Rep. Phil Gingrey with his Appointees to Military Academies

This picture appeared in The Marietta Daily Journal this morning, June 16, 2009. Of particular interest was his reference to The American Legion Scholastic Excellence and Military Excellence Awards that were awarded to Duncan Hall and Grant Tucek, respectively, which were presented by North Cobb Post 304. Here's the speeches Rep. Gingrey delivered before Congress on June 9, 2009:

SPEECH OF
HON. PHIL GINGREY
OF GEORGIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2009
Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Duncan Hall from Kennesaw, Georgia has received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.
Duncan attends North Cobb High School, where he has a 4.104 Grade Point Average and is the Vice President of the student body. Duncan is the Commanding Officer of the North Cobb and Harrison High School NJROTC Unit and has been the NJROTC Unit Academic Team Commander for the past two years. Duncan also serves as NJROTC Academic Tutor and a Character Education Advisor for Underclassman. He was presented the Theodore Roosevelt Youth Medal for Outstanding Performance of Duty in the NJROTC program by the Navy League of the United States and was selected as the Atlanta Metropolitan Navy League's 2nd runner up for Cadet of the Year. Duncan has also been recognized with the American Legion's Scholastic Achievement Medal.
In addition to Duncan's focus on academics and military preparation, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities, lettering on both North Cobb's track and cross country teams. Duncan Hall is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. I ask that my colleagues take this time to congratulate Duncan as well as his parents, Duncan and Stefani Hall, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Duncan that America has the finest military in the world. Our nation is fortunate to have his service.

SPEECH OF
HON. PHIL GINGREY
OF GEORGIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 2009
Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a young man from Georgia's 11th Congressional District who has distinguished himself as an excellent student and leader and has committed to serving his country. I am proud to announce that Grant Tucek from Powder Springs, Georgia has received appointments to both the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy and will enter the Military Academy this year. Grant attends Harrison High School where he has a 4.22 grade point average and is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Beta Club. Grant is also in the top 5% of all foreign language students. Despite Grant's heavy focus on academics, he has remained very active in extracurricular activities. During High School, Grant has participated in the Navy JRROTC, where he has served as Company Executive Officer, Orienteering Team Commander, and as a member of the Rifle Team. He was also honored with the American Legion Military medal.
Grant has also contributed to the arts and athletics at Harrison High School, playing trumpet in the Symphonic Band and running on Harrison's track and field team. Grant Tucek is an incredibly well-rounded young man, and I am honored to have the privilege to nominate him for an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy. I want to take this time to congratulate Grant as well as his parents, Wayne and Denise Tucek, for his accomplishments. It is because of dedicated young people like Grant that America has the finest military in the world. Our Nation is fortunate to have his service.

OUR JUDEO-CHRISTIAN NATION

Congressman Forbes asks the questions "Did America ever consider itself a Judeo-Christian nation?" and "If America was once a Judeo-Christian nation, when did it cease to be?" on the floor of the US House. Hit the arrow and listen to his speech.

Post 304 Was On Hand to Present The American Legion Awards for Outstanding R.O.T.C. Cadets at Kennesaw State University
May 11, 2009

Capt Mike Morris, ROTC Commander at KSU, reads The American Legion Certificates about to be presented to four outstanding Cadets. He is flanked by Jr. Vice Commander and ROTC Co-chairman Fred Gaines of Post 304.

Jr. Vice Commander Gaines congratulates one of the recipients.

Gaines is shown with the four Cadet recipients.

And here are the four Cadet recipients: Silver Award for Militray Excellence (junior) Joshua Dorner, Silver Award for Academic Excellence (junior) Steven Whitton, Gold Award for Military Excellence (senior) David Warford, and Gold Award for Academic Execllence (senior) Robert James Deaton.

May 4, 2009 is the Awards Ceremony at Mount Paran Christian High School

Post 304 Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson was on hand to present The American Legion School Award to a very deserving graduating senior, Wesley Michael Watt. Johnson was accompanied by Commander Larry Lieber. No pictures of the Ceremony are available.

Bob Basso author of "Common Sense" plays the role of Thomas Paine to ignite the fire of change in America. Patriotism and Pride for America lead Thomas Paine to help take back America!

Click on the following url:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeYscnFpEyA

Kennesaw Mountain High School
The American Legion School Award and Jr. R.O.T.C. Military and Scholastic Excellence Awards Ceremony
May 5, 2009

These are the Awards presenters at the head table. Our guys are at the right ...

Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson, Jr. Vice Larry "Tug" Hale and Commander Larry Lieber.

"Gunny" Smith opens the ceremony for the J.R.O.T.C. and other Awards for the Cadets under his and Capt. Sean King's (USN-Ret) command.

Post 304 Sr. Vice Alan Johnson tells the audience about The American Legion and The American Legion School Award that he is about to present.

Johnson presents The American Legion Award to the deserving senior, Cadet Amy Specht.

"Tug" Hale at the lectern about to present the J.R.O.T.C. Awards.

Cadet Elise K. Day was awarded the J.R.O.T.C. Scholastic Excellence Certificate and Ribbons.

And Cadet Christina A. Weiler was awarded The American Legion Award for Military Excellence.

Lassiter High School was Location for Kell/Lassiter Jr. R.O.T.C. Awards for Scholastic and Military Excellence

May 1, 2009

Post 304 Jr. Vice Commander and ROTC Committee Co-chairman Larry (TUG) Hale was the Awards presenter.

This is the Lassiter High recipient for Military Excellence, awarded by Marietta Post 29 and presented by Post 304's Larry (TUG) Hale.

Hale also presented the Lassiter High recipient for the Scholastic Excellence Award for Marietta Post 29.

Cadet Ashley Forbes of Kell High School was the recipient of The American Legion Military Excellence Award.

And Cadet Lucrecia Parker, Kell High, is presented The American Legion Scholastic Excellence Award.

Kell High School is Setting for Annual Awards Ceremony

Tuesday Evening, April 28, 2009

Here are the presenters: Principal Trudie Donovan is at left and State Senator Chip Rogers is sitting next to her. Our guys, Commander Lieber and Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson, are in the back row to the right (caps on).

Sr. Vice Commander, as presenter, provides a little background of The American Legion and what The American Legion School Award signifies.

He announces the winner of The American Legion School Award and presents the Certificate and the Bronze Medal to Kell senior Fabrice Julien.

Here is the recipient of the Award, Fabrice Julien, flanked by Sr. Vice Alan Johnson and Commander Larry Lieber.

North Cobb High School Jr. R.O.T.C. Awards Ceremony

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Post 304 Jr. Vice Commander and ROTC Committee Co-chair Larry (TUG) Hale at the lectern, about to present JROTC Military and Scholastic Excellence Awards.

Cadets Dustin Camp (pictures with Vice Commander Hale) and David Bonham were recipients of the Military Excellence and Scholastic Excellence Awards, respectively.

Acworth VFW Commander Dave Bobenhausen presents the VFW Award to a deserving cadet.

Here's the lineup of the new JROTC Cadet Officers for the coming 2009-2010 year.

Harrison High School Holds Awards Ceremony in School Gym on Thursday Morning, April 23, 2009

Post 304 Adjutant David Burdette presents The American Legion School Award to Harrison senior Marshall Patrick Lorden. Picture of the presentation is not available.

North Cobb High School Awards Ceremonies

North Star Church

April 22, 2009

Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood tells the crowd about his annual Mayor's Award, given to an outstanding NCHS graduating senior ...

... and he presents the Mayor's Award to a grateful recipient.

Jr. R.O.T.C. Commander Joel Reaves presents the U.S. Naval Academy Appointment to Cadet Commander Duncan Hall. CDR Reaves is a Naval Academy graduate.

Post 304 Sr. Vice Commander Richard Ray presents The American Legion School Award to Zachary Taylor.

Kennesaw Holds Veteran's Celebration

at Kennesaw Mountain High School

Saturday Evening, April 18, 2009

Mayor Mark Mathews, flanked by Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb High School Principals Kevin Daniels and Dr. Mike Johnson.

An impressive Marine Corps Officer Advancement Ceremony was witnessed by the spectators. One-star General to a Two-Star General. Promotions Ceremonies of this magnitude are rarely witness by civilians.

Kennesaw Mayor Matthews, Kennesaw Councilman and Post 304 member Tim Killingsworth (who organized the Celebration), and Post 304 Jr. Vice Commander Larry (TUG) Hale, watch the U.S. Marine Corps Silent Drill Team perform.

And, man, did they perform! They were awesome and obviously influenced the NCHS and KMHS Jr. ROTC Drill Teams, who also performed earlier.

Big Shanty Parade - Kennesaw, GA

April 18, 2009

Our crack color guard team prepares for the Big Shanty Parade.

(l-r) Bob Titshaw, Tom Stenzel, Ron Carter, Larry Lieber and Ron Asby.

This is the USMC Silent Drill Team Color Guard, followed by the Drill Team.

North Cobb High School JROTC Color Guard ...

... and the NCHS JROTC Drill Team.

Department of Georgia National High School Oratorical Scholarship Program Contest
Macon, GA Post 3, April 11, 2009

The Contestants

Fourth Place Winner

Third Place Winner

Runner-up Blake Adams, representing Powder Springs Post 294,

the Fifth District and Area IV.

And the Winner! Leanne Livingston, a home-schooled senior representing South Cherokee Post 316, the 9th District and Area III.

Fifth District Oratorical Contest

March 1, 2009

Mableton Post 264

Mableton Post 264 hosted the annual Fifth District Oratorical Contest on the day it snowed - March 1, 2009. There were three contestants from the Fifth District and a reception by the hosts was held after the contest and chicken wings and a celebratory cake were served. The District is fortunate to have a great venue for an Oratorical Contest at Post 264.

After the speeches wer done, Chairman Burdette introduced the judges: (l-r) Theresa Schnider, Steve Anderson, Sean Mangieri, Jesse Bickle; and the contestants: Danielle Lash, Blake Adams, and Logan Moore.


Fifth District Commander Buddy Acree presents Third Place Winner Logan Moore, a homeschooled 10th grader with a certificate and a check for $150. Logan represented Newnan Post 57. The title of her speech was "Silent Scream."

Danielle Lash was the Second Place winner. She is from Kell High School and represented North Cobb Post 304. Here she is presented with a certificate and a check for $250. Her speech was titled "Our Constitution: A Changing Uniform."

And the winner: Homeschooled Blake Adams, a senior representing Powder Springs Post 294 received a certificate and $350. for his efforts. His speech was titled "Three Words."

Here are the three contestants - all representing their sponsoring Posts well.

And the contestants, Commander Acree, the judges, and Chairman Burdette.

Chairman Burdette thanks some of the assistants, Chaplain G.D. Hendrix of Newnan Post 57, Sr. Vice Commander and Tabulator Alan Johnson, and Jr. Vice Rich Ray, who served as Tabulator and Escort.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Fifth District Commander Buddy Acree, Tony Propst and Eldin Morris, Mableton Post 264 Contest Coordinators, Newnan Post 57 and Fifth District Chaplain G.D. Hendrix, North Cobb Post 304 Commander Lieber, Timekeeper, Fred Gaines, Timekeeper and Photographer, Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson, Tabulator and Escort, Jr. Vice Commander Richard Ray, Tabulator and Escort.

Post 304 National High School Oratorical Scholarship Contest - February 22, 2009, Palmer Middle School, Kennesaw, GA

Palmer Middle School auditorium was the site for the annual Post 304 Oratorical Contest.

Jr. Vice Rich Ray (standing) chats with Commander Larry Lieber and Jr. Vice Fred Gaines before the contest commenced. Rich served as Tabulator and Larry and Fred were timekeepers. Sitting behind them are (l-r) Eldin Morris and Jerry Hallman from Mableton Post 264 and Paul Aust, Commander of Carrolton Post 143.

Here, sitting next to Commander Lieber are the contestants: Marshall Lorden, Harrison High, Keith Millians, Villa Rica High, Danielle Lash, Kell High, and Matt Waldrop, North Cobb High.

Judges: (top photo) Roy Lantz and Theresa Schnider) and (lower photo) Sean Mangieri and Jesse Bickel.

Commander Lieber awards Fourth Place Certificate to Keith Millians of Villa Rica High School

And a Certificate for Third Place and a check for $50.00 to Marshall Lorden of Harrison High

Second Place winner was Matt Waldrop of North Cobb High. Here he receives a certificate and a check for $150.00 from the Commaner.

And the Winner: Danielle Lash of Kell High School. Danielle won $250.00 and the congratulations from the Post for this, her second consecutive win. She will advance to the District Five Contest, to be held on Sunday, March 1 at the Mableton Post.

SPECIAL THANKS TO: Commander Lieber, Timekeeper, Jr. Vice Fred Gaines, Timekeeper, Chaplain Duane Young, Jr. Vice Richard Ray, Tabulator and Escort, Jr. Vice Larry Hale, Escort, Jr. Vice Terry Hendrix, Escort, Legionnaire Mike Kettman, Photographer, Nancy Burdette.

Here's the YouTube video of last year's National Oratorical Contest in Indianapolis. Make sure you watch it to the end.

We Provide the Color Guard for the Kennesaw Santa Parade

December 10, 2008

Here we are on a chilly December morning, waiting for the Annual Santa Parade to commence.

And the citizens of Kennesaw were eagerly waiting while lining Main Street, Kennesaw.

And our Color Guard leads the Parade. That's l-r: Steve Robison, Larry "Tug" Hale, Tom Stenzel, Rich Ray and Bob Titshaw. And they appear to be in step.

Here's the Color Guard as they passed. (I take that back about being in step ;-)

They were followed by Howard and Velica Daniel in their snazzy '92 convertible. That's Angela Pasquale (Dennis' daughter) waving to the crowd in the back of the car.

And our illustrious Legion Riders' group, Ron Carter and Dennis Pasquale, followed on their Harley's.

And then ... the long awaited famous reindeer (I thinks they are Donder and Blitzen), pulling -

the star of the parade - Santa Claus

Here's Titshaw, Stenzel and Ray "after the dance".

Operation Hands On:

A Veteran's Day For Kids

Post 304 Provides 10th Graders from Harrison High School a "Living History" Lesson - December 9, 2009, North Cobb County

Sr. Vice Commander introduces the panel to the Harrison High 10th grade class. He's at the lectern and, l-r: Post 304 member and Past Commander Bob Titshaw, WWII veterans and Post 304 members Ray Unser and Duane Young, WWII MIA/POW Rev. Ewell Black, Post 160, WWII MIA/POW William Price, Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber.

Part of the 120 or so 10th grade Social Studies class from Harrison High School.

Post 304 Chaplain and WWII veteran Duane Young starts it off ...

... followed by WWII veteran and Past Commander Ray Unser.

Rev. Ewell Black, a captive during the Battle of the Bulge in WWII tells of his capture on December 19, 1944, and ensuing months in German captivity until being liberated in April, 1945.

And the students are enthralled by Rev. Black's comments.

William E. Price, member of American Ex-Prisoners of War and a POW of the Japanese military until liberated in August, 1945, tells a harrowing tale of being Kamikazied down after a bombing raid over Japan and his capture and solitary confinement in a Japanese prison camp.

The crowd is mesmerized by Price's story of torture and depravation while in the Japanese prison camp.

Q and A Session after the veterans told their stories.

The students show their gratitude after the Program.

The "line-up" after the Program. Third from left is Mrs. Holli Reason, Harrison High Social Studies teacher and coordinator for the Program.

George is Moved Back Into His Home

On October 11, 2008, after a major inside and outside clean up, the Post 304 "crew" moved George back into his home. Seated is George and Nancy Burdette. Standing l-r is Jr. Vice Commander Rich Ray, Adjutant Dave Burdette, member and Legion Rider Ron Carter, Jr. Vice Commander Larry "TUG" Hale. Jr. Vice Commander Fred Gaines took the picture.

Legion Post 304 Helps WWII, Korea and Vietnam Veteran

This is the outside of George's house in late September, 2008. All of his household belongings had been placed in "Smartbox's", his carpet removed to the bare wood floors and his house exterminated. George is a veteran of 28 years in the Air Force, having flown 30 missions over Germany in WWII, and served in the Korean Conflict and was an observer in Vietnam. He is 85 years old and needed our help.
New Post 304 member and Army Sgt.-Major Meinrad Kuettel and George.

Mienrad helping with the yard clean up. George's roof had six or more inches of pine straw on the roof and it was removed by the "crew".

Post member and Jr. Vice Commander Fred Gaines and George.

Fred manning the pitch fork.

Kiwanis of East Cobb Introduced to
The American Legion

On October 23, 2008, the Kiwanis Club of East Cobb County was introduced to The American Legion, North Cobb Post 304. The Kiwanis asked to know more about what we do and what type programs we have in common. We were happy to oblige.

Commander Larry Lieber opens the presentation by briefly letting the Kiwanians know who we are and what we do and a little history about The American Legion.

Post 304 member Bernard Gilliland tells them about the role his great-uncle, a Legionnaire, played in getting Congress to enact legislation to add "under God" to the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sr. Vice Commander explains the "Four Pillars" upon which The American Legion is founded.

And Adutant David Burdette explains the Youth Programs on how Post 304 is committed to comply with one of the "Four Pillars" - that of mentoring youth.

The Legionnaires are thanked by the Program Chair, Bernie Hatch, for their presentation and each was awarded a Kiwanis "Bell of Freedom" for their presence.

Post 304 Installation Ceremony/Dinner

a Huge Success

Held at Provino's Italian Restuarant on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw on

Saturday, July 19, 2008

The affair was attended by 45 Legionnaires their spouses and friends. A number of dignitaries were in attendance, including Department Commander Fae Casper, National and Georgia American Legion Press Association President Martha Conway, 5th District Commander Buddy Acree, 5th District Sr. Vice Commander Randy Goodman, 5th District Junior Vice Commander Jerry Hallman, Post 29 Commander Amador "Chief"Rodriquez, the Installing Officer, past 5th District Commander and ALBA President Bill Lienhop, and 5th District ALBA Administrator and Post 160 Judge Advocate Ron Mazzola.

Most of the following pictures were taken by Post 304 past Jr. Vice Commander Mike Kettman. Because of the large number of images and the difficulty involved in getting them in chronological order, we have placed them randomly on this site. We will attemp to identify most of the people in the images but, sit back and enjoy.

Sitting: Debbie Beckley, Legionnaire Post 160, Darlene Lienhop; standing Alan Johnson, Lee Titshaw and Velica Daniel (sitting with back to camera).

One of the tables with various guests.

Post 304 Jr Vice Commander Rich Ray is presented the Legionnaire of the Year Award by Commander Lieber.

Rich Ray with guest Bill Kovach with his back to the camera.

Post 304 Finance Officer Tom Stenzel (yeah, he pays the bills for us high-spendin Post members).

Jr. Vice Commander Tug Hale (right) and friend Barbi Williams chat with Post 29 Commander Amador Rodriguez and his wife, Terri.

Commander Lieber adjusts all of his cap pens, while Dept. Commader Casper watches Larry's grandson, Jordan.

NALBA and GALPA President Martha Conway looks admiringly at Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson. That's Nancy Burdette and Post 304 member Bob Steele in the background.

Mike Kettmann and fiance Janice Wadsworth lookin' good. (Thanks for all the pictures, Mike!)

Richard Ray trying to get a word in between Martha Conway and Velica Daniel.

Ron Mazzola and the girls! (Way to go, Ron!)

Post 304 Jr. Vice Commander Fred Gaines

5th District Jr. Vice Jerry Hallman seems to be turning over his cash to Ron Mazzola.

Velica and Howard Daniel and Post 304 Jr. Vice Terry Hendrix enjoying Jerry Hallman's humor, no doubt.

Commander Lieber's grandson Jordan, who is also the Sgt.-at-Arms for Squadron 304 SAL, daughters Nikki and Kristin.

Bill Kovach holds court and keeps the other guests amused.

Past 304 Commander Bob Titshaw and wife, Juandalee.

Post 304 member Bob Steele.

Terri and "Chief" Rodriguez, honored guests.

Dave Muldenhauser, Legionnaire and Commander VFW Post 5408 in Acworth, and friend, Debbie Beckley, Post 160.

Barbara and Post 304 Chaplain Duane Young.

5th District Commander Buddy Acree and friend Patricia.

Commander Lieber's wife, Anne, and grandson Jordan.


Nancy Burdette serves birthday cupcakes to celebrate Commander Lieber's birthday the day before.


Chaplain Duane Young seems to enjoy the cupcake.

Commaner Lieber and Adjutant Burdette at the lectern to present past Post Officer Certificates of Appreciation.

Commander Lieber opens the brief business meeting.

Georgia Department Commander Fae Casper seems to enjoy the proceedings.

Martha Conway about to announce the winner of the First Place Prize for Post Newsletter, black & white, multi-page.

... and she calls upon The Situation Report Editor, Alan Johnson.

... and Johnson graciously accepts the Award for having the best damn newsletter in Georgia!

Hooray!

Commander Lieber wondering where he is.

Past 5th District Lienhop stars the Installation proceedings.

And here are the new officers, about to be installed.

Taking the oath.

Commander Casper talks "for the good of The Legion"

... as does Commander Acree.

Burdette and Lienhop chatting afterwards.

Kennesaw Mountain High School is Scene of Presentation of The American Legion School Award

Tuesday morning, May 20, 2008, was a special presentation of The American Legion School Award to deserving high school senior Kimber Shealy. About 30 Kennesaw Mountain High School juniors crowded in one of the Counselor's rooms and to see the presentation of the award to Kimber by Post 304 Adjutant David Burdette.

This prestigious award is presented to a high school graduating senior and is based on those attributes of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service. The selection of the deserving student is made by the school staff and consists of a 2.5" Medallion with a dispay easel and a Certificate.

Here, Adjutant Burdette provides a little background history of The American Legion and The American Legion School Award to the group as his wife, Nancy, looks on.

He announces that senior Kimber Shealy, who had competed in Post 304's National High School Oratorical Contest the past two years, is the recipient for 2007-2008. Kimber holds the Georgia State Pole Vault record (12"5") and has a full athletic scholarship to the Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO.

Burdette and Kimber Shealy, with the Award Certificate and Bronze Medallion.

Kennesaw Mountain High School

Conducts Annual JROTC

Awards Ceremony

Tuesday evening, May 13, 2008, was an eventful evening for the JROTC cadets, their parents and friends. The annual Awards Night saw most of the KMHS Navy cadets receive recognition for their past years' accomplishments - and there was much to be proud of.

The Color Guard opened the evening's ceremony.

Here's part of the head table. The lady at left represented The Daughters of the American Revolution, next is the representative of The Sons of the American Revolution and then there is our own Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber, and ROTC Awards Chairman Larry Hale.

The ceremony was opened by Cadet LCDR Sam Ponce, the Unit's Cadet Commander.

He was followed by the JROTC Commander, CAPT Sean King.

Larry, Larry and CAPT King. Larry Hale commented on The American Legion JROTC Awards for Scholastic Excellence and Military Excellence.

And the Award (including ribbons and certificate) for Scholastic Excellence was presented to:

Cadet Ensign Katie Jones

The Award for Military Excellence was presented to:

Cadet LCDR Sam Ponce

The Program was concluded with the Change of Command Ceremony. The new cadet officers for next school year, 2008-2009, are in the front row, l-r, Operations Officer, Executive Officer and Commanding Officer. Standing behind them are the their 2007-2008 counterparts.

North Cobb High School

Honors Night

NorthStar Church

May 6, 2008

Awards (or Honors) Night at the local, Cobb County High Schools is a very special event for most of us old-timers. It gives the adult attendees a fresh, new perspective of the youth of this great country and, academically, this great county. Awards night honors (usually) some 200 students for being the best and the brightest. Tuesday night, May 6 was no exception.

One of the most prestigious awards given at the ceremony was the annual American Legion School Award, which is presented to a high school graduating senior and is based on those attributes of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service. The selection of the deserving student is made by the school staff and consists of a 2.5" Medallion with a dispay easel and a Certificate. Post 304 was well represented at the event by Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson, Finance Officer Tom Stenzel (whose son was being presented with an award), Jr. Vice Commander Fred Gaines, Sgt.-at-Arms Larry Hale and Adjutant David Burdette.

The NCHS JROTC Color Guard opened the ceremony by displaying the colors.

Principal Assistant Benji Morrell anxiously awaits the opening remarks by Principal Gary Boling and for the ceremony to get underway.

Sr. Vice Commander Johnson awaits his turn to present The American Legion School Award.

Johnson relates to the crowd The American Legion Four-Pillar legacy and the purpose of The American Legion School Award.

And here, he presents the Award to the 2008 North Cobb recipient:

Donald Gentry

Gentry is a senior JROTC Cadet and has committed to the Army National Guard. He will be training this summer at Ft. Sill and will await deployment later in the year. Our hats are off and best wishes go to Cadet Gentry.

Kell High School

Honors Night

April 28, 2008

Kell High School was the setting on Monday evening, April 28, 2008, for the annual Honors Night for awarding students honors for exemplary performance during the 2007-2008 school year. North Cobb Post 304 was there to present the annual American Legion School Award. The Award is presented to a high school graduating senior and is based on those attributes of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service. The selection of the deserving student is made by the school staff and consists of a 2.5" Medallion with a dispay easel and a Certificate.

The Kell High School JROTC Color Guard honors the colors.

Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber briefs the audience on The American Legion School Award.

The recipient of The School Award is Alisha Nunez, Kell High School senior.

The beaming recipient and Commander Lieber.

ROTC Awards Presented at Kennesaw State University

April 24, 2008

ROTC Commander, Capt. Paul Gates addresses the troops at Kennesaw State University and advises them about the Awards presentation by The American Legion North Cobb Post 304.

Commander Lieber presents the Gold American Legion ROTC Medal Awards and Certificates to: Junior Cadet Ryne Asher for Outstanding Military Excellence, Junior Cadet Robert Deaton for Outstanding Academic Achievement.

Also awarded Silver American Legion ROTC Medal Awards and Certificates to Sophmores: Cadet Larry Johnson for Outstandin Military Excellence and Cadet Steven Whitton for Outstanding Academic Achievement.

One Cadet was absent. Here are the recipients, along with Capt. Gates, Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber and ROTC Awards Co-Chairman Fred Gaines.

North Cobb/Harrison High Schools

JROTC Awards Ceremony

April 23, 2008

The North Cobb/Harrison High JROTC Color Guard provides a stately commencement to the Awards Ceremony, which was attended by about 300 cadets, family, teachers and friends.

1st Sgt. Brian Foster introduces the young ladies who sang The National Anthem and got things started.

Post 304 ROTC Awards Co-Chairman Larry Hale (r) provides background of The American Legion and the Awards for Scholastic Excellence and Military Excellence. Standing by him are (l-r) Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber and North Cobb/Harrison Jr-ROTC CDR Joel Reaves.

The winner of the Scholastic Excellence Award (Certificate and Ribbons) is:

North Cobb Cadet Duncan Hall.

The winner of the Military Excellence Award (Certificate and Ribbons) is:

Harrison High Cadet Grant Tucek

April 19, 2008 Big Shanty Parade

Downtown Kennesaw, GA

As ususal,Post 304 provided the lead Color Guard for the Big Shanty Arts & Craft Festival in Downtown Kennesaw. The Color Guard consisted of Commander Larry Lieber, Finance Officer Tom Stenzel and Jr. Vice Commander Rich Ray. Here they are ... ready to get started.

But first, the Legionnaires were greeted by U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss.

Here, Senator Chambliss departs. That's Kennesaw Downtown Business Assn. and Parade organizer Marlon Longacre in the shorts.

About to get started. Kenesaw Mayor Mark Mathews is shown in the middle in the coral shirt.

The American Legion North Cobb County Post 304 Color Guard leads the way, followed by the JROTC Color Guard and Cadets from North Cobb High School.

Commander Lieber marches the Color Guard.

In passing.

North Cobb High School JROTC Color Guard passes.

Kennesaw Councilman and Post 304 member Tim Killingsworth.

Commander Lieber's grandson, Jordan, enjoys the parade - especially the part where his granddad passes.

Post 304 Conducts Operation Hands-On: Veteran's Day For Kids at Sope Creek Elementary

March 10, 2008 was the day that Post 304 arranged for World War II veterans to speak to the fifth graders at Sope Creek Elementary School in Marietta, GA. There were about 180 students and teachers in attendance and the veterans told their stories of their experiences during WWII. The kids and their teachers received the veterans enthusiastically.

Sr. Vice-Commander Alan Johnson introduces the veterans and tells the students what to expect during the presentation. On stage, l-r: Legionnaire Bob Titshaw, Commander Larry Lieber, Rev. Ewell C. Black, Jr., Legionairre Ray Unser, Legionnaire and Asst. Chaplain Duane Young.

Ray Unser relates his WWII experiences to the audience.

And the Fifth Graders listen intently.

Rev. Ewell Black, a WWII MIA/POW from the Battle of the Bulge, tells of his captivity on December 19, 1944 and his experiences in German prisoner camps until he was liberated in April, 1945.

The crowd listened to Rev. Black's harrowing experiences as though they were mesmerized.

After the presentation, the students were eager to speak with the Veterans.


Rev. Black shows the students some momentos of his captivity.

And afterward, the Veterans were interviewed by a young "Barbara Walters" for SC-TV, for presentation to the student body.

Noticing that the colors were not flying on their departure from the school, Post 304 gladly posted to colors for the school before leaving the premises.

Post 304 National High School Oratorical Scholarship Contest a Huge Success

The annual Oratorical Contest was held at KempMemorial Library on Due West Rd. in Marietta on Saturday, February 9, 2008. Four contestants, representing the North Cobb High Schools of North Cobb, Kennesaw Mountain and Kell competed in a contest that was one of the best Post competitions in recent memory.

Here is Chairmen David Burdette just prior to giving instructions to the audience. The contestants were sequestered elsewhere in the Library and were identified to the audience and judges only by Contestant number.

Commander Larry Lieber and Jr. Vice Commander Fred Gaines are sitting on ready to perform their duties as official Timers for the event.

These were the judges for the Contest, l-r: Doug McKittrick, retired Army Lt. Colonel, Past Post 304 Commander and former District Five and Post 304 Oratorical Chairman Bob Titshaw, and Steve Anderson, recently retired Director of Parks and Recreation Department, Chamblee, GA, and an Able Toastmaster, Bronze Level.

Other Post 304 Legionnaires and significant others who made the event successful were: Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson, Tabulator, Junior Vice Commander Richard Ray, Escort, Robert Noles, Chaplain, Larry Hale, Sgt.-at-Arms and Doorkeeper, Nancy Burdette and Barbi Williams, Monitors. Their participation and support is greatly appreciated.

And here are the four Contestants, l-r: Kimber Shealy, senior at Kennesaw Mountain High, Danielle Lash, junior at Kell High, Matt Waldrop, junior at North Cobb High, and Garret McDowell, senior at North Cobb High. This was Kimber and Garrett's second consecutive Post 304 competitions.

And here is the group of Contestants again.

Fourth Place winner and recipient of a $25.00 cash award from Commander Lieber was Garret McDowell of North Cobb.

Third Place and a check for $100 was presented to Matt Waldrop of North Cobb.

Third Place, with a check for $150 was presented to Kimber Shealy, Kennesaw Mountain High, and ... the Winner ....

Danielle Lash - Kell High School, with a check for $200 from the Post. Danielle will compete in the Fifth District Contest at Post 294 in Powder Springs, GA on Saturday morning, February 16, 2008. We know that she will represent North Cobb Post 304 well and we wish her the best of luck.

Post 304 Christmas Party at The Old Mill Restuarant in Acworth

The party was Saturday evening, December 22, 2007. A crowd of about 45 Post 304 Legionnaires and spouses and significant others enjoyed a choice of salmon, beef or chicken. The quarters were a bit tight but it was an enjoyable evening. Our venerable Legionnaire Pat Kelly entertained us at the piano.

And so did Commander Lieber in his elf hat.

Here are the Kettmann's enjoying the evening.

As was Kennesaw Mayor Leonard Church and his daughter.

Wish you all could have been there!

THE AMERICAN LEGION POST 304 GETS NUMBER 1 SPOT WITH HONOR GUARD AT KENNESAW'S ANNUAL SANTA PARADE ON DECEMBER 8, 2007

Fred, Tom, Rich and Larry with Santa

Post 304's inimitable 2007 Color Guard

Preparing the reindeer for Santa's sleigh

The Color Guard (Titshaw is there - he was running a little late).

The Color Guard passes

Santa finally makes it!

His reindeer were getting tired - their tongues were hanging out ...

... and so were some of our Color Guard at he conclusion of the Santa Parade.

JUDGED BY 12 OR CARRIED BY 6 - USMC

Regarding the news blurb about the Marine who put two rounds ("double tap") in a wounded insurgent's head in Fallujah, here's a response from a Marine:

"It's a safety issue, pure and simple. After assaulting through a target, we put a security round in everybody's head. Sorry al-Reuters, there's no paddy wagon rolling around Fallujah picking up "prisoners" and offering them a hot cup o' Joe, falafel, and a blanket. There's no time to mess around on the target. You clear the space, dump the chumps, and move on. Are Corpsmen expected to treat wounded terrorists? Negative. Hey Libs, worried about the defense budget?

Well, it would be waste, fraud, and abuse for a Corpsman to expend one man-minute or a battle dressing on a terrorist. It's much cheaper to just spend the $.02 on a 5.56mm round. By the way, in our view, terrorists who chop off civilian's heads are not prisoners, they are carcasses. Chopping off a civilian's head is another reason why these idiots are known as "unlawful combatants." It seems that most of the world's journalists have forgotten that fact. Let me be very clear about this issue.

I have looked around the web, and many people get this concept, but there are some stragglers. Here is your typical Marine sitrep (situation report): You just took fire from unlawful combatants (no uniform - breaking every Geneva Convention rule there is) shooting from a religious building, attempting to use the sanctuary status of their position as protection. But you 're in Fallujah now, and the Marine Corps has decided that they're not playing that game this time. That was Najaf.

So you set the mosque on fire and you hose down the terrorists with small arms, launch some AT-4s (Rockets), some 40MM grenades into the building and things quiet down. So you run over there, and find some tangos (bad guys) wounded and pretending to be dead. You are aware that suicide martyrdom is like really popular with these idiots, and they think taking some Marines with them would be really cool. So you can risk your life and your fire team's lives by having them cover you while you bend down and search a guy that you think is pretending to be dead for some reason.

Most of the time these are the guys with the grenade or a vest made of explosives. Also, you don't know who or what is in the next room . You're already speaking English to the rest of your fire team or squad, which lets the terrorist know you are there and you are his enemy. You are speaking loud because your hearing is poor from shooting people for several days. So you know that there are many other rooms to enter, and that if anyone is still alive in those rooms, they know that Americans are in the mosque.

Meanwhile (3 seconds later), you still have this terrorist (that was just shooting at you from a mosque) playing possum. What do you do? You double tap his head, and you go to the next room, that's what! What about the Geneva Convention and all that 'Law of Land Warfare' stuff?

What about it?

Without even addressing the issues at hand, your first thought should be, "I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6." Bear in mind that this tactic of double tapping a fallen terrorist is a perpetual mindset that is reinforced by experience on a minute by minute basis.

Secondly, you are fighting an unlawful combatant in a Sanctuary, which is a double No-No on his part.

Third, tactically you are in no position to take "prisoners" because there are more rooms to search and clear, and the behavior of said terrorist indicates that he is up to no good. No good in Fallujah is a very large place and the low end of no good and the high end of no good are fundamentally the same ... Marines end up getting hurt or die.

So there is no compelling reason for you to do anything but double tap this idiot and get on with the mission. If you are a veteran, then everything I have just written is self evident. If you are not a veteran, at least try to put yourself in the situation.


Remember, in Fallujah there is no yesterday, there is no tomorrow, there is only now, Right NOW. Have you ever lived in NOW for a week? It is really, really not easy. If you have never lived in NOW for longer than it takes to finish the big roller coaster at Six Flags, then shut your mouth about putting Marines in jail for "War Crimes."

Semper fi.

SOCIALISM---IS AMERICA READY

The last time this country was confronted with the possibility of electing a Socialist leaning President was in 1972, and George McGovern was the candidate. I was assigned to the United States Air Force Academy as an AOC (Air Officer Commanding) at the time. At a weekly meeting with the Commandant of Cadets, the Brigadier General said, “Gentleman, during this election, you again have the opportunity to do something good for your country”. He did not tell us how to vote, but we all understood what he meant. George McGovern would dismantle the US military, as was done immediately following WWII.
This did not quite make sense, as we were still in the middle of a war in Vietnam from which I had just returned. There were forty young patriots in that room, and all exhaled Red, White, and Blue. We understood that such a philosophy would seriously jeopardize the welfare and the security of our country. Guess where we stood???
The American People soundly rejected George McGovern’s politics, and the Democratic Party learned a valuable lesson. America was not ready for Socialism, so the Democrats moved the party closer to the center.
The question remains, where does the country stand today? Faced with the same option, will a sleepy American people allow the disaster to occur in 2008. There have been some changes since 1972 that may allow the unthinkable to happen. I spent my entire working life-time training to defend, or defending, this great nation against the threat of Socialism, which I define as “practice Communism”. My greatest fear today is that even though the external threat was unable to accomplish the unthinkable, it might be possible from within.
During the McCarthy years of the 1950s, Socialists in this country were forced to hide or find cover. Blacklists were prevalent in Hollywood, and the mood of the country left little room for the left-leaning. As could be predicted, the far-left found refuge for most part in the Democratic Party. Occasionally, they raised their heads, such as in 1972, but just as often they were met with rejection. It appears that the trend has run its course. Extreme amounts of money from the far-left have energized the Democratic Party, the Hollywood elite and the enriched main-stream media. Blitzed by the constant ranting from these sources, it appears the American people are equally divided between the two major political parties. This is frightening to me.I must admit to being a present day conservative, which was not always the case. I remember in 1960 casting my very first vote in a Presidential election, for JFK. I was right out of colle ge and a new electrical engineer ready to conquer the world. Looking back, JFK would make a pretty good Republican in this day and age. So, things change, and the Democratic Party left me. I did not leave it. The party moved so far left, that I could no longer support its outlandish pursuits, such as redistribution of wealth, over taxation, and government control of everything. It has become obvious that the present day Democratic Party was not the one our Fathers knew and supported.
Look with an open mind at the Democratic Party over the past 12 months, and it is revealing. The American people are tired of the war in Iraq, but not those fighting it, which is reflected in the polls. The Democrats are totally poll driven, so they have gone overboard in degrading the war effort, and unfortunately, those who are fighting it. Let’s look at a few who run our country now and in the past.
Harry Reid, the Senate Majority Leader, knows that the tide has turned in Iraqi war, which is absolutely the heart of the War-On-Terror in the broader picture. His prediction that “the war is lost”, at a time our troops were giving their lives in pursuit of success, was totally wrong. Yet, he still attempts to send legislation to the President demanding immediate surrender and with-drawl. This is work of a traitor in my opinion.Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the House, continues to sport the deer-in-the-headlight smile and support Reid. My question is simply, will she ever get over her elevated position of being third in line for the Presidency, and start thinking of more important issues. In my opinion, Ms Pelosi is the classic, closet Socialist, but then, she has an enormous amount of company in the Democratic Party. It is tough remaining number one.
John Murtha served in Korea, but I understand he never made it to the war zone. He plays the war hero card, yet he does nothing but oppose, and degrade, our men and women in uniform.
John Kerry (I realize you are tired of hearing about this guy, but he is the Democratic-mold in my opinion) voted against the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, the M-1 Abrams Tank, every Aircraft Carrier since 1988, the Aegis anti-aircraft system, the F-15 Strike Eagle, newer F-16 upgrades, the P-3 Orion upgrade, and to kill the B-1 Bomber. He is truly anti-military and a liar to boot, which detrimentally affected our efforts in Vietnam, and now the Middle-East. This guy actually had the audacity to run for President of this great nation. Again, the people were smart enough to reject such nonsense.
I understand Dick Durbine has accused our troops at Guantanimo of being Nazis, tenders of Soviet style gulags and bad as Pol Pot, who murdered two million of his own people. Yea, these guys sure support our troops.
Ted Kennedy appears to be anti-military, anti-America, and should have served hard time over the death of Mary Jo Kopeckni years ago. I honestly don’t think he has had a clear thought in 20 years---Just my opinion, I could be wrong.
In my opinion the bottom of this barrel may be Al Gore. Gore is a loser, and a poor one at that. He now needs a cause. What better than an emotional issue like global warming, which cannot be proven one way or the other. He is smart, but could care less about this nation. Gore is becoming a very rich man with this single-minded idea, and when he feels he might win, we will see him again running hard from the far-left.
Jimmy Carter, the father of the Radical-Islam movement, aided the downfall of the Shah of Iran in 1979, allowing the Ayatollah Khomeini to begin the Radical-Islam resurgence we are witnessing today. No need to mention the 18% inflation and 18% interest rates during his tax-raising term. Will they ever learn that tax breaks fuel the economy?
I think the following far-left names are self explanatory: Russ Feingold, Chuck Schumer, Diane Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Carl Levine, George Soros, Jane Fonda, Sean Penn, Michael Moore, George Clooney (now there is an intellect), Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins, Danny Glover, and the list goes on, and on, and on. There is no shame.
The collective stupidity of these clowns has the potential to destroy this country, after they turn it into a Socialist, then Communist State. Putin is smiling right now. The politicians above are self-serving fools who despise President Bush, and whose insane drive to regain political power guides their actions, not what is good for the country or the people. Again, it is my opinion. Some may think I am wrong.
Now, after all those words, what is the point to this story?---Hillary Clinton!!! I smile when I hear Hillary speak about other candidate’s lack of experience. Hillary has no experienc e at all, except as under-study to her husband, Bill Clinton. Now there is a role model. Let’s take a look at who was her teacher.
Bill Clinton signed enlistment papers and took an oath to serve in Sept, 1969, then failed to show at his military duty station. He was reclassified 1-A on Oct 30, 1969, as his enlistment with the Reserves was revoked making him officially AWOL. He avoided all the consequences of those misdeeds, and received a pardon by President Jimmy Carter Jan 21, 1977. Bill Clinton was the first President of the Untied States who was a pardoned FELON, and then he went on to be IMPEACHED.
When you hear the Democrats preach about our troops serving long, multiple tours in Iraq, please keep this in mind. As memory serves me, Bill Clinton reduced our military by:
-----709,000 Regular Active Duty Personnel
-----293,000Reserve Troops
-----Eight Army Divisions
-----20 Air Force and Navy Air Wings with 2,000 Combat Aircraft
-----232 Strategic Bombers
-----19 Strategic Missile Submarines
-----Four Aircraft Carriers and 121 Surface Combat Ships and Submarines
-----and on, and on, and on.
I must admit to being one who truly believes it is time this country includes women as prospective choices for President of the United States, but Hillary Clinton is not one of them.
I must ask the question of even those real Democrats (not the far-left who embrace Socialism), do we really want to see, hear and smell the Clintons again, and for possibly another eight years. I am in great hope that the answer to that question is the same as it was for George McGovern---a very firm, yet loud---NO.
In conclusion, let me say again, no country in the world can present a true conventional threat to this great nation. The threat comes from apathy---Apathy from good, American people, who are paddling as fast as they can. There is litt le time left to get deeply involved with politics after taking care of family and the daily grind of making a living.However, we are at the McGovern cross-roads again. The outcome of the 2008 election will affect every breathing individual in this country. Socialized medicine, doing away with the Bush tax cuts, increasing taxes, reducing the military at a time this country faces possibly the biggest threat in its history, cutting and running in the Middle-East, allowing Iran to develop nuclear weapons and becoming dominant in the Middle-East, bowing to the will of George Soros, the Hollywood Elite, and enriched far-left news organizations, and living with the risk of more Clinton level scandals and indiscretions is beyond comprehension to me.
My plea is for all Americans to look closely at what has occurred during the past 12 months in the Democratic Congress, and visualize the state of our country after four years of President Hillary Clinton, backed by a Democrat controlled House and Senate. I think that is scary enough to awaken the good Democrats, and even an apathetic nation.
Jim Cash, B/G, USAF. Ret.
Lakeside, Montana

Post 304 Represented by Color Guard for Acworth's Pioneer Days Parade

Saturday, September 1, 2007, was the kick-off for Acworth's Pioneer Days. A parade, consisting of the North Cobb High Marching Band and many, many other North Cobb organizations, wound its way from KenWorth Park to the Acworth downtown area and beyond.

Post 304 was represented by providing the lead Color Guard to head the parade. Commander Larry Lieber, Jr. Vice Commanders Rich Ray and Fred Gaines, and Adjutant David Burdette made up the Color Guard and marched the entire 20-mile parade route (just kidding, it was only about a mile-and-a-half - it just seemed like 20!).

Commander Lieber delivers instructions to the Guard.

This is the Post 304 Color Guard.

August 16, 2007, Meeting Features Rev. Ewell Black and

the MIA/POW Ceremony

The table was set for the POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony ...

Rev. Ewell Black, who is the Fifth District Chaplain and a member of Smyrna Post 160, was a POW/MIA from The Battle of the Bulge, captured December 19, 1944. He explains the set up for the POW/MIA Remembrance Table, and conducted the Ceremony as follows:

"The POW MIA Remembrance Ceremony"

As you entered the Armory Mess Hall this evening, you may have noticed a small table in a place of honor. It is set for one. This table is our way of symbolizing the fact that members of our profession of arms are missing from our midst. They are commonly called POWs or MIAs, we call them "Brothers." They are unable to be with us this evening and so we remember them.
This Table set for one is small -- Symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors. Remember!
The Tablecloth is white -- Symbolizing the purity of their intentions to respond to their country's call to arms. Remember!
The single Red Rose displayed in a vase reminds us of the families and loved ones of our comrades-in-arms who keep the faith awaiting their return. Remember!
The Red Ribbon tied so prominently on the vase is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breasts of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing. Remember!
The Candle, the candle is lit -- Symbolizing the upward reach of their unconquerable spirit. Remember!
A Slice of Lemon is on the bread plate to remind us of their bitter fate. Remember!
There is Salt upon the bread plate -- Symbolic of the families tears as they wait. Remember!
The Glass is inverted -- They cannot toast with us this night. Remember!
The Chair -- The chair is empty. They are not here. Remember!
Remember! -- All of you who served with them and called them comrades, who depended upon their might and aid, and relied upon them, for surely, they have not forsaken you. Remember!
Remember! -- Until the day they come home, Remember!

SUGGESTED TABLE SET UP:
1. A small, round bistro table
2. White tablecloth
3. Single place setting, preferably all white
4. Wine glass - inverted
5. Salt shaker
6. Slice of lemon on bread plate with a pile of spilled salt
7. Small bud vase with a single stem red rose
8. RED ribbon tied around the vase
9. Candle - lit
10. Empty chair

Those in attendance were attentive and responsive as they listened to the Ceremony and to Rev. Black's story of his capture and interment during World War II in German Stalags.

All in all, it was an impressive Ceremony.

The membership also voted to purchase a large brick at the Veteran's Memorial at Patriot's Point at Lake Acworth to commemorate our fallen comrades of The American Legion North Cobb Post 304.

Post 304 is grateful for the service provided by Chaplain, POW/MIA and Veteran and Legionnaire Ewell Black.

Post 304 Intallation Ceremony - July 21, 2007 - Part I, The Crowd Gathers

The Post recently purchased an LCD projector, primarily for use in presenting the Post 304 story to prospective donors for the new Post Home Fund pledge drive. During the social hour, a PowerPoint presentation was rolled onto the screen, representing all the accomplishments of the Post during the past year. This is one of the 75 or so images that were shown.

Commander Lieber and Sr. Vice Johnson appear to be sharing a good story - or conspiring to pull something funny on an unsuspecting Adjutant (as usual).

Cdr. Lieber chats with Dr. John Abraham as Legionnaire Ron Deering passes.

Captain Jack Sparrow, Ron Deering and James Robinson.

Legionnaire John O'Connor and wife, Joan, chat with Mike Kettmann's friend, Janice Wadsworth.

Department Finance Officer James Robinson and Adjutant Burdette smile for the camera.

Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood and Dr. John Abraham in deep conversation.

Sr. Vice Tom Poston. That's his friend, Tasha Olivi, in the purple blouse.

Pondering logistics.

Guests Steve Anderson, the Rev. Ewell Black, and Burdette

Post 304 Installation Ceremony - July 21, 2007 - Part II Getting Settled for Dinner

Auxiliary Unit 304 President Velica Daniel and hubby, Howard, prepare to order dinner.

Mayor Allegood brought his IT guy, Heung, and his date, Isabel, to assist him in preparing for his video presentation.

Adjutant Burdette chatting with Sgt.-at-Arms Larry Hale and his friend, Barbi Williams.

Howard Daniel, former Post 304 Commander and Jack-of-all-trades. Most recently Howard was the Post's Sgt.-at-Arms.

Sr. Vice Alan Johnson chats with Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood as Captain Jack and wife, Ann, look on.

Post 304 Finance and Service Officer Tom Stenzel.

Chaplain Robert Noles and wife, Frances.

Auxiliary Unit 304 Treasurer Helen Free, Barbie Williams, Larry Hale, Guest Steve Anderson, Director of Parks and Recreation, Chamblee, GA, Nancy Burdette.

Velica and Howard Daniel.

Post 304 Legionnaire Ray Unser and wife, Hazel.

Newly elected Jr. Vice Commander David Menendez.

New Assistant Chaplain Duane Young and wife, Barbara enjoy the Provino's fare.

Post 304 Installation Ceremony - July 21, 2007 - Part III, After-Dinner Presentations

After a delicious Italian dinner at Provino's Restuarant, Acworth, GA Mayor Tommy Allegood gave an inspirational presentation accompanied by a video featuring veterans from World War II (Allegood's father), the Korean Conflict, the Viet Nam War and the Iraq War, and the establishment of a Veteran's Memorial at Lake Acworth at Patriot's Point.

Mayor Allegood at the lectern.

The crowd listens intently. That's Mayor Allegood's uncle Carlton Allegood at left, District Five Chaplain the Rev. Ewell Black, and Post 304 Finance Officer Tom Stenzel in the foreground.

Left is Mayor Allegood's father, Bill, uncle Carlton Allegood and the Rev. Black.

Also presenting after dinner was Post 304 friend and newly-elected Cobb County Board of Education member Dr. John E. Abraham. He spoke about the his interest in veteran's affairs and in expanding Legion programs in the Cobb County school system.

After his talk, Dr. Abraham was presented the "We The People Award" from the Post for his assistance in helping the Post with the American Flag issue encountered earlier in the year. Following this award, Commander Lieber presented Certificates of Appreciation to all of the Post 304 Officers and Committee Chairman for their involvement in the Post Programs during the 20006-2007 year.

Sr. Vice Commander Alan Johnson was presented the prestigous LEGIONNAIRE OF THE YEAR AWARD by Commander Lieber. The Award can only be awarded once in a Legionnaire's lifetime and it was awarded to Johnson for his work on the new Post Home Pledge Drive and as Editor of the Post Newsletter, The Situation Report. Johnson also was presented a Second Place Certificate of Merit from the Georgia American Legion Press Association for excellence in Newsletters.

Johnson salutes Commaner Lieber after receiving the Legionaire of the Year Award

Commander Lieber presents Adjutant Burdette with the "U Dun Gud David" Award.

Adjutant Burdette was also awarded a Distinguished Service Award by Commander Lieber and the Post.

Burdette's Plaque.

Following the Ceremony, Fifth District Chaplain the Rev. Ewell Black, a former WWII POW/MIA from the Battle of the Bulge thanked the Post for the development of the "Veteran's Day 4 Kids" Program, in which he has been a participant.

Installation Ceremony - July 21, 2007 - Part IV, The Installation of the New Post 304 Officers:

Department Finance Officer and District 5 ALBA Chairman James Robinson was the Installing Officer. Here he gives instructions to Commander Larry Lieber and the new officers about to be installed:

Robinson at the lectern

Sr. Vice-Commander Alan Johnson, standing in for Jr. Vice Richard Ray (who was away on a fishing trip in Canada) is former Post 304 Commander Howard Daniel, Jr. Vice Mike Kettmann, Sr., and Jr. Vice Fred Gaines.

Jr. Vice Gaines, Jr. Vice David Menendez, standing in for Judge Advocate Jim Stoll (who was in Panama City, FL at his grand-daughters appearance in the World Series of Fast-Pitch Softball) Kristin Lieber, Commanders Lieber's daughter, and Chaplain Robert Noles.

Kristin, Noles, and Sgt.-at-Arms Larry Hale.

Asst. Chaplain Duane Young, Adjutant David Burdette.

The newly installed Officers for 2007-2008 face the crowd. That's Finance Officer Tom Stenzel in the forground at right.

Post 304 Holds Election of Officers;

Program on Air Force Week

CM/Sgt John Cowman, Chief of Training and Air Force Week Co-Chairman, Dobbins AirForce Reserve Base, spoke to the members of Post 304 about the celebration for the Air Force's 60th Anniversary and the events taking place this year. The celebration culminates with Air Force Week in October, 2007.


The members listen attentively to Sgt. Cowman's presentation.

After the presentation, election of officers was held. During the discussion about Jr. Vice Commanders and the number of new Programs in which the Post is now involved, it was determined by membership vote that a fourth Jr. Vice Commander is needed. The following Post Officers were elected:

• Commander - Larry Lieber
• Sr. Vice Commander - Alan Johnson
• Jr. Vice Commander - Richard Ray
• Jr. Vice Commander - Mike Kettmann, Sr.
• Jr. Vice Commander - Fred Gaines
• Jr. Vice Commander - David Menendez
• Judge Advocate - Jim Stoll
• Finance Officer and Service Officer - Tom Stenzel
• Asst. Service Officer - David Menendez
• Post Home Fund Committee - Co-Chairs Alan Johnson and Bob Titshaw. Member Richard Ray

After the election of Officers, Commander Lieber announced his intention with respect to appointments of other Officers and Committee Chairs as follows:

• Adjutant and Historian - David Burdette
• Chaplain - Robert Noles
• Asst. Chaplain - Duane Young
• Sgt.-at-Arms - Larry Hale
• Boys State Committee - Richard Ray, Chairman
• High School Oratorical Contest Committee - David Burdette, Chairman
• Jr. ROTC and ROTC Committee - Co-Chairmen Fred Gaines and Larry Hale
• Civic Affairs Committee - Jim Stoll, Chairman
• Awards Chairman - Co-Chairmen Mike Kettmann, Sr. and Alan Johnson
• ALBA Committee - Larry Lieber, Chairman
• Finance Committee - Tom Stenzel, Chairman, Alan Johnson, David Burdette and Richard Ray

The Officers will be installed by Dept. Finance Officer and ALBA Chairman James E. Robinson on Saturday, July 21, 2007, at Provino's Italian Restuarant on Barrett Parkway in Kennesaw. The festivities commence at 6:30 pm.

Kennesaw Mountain High School Navy Junior ROTC Awards Banquet is Attended by Many Organizations to Present Awards to the Cadets

The Kennesaw Mountain High School NJROTC Awards Banquest was held in the school cafeteria on Tuesday evening, May 15, 2007.

The head table included such dignataries as (l-r) the representative from The Sons of the American Revolution, our own Post 304 Commander Larry Lieber, representative from the Naval Reserve Association, NJROTC Commander Bauers and his wife.

Here, Cadet LT Matt Angel and Cadet LCDR Chris Echevarria congratulates part of the troops for their excellent performance during the past year:

Cadet LCDR Echevarria congratulates one of the Cadets for his performance:

Post 304 Commander and Legionnaire Fred Gaines get their notes together for The American Legion Awards. That's Commander Bauers over Fred's left shoulder and Cadet Commander Ashley Montgomery is at extreme left. Montgomery was the very capable Master of Ceremonies for the event.

Commander Larry Lieber congratulates Cadet LT Matt Angel on receiving The American Legion JROTC Award for Scholastic Excellence:

Cadet LCDR Chris Echevarria is awarded The American Legion Award for Military Excellence by Cdr. Lieber.

Here's the group from Post 304 with the winning cadets: l-r Fred Gaines, Larry Hale, Cadet Angel, Cdr. Larry Lieber, and Cadet Echevarria:

And here's a couple of award presenters from The Sons of the American Revolution and the Old Guard Award:

Kell High School Senior
Nicholas Niedhardt
Receives Prestigious
American Legion School Award
at Honors Ceremony

Nicholas Niedhardt, graduating senior at Kell High School, was presented The American Legion School Award at the Annual Honors Ceremony on Monday, April 30, 2007. The Award and beautiful bronze medallion, is given in recognition of Distinguished Achievement and possession of those high qualities of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service which are necessary to the preservation and protection of the fundamental institutions of our government and the advancement of society. The recipient of the Award is determined by the school faculty and staff. Cadet Niedhardt also is the Executive Officer of the Kell NJROTC Unit.

Shown in the picture above is Post 304 Adjutant Burdette and Senior Naval Science Instructor and NJROTC Commander William Wilkerson, CAPT, USN. Picture was taken by Laura Niedhardt, Nicholas' mom.

Post 304 Presents The American Legion School Award to Danielle Sparks, Senior at North Cobb High School

Adjutant David Burdette at lectern and North Cobb High Principal Gary Boling, right.

Burdette announces the winner, Danielle Sparks, North Cobb graduating Senior

Danielle Starks, graduating senior at North Cobb High School, was presented The American Legion School Award at the Annual Awards Day on Tuesday, May 8, 2007. The Award and beautiful bronze medallion, is given in recognition of Distinguished Achievement and possession of those high qualities of Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service which are necessary to the preservation and protection of the fundamental institutions of our government and the advancement of society. The recipient of the Award is determined by the school faculty and staff.

Post 304 was also represented at the Ceremony by Alan Johnson, Sr. Vice-Commander, who was also the photographer, and Nancy Burdette, Auxiliary Unit 304 member.