should convince anyone that this group is most deserving of a visit
with the President.
By ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
The
American
Legion
)-
file
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N. W.
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20006
(202) 861-2711
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
February 19, 1981
Mr. Wayne Valis
Special Assistant to the
President for Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Wayne:
Attached is a copy of the letter that we sent to the
President February 2, 1981 which outlines our program honoring
the Vietnam veteran. I think more important, however, is that
we are including not only the Congressional Medal of Honor
holders, but also prominent Vietnam veterans and most importantly
the average Vietnam veteran from each state.
For your information I have attached the sheet concerning
the award, to show prominence of those who have received it in
the past. The planning for this event began in October, 1981
however, as I pointed out in my letter to the President the
initial resolution was passed by The American Legion in the
middle sixties.
During the period of the sixties and the seventies I
personally managed The American Legion's outreach efforts to
the Vietnam veteran. This is a continuation of that effort and
is perhaps a public display of our attitude of a wartime
veterans organization. We will continue to be addressing the
problems of the Vietnam veteran with respect to his needs for
jobs, education, and training.
If we can receive White House support for this program
it would be deeply appreciated. I doubt, however, because of
the planning for this event that I could stop the machinery
in progress since invitations have already been sent and con-
firmations received from invitees. We have confirmations from
many. If we can work on the logistics we can share in the
recognition.
With warmest regards, I am
H yours,
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
The
American
Legion
WASHINGTON OFFICE
1608 "K" STREET, N. W.
WASHINGTON, O. C. 20006
(202) 861-2711
OFFICE OF THE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
February 2, 1981
The President
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
Michael J. Kogutek, National Commander of The American
Legion, would like to invite First Lady Nancy Reagan and
you to a ceremony on Monday, March 16, 1981 at 10:00 a.m. at
Arlington National Cemetery to honor the dead and missing
from the Vietnam war.
As you are aware The American Legion being a wartime
service organization of over 2.7 million members of whom
600,000 are Vietnam veterans, has been predominent in assisting
the Vietnam veteran in his transition and readjustment to
civilian life. At this ceremony The American Legion will be
presenting its highest award - The Distinguished Service Award.
We have had a standing mandate in The American Legion since
1964 that this medal would be placed on the tomb of the unknown
soldier from the Vietnam war.
However through constant research on our own and with the
Department of Defense it has been concluded that there are no
unknowns from the Vietnam war. Therefore at our 1980 October
meeting of the National Executive Committee it was decided
that we would place the award in the Memorial Room of Arlington
National Cemetery. It is interesting to note that there are
no awards honoring the Vietnam soldier at Arlington Cemetery.
The American Legion strongly feels that the Vietnam veteran
deserves the recognition and thanks of this country. We know
that you share this feeling as the leader of our country.
The American Legion will be inviting, and many of them
have already accepted, prominent Vietnam veterans to particpate
in this ceremony. They include Larry Wilcox (star of the TV
show Chips), Rocky Blair and Roger Starbach. We are also
inviting many entertainers with close affiliation to Vietnam
-2-
The President
February 2, 1981
such as Bob Hope, Martha Raye, and Jimmy Stewart.
We have already invited cabinet officials, members of
the joint chiefs of staff , POW's from the Vietnam war,
Gold Star Mothers and wives.
The American Legion will also be inviting one Vietnam
veteran from each state, at our expense, to represent his
fellow veterans by attending this ceremony. We will be
housing these veterans and all distinguished guests at the
Capital Hilton hotel on March 15, 1981.
We would like to have you attend all functions during
this tribute to the Vietnam veteran. We will have a special
reception on March 15 with a prayer breakfast the morning of
March 16 and hope to have Billy Graham conduct this breakfast.
Mr. President, this is an ongoing commitment to the
Vietnam veteran by The American Legion. We will be continuing
as we have since 1961 our commitment to the recognition and
readjustment of our fellow countrymen.
Mr. President, this public recognition is long overdue.
With warmest regards, I am
Sincerely yours,
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
Recipients of The American Legion
Distinguished Service Medal
President Gerald R. Ford
1980
Marshal Ferdinand Foch
Gen. of the Army
Unknown Servicemen of
of France - 1921
Dwight D. Eisenhower
World War I, World War II,
Adm. Earl Beatty
1945
and Korea,
of Great Britain - 1921
J. Edgar Hoover
interred at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,
Gen. Baron Jacques
1946
Arlington National Cemetery - 1958
of Belgium - 1921
Bob Hope
Sen. Robert S. Kerr
1946
1959
Gen. Armando Diaz
of Italy - 1921
William Randolph Hearst
President John F. Kennedy
1961
Charles Bertrand
1946
of France - 1921
Mai. Gen. Lewis B. Hershey
Gen. Lucius D. Clay
1962
Gen. of the Armies
1946
John J. Pershing
Hon. Cordell Hull
Dr. Thomas A. Dooley
1922
1946
(Posthumously) 1962
Adm. Robert E. Coontz
Lt. Gen. William S. Knudsen
Francis Cardinal Spellman
1963
1923
1947
Gen. Josef Haller
Sen. Edward Martin
Dr. Charles W. Mayo
1964
of Poland 1923
1947
Ignace Jan Paderewski
Chief Justice Fred M. Vinson
President Herbert C. Hoover
of Poland 1926
1947
(Posthumously) - 1965
Comte
President Harry S. Truman
Hon. James F. Byrnes
1965
Francois Marie Robert Dejean
1949
of France - 1927
George Herman (Babe) Ruth
Capt. Roger H. C. Donion
1966
Field Marshal Viscount Allenby
(Posthumously) - 1949
of Great Britain - 1928
Maj. Gen. Frank Parker
Hon. Tom C. Clark
1967
Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis
(Posthumously) 1949
1929
Charles F. Johnson, Jr.
President Lyndon B. Johnson
1968
Adm. William S. Sims
1950
1930
Gen. William C. Westmoreland
Maj. Gen. Milton A. Reckord
1968
1950
Gen. Douglas MacArthur
President Richard M. Nixon
1942
Rep. Edith Nourse Rogers
1969
1950
Gen. George C. Marshall
Rep. Olin E. Teague
1943
Gen. Charles P. Summerall
1970
1951
Adm. Ernest J. King
Rep. L. Mendel Rivers
1943
Rep. Royal C. Johnson
(Posthumously) 1971
(Posthumously) 1953
Sen. Richard B. Russell
Hon. Frank Knox
(Posthumously) - 1944
Maj. Gen. George A. White
(Posthumously) - 1971
(Posthumously) 1954
Sen. John C. Stennis
Henry Ford
Dr. Jonas E. Salk
1972
1944
1955
Dewitt Wallace
Gen. H. H. Arnold
Maj. Gen. Ellard A. Walsh
1972
1944
1955
Hon. Henry A. Kissinger
President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Vice Adm. Joel T. Boone
1974
(Posthumously) 1945
1956
Rep. F. Edward Hebert
Charles Stewart Mott
1974
Gen. Theodore Roosevelt, Jr.
(Posthumously) 1945
1956
Harry W. Colmery
Ernest (Ernie) Pyle
Gen. Mark W. Clark
1975
1957
Pat O'Brien
(Posthumously) - 1945
The Most Reverend
1976
Hon. Henry L. Stimson
Fulton J. Sheen
Howard A. Rusk, M.D.
1945
1957
1977
Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz
Bernard Mannes Baruch
Bowie K. Kuhn
1945
1958
1978
45
Thomas A. Murphy
1979
February 17, 1981
Mrs. Elizabeth Dole
Assistant to the President
for Public Liaison
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mrs. Dole:
The American Legion and I want to thank you for meeting
with us last Saturday to introduce us to your staff and
Don Moran from OMB. We fully realize that you have a very
busy schedule, and appreciate your willingness to meet
with us early in the President's term.
We also appreciated the opportunity to have James Baker
stop in and speak with us briefly. After the last four
years when access to The White House was slim or non-
existent, this opportunity affords us to become part of
the policy decisions effecting our 2,700,000 members.
We are vitally interested, as the world's largest veterans
organization in rebuilding this country - both its economy
111
and its national security, and will support the President
in all major issues. Though we may disagree at times con-
cerning the budget, I do want you to know that you have
our full support, because as veterans we feel that we have
a vested interest. Our main purpose is a healthy economy
and to make sure there are no more wars.
I am sorry that you will not be able to join us for our
luncheon tomorrow, but do understand with the President's
budget message that it will be a very budy day foryyou.
We deeply appreciated the meeting and your offers of assist-
ance to us.
Warm regards.
Sincerely,
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
bee: Wayne Valis
February 17, 1981
Mr. James A. Baker, III
Chief of Staff
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Mr. Baker:
The American Legion and I appreciated the opportunity
to meet with you in the Roosevelt Room of The White
House on February 14. It was a great opportunity to
meet with Mrs. Dole and her staff concerning the
Veterans Administration and our nation's economy.
We realize that your schedule is extremely busy, and
your visit to our meeting was deeply appreciated.
We look forward to working with President Reagan on
making this nation No. 1 both in the economy and
national security, and all other measures.
Warm regards.
Sincerely,
ROBERT W. SPANOGLE
Executive Director
bee: Wayne Valis
July LEGION US
MYLIO S. KRAJA
Executive Director
Washington Office
THE AMERICAN LEGION
1608 K Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006
202-861-2711
THIS
MAY
INTEREST
YOU!
For God and Country
National Public
Relations
U.S
NEWS RELEASE
Division
Wm. M. Detweiler, Chairman
NEWS HOTLINE (800) 428-2686
Michael E. Alexander, Director
(INDIANA)
(800) 382-9042
P.O. Box 1055
THE
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
AMERICAN
CONTACT: Jim Witek/Washington
(317) 635-8411
LEGION
1608 K St., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006
(202) 861-2792
Date of Origin: October 5, 1982
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C.--American Legion National Commander Al Keller voiced
concern Monday that the resignation of Veterans Administrator Robert Nimmo not
affect ongoing programs of the VA.
"This is a critical time for the VA to be left without strong leadership, because
of the negotiations on the fiscal 1984 budget that will be proposed to Congress by
President Reagan in January," he said.
"The American Legion's only concern is for veterans issues and programs, not
for personalities and politics. We have had differences of opinion with Mr. Nimmo
as we have had with previous Administrators of Veterans Affairs. However, we
have always found Mr. Nimmo open to suggestions by The American Legion and the
veterans community.
"In fact, Mr. Nimmo appeared at The American Legion's National Convention in
August of this year announcing that as Administrator he was bringing the Agent
Orange issue to the top level of the VA Central Office and giving this serious problem
the priority it deserves. This was a departure from the Agency's past foot-dragging
through two administrations.
"We hope President Reagan will move quickly to find a dedicated, knowledgeable
and able person--preferably a man or a woman who has served in uniform and who
instinctively stands up as a veterans' advocate.
"With those qualifications the next Administrator can be confident of the respect
and full support of The American Legion in undertaking a hard and very important
job, " Keller concluded.
(end)