Legion Unveils Tribute to Fallen Heroes

National Commander Fang Wong Thanks Famed NY Artist for Sculpture

Nat'l Commander Fang Wong and Sculptor Greg Wyatt

 WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A work by famed New York sculptor Greg Wyatt was unveiled in a July 25th ceremony at The American Legion’s Washington, D.C., office. 

The 7-foot tall cast bronze statue, "Angel and the Dying Unknown", was created as a tribute to the sacrifices of America’s fallen warriors. The sculpture depicts a guardian angel cradling a dying unknown soldier.

94th Department Convention - Day 3

Tim Van Patten Elected New York Commander

SAL LEADERS BRING FAMILY MESSAGE;

DEPT HONORS EDUCATOR, CADET OF YEAR

Colorful brass band blares support for Tim Van Patten

ROCHESTER -- Timothy Van Patten is the new commander of the Department of New York. His election on July 21 for the 2012-13 term followed a rousing parade of supporters carrying campaign signs, and a colorful pinstripe-suited brass band blaring marching and patriotic tunes.

"With your help, we will have a very productive year, refueling our future," declared Van Patten, a Navy vet who served on an Oiler that refueled ships during the Vietnam War.

Press Association Honors Communicators

The New York American Legion Press Association (NYALPA) honored communicators and elected officers July 20 during the Department Convention.

94th Department Convention - Day 2

'Serve, Serve, Serve' a Strong Theme

DEPT. OF NEW YORK AWARDS RIDDLE SESSION

Charles Burkes

ROCHESTER -- The charge to "serve, serve, serve" struck a chord on the second day of the Department Convention July 20.

That's how Charles Burkes put it when he accepted the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) of the Year Award. The Marine Vietnam-era veteran works out of the New York State Department of Labor's Albany office.

Edmond Torrence

Local Veterans Employment Rep (LVER) of the Year Edmond Frank Torrence, a Vietnam-era Army vet with the Labor Department's Flushing office, continued that theme as he spoke of dedicating himself to veterans and their loved ones. "This country would not be as great as it is were it not for veterans and their families."

NY Legion Opens 94th Convention

STATE LEVEL AWARDS ANNOUNCED

Legion Works Tirelessly for Others, County Exec Says

Cmdr Mike Bowen & Co. Exec. Maggie Brooks

ROCHESTER -- "American Legion members are very important to us because they give countless hours (to community service)."

That's how Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks welcomed Legionnaires to Rochester during the opening session of the 94th New York Department Convention July 19.

"They work tirelessly to help others," she said, noting that veterans, "like all of you in this room," make possible what has been accomplished in our nation.

Department Commander W. Michael Bowen also pointed to the more than 500 Legion members in the room, saying: "We all served together for God and Country. All of you make a difference."