URGENT UPDATE: National and state leaders of The American Legion gathered at the Trujillo-Sheets Legion Post 28 in Durango, Colorado, today to discuss vital issues affecting local veterans. The meeting took place this morning, bringing together veterans and leaders over doughnuts and strong black coffee for a candid exchange about their challenges.
National Vice Cmdr. Ben Headen, joined by Department of Colorado Cmdr. Mike Crowe, Adjutant Jim Taleska, and Alternate Executive Committeeman Greg Jackson, emphasized the importance of grassroots connections in shaping advocacy efforts. “We’re ran from the bottom up,” Headen stated, underscoring that all resolutions impacting veterans begin at local posts.
The discussions today are particularly relevant as they align with ongoing legislative efforts, notably the Richard Star Act, which aims to ensure disabled combat veterans can access their full military retirement pay. “The Richard Star Act is a big push from resolutions that have come up from posts like this,” Headen explained, highlighting the urgency of the bill, which has yet to pass but enjoys bipartisan support.
Jackson added that the post actively promotes awareness of this and similar issues through community events, such as the Lee White Memorial Motorcycle Dice Ride and a veterans’ train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. These initiatives not only raise awareness but also help recruit new members, connecting them with essential health care, benefits, and educational resources.
In addressing mental health concerns, Jackson introduced a unique tool: a poker chip featuring a QR code that directs users to the Legion’s website for suicide prevention resources. “This QR code says, ‘Do you need help?’” he mentioned. “If you scan that, it takes you to the website, and on that website are tools for those seeking help.”
Crowe highlighted the stigma veterans often face in their communities and emphasized the importance of Legion posts in fostering community connections. “We are part of the community at the post level,” he affirmed, pointing out that events like chili cook-offs and concerts are vital for bridging the gap between veterans and residents.
Today’s meeting is a critical step in ensuring that the voices of veterans in Durango are heard and that their needs are addressed. As the American Legion continues to advocate for policies that support veterans, the outcomes of these discussions will be closely monitored by community members and lawmakers alike.
Stay tuned for further updates on the progress of the Richard Star Act and other initiatives aimed at supporting our veterans.
