May 2026 Newsletter
- MN Third District
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
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The Commander's Corner
Supporting Our Graduates in Uniform & Celebrating Family and Fun in Our Community
As high school seniors across the region celebrate graduation, many are preparing to take bold new steps—some toward college, others joining the workforce, and a proud group answering the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Armed Forces. These young men and women are embarking on a life-changing journey, and they deserve to know that their community stands firmly behind them.
In response, the American Legion should be reaching out to these graduating seniors who are entering military service, gathering their or their family’s contact information, and preparing to send them care packages during basic training—little boxes of comfort and goodies that they can share with fellow veterans. This effort will not only support our future veterans but also introduce a new generation to the American Legion, ensuring that their journey in service is connected to a community of care.
At the same time, the American Legion can also make a broader reach into their community this summer by encouraging full family involvement in seasonal activities. Warmer weather brings a wealth of opportunities, and the Legion Posts can help lead the way by hosting kid activity days, family events, and more. These gatherings could include outdoor games, educational workshops (how to cast a fishing pole, gun safety and many more things), and family days with entertainment, food, and fun. In addition to their own events, the American Legion can be seen participating in county fairs, parades, and other seasonal festivals—showing that they are a visible, active part of community life.
We want families to see that the American Legion is more than a veterans’ organization. We’re a place for veterans and their families. As the weather warms, Posts are encouraged to keep an eye out for these upcoming events and find ways to get involved. Whether celebrating a graduate’s new chapter, joining a kid’s activity day, or gathering at a local fair, the American Legion is proud to serve as a cornerstone for both veterans and families. This summer, let’s come together, celebrate, and build a stronger community for all.
Amy Larsen Thundering 3rd Commander
BE THE ONE
Chaplains Corner
May 2026 Third District Newsletter May – the month of remembering with honor those who sacrificed so much on our behalf. When I consider those who have entered military service, knowing full well that it might mean that ultimate sacrifice and yet they served (and continue to serve). Not all went willingly – I remember the years of the draft for Vietnam - those who made the ultimate sacrifice rest in our thoughts and prayers during these days of remembering.
May is the month when many, if not all of our posts, will turn our hearts to remembering. Memorial Day – that’s what it’s about isn’t it? To remember. But it’s not that simple! We remember, and we honor. We respect and we weep. We gather and we offer up thanks. We gather. After the agony of a country torn apart in a Civil War, and the horror of the First World War, the fight to free others from dictators of the Second World War and so it goes – we place flags, we recite words of remembrance, we hear the echo of taps. And we remember. We remember those who have given that last full measure of devotion.
And so, it is. And so, it goes. We remember.
Let us pray:
Holy One, hold us as we weep, hold us as we remember those who have gone before us. And then we rise up with those memories that are dear to us and we go forth to live as loved and blessed souls. May it be so, Amen
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