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John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68 Messages from our Leadership |
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Check here for messages from various Post Officers and Leaders
| Jim McAvoy - Chaplain 26 May 2025 |
To my comrades in Post 68,
As many of you all know, on 14 June 1775, the U.S. Army was born. The Continental Army - as it was known then, would eventually evolve into the U.S. Army on June 3, 1784. Growing up in Massachusetts and for many years of my early upbringing, I visited Lexington, Concord and of course, Boston, where it all started. Theses many school trips taught me about our country and its beginnings. Back then I never envisioned that some day I would serve in our Army. It was a life changing moment and I have never regretted a minute of my service time. So, as the song goes; “The Army Goes Rolling Along.” Happy 250th to the Army and to my brother and sister Army veterans. HOORAH…
As you all know, the Post’s elections were this month and I am proudly passing the torch of the Chaplain’s position to Comrade Gordon Humphries. There is no doubt that Gordon will do a great job and possesses the faith of our Heavenly Father and I will be there to assist him whenever needed. It was my honor and extreme privilege to represent the Post at the various chaplain/religious functions that I attended. Many of you also attended these with me: From our general meetings, to hospice and nursing home visits, personal contact and visits to a veteran's home with our Service officer Lane, opening events that the Post supported with a prayer, such as our annual golf event, the Four Chaplains celebration, attending church masses, wakes and celebrations of life for our departed members, to just penning the many get well and unfortunately, sympathy cards for our departed members as well as contributing to the newly added Post Everlasting addition to our website. I was proud to have the honor of representing you all as a member of our John E. Jacobs Post 68.
So, as we head into the new year, I wish all of you and your families, good health, good spirits and may the God Lord Bless and Keep you all. A huge Bravo Zulu to you all.
I remain, in comradeship,
Jim Mac
1st Vice Commander
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Jim McAvoy - Chaplain |
To my brothers and sisters of Post 68,
Today marks another Memorial Day celebration. I just watched one of my favorite speeches that President Ronald Reagan gave on Memorial Day in 1982 at the Arlington National Cemetery. This speech lasted nearly 10 minutes and I watch it every year and have used it for various presentations for Memorial Day.
During the beginning of his speech, President Reagan spoke these words, “In America, cities and towns today, flags will be placed on graves in cemeteries, public officials will speak of the sacrifice and the valor of those whose memory we honor.” He ended by saying that “as we honor their memory today, let us pledge that their lives, their sacrifices, their valor, shall be justified and remembered for as long as God gives life to this Nation.”
His heartfelt words in 1982 are just as important and prophetic today as then.
God bless all,
VR, I remain in Comradeship,
J Mac
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| Bea Frost - Post Commander 12 May 2025 |
Why are we members of the American Legion? As I reflect on this past week I reaffirm why I am a member. As a Post we contributed to the support of the VEAC in multiple ways – by volunteering our time and by contributing funds to the event. Our participation in the event is what we are about- Veterans serving Veterans. Many of us are fortunate that we are able to be a part of this service to our fellow Veterans. The hours and time planning and executing it were unselfishly given and a rewarding experience that we as American Legion members were able to help so many. At this time, I don’t know the exact numbers which I am sure Dale or Lane will be sharing but I can safely say we reached an amazing number of people. Thank YOU Post 68! Reaching out and connecting to each other is an important part of being a member of an organization, being a Veteran and reaching out to each other is essential and what we are here for. We can do this in many ways and often do but we can do better. If we look around our neighborhoods we can sometimes see other Veterans – some may appear to be OK but do you really know if they are if you don’t engage them; this is the same with our Post members. We need to reach out more – not just to build membership numbers – to insure that no one is left alone. I would like to challenge you at our next meeting to take 5-10 minutes and engage with a member that you do not know well and check on how their life is going. Do you know someone who is a member but we haven’t seen at a meeting? Have you spoken to them recently? We all have busy lives but let’s make a little time and reach out. Thank YOU Post 68 for continuing to make a difference.Bea Frost
Commander
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John Hacker - 1st Vice CDR 12 May 2025 |
After decades of mismanagement, VA has been leasing parts of its 388-acre West Los Angeles VA Medical Center campus to a wealthy and exclusive private school and the University of California, Los Angeles, baseball team. Today’s executive order will enable us to ensure VA’s West Los Angeles Campus is being used as intended: to benefit Veterans. Our goal is to turn the campus into a beacon of hope and a destination for homeless Veterans from across the nation who can travel there to find housing and support and start their journey back to self-sufficiency.
I visited this location about 10 years ago when I was Veterans and Community Services Coordinator in orange County California, and after reviewing this massive UNUSED property I asked why can't this be converted to Veterans apartments and services location.
The answer was filled with dumb smiles, let hope that the VA Director delivers, would love to work on the project.
John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Committee Chair
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
Leland, North Carolina
910-209-0770
"Leave No Veteran Behind"
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James McAvoy - Post Chaplain 12 May 2025 |
To my fellow Legionnaires,
On Saturday, 10 May 2025, National Police Week commenced in Washington DC. For one week of the year, the Nation’s law enforcement officers are honored and remembered. It is a peaceful and solemn time to pay homage to those that gave their lives in the line of duty for our Nation. It is an honor that I have witnessed and participated in for many years during my long law enforcement career.
On 13 May, many will gather at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial for the Annual Candlelight Vigil, whereupon the names of the fallen killed in the line of duty are inscribed on the walls of the Memorial. Then the names of the fallen are read aloud during the Mass to memorialize these officers. Like many in our Post that have friends and fellow warriors inscribed on the various military memorials and walls, I have friends and colleagues that have their names inscribed on the Police wall in DC.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy decreed that on the 15th of May, this day would be designated as Peace Officers Memorial Day. I would ask that all of the members of our Post who might have been a law enforcement officer, have a family member or friend that is also one, please take a minute to reflect on their service and to remember all of our brothers and sisters that have paid the ultimate sacrifice. As veterans, we know that many of us after our tour of duties were over, have joined the ranks of the law enforcement community. As a country, we also need to honor and support the law enforcement officers, their families and survivors as well as the supporters of our law enforcement community.
May these officers rest in eternal peace knowing that their bravery, selfishness and sacrifice to our communities will never be forgotten. We have the watch. God Bless all and Back the Blue.
In remain in Comradeship,
Jim Mac
Post 698 Chaplain
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| James McAvoy - Post Chaplain April 16th, 2025 |
To my comrades,
As you all know, our monthly meeting is being held during this holy week, as Christians all over the world, celebrate the Easter season and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is believed to have happened three days after his crucifixion. First and foremost, as your Post’s Chaplain, I wanted to wish all of the members of our Post who celebrate this season, our Father’s eternal blessings and to you and your families, a Holy, peaceful and Happy Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday is the cornerstone of the Christian religion and we pray for peace (something that all veterans have wished for!) and the hope that we have everlasting life.
If you haven’t looked at the Post’s website recently, we have added a “Post Everlasting” tab that will enable us to memorialize the Post members that have passed on. It is extremely fitting that we remember our brothers and sisters from the Post that have passed. This is certainly another way to celebrate the past, present and future of our post for many years to come. It is also a poignant reminder of the men and women that have served our great country that have completed their early duties. It is my hope to have this list completed prior to Memorial Day of 2025.
There is an article in this month’s Legion magazine about how to prepare and make plans before a serous illness or worse. Naturally, this is something that we don’t wish on anyone, but it is inevitable that this could happen to all. I would recommend taking a few minutes to peruse this article as there are some important planning options that the author notes. Having had a minor surgery (as my Dr put it , there is no such thing as a routine surgery) this month, I had to make sure that I had things documented for my spouse if the need arose. I certainly don’t want to leave my wife or children in the dark with regard to the important issues or my wishes that they could face if this situation arises in my life. So, please prepare accordingly. This might also be a topic for a monthly meeting in the future as we all get a little older and enter the “rusty” years (much different that the “golden years!). I also am sending out best wishes to all of our members that have been ill during this past month. May you all have speedy recoveries.
This month as I prepare the meeting prayers, I ask that you keep our brother and member, Tom “Ray” Edwards, an Army veteran, who entered into the Post everlasting on 6 April 2025, in your thoughts and prayers. Condolences and offers of prayers were sent to his wife, Caroline and his four sons. May Tom rest in peace in our Father’s presence. Thanks for your service to our Nation and your long service to the Army.
God Bless all and I remain, in Comradeship to you all.
Jim Mac
Post Chaplain
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BTO Chairman John Hacker March 15th, 2025
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We have had 5 Roll Outs since late last year and finishing up on March 11, 2025.
I have recorded 111 visitors, not counting Team members.
6 were from Posts from our District who had created BTO Teams per our 10 point plan.
4 members from Congressional Leaders staff, which I am sending them updates as needed.
9 State Police Troopers
6 Leland Officers.
The Mayor of leland
3 Town Council members
1 Uncw Representative
4 Cape Fear Student Veterans
District Commander
Division Commander
Other members were from :
Red Cross,
Blue Star mothers
Stop Soldier Suicide
Veteran of Foreign Wars
Vietnam Veterans of America
Marine Corps league
Law Enforcement Trainers from BCC
VA Staff from Winston Salem
VSO from Brunswick county and New Hanover
Brunswick County Veterans Coalition
Employer Support of The Guard and Reserve representatives
NC Works
American Cancer Society
Serving Homeless Committee of brunswick County
Brunswick Sheriff Dept ANCHOR INITIATIVE
Rivers Edge Veterans Association
Committee Helping Veterans Community
Brunswick Senior Residential Cove
Habitat for Humanity
Several Pastors from the community
Vet Center Trailer
I may have missed a few, but will review all my lists in my file.
This report has been sent to Department and National HQ.
Suicide portion is 15 minutes, www.betheoneconnect.org down to 15 minutes
Month of Feb 829 hits on web
March so far 319.
All on my file and will be following up.
We did receive approval of presenting a class to Law Enforcement training in their training agenda.
We are skipping April and May at this time and I have thanked BCC for the use of the Leland Campus site.
My team has done a fantastic Job.
Our first adjective has been reached, get the word out in the community.
Disappointments yes but over all good.
We have the approval to set tables and training at VEAC
Feedback positive for the post.
Thank you for your consideration and please enter into Post records.
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John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Project Leader
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
Leland, North Carolina
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1st Vice John Hacker Jan 12th, 2025 |
According to the Blue Star Families Annual Survey, nearly 30 percent of non-retired post-9/11 Veterans reported unmet needs related to employment and career development, and 20 percent reported needs regarding housing services. Additional economic challenges mentioned were topics such as food insecurity, childcare, license portability, and employment for spouses. In general, economic stability is an issue not only for those who served but also those who are currently serving. I will be attending a session that is designed to explore critical areas such as employment opportunities; financial resources; SSI/SSDI, Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) for Veterans; and housing solutions, providing valuable information and resources to support maintaining or achieving economic stability among the SMVF community.
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John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Project Leader
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
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1st Vice John Hacker December 16th, 2024 |
The Post should be proud of events on December 13 and 14. Many members, (more than PEC members) were at the National Cemetery on Friday the 13th to help unload the over 5,000 Wreaths for the WAA event on Saturday the 14th. The Riders did a great job escorting 4 Trucks of Wreaths to the Cemetery on Friday. Very impressive. On the 14th our post was well represented at the event with key positions and responsibilities and just being there to put out the Wreaths. Too many to thank but, but you know who you are. Bob Penwell and Rick De Moya were called out as major supporters for the success of this years event. (I would support that they both had a lot to do with the success of WAA years past) LTC Patti Kobe was a fresh breath as MC and leader of the Program. Several members of the post also presented the Wreaths to honor the military services. Eric Mens wrote up a beautiful and powerful Media release on this event. Our Post Commander Bea was also a major Presenter. The VFW also helped on both days, ( i am also a life member) A Great Marketing Plan well executed to make this event such a great event. (Bob and Scott,) A Great team for a Great Event. A Proud observer for both days,
John Hacker American Legion "Leave No Veteran Behind" |
 February 2025John Hacker Be The One |
It's February.... --The American Legion is changing the lives and saving the lives of veterans and servicemembers with its Be the One mission. Across our State, change is underway to reduce the number of military-affiliated Americans who are lost to suicide. Various estimates have put the daily toll at 22 or more. Any case, The American Legion believes one is too many. That is why The American Legion has prioritized raising awareness about the issue, providing free suicide prevention training and reassuring those who find themselves struggling daily. At the grassroots level, American Legion North Carolina Department Family members are taking action. They are raising awareness by conducting awareness hikes and 5Ks, and connecting at-risk veterans with the resources they need in their communities. Talking to Community Service Organizations. Still, there are a wide range of questions about Be the One. Here are answers to some common questions about the mission. Question: What is Be the One? Answer: At its core, Be the One is The American Legion’s top priority, a mission to reduce the number of veterans and servicemembers who die by suicide. It involves everyone throughout the entire American Legion State Department. Post members are able to support Be the One by conducting Buddy Checks, raising awareness of resources for veterans in their communities, taking the S.A.V.E. or Columbia University training so they know what to do in a potential time of crisis and more. Posts, units and squadrons can work together to host or support events aimed at bringing the darkness of suicide into the light. By talking about it, raising awareness and fostering camaraderie, you are demonstrating how to “Be the One.” At the department level, staff can elevate awareness about how posts and members are contributing to the cause, and also create opportunities for training sessions, fundraisers, awareness events and other means to promote Be the One. At the national level, staff is promoting the initiative through various marketing, internal media and external media means. National Headquarters staff is also focusing energies on creating more training opportunities, resource materials and other ways that posts and members can further the mission.
Question: How can my post best support Be the One? Answer: There are many ways to lend support. Like other sanctioned American Legion initiatives, it is best to take the concept for Be the One and incorporate it into the needs of your community. Follow the 10 point Be the roll program on the Department website. The majority of posts already conduct events that can be adapted for a Be the One event. Those include a fundraising ride, cornhole tournament, car show and other activities that posts regularly conduct. Put out a BE THE ONE TABLE at all events. Reach out to local service providers, local PD and EMS and Fire Fighters to talk about the program. They are a big help and want to help us, just ask.
Question: When is the best time to conduct a Be the One event? Answer: Through resolution, The American Legion has declared the first day of each month as a Be the One day so that is ideal. But there is such a critical need to spread the word about preventing veteran suicide, really any day, anytime, anywhere is appropriate. Form a committee, (maybe 3), call local services and ask what they are doing for Veterans, tell them you want to help. Reach out to media outlets and spread the word. Keep your post active and informed Join the local Chamber of Commerce. Get involved, help our fellow veterans and our community to reduce this number. For more help and ideas, call John Hacker, Department Chairman
John Hacker American Legion |
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26 November 2024 |
The American Legion is proud to announce an official partnership with the Army-Navy Football Game presented by USAA, which will be played for the 125th time on Dec. 14, 2024. The American Legion becomes the first veterans service organization (VSO) to sponsor “America’s Game” in its history. The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans service organization, has secured a multi-year deal alongside presenting sponsor USAA and participating partners Chevrolet, Exchange, Duke Cannon Supply Co. and Palantir. The American Legion will also be participating in year-round sponsorships of both Army West Point Athletics and Navy Athletics. The agreement starts with this year’s game at Commanders Field in Landover, Md., and helps The American Legion raise awareness about its Be the One mission to reduce the number of veterans and servicemembers lost to suicide. “As the nation’s largest VSO, it is fitting for The American Legion to be at this annual celebration of service, honor, country,” American Legion Chief Marketing Officer Dean Kessel said. “We are truly honored to support these student-athletes who are committed to protecting the freedoms we cherish.” The Army-Navy Game is among the longest standing and most storied rivalries in college football history. This new partnership aligns with the Legion’s core values of service, patriotism and camaraderie. Chet Gladchuk, Director of Athletics at the U.S. Naval Academy, said: "The opportunity to enhance our relationship with The American Legion is so very much appreciated. As partners, we share common values that accentuate country and patriotism. America's Game will only further promote our shared vision and mutual support for those veterans who have advanced the cause of our great nation." Mike Buddie, Director of Athletics at Army West Point, said: "We are thrilled to partner with The American Legion as our official veteran service organization. This collaboration will continue to elevate America's game on the national stage and showcase the incredible support The American Legion provides to our veteran servicemembers." The sponsorship also allows The American Legion to raise awareness about Be the One. “While we know the game will provide our nation’s veterans and other fans entertainment, it’s also true that many are suffering inside,” Kessel said. “That’s why it is so important for us to bring Be the One to millions of military supporters. By raising awareness of the suicide crisis in forums like this, we are effectively increasing the probability of servicemembers, veterans, their families and other military supporters to Be the One to save one life.” About The American Legion John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Project Leader
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
Leland, North Carolina
"Leave No Veteran Behind"
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FROM THE DESK OF OUR POST COMMANDER 11 November 2024
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To Our Amazing Post Members: 11 November 2024 Time goes by so quickly that we often forget to remember to count our many blessings; as the holiday season approaches and we look back and forward I want to say THANK YOU for being a member of John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68. Our Post has been able to accomplish many things because of each and every one of its members and your commitment to the community we all live in. It is an honor to be able to serve you as your Commander. As many of you know by now we will need to suspend our November meeting. We will be forming a task group to explore and identify backup locations in the event that this occurs in the future. A Holiday Get-together at Brunswick Beer and Cider on the 18th of December - contact Evan Jones (203-910-5178 or ekj522@msn.com ) for additional information and to register. On the 19th of December a brief meeting will occur at the regular place (Blossums) and information about the Golf tournament and future events will be shared. I would like to take this opportunity to thank a few key people for their contributions to the Post:
The people named above could not accomplish what they do without the help of their team members and the members of the Post. Teams are important- no one can do everything without the support of their team and our membership. I hope that every member will consider stepping forward to assist the Post with activities. Everyone's contribution is appreciated! Thank you one and all. Questions/Comments are always welcome |
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James McAvoy Post 68 Champlain 9 November 2024 |
To my fellow Legionnaires,
I truly hope that this note finds you all in good health and spirits. The Fall season is upon us and as a Post, we have a few busy months coming up.
Unfortunately, I must inform the membership that we suffered a loss of a long time member this past month. Vietnam era and Post brother, Andy Kronkowski passed this month. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Andy, but many members did and he was held in high esteem. Please keep Andy, his wife Millie and his extended family in your prayers.
If you haven’t been to a meeting or kept up on the website, our service officer Lane Adrian has been extremely busy in assisting many veterans of the Post; and some that aren’t, this past month. He recently identified three veterans that were deeply effected by the recent storms that hit the area. Your PEC has provided financial assistance to our fellow veterans to lessen their financial burden as they try to recover from devastating home damages. Lane deserves a huge Bravo Zulu for his work in bringing situations like this to our attention. I applaud the PEC for using the Post’s money to lead by example and assist our fellow veterans and citizens. This is a great example of what we are supposed to do as a Post.
During this year's Veterans Day week, we have been asked by our National HQ and Commander, to conduct “Buddy Checks.” This is something that the PEC had already discussed and Past Commander Hacker has tasked some of us to complete. This is a vital function and it is our responsibility to reach out to fellow Post members. Remember, it is a phone call that takes only a few minutes to do. As a long time law enforcement official and Post member of two Posts, I realize that this time of the year, can affect many people in many, unseen and unknown different ways. Sometimes a simple phone call and a friendly voice can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
Post 68 had our 2nd annual “Tee it up for Veteran’s” golf tournament on Thursday 09 November at Magnolia Greens. As your Chaplain, I tried my very best with prayers etc, to hold off the rain, but to no avail…my sincerest apologies to all that braved the weather! I had 2 Marines in my foursome and they just loved playing in the mud puddles that surrounded the greens! But seriously, a huge thank you to Chairperson Scott Wargo and the entire staff of volunteers - Post members as well as non-Post members, that assisted in making this event another huge success. I’m not sure how much money was raised but this will allow us to continue to do the charitable work that we have completed this year (see paragraph 2). My Thanks also the staff at the Magnolia Greens golf course and restaurant for a job well done.
Speaking of Marines, 10 November is the 249th Birthday of the USMC. It is a big day in my household with many family members being Marines. My youngest son is currently a SSGT with the 1-10 Artillery division in 29 Palms and I know that there will be a big birthday bash there. Happy 249th to the Post Marines!
11 November is the 70th anniversary of President Eisenhower signing the proclamation changing Armistice Day to the current Veteran’s Day holiday. This expanded the day to observe and include ALL veterans that have served in our Armed Forces. I look forward to marching in the parade with my fellow Post 68 members and observing this holiday with all fellow veterans. Yesterday in my opening prayer at the golf tournament, I asked that our Heavenly Father continue to bless all of our veterans that have been wounded in body, soul and spirit. Veterans are a timely remembrance and are forever a reminder that freedom is purchased at a high cost and the bitterness of personal sacrifice never be taken for granted . So, please enjoy your day and I salute you all. I am proud to be a soldier, a veteran and your Chaplain.
May God continue to watch over you all and bless you.
I remain in Comradeship,
Jim Mac
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11/5/24 You’re Ignoring the Magic of Volunteering in Your Community
Giving back doesn’t just help others—it boosts your happiness, too. Look for local causes you care about. If your a Veteran, the American legion John E. Jacobs Post 68 is just the ticket for you. We are Hiring Veterans to Volunteer in our community. This gives you a sense of purpose and reminds you of the impact you can still make. Get involved and use your military skills and post military skills to make us a better Community. Come join us, you thank us later. The world needs your skills! John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Project Leader
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
Leland, North Carolina
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JOHN HACKER
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June 18th, 2024 We have started off well with our BE THE ONE suicide awareness program. It all started with Post 68efforts and now the National American legion has made it a priority.
We have funded all programs from GRANTs, not one dime so far from the post.
We now have a website called BETHEONECONNECTS.org
My passion and commitment to this cause came from two people I knew, I loved, and respected who died by Suicide.
Whatever your passion is about this terrible disease that affects our brothers and sisters and their families, please
join us to make the community aware.
No awareness, then you have no prevention.
We are looking for team members to help us with this cause here in Brunswick County.
Making calls to Service Providers.
Helping to turn out for community events.
Learn the S.A.V.E. program.
Help get the word out.
We are Veterans strengthening our community, our country and our fellow veterans.
Please call me if you want to help, (maybe an hour or two at the most )each week.
I look forward to talking to you about our past success and future success in this project.
John Hacker
American Legion
Veteran Suicide Awareness Project Leader
John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68
Leland, North Carolina
910-209-0770
"Leave No Veteran Behind"
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Jim McAvoy
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