I am reminded of last year’s convention. It was hosted by the Legion Family at George H. Plumley Memorial Post 20 in Kenai! And oh whatta time we had!
The Riders met, the Auxiliary met, the SAL met, and of course, the Legion met. There were luncheons, fundraisers and banquets, and of course, the reason for the convention — time to roll up our sleeves and do the business of running a Department. All entities debated resolutions and amendments, committee reports were read and approved, and we mustn’t forget about elections of Department officers. The convention, when stripped back to bare bones of it, was similar to the many I’ve attended in Alaska.
However, last year I was there in a different capacity – at the National President of the American Legion Auxiliary. Many of you know me personally and know that I am firm that I am “Just Lisa”! And at my own Department Convention, I simply wanted to attend as a delegate and not with all the finery and pomp that wonderful office is bestowed.
As a compromise, I was allowed to attend ALA meetings as a delegate, but I was also included in various off-site activities with the “National guests”. It was the best of both worlds. Several of us were put up in a small plane and toured the Kenai peninsula area; I’ve never done that before and I was pleasantly surprised! Several others made a trip to Homer for the day while I stayed behind and attended ALA meetings. Dignitaries – National and Department – were draped with Quilts of Valor. It was incredible! I can say that the American Legion Family in Alaska is simply the best!
And next week we head to Department Convention – this time the Legion Family at Matanuska Valley Post 15 in Palmer is hosting – and I am a bit nostalgic, remembering last year.
But I am happy to attend the convention again as a delegate and “Just Lisa”!
Safe travels to all and I’ll see you in Palmer!
