Volume 9; Issue 6 - June 2020 Page 1 of 22

The Smyrna Legionnaire

FOR GOD AND COUNTRY Official Publication of American Legion Post 160

160 Legion Drive, Smyrna, GA 30080 Circulation 1200 Volume 9 Issue 6 June 2020

ISSUED JUNE 2, 2020 The American Legion National Commander:

‘America, you can do better than this’ Indianapolis: June 1, 2020 National Commander of The American Legion James W. “Bill” Oxford issued the following statement today: “The desecration of national war memorials, which honor veterans of all races, is an absolute disgrace. The heroes honored by these monuments fought for social justice and freedom for all. Moreover, America’s veterans, who witnessed horrific violence in theaters around the world, should not have to see the same death and destruction here at home. The American Legion has always believed in equality for all. We also believe in the decency of the vast majority of law enforcement officers. Those who break the law, whether they are police officers or violent protestors, should be arrested and prosecuted. America, you can do better than this.”

June Dates to Note: D-Day ............................................................. June 6 Women Veterans Day ................................... June 12 Army Birthday .............................................. June 14 US Flag Day ................................................. June 14 National Flag Week ................................. June 14-20 Father’s Day ................................................. June 21 Warrior Games ....................................... June 21- 30 Veterans Golden Age Games .................. June 22- 27 Coast Guard Auxiliary Birthday ................... June 23 PTSD Awareness Day .................................. June 27

Read more: https://militarybenefits.info/military-calendar-holidays-

events-observances/#ixzz6Bm4d6S6V

Table of Contents

Monthly & Weekly Reminders ...................... 2 Commander’s Corner .................................... 3 Calendar ....................................................... 4 Chaplain's Corner ..........................................5 Election Day at Post 160 ............................... 6 Finance Officer Update ................................. 6 Department Fall Conference......................... 6 American Legion Auxiliary ............................. 7 Voting Information ....................................... 8 Sons of the American Legion ........................ 9 Memorial Day .............................................. 10 Check Your Mail .......................................... 10 End Of Watch .............................................. 12 Post Everlasting - Memorial ......................... 12 Roll Call & Taps ............................................ 13 Dumpster Mystery ....................................... 13 What Is Flag Day? ........................................ 14 A Call for Volunteers .................................... 15 POW/MIA Update ....................................... 16 POST 160 IS A “NO TOUCH” FACILITY ...... 17 Critical Financial Assistance ........................ 18 Looking Way Ahead ..................................... 19 Support Our Sponsors ................................ 20 Post 160 Buy-A-Brick Campaign .................. 21 Ball Room For Rent ......................................22

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 2 of 22

Monthly & Weekly Reminders

Monthly Meetings 2nd Tuesday at 7:00 pm ....................... Legion Executive Board 3rd Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. .............. Sons of the American Legion 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 pm ........................ Legion General Meeting 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 pm ..................................... Auxiliary Board 3rd Tuesday at 7:30 pm .................... Auxiliary General Meeting

Hours of Operation Sunday ........................................................ Closed Monday & Tuesday .................................... Closed Wednesday ...................... 3 - 9 p.m. (Italian Dinner Night) Thursday ........................... 3 - 9 p.m. (Team Trivia Night) Friday......................................... 3 p.m. – midnight Saturday ...................................... 3 p.m. - midnight

The Social Quarters will close when less than four (4) members/customers are present.

The Social Quarters will be open on the third Tuesday from 6pm-10pm for members attending the meetings.

Social Media Website: https://www.alpost160.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanLegionofSmyrna/ Twitter: @post160smyrna

webmaster@post160smyrnaga.com

In the Ballroom FREE MUSIC Every Friday Night @ 8:00 pm

Country, Southern Rock, & Classic Rock.

Thursday Nights Team Trivia is back every Thursday night!

6:30 in the Social Quarters.

Wednesday’s At Post 160 Zumba, Tai Chi, Italian Dinner, Half

Priced Wine, Live Music, and a chance to win the Jackpot!

Italian Dinner From 6 - 8 p.m. in the Social Quarters enjoy the featured Italian meal prepared by Chef David (includes salad and garlic bread) – a deal at $9 per person (drinks not included).

Wine Down Wednesday

Half priced bottles of Casa Mateo wine. Come and enjoy your wine with live music starting around 7 pm in the Social Quarters. Zumba class: 6:00pm - ballroom. ($5/person)

Tai Chi class: 7:00pm - ballroom. ($10/person)

Queen of Hearts Any Legionnaire, SAL or ALA member that buys a Queen of Hearts ticket on Wednesday nights has a chance to win $$$. Come out and try your luck! Tickets can be purchased for $2 each up until the time of the drawing. Drawing is each Wednesday at 7PM. Rules are posted under the Queen of Hearts Game Board in the Social Quarters.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 3 of 22

Commander’s Corner Dear Post 160 Legion Family:

May was another difficult month for Post 160. It was also a hard month for the members of our Legion Family. Yet here we are in June still standing, still fighting for our Veterans and active duty Service Members, and for our community.

It is tough to run a Post, or a business, when it is shut down. Revenues drop through the floor. It was March 19th when the Post was last open for normal business. It seems like forever, doesn’t it?

Expenses continue to mount up. Even with everything possible shut down or turned off, just the electricity bill from Georgia Power is over $1,000 per month. That is just one example. Other bills continue to come in, for example, all the utilities – natural gas, water, sewer, the alarm system, etc. They all include base fees or charges, regardless of level of consumption.

We know the members of our Legion Family miss being at the Post. Every week we receive calls and even visits from members wondering when the Post will reopen. We know why they ask. They care about the Post and about their friends. They care about what the Post does to help people and help the local community.

We have learned through this crisis that we have a very caring Legion Family. That is good. We should all be proud to be part of such a group. I am.

One new subject I want to introduce to you, and to the Executive Board, is a future increase in dues. I will propose an increase in annual dues for the Legion Year 2022, one year from now. Post 160 annual dues are now $35 annually. Of that, only $10 stays with Post 160. The remainder is passed up to Department and National. The $10 per member retained at Post 160 does not cover even one month of Post expenses!

I have collaborated with other 5th District Posts. Most charge an average of $50 per year. The

current shut down period has highlighted the need for the Post to increase its dues. Expenses at Post 160 appear to be higher than all other 5th District Posts due to size, nature of, and cost to operate the Post 160 facilities.

This will be a topic of future discussion by the Executive Board and I want you to know the how and why of it. As always, your input is welcome and your support for the decision we make will be greatly appreciated.

Donations have kept the Post alive through the COVID-19 pandemic. Without donations, the financial consequences would be extremely serious. Thanks to the donations, the Post was able in May to make significant payments to:

• Refund overdue down payments on cancelled rental events, and

• Make payments to suppliers and service providers that were unpaid for several months.

Most service providers and suppliers to the Post were very cooperative in working with us to allow delayed payments. In general, the larger the company, the less cooperative they were, with an exception or two. We appreciate the confidence of the suppliers in Post 160 being able to survive and make our payments late but in full. One good note is that the Post was not required to pay any penalties, interest, or late fees. If such a charge appeared, it was negotiated away.

Donations by members of the Legion Family and friends of the Post are welcomed and encouraged if

Continued Page 11

Wade Lnenicka Commander

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 4 of 22

Calendar American Legion Post 160 JUNE 2020 SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 5 6 CLOSED CLOSED

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 CLOSED CLOSED

PRIMARY ELECTION

DAY

CLOSED

7PM E-Board Meeting

Format TBD

CLOSED CLOSED

CLOSED

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 CLOSED

US FLAG DAY

CLOSED CLOSED

Monthly Meetings –

Format TBD

CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 CLOSED

FATHER’S

DAY

CLOSED CLOSED

CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED

CLOSED

28 29 30 JULY 1 JULY 2 JULY 3 JULY 4 CLOSED CLOSED

CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED

Every Week

SUNDAY

POST CLOSED EXCEPT FOR

SPECIAL EVENTS

MONDAY & TUESDAY

POST CLOSED EXCEPT FOR

SPECIAL EVENTS

Open 3-9 pm

Italian Dinner Night Queen of Hearts

THURSDAY

Open 3-9 pm

6:30pm every Thursday

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

Open 3 pm-12 am

Nightly Dinner Specials: Wed. - Italian Night; Thurs. - Home Cooking; Fri. - Steak or Prime Rib; Sat.- Seafood

There is a $5.00 minimum for using a credit card in the Social Quarters. Note: Other events may be scheduled that are not on the calendar but are listed in other places in our Newsletter, please check out the entire newsletter.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 5 of 22

Chaplain's Corner

President Franklin D. Roosevelt, on the evening of 5 June 1944, in his radio broadcast, told the Nation the spectacular news that allied troops had entered Rome. The President also knew, of course, of the greatest amphibious assault in the history of the World on the shores of Normandy in Northern France. Before mid-night of D-Day, 2,501 Americans would die, 2,000 on Omaha Beach alone.

Below is the President’s radio address to the Nation the evening of 6 June 1944.

“My fellow Americans: Last night, when I spoke with you about the fall of Rome, I knew at that moment that troops of the United States and our allies were crossing the Channel in another and greater operation. It has come to pass with success thus far. And so, in this poignant hour, I ask you to join with me in prayer:

Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our Nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. They will need Thy blessings. Their road will be long and hard. For the enemy is strong.

He may hurl back our forces. Success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again; and we know that by Thy grace and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph.

They will be sore tried, by night and day, without rest – until the victory is won. The darkness will be rent by noise and flame. Men’s souls will be shaken with the violence’s of war. For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and good will among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home. Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom.

CPO R. F. Sargent, USCG "Into the Jaws of Death"

And for us at home – fathers. mothers, children, wives, sisters, and brothers of brave men overseas -- whose thoughts and prayers are ever with them -- help us Almighty God, to rededicate ourselves in renewed faith in this hour of great sacrifice

Many people have urged that I call the Nation into a single day of special prayer. But because the road is long, and the desire is great. I ask that our people devote themselves in a continuance of prayer. As we rise to each new day, and again when day is spent, let words of prayer be on our lips, invoking Thy help to our efforts.

Give us strength, too – strength in our daily tasks, to redouble the contributions we make in the physical and the material support of our armed forces. And let our hearts be stout, to wait out the long travail, to bear sorrows that may come, to impart our courage unto our sons wheresoever they may be.

And, O Lord, give us Faith. Give us Faith in Thee; Faith in our sons; Faith in each other; Faith in our united crusade. Let not the keenness of spirit ever be dulled. Let not the impacts of temporary events, of temporal matters of but fleeting moment, let not these deter us in our unconquerable purpose. With Thy blessing, we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy. Help us to conquer the apostles of greed and racial arrogancies. Lead us to the saving of our country, and with our sister Nations into a world unity that will spell a sure peace, a peace invulnerable to the scheming’s of unworthy men, a peace that will let all men live in freedom, reaping the just rewards of their honest toil.

Thy will be done, Almighty God. Amen”

Continued Page 9

Sherman Bruce Chaplain

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 6 of 22

Election Day at Post 160

By Wade Lnenicka Tuesday, June 9th is Election Day in Georgia. Twice postponed, from March and then May, the election will take place next week, state law does not allow any more postponements. Ready or not, the election will happen. Applications for absentee ballots were mailed to all registered voters. That is a change, as previously a voter had to request an absentee ballot. Another change is that voters do not have to provide a justification to vote via absentee ballot. Before, a voter was required to state a reason for requesting an absentee ballot. Not for this election, though. The biggest change is that Post 160 will serve as a polling location for Smyrna Ward 6 in lieu of Campbell Middle School. This election is the first time the Post will serve as a polling location. Several members of the Post 160 Legion Family requested transfers to Post 160 and other members have volunteered to work on polling day at Post 160. Judge Advocate John Sours was asked to serve as Assistant Poll Manager. These members all want to be present to help the voters, the Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration, and the Post to make this a smooth transition. Having them on site is wonderful and lessens any concerns about hosting the polling location. In my opinion, Veterans have earned not only the right to vote but also the responsibility to vote more than anyone. As a Veteran, it is my duty to vote in every election. We expect to introduce over 5,000 Ward 6 registered voters to the American Legion and the Legion Family. It will show them what the Post has to offer the community. This is an important opportunity. Volunteers are requested to be present during the election “just in case” a voter would like information about the Legion Family. Please contact the Commander or Judge Advocate if you are available to be present for a couple of hours to represent the Post. Thank you!

Finance Officer Update

Post 160 Members, welcome to June! We all look forward to getting back open soon so we can continue the great social activities we had lined up prior to the state shutdown. Even though we have been shut down, the Post 160 Board and members have been busy helping our members and workers during these challenging times. We have been able to continue to pay our workers through generous donations from many members and we also received a Paycheck Protection Program Loan that can be used for specific bills. In addition, we received two LARGE donations that will be used to help Post 160 start-up safely when the time is right. For now, Post 160 is in good shape financially and we hope we can open soon to continue to serve our members and the community.

Department Fall Conference

OCTOBER 16-18, 2020 SONESTA GWINNETT PLACE ATLANTA 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, GA 30096

770-923-1775 Register EARLY to avoid the long lines and to

SAVE money. Pre-registration before August 14, 2020 - $10.00 Registration on or after August 14, 2020 - $20.00

The Children and Youth Banquet is Saturday, October 17th at 6:00 PM. ($42) Get the registration form here:

https://www.alpost160.com/uploads/8/3/3/4/83347456/fall_conference_duluth-2020.pdf

Please complete and return the registration form via mail or fax to: The American Legion, Department

of Georgia FAX: 678.289.8885 3035 Mt. Zion Road, Stockbridge, GA 30281

NOTE: Department Executive Committee Meeting will be Friday, Oct. 16, 2020, at 6:00 PM and

Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020, after the Memorial Service.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 7 of 22

American Legion Auxiliary I hope everyone is staying well!

Quick Dates to Note: • The ALA Calendar Meeting is now scheduled

for June 18th at 6PM. • The Tea Party scheduled for July 12th is still on

the calendar. We will discuss and decide by the June meeting if we will keep it as scheduled, postpone, or cancel. Keep your fingers crossed for 7/12!

• The Casino Night Fundraiser for SOGA-COBB is now tentatively scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 17th. Please plan to attend.

June 16th Meeting: We will have a June e-board AND general membership meeting whether it is in person or virtually. If we do attempt to conduct a general membership meeting in person, and the post is open, we will likely move the meeting to a different date/evening so we may use the ballroom to allow better social distancing.

We will keep you apprised of how we will hold the meetings no later than June 14th. In preparation for a potential virtual meeting - everyone who plans to attend the general membership meeting on June 16th - please download the ZOOM app either on your favorite device (pc, laptop, pad, phone). You have the option to simply call in and listen from any phone, or you may join with audio and video on your favorite device which will allow you to see everyone and to be seen. Please familiarize yourself with the app to get comfortable using it prior to our meeting.

Per the guidelines passed down from the National ALA, to Department, to District and then to Units, all officers and committee chairs were asked to stay in their positions for another year. Thankfully, our entire board has decided to volunteer and serve in their offices for another year. The good news is that there are opportunities for you to volunteer and HELP – and that is with some committees. I need some ladies to step up to the plate PLEASE.

We need members to embrace, partner, and lead the following:

1. Community Service

2. Girls State 3. Parliamentarian

Maybe you have served as a chairperson of a committee in the past and needed or wanted a break and are now ready to share your talents again. Or maybe you are relatively new to our group and do not believe you have enough experience under your belt to be a chair. We know YOU CAN DO IT. UNIT 160 works as a commUNITy team and we can accomplish anything if we work together. The more hands helping, the lighter the work for all involved.

If you have been a past chair, PLEASE consider volunteering and sharing your talents and teaching a newbie (or 2) the ropes and volunteer to be a co-chair this year. This will be awesome and would be an ideal leadership transition model for us to begin to follow. The newer members need the more seasoned members to teach them so that our UNIT can continue to prosper and thrive!

We need volunteers before the June meeting so please consider reaching out to me and say, “I WILL”! If I do not have volunteers by, or I will have to appoint members to these committee chairs.

Take care and hope to see you all very soon! Thank you and feel free email any questions you may have.

Service, Not Self,

Kari Marschark Kari@raulet.com

Kari Marschark President, Unit 160

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 8 of 22

Voting Information American Legion Post 160 is a polling place “Smyrna SN6A” on Election Day, June 9, 2020. Cobb County Elections & Registration has plans in place to protect our voting facilities, poll workers, and voters. Our procedures and precautions for cleaning and sanitizing before, during, and after the Election, and our specific precautions for poll workers & voters include the following: Poll workers will use disinfectant wipes to sanitize tables and chairs before setting up and preparing the voting space the day before the Election. After the equipment is set up on Tuesday, the workers will wipe down the equipment and repeat sanitizing the area during the Election day. After the poll closes, and all equipment is stored properly, poll workers will sanitize tables and chairs

before returning them to the original configuration in the room used as a polling location. Poll workers will be provided with PPE, including masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes. Voters will line up 6 feet apart as they enter the poll and approach the Greeter’s station. Voters will pick up a Kleenex tissue and a stylus with which to touch the voting equipment before they move from the Greeter’s station to the Poll Pad Station. All voting equipment will be situated 6 feet apart to comply with recommended social distancing. After the Voter casts his/her ballot, the voting equipment, stylus, and voter card will be sanitized.

June 9, 2020 Election Advance Voting Options Cobb County voters can vote at any of the following locations. Note locations, hours and voting equipment numbers have been reduced to limit possible exposure to the COVID-19 virus and to comply with social distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC. Lines are expected. • Voters are encouraged to Vote By-Mail using the Absentee Application found on the Absentee Voting page

(https://www.cobbcounty.org/elections/voting/absentee-voting) or call (770) 528-2581 • There is NO VOTING on Sundays; on Saturday, June 6th and Monday, June 8th • On Election Day, June 9, 2020, voters must go to their assigned polling location open from 7am – 7pm

Area Location Dates Times

MAIN OFFICE

Cobb Elections & Registration Office 736 Whitlock Ave NW Marietta, GA 30064

Monday - Friday May 18th - June 5th Saturday May 30th

8 am - 6 pm 9 am - 4 pm

NORTH North Cobb Senior Center 3900 S Main St Acworth, GA 30101

Monday - Friday June 1st - June 5th

8 am - 6 pm

SOUTH Riverside EpiCenter 135 Riverside Pkwy Austell, GA 30168

Monday - Friday June 1st - June 5th

8 am - 6 pm

EAST East Cobb Government Service Center 4400 Lower Roswell Rd Marietta, GA 30068

Monday - Friday June 1st - June 5th

8 am - 6 pm

WEST West Cobb Senior Center 4915 Dallas Hwy Powder Springs, GA 30127

Monday - Friday June 1st - June 5th

8 am - 6 pm

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 9 of 22

Sons of the American Legion Hello, Squadron 160! I trust everyone is doing well and staying safe. Just a quick update and things you need to know. DUES: For a long time, we have fought to keep our membership dues as low as possible. However, our costs have gone up to the point we are not making enough to sustain our mission. The amount we pay to department has gone up over the years. Starting this year, the amount we must send to department for every active member is going from $8.00 to $11.00. In turn, our 2020-2021 dues will go from $20 to $25. We will also increase the subsequent year (2021-2022) to $30. We hope to stay at $30 for as long as possible. Dual AL members will still receive a discount on their SAL dues. Dual members are now $15 for 2020-2021 and $20 for 2021-2022. Recap: SAL Membership: $25 for 2020-2021

$30 for 2021-2022 Dual SAL Membership: $15 for 2020-2021

$20 for 2021-2022 OFFICERS: With American Legions across the globe being closed, we have asked all current officers to stay on in their current positions. All have accepted. With that said, we still have many officers positions open. If you are interested, please email me and we can get you signed up! We are flexible and can work with your schedule. We will pay your dues and give you a cover! QUESTION? For next month’s SAL meeting, 6/17/2021, and future meetings. If I set up a video/audio conference call, would you guys be likely to call in and attend? When we start meeting in person would you like to have a call-in option? We might not be open, but if anyone needs anything, please reach out to us. Best wishes,

Ryan

Commander SAL 160 Squadron160@gmail.com

Chaplain’s Corner Continued

Was every person hearing this broadcast a Christian, certainly not. There WAS more respect for your fellow man and woman among the greatest generation. I think people were more aware that there is a God of the universe. There was still prayer in our schools along with the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag which resulted in respect for the flag. (Do we see this today?) People were more aware that our great country was founded on Christian principles because that was what they were taught in school. How did this become, in the times we live in now, a “bad” concept to teach our children? I will let the reader answer the question regarding morals and respect for one another, “Are the times we live in today better than the times the audience above lived in?”

2 Chronicles 7:14, King James Version, “ If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” For God and Country,

Sherm Bruce

sherm.bruce@gmail.com

Photo by CPO R. F. Sargent, USCG: "Into the Jaws of Death"

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 10 of 22

Memorial Day

By Wade Lnenicka

How “strange” Memorial Day seemed this year. At least, that is how it seemed to me. Perhaps it did to you also.

Every year since 2003, when the Veterans Memorial was built and open in downtown Smyrna, I have been a part of planning and/or conducting the annual Memorial Day Ceremony.

Many of you reading this also participate every year, and have for many years, in this annual event. For those who lost friends and family members while in the Armed Forces, this day is especially poignant.

So, every year we mark this date on our calendar and plan to be somewhere to honor the fallen.

This year – nothing. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and threat of the virus, the Smyrna Memorial Day Ceremony was cancelled.

It was the right decision to make. Please give Adjutant Denise Watkins, who Chairs the Smyrna Veterans Committee, credit for the courage to make the tough call to cancel the Ceremony.

There was fear in the public about being exposed to the virus. Executive Orders by the Governor of Georgia prohibited large gatherings. So, even if a Ceremony had been held, it is questionable whether citizens would have attended it. And only a small number of citizens could be present.

On top of those facts, various groups that normally participate in the Ceremony notified they would not be able to attend. This list included the Air Force Honor Guard, the Army Band, owners of vintage military vehicles and equipment, and the Campbell High School Army Junior ROTC Cadets.

Without the participation of those groups, any Ceremony would have been much diminished from what Smyrna citizens have come to expect.

Still…it was haunting to some extent to see Memorial Day Ceremonies across the Nation cancelled. Memorial Day is such an important National Holiday for Veterans. To know that this solemn annual remembrance of fallen buddies was not happening in a formal way was sad to us.

I pray that next year the Nation can resume honoring fallen comrades in a formal way. I pray that all of us will be present to honor them. And I pray that we will have no recent Cobb County losses to mourn.

Please share your thoughts on this important National Holiday and how you were able to deal with the situation. I look forward to hearing your stories.

Check Your Mail

Tax assessment notices mailed; Appeals can be submitted via email

The Board of Tax Assessors mailed assessment notices on May 21. All owners of taxable real property will receive an assessment notice. The notice will display the fair market value and the assessed value that will be used on the 2020 tax bill. The fair market value will reflect the value of the property as of Jan. 1, 2020.

Inquiries can be made by calling 770-528-3100 or by emailing cobbtaxassessor@cobbcounty.org. As a safety precaution, the Tax Assessors are allowing appeals to be submitted via email for 2020. Appeals will be accepted at assessorappeals@cobbcounty.org. All sales information can be obtained at www.cobbassessor.org.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 11 of 22

Commander’s Corner Continued you are able. Every amount, small or large, helps the Post survive this crisis.

Donations payable to “American Legion Post 160” are tax-deductible. The American Legion is

classified by the IRS as a 501(c)(19) non-profit organization. Documentation of donations is available through the Post Commander. Additionally, you can donate via PayPal at https://www.alpost160.com/donate-now.html - please enter in the comment section “Donation of Support – Documentation Requested.”

We continue to encourage everyone to take all prudent precautions to keep themselves, their family, and friends safe from the virus. To the best of my knowledge as I write this column, we do not know of any Post 160 Legion Family members lost or ill due to the virus. Other District Posts are not as fortunate. If you know of anyone in the Post 160 Legion Family ill or lost due to the virus, please let the Chaplain know ASAP.

If you know of any Legion Family members who need help during this time, please let an Officer know. We must help each other, look out for each other, and take care of each other.

The Executive Board will meet the second week in June to review the situation and make decisions related to opening. At this time, we cannot guess as to when conditions will allow the Post to reopen. Part of the decision-making process will be to understand what the Governor decides to do with his Executive Orders. When a decision is made to reopen, we will notify the membership via an email announcement and update the website and Facebook with the news.

Whenever the Post can conduct its next General Membership meeting, there will be 3 personnel actions on the Agenda. The Executive Board asks for your support of these Legionnaires.

•

• Member Duante Saloy volunteered to stand for election as Sergeant At Arms. He is already performing the SAA duties.

• Member Tommy Cannon volunteered to Chair the POW – MIA Committee. I appointed him to that position in the May Executive Board meeting.

• Member Michael Sebelski volunteered to Chair the Drug & Alcohol Abuse Committee. I appointed him to that position in the May Executive Board meeting.

I also want to thank again the Officers of the Post for remaining in office for another year. This was not true for most other 5th District Posts.

Finally, please thank Executive Committee Member Sam Belcher, Finance Officer Paul Radomski, and Unit 160 Member Robin Lnenicka for their work tending to the Post grounds in May. Between their efforts, the grass was cut and edged, weeds were pulled and sprayed, and mulch was put out. The Post is closed, but they worked extremely hard over several days in May to ensure it did not look abandoned. Thank you!

If you ever find yourself with some free time and restless energy, and you want something physical to do, come to the Post and do whatever needs to be done. The help will be much appreciated!

Thank you for your continued support of the Executive Board and the Post and the Legion Family.

Stay safe, be well.

For God and Country,

post160commander@gmail.com

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 12 of 22

End Of Watch

By Sherm Bruce

SPD POLICE OFFICER CHRISTOPHER ERIC EWING

APRIL 21, 2020

“Blessed are the Peacemakers: for they shall be called Sons of God:” Matthew 5:9 The American Legion Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia membership expresses sincere condolences to the family of Officer Ewing, the Smyrna Police Department and to our Smyrna Community. Veterans tend to appreciate “The Thin Blue Line” perhaps more than the average citizen. Officer Ewing was an Air Force Veteran and as a member of the Air Reserve, was attached to the 94th APS Reserve Unit, Robins AFB. In Eric’s military career, he deployed to Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, and Bagram. Technical Sergeant Ewing’s desire to serve is perhaps best displayed by his having had the position of Commander of the Base Honor Guard at Dobbins ARB. Sergeant Ewing would travel the SE to honor his fellow Veteran Brothers and Sisters, giving them the dignity and respect they and their families deserved with a full military honors final salute. Officer Ewing / Sergeant Ewing, thank you for your service to our Country and to the citizens of Smyrna. “Of all the stories that are told. This shall be told of you. How you gave your life for those you never knew.” (C. Crofts 2005) Photo source: City of Smyrna

Post Everlasting - Memorial By Sherm Bruce

JAMES H. PASLEY, JR. March 5, 1925 – September 19, 2019

Post 160 Legionnaire James Pasley turned 18 years of age on 5 March 1943, one day after his ship, Fletcher Class Destroyer USS Bell (DD-587) was commissioned at the Charleston Navy Shipyard. The Fletcher Class destroyer was the first destroyer to have radar on board as original equipment and Radarman Third Class (RD3) Pasley was tasked as one of the radar operators on the Bell. USS Bell served in the North Atlantic and the Pacific, with the ship and its’ crew earning twelve Battle Stars. A total of 175 Fletchers were built for WWII with 19 lost and 6 damaged beyond repair. James was discharged in 1946 and continued to serve his fellow man by being an active member of the Masonic Lodge for 65 years, this service to include the Shrine Circus. James had been recently honored for his 70 years of service to SMART Local Union Number 85 (oldest in the SE). The American Legion Post 160, Smyrna membership wishes to extend their condolences to the Pasley family. We thank James for his service to our country and to The American Legion. RD3 James H. Pasley Jr., we wish you fair winds and a following sea. Photo source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_Bell_(DD-587)

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 13 of 22

Roll Call & Taps New members: None reported.

Transfers: None reported

Taps: Pedro J. “Pete” Pappas, USMC Korean War

32-year, AL Member Ernest A. Ruse, United States Navy, Korean War James H. Pasley, Jr. United States Navy, WWII

USS Bell, DD – 587 George O. (Bud) Garvin, United States Air Force - Korean War

If you know of anyone we have lost or in need of prayers, please let our Chaplain, Sherm Bruce know. sherm.bruce@gmail.com

Dumpster Mystery May was full of surprises including an unusual one that took place at the Post while during the shut-down. The Post deferred all services, including sanitation services provided by City of Smyrna who in turn contracts with Advanced Disposal. The week before the Memorial Day Holiday, Commander Lnenicka arrived at the Post and noticed the gates to the dumpster enclosure were open and the dumpster and the vat for used cooking oil were pulled out. Closer examination revealed that the used cooking oil was spilled all over the parking area and concrete pad in front of the enclosure. Someone had put down absorbent material and sand, but it was a real mess. After some short sleuthing, a likely scenario was developed. It appeared that a driver for Advanced Disposal came to make a routine pickup of the dumpster. In doing so, he may have accidently hooked onto the vat of used cooking oil and then spilled it. To the driver’s credit, he made some attempt to deal with the problem by putting down the absorbent and sand. After a few phone calls and photos transmitted, the manager at Advanced Disposal apologized for the mishap and over the course of the next week, ensured the spill area was pressure washed and cleaned and returned the dumpster and vat to their proper location. Photos of the scene before, during and after are included. The Post appreciates the City and Advanced Disposal taking responsibility and cleaning up the mess.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 14 of 22

What Is Flag Day? Reprinted from the HISTORY.COM website.

UPDATED: AUG 22, 2018 ORIGINAL: JUN 14, 2018

Celebrate Flag Day with fun and surprising facts about the American flag and how to display it.

By JENNIE COHEN

When the American Revolution broke out in 1775, the colonists weren’t fighting united under a single flag. Instead, most regiments participating in the war for independence against the British fought under their own flags. In June of 1775, the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to create the Continental Army—a unified colonial fighting force—with the hopes of more organized battle against its colonial oppressors. This led to the creation of what was, essentially, the first “American” flag, the Continental Colors.

For some, this flag, which was comprised of 13 red and white alternating stripes and a Union Jack in the corner, was too similar to that of the British. George Washington soon realized that flying a flag that was even remotely close to the British flag was not a great confidence-builder for the revolutionary effort, so he turned his efforts towards creating a new symbol of freedom for the soon-to-be fledgling nation.

On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress took a break from writing the Articles of Confederation and passed a resolution stating that “the flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white,” and that “the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson marked the anniversary of that decree by officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. As you celebrate the anniversary of the Stars and Stripes, here are some fast facts about “Old Glory.”

Bernard Cigrand, a small-town Wisconsin teacher, originated the idea for an annual flag day, to be celebrated across the country every June 14, in 1885. That year, he led his school in the first formal observance of the holiday. Cigrand, who later changed careers and practiced dentistry in Illinois, continued to promote his concept and advocate respect for the flag throughout his life.

It is widely believed that Betsy Ross, who assisted the Revolutionary War effort by repairing uniforms and sewing tents, made and helped design the first American flag. However, there is no historical evidence that she contributed to Old Glory’s creation. It was not until her grandson William Canby held an 1870 press conference to recount the story that the American public learned of her possible role.

The lyrics of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” America’s national anthem since 1931, are taken from a patriotic poem written by Francis Scott Key after he witnessed the Battle of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. His words were set to the tune of “To Anacreon in Heaven,” a popular British drinking song.

In the 1950s, when it seemed certain that Alaska would be admitted to the Union, designers began retooling the American flag to add a 49th star to the existing 48. Meanwhile, a 17-year-old Ohioan named Bob Heft student borrowed his mother’s sewing machine, disassembled his family’s 48-star flag, and stitched on 50 stars in a proportional pattern. He handed in his creation to his history teacher for a class project, explaining that he expected Hawaii would soon achieve statehood as well. Heft also sent the flag to his congressman, Walter Moeller, who presented it to President Eisenhower after both new states joined the Union. Eisenhower selected Heft’s design, and on July 4, 1960, the president and the high school student stood together as the 50-star flag was raised for the first time. Heft’s teacher promptly changed his grade from a B- to an A.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 15 of 22

Flag Day Continued

During the Vietnam War era, some demonstrators burned American flags as an act of protest. The Flag Protection Act of 1968 was enacted in response, making it illegal to burn or otherwise deface the Stars and Stripes. In two landmark decisions 20 years later, the Supreme Court ruled that the government could not curb individuals’ First Amendment rights by prohibiting desecration of the U.S. flag. Respectful burning of damaged flags according to established protocol has always been acceptable.

Unlike setting an intact flag on fire, flying one upside-down is not always intended as an act of protest. According to the Flag Code, it can also be an official distress signal.

Despite the preponderance of “patriotic” gear ranging from tee shirts to swimsuits to boxer shorts, the Flag Code stipulates that the Stars and Stripes should not appear on apparel, bedding, or decorative items.

The practice of draping coffins in the American flag is not reserved for military veterans and government officials. On the contrary, any burial may incorporate this tradition.

Etiquette calls for American flags to be illuminated by sunlight or another light source while on display.

When flags are taken down from their poles, care must be taken to keep them from touching the ground. In fact, the American flag should always be kept aloft, meaning that rugs and carpets featuring the Stars and Stripes are barred by the Flag Code.

When the flags of cities, states, localities, or groups are flown on the same staff as the American flag, Old Glory should always be at the peak. When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they should be of equivalent

size and flown from separate staffs of the same height.

The Flag Code strictly prohibits adding an insignia, drawing or other markings to the Stars and Stripes. Some American politicians have been known to defy this regulation by signing copies of the U.S. flag for their supporters.

Ever wondered how to correctly fold an American flag? First, enlist a partner and stand facing one another, each holding both corners of one of the rectangle’s shorter sides. Working together, lift the half of the flag that usually hangs on the bottom over the half that contains the blue field of stars. Next, fold the flag lengthwise a second time so that the stars are visible on the outside. Make a triangular fold at the striped end, bringing one corner up to meet the top edge. Continue to fold the flag in this manner until only a rectangle of star-studded blue can be seen.

https://www.history.com/news/95-years-of-flag-day

A Call for Volunteers Post 160 is run by volunteers for volunteers – as part of the larger whole – an organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. Many hands make for light work. The Post needs volunteers every night we are open. All volunteers should be over 18. Please call the post or send a note to the Commander or Senior Vice Commander.

The phone number is 770-436-2501.

Email post160commander@gmail.com

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 16 of 22

POW/MIA Update “The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency's mission is to provide the fullest possible accounting for our missing personnel from past conflicts to their families and the nation. Within this mission, we search for missing personnel from World War II (WWII), the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars, and other recent conflicts. Our research and operational missions include coordination with hundreds of countries and municipalities around the world.”

http://www.dpaa.mil/Our-Missing/Past-Conflicts/

For more information, visit http://www.dpaa.mil/.

For a full listing, visit http://www.dpaa.mil/Our-Missing/Recently-Accounted-For/

Missing personnel from World War II (WWII), the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the Gulf Wars, and other recent conflicts recovered in December 2019.

Recovered in May 2020:

U.S. Navy, Fireman 1st Class, Samuel C. Steiner, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Accounted for on May 1, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII U.S. Naval Reserve, Seaman 1st Class, James C. Williams, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Ac-counted for on May 1, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII U.S. Navy, Seaman 1st Class, Maurice V. Spangler, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Accounted for on May 1, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Pfc., Robert D. Jenks, Company D, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Lost on Nov. 22, 1943 - Accounted for on May 5, 2020 - Ta-rawa/WWII U.S. Army, Pvt., Charles Andrews, Company K, 3rd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Divi-sion, Lost on Dec. 4, 1944 - Accounted for on May 8, 2020 - Hürtgen Forest, Germany/WWII U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Pfc., Thomas F. Johnson, Company B, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Lost on Nov. 23, 1943 - Accounted for on May 8, 2020 - Ta-rawa/WWII U.S. Navy, Seaman 2nd Class, Floyd D. Helton, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Accounted for on May 15, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII U.S. Navy, Fireman 1st Class, Louis J. Tushla, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Accounted for on May 19, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII

Continued the next page.

As of May 31, 2020 Total To Date----------103 WWII--------------------86

KOREA-------------------33 VIETNAM----------------0

(Fiscal Year 2019 Beginning October 1, 2019)

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 17 of 22

POW/MIA Update - Continued

U.S. Navy, Metalsmith 1st Class, Leonard F. Smith, USS Oklahoma, Lost on Dec. 7, 1941 - Accounted for on May 19, 2020 - Pearl Harbor/WWII U.S. Marine Corps, Pfc., Mervin D. Galland, Company B, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force, Lost on Nov. 22, 1943 - Accounted for on May 19, 2020 - Tarawa/WWII U.S. Army, Sgt., William E. Cavender, Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, Lost on Nov. 28, 1950 - Accounted for on May 20, 2020 - North Korea/Korea U.S. Army, Cpl., R.B. Cherry, Company G, 2nd Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, Lost on Nov. 27, 1950 - Accounted for on May 20, 2020 - North Korea/Korea U.S. Army, Sgt., Jesse D. Hill, Company C, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, Lost on Dec. 2, 1950 - Accounted for on May 21, 2020 - North Korea/Korea U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Pfc., Charles D. Miller, Company A, 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Lost on Nov. 22, 1943 - Accounted for on May 26, 2020 - Tarawa/WWII U.S. Army, Pfc., John J. Sitarz, Company L, 3rd Battalion, 110th Infantry Regiment, 28th Infantry Division, Lost on Nov. 2, 1944 - Accounted for on May 29, 2020 - Hürtgen Forest, Germany/WWII U.S. Army, Cpl., Billie Joe Hash, Headquarters Battery, 57th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, Lost on Dec. 6, 1950 - Accounted for on May 29, 2020 - North Korea/Korea

The American Legion Smyrna, Post 160

"For God and Country" 160 Legion Drive, Smyrna, Georgia 30080

Tel: (770) 436 – 2501

Commander: Wade S. Lnenicka

All gave some, but some gave All.

Adjutant: Denise Watkins

POST 160 IS A “NO TOUCH” FACILITY The Corona COVID-19 Virus pandemic situation is creating new challenges for everyone.

To keep you, our staff, and our members and guests safe, Post 160 is designated a “NO TOUCH” facility.

The Post is disinfecting daily and is taking all appropriate precautions. The janitorial service is disinfecting with hospital grade products 3 times a week when they clean.

Any employee showing signs of illness will be asked to stay home and will not be allowed to work. If YOU are ill or are showing any signs of illness, please stay home and do not

enter the Post. Maintain appropriate “Social Distance” when in the facility. Our goal is to maintain a safe and secure environment so that you may enjoy your time in the facility. Thank you for your support, understanding and patronage during this time.

Wade S. Lnenicka, Commander

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 18 of 22

Critical Financial Assistance

www.OperationHomeFront.org

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 19 of 22

Looking Way Ahead It’s back! Legion Comic Book, Toy and Art Convention will take place Saturday August 1st from 11am-5pm at POST 160. Save the date – volunteer, attend, have fun. Chris Hamer of UrbnPop Studios presents "Legion Comic Convention" at the American Legion Post 160 in Smyrna. $5.00 at the door, Kids 10 and under FREE! Each child in attendance will receive a free “something” a t the door. www.legioncomicconvention.com This is a great community event that showcases our Post and brings many facets of the Smyrna Community together.

After the event, enjoy the After Party in the Social Quarters then partake in the City of Smyrna Fireworks show as Smyrna celebrates its next birthday! And that is not all. The night before, enjoy a night without the kids sponsored by and hosted at Allied Ink Tattoo. Watch for more news on all our bat channels.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 20 of 22

Support Our Sponsors

FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION Atlanta Branch 89

FRA has been protecting your rights and benefits since 1924. We help you stay informed of proposed changes, and we help you to participate in the legislative process that affects things important to us. Importantly, we work to

keep pay, health care, and benefits adequately funded. FRA is a non-profit professional military association and is a recognized leader in the military/veteran community.

Join today to help continue efforts to protect yourself and others. You can enjoy the camaraderie of men and women who have the same experiences and interests you have.

Please call Wayne Barron, 678-689-7921. Check us out at www.fra089.org (see News 3 under the Directory for our Newsletter). Also follow FRA on Facebook at www.fra.org/fb.

ATTENTION: Retirees, Active, and Reserve Veterans of the

Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

Join today! You’ll be glad

you did.

To Continue Receiving

The Smyrna Legionnaire Please submit your email address to

Post Adjutant post160adjutant@gmail.com

The American Legion is an exempt veterans’ organization under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(19). Donations are tax deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. Please consult your Tax Advisor.

Public Outreach Department for The Mesothelioma Center. Veterans who have been diagnosed with

mesothelioma for special benefits from the U.S Department of Veteran Affairs. See the educational guide about mesothelioma:

asbestos.com/mesothelioma/information/

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 21 of 22

Post 160 Buy-A-Brick Campaign continues. Print this page and complete the information to the right. Submit it with your payment for $75 per brick to an officer at the Post or mail as noted on the form. Content for each brick is a maximum of three lines.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Post 160 Smyrna, Georgia

Volume 9; Issue 6 June 2020 Page 22 of 22

Ball Room For Rent Things are a little sideways now. We are confident that life will resume to a new normal and the Post 160 Ball Room will continue to be a fantastic place to hold a variety of events. Even now, Post 160 is taking reservations for future dates. Outside groups, local PTSAs, Scout Units, or by AL, ALA, and SAL members for family or other organization events, this is a great space in the heart of Smyrna. Contact the Commander at post160commander@gmail.com to find out more and make a reservation.

The Smyrna Legionnaire Publisher

American Legion Post 160 Executive Board Editor

Cheryl Waybright, Historian ALA Unit 160 Contributors

Wade Lnenicka, Commander Post 160 Sherm Bruce, Paul Radomski

Ryan Marschark, Commander, SAL Squadron 160 Kari Marschark, President ALA Unit 160

Graphic Designer Leann Wegner, PR Chair ALA Unit 160

INFORMATION The Smyrna Legionnaire is published 12 times a year by volunteers of American

Legion Post 160 and distributed by email to nearly 1,200, shared on Post 160 and ALA Unit 160 Facebook pages and the Post 160 Website.

To advertise, contact Paul Radomski, Finance Officer Post 160 at financeofficerpost160@gmail.com.

To volunteer at Post 160, contact volunteerservice@post160smyrnaga.com

Send letters to the editor, article pitches, complaints, corrections, and any other contact queries to webmaster@post160smyrnaga.com

www.alpost160.com https://www.facebook.com/AmericanLegionofSmyrna/

https://www.facebook.com/ALA160SmyrnaGA/