American Legion national commander visits Northwest Missouri

Sep. 20—American Legion Post 287 in Savannah is hosting the national commander of the American Legion as he tours Northwest Missouri sites Friday and Saturday.

James Lacoursiere, Jr., was elected earlier this year as the national commander, and local and state leaders in Missouri said that his nationwide tour will bring him to Northwest Missouri on September 20 and 21. Savannah Post 287 Adjutant Terry Beasley said this visit will continue the Legion's national emphasis upon veterans affairs, including an emphasis upon suicide prevention among military veterans.

"The 'Be the One' campaign focuses upon suicide prevention for veterans," Beasley said. "You will see the logo everywhere, because it is a national concern. We want to care for our military members, veterans and the families who support them."

State Commander John Buckwalter said visits like this also assists in recruitment for the American Legion, so that more veterans can take advantage of the opportunities the Legion can provide for them.

"We are working hard to try and increase our presence and our membership in metropolitan areas" Buckwalter said. "There are many veterans in cities like Kansas City and St. Louis that are not taking advantage of the help the American Legion can offer. Also, the 'Be the One' campaign will continue to be Command Lacoursiere's primary focus and mission this year."

The "Be the One" emphasis will be featured in this year's Army/Navy college football game.

Among the items on Lacoursiere's agenda are a visit to the National Military Museum in St. Joseph, and to the the veterans home in Cameron. Forums, as well as special breakfast and lunch meetings with local veterans and Legion posts are also part of this "listening tour" that is an annual part of the commander's duties.

"This is a chance to have the commander on the ground here in Missouri," Buckwalter said. "It's not only a chance to show off the state, but it also helps us recruit more veterans, so that we can continue to change lives and save lives in the veterans' community."

At the end of the commander's tour, which will take him to 50 states and five U.S. territories, he will make an annual report before the U.S. Congress. The annual report presents lawmakers with key issues affecting veterans, as well as those currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. American Legion leaders say the goal is to make sure military members and families have the tools necessary to serve, and that veterans of all branches of the military take full advantage of the benefits they are afforded for physical and mental health.