Learn about Linda Dvorak's project as Department of Minnesota American Legion's current commander. Find links and a QR code. Help Commander Linda Dvorak reach her goals: Her Commander's Project raises funds for the Minnesota Veterans Assistance Fund (Fund 85) and benches and pillars for the new Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum at Camp Ripley. Out of the funds raise, 75% goes to Fund 85 and 25% to the museum. The Department Commander's Project each year is classified as Fund 82 under the Minnesota American Legion Foundation. The foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and can accept gambling funds. Learn More EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE Minnesota Department of American Legion Commander's Project

The MN Thundering Third District American Legion provides resources and links to aid Veterans in housing, PTSD, and Health and Wellness. Find information on this page. Resources Find the resources & support for veterans and your Auxiliary Unit or SAL squadron. Find resources by topic. What are you looking for? Federal Resources VSO Directory Veteran Solutions Veteran Organizations PTSD 24/7 Confidential Support for Veterans & their loved ones. Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country. Forms, materials, and more. Find ideas & resources for your Squad or Unit!

Meet the leaders of the Hastings American Legion. Our Officers page lists the dedicated individuals guiding our mission to support veterans and serve our community. Our Leadership MN Third District American Legion Through strong leadership, we aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those who have served our country and the communities that support them. Meet our 2025-2026 Leadership! The Directory is below or you may Download the PDF if you prefer. Amy Larsen Commander Post 586 Lonsdale MN 55046 AmyLarsenLegion@gmail.com 612-306-4438 Nate Olson Adjutant Post 45 New Prague MN 56071 nocanby@gmail.com 612-804-6117 Joe Bares Membership Director Post 3 Jordan MN 55352 jebares@yahoo.com 952-686-3311 Barrett Kirchenwitz Finance Officer Post 594 Montrose MN 55363 bmk6712@yahoo.com 612-998-5033 DON PANKAKE Judge Advocate Post 96 Hutchinson MN 55350 pankake@hutchtel.net 612-280-7320 CINDY YANCHURY Chaplain Post 594 Eagan MN 55123 cindy.yanchury@gmail.com 651-261-1594 Ashley Venburg Historian Post 225 Forest Lake MN 55025 wsskat@gmail.com 651-283-2354 Neil Hoadley Sgt-at Arms Post 47 Hastings MN 55033 airrachet@gmail.com 651-703-6304 DAN LUDWIG Past National Commander Post 54 Red Wing MN 55066 dankludwig@gmail.com 651-253-9086 Joe Tappainer Past 3rd District Commander Post 1776 Apple Valley MN 55124 jtappainer@frontier.net 612-770-5124 Vice Commanders By Area MN Third District American Legion Mark Doble Area 1 Post 594 Eagan MN 55122 m.doble4@live.com 952-393-7609 JAMES ENTINGER Area 2 Post 95 Glencoe MN 55336 jentinger@yahoo.com 920-328-7512 Wayne Beierman Area 3 Post 594 Eagan MN 55122 beierman66@gmail.com 651-497-0971 Ross Lacourt Area 4 Post 54 Farmington MN 55024 rmlacourt@gmail.com 760-586-5558 MARISSA LACOURT Area 5 Post 1776 Farmington MN 55024 marissa.lacourt@gmail.com 760-586-5136 EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE EXPLORE OUR SITE

The mental health and emotional well-being of our Veterans is important to the MN Third District American Legion. Click to find resources to help you and your family navigate through difficult times. Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country. "PTSD in veterans is a silent battle fought daily, a testament to their resilience and sacrifice. Acknowledging their struggle is the first step toward healing." Support for Veterans with PTSD Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that affects many veterans who have experienced the intense stress of combat or other traumatic events during their service. This invisible wound can lead to significant emotional and psychological challenges, impacting not only the veteran but also their family and friends. At the Minnesota Third District American Legion, we are committed to providing support and resources for veterans dealing with PTSD. Symptoms Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event, nightmares, or flashbacks. Avoidance: Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event, avoiding places, activities, or people that remind them of the trauma. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Feelings of hopelessness, negative thoughts about oneself or others, memory problems, and difficulty maintaining close relationships. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, feeling on guard, having trouble sleeping, and experiencing irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior. Find Support Support and Treatment Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other forms of counseling. Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms. Support Groups: Connecting with other veterans who understand the experience can provide invaluable emotional support. Find Support National PTSD Resources Veterans Crisis Line: Available 24/7, the Veterans Crisis Line provides confidential support for veterans in crisis. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or text 838255. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers comprehensive PTSD treatment programs. Visit their PTSD Treatment Programs Locator to find facilities near you. National Center for PTSD: This center provides extensive information on PTSD, including treatment options and educational resources. Explore their website at www.ptsd.va.gov . Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs: Offering local resources and support, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs can help connect you with services in your area. Visit Minnesota Veterans. American Legion PTSD Resources: The American Legion provides numerous resources and support for veterans with PTSD. Check out their PTSD/TBI page at www.legion.org/ptsd. More Organizations

The Thundering Third District American Legion is dedicated to continuing the mission. With 64 Posts across Minnesota, we continue to grow and thrive. The Minnesota Thundering Third District Our History The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization. Focusing on service to veterans, servicemembers and communities, the Legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States. Membership swiftly grew to over 1 million, and local posts sprang up across the country. Today, membership stands at nearly 2 million in more than 13,000 posts worldwide. The posts are organized into 55 departments: one each for the 50 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Mexico and the Philippines. Over the years, the Legion has influenced considerable social change in America, won hundreds of benefits for veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth. The Minnesota Third District now encompasses 10 Counties within Minnesota and have 64 Posts across the state. Together we work diligently to ensure the mission and legacy of the American Legion continues to grow and thrive. Are you interested in joining? Find a Post or go to MyLegion.org to discover your Membership options and benefits. Thank you for your ongoing support. Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Find the latest Book of Annual Reports for the Minnesota Third District American Legion Auxiliary. Annual Reports Find the Book of Annual Reports for each year here. 2024-2025 Book of Annual Reports 2023-2024 Book of Annual Reports For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close

The MN Thundering Third District is proud to advocate for and support Legionville Safety Patrol Camp. Find out more about camp and how to register on this page. Shaping Safe and Responsible Citizens at Legionville Legionville Safety Patrol Training Center The Minnesota Third District American Legion is proud to support Legionville, a unique educational camp dedicated to teaching safety and leadership to young students. Located on beautiful North Long Lake near Brainerd, Minnesota, Legionville Safety Patrol Training Center has been shaping the lives of young Minnesotans since 1936. Legionville is a week-long summer camp where students learn essential safety skills, leadership, and responsibility. The primary focus is on training School Safety Patrol members, but the program also includes a variety of other safety-related activities. The goal is to prepare students to be leaders in their schools and communities, ensuring a safer environment for everyone. At Legionville, participants will: Learn Safety Patrol Duties: Receive comprehensive training on how to effectively manage school crossings and ensure the safety of their fellow students. Develop Leadership Skills: Take part in activities that promote teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. Engage in Safety Education: Participate in classes and practical exercises covering a wide range of safety topics, including water safety, first aid, and emergency preparedness. Enjoy Outdoor Activities: Experience the beauty of North Long Lake through swimming, canoeing, and other recreational activities that promote physical fitness and environmental awareness. Build Lifelong Friendships: Connect with peers from across the state, forming friendships and memories that last a lifetime. Benefits of Attending Legionville: Enhanced Leadership Skills: Students develop confidence and leadership abilities that benefit them in school and beyond. Safety Awareness: Comprehensive safety education helps students become more aware of potential hazards and how to address them. Community Engagement: Graduates of Legionville are well-prepared to contribute positively to their communities, promoting safety and responsibility. Fun and Learning: The camp balances educational activities with fun and recreational opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded experience. How to Register Interested students or parents can find registration details online at Legionville.org. You may also contact your school or local American Legion Post as they may be able to assist with the camp cost. Legionville.Org Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Gostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among young athletes. American Legion Baseball has been a part of our rich history. Join us in promoting the values of Americanism through competitive sports. "The People like the American Legion Post that gave us a chance to play. A place to play and a chance to play." - Dave Winfield American Legion Baseball Each year, thousands of teams across the United States participate in American Legion Baseball, making it one of the largest and most respected amateur baseball programs in the country. Through its commitment to fostering youth development and honoring the legacy of American veterans, American Legion Baseball continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of young athletes and building stronger communities. CODE OF SPORTSMANSHIP I Will Keep the Rules I Will Keep Faith With My Teammates I Will Keep My Temper I will Keep Myself Fit I will Keep a Stout Heart in Defeat I will Keep my Pride Under in Victory I Will Keep a Sound Soul, a Clean Mind, & Health Body. Minnesota Find team information, registration, schedules and more to get involved with Legion Baseball in Minnesota. Learn More Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Learn how you can become a member of The American Legion Auxiliary as a descedant of members and or those who have served. Join The American Legion Auxiliary today! Membership in The American Legion Auxiliary shall be limited to the: Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of members of The American Legion; and Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who served in either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918 and any time after December 7, 1941 who, being a citizen of the United States at the time of their entry therein served on active duty in the Armed Forces of any of the governments associated with the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; Grandmothers, mothers, sisters, spouses, and direct and adopted female descendants of all men and women who were in the Armed Forces of the United States during either of the following periods: April 6, 1917, to November 11, 1918; and any time after December 7, 1941 who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during either eligibility periods and died in the line of duty or after honorable discharge; and to those women who of their own right are eligible for membership in The American Legion. * Male spouses are now eligible to join the Auxiliary! * A woman who is eligible for American Legion membership is eligible to join the American Legion Auxiliary regardless of whether or not she is a member of The American Legion. However, eligibility of her female relatives (sister, mother, direct descendants) and/or spouse depends upon her membership in The American Legion. Join Online Download a PDF Paper Application Form For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close

Join the Third District American Legion of Minnesota today. Learn about membership benefits and how you can support veterans in our community. We Are Legion Becoming a member means a lot. It means joining a community dedicated to honoring and uplifting those who have served their country, providing a network of camaraderie, resources, and advocacy. WHY JOIN HOW TO JOIN ELIGIBILITY RENEW Your Membership Matters Becoming a Member is a wonderful step forward on your journey, whether you have served or not, you'll find a new world of meaning & support along with these benefits: Veteran Support: Access to resources, benefits, and advocacy for veterans and their families. Community Service: Opportunities to give back and make a difference in local communities. Camaraderie: Build lasing friendships and connect with fellow veterans and like-minded individuals. Advocacy: Influence legislation and policies that affect veterans and their families. Programs & Activities: Participate in various events, programs, and activities that support veterans and the community. Scholarships & Education: Access to educational scholarships and programs for members and their families. Health & Wellness: Resources and programs focused on physical and mental well-being. Patriotic Involvement: Promote patriotism and honor those who have served. Youth Programs: Support & engage in programs that foster youth development and education. Networking: Connect with a diverse network of veterans, business leaders, and community members. Exclusive Benefits: Enjoy member-only discounts, insurance programs, and other perks. Legacy: Contribute to preserving the legacy and history of the military service. LEGION.ORG Joining is easy All you need is a little bit of information to join the Legion, Auxiliary, SAL and Legion Riders. Here are three ways you can join: Find a Post and stop in and complete the form and pay your annual dues. Download the Registration Form below, complete and mail to your Post of choice. Join online by going to MyLegion.org and completing the information requested. Once the Membership coordinator receives and verifies your information, you'll receive a Member card in the mail and possibly an email too (depending on the Post.) Who Can Join? You do not need to have served in order to join the American Legion. If someone in your family lineage has served or been a member you may be eligible to join the Sons of the Legion and / or Auxiliary. All Legion Riders must already be a Member to join the rider group. Did you also know that Juniors can join? Find criteria specific to your needs in the links below. Legionnaire / Post Membership Auxiliary Membership Sons of the Legion Membership ALR Membership Renewing your Membership You should receive a renewal notice each year in the mail, but if you don't for some reason you can always: Stop in at your Post and complete the form and pay your annual dues. Download the Registration Form below, complete and mail to your Post. Renew online by going to MyLegion.org and completing the information requested. You will receive a new card in the mail once processed with the current year associated. Please also note, you can save on dues by applying for a Multi-Year Membership. Find out more online . Questions? Stop in, email, or call any Post of your choosing or visit Legion.Org for more information. Legion Membership Application SAL Membership Application Auxiliary Membership Application Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

Learn how you can become or nominate an Auxiliary Member for the Third District American Legion Auxiliary Member of the Year Award. Third District American Legion Auxiliary Member of the Year Award (Framed Certificate) Each Unit may submit one nomination per year (500 words or less), postmarked by March 1. The letter should describe how the nominee has made outstanding, continuous contributions to your Unit. Guidelines Narratives only — no photos, clippings, or articles Must be signed and dated by two Unit officers (include names, addresses, phone numbers, and signatures) Nominations remain active for three years (Units must re-submit after that) Notify the District Secretary if a nominee passes away during the three-year period Selection The recipient is chosen by previous award winners and the Third District Auxiliary Member of the Year. The award (framed certificate) is presented at the Third District Convention in May. Why Nominate? Every Unit has deserving members—whether working quietly behind the scenes or leading programs. Take time to recognize them! Submit nominations to: Barbara Klehr 921 Sommerville St. S Shakopee, MN 55379 📧 babsklehr@hotmail.com Questions? Contact: Betty Schlueter, Darlene Wondra, Lois Wenz, Suzette Maluchnik, or Barbara Klehr DOWNLOAD For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security. 2025 By Legion Social. Contact the Webmaster. Key Links MN ALA Website National Website Third District Social Media MN ALA National ALA For Veterans Third District ALA Facebook Get In Touch Committees Officers Minnesota Third District Who We Are Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Presidents Message Decades of Making a Difference District Officers Mission / Preamble Past Presidents Past President Photos Programs/Committees Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Auxiliary Girls State Essay Contest Oratorical Contest Poppy Program Membership Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Application Book of Annual Reports Eligibility Membership Transmittal Membership Video Upcoming Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Fall Conference Pearl Harbor Rally Unit Events Media Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Book of Annual Reports Bulletins/Newsletters Poppy Video Presidents Message Resources Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Auxiliary Forms Contest Rules Honor Flight Video Quilts of Valor Wreaths Across America VA Wish List Key Links Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Auxiliary District Facebook Auxiliary Department of MN Auxiliary Department of MN Facebook Auxiliary National Headquarters MN Third District National Headquarters Emblem Sales Menu Close

The mental health and emotional well-being of our Veterans is important to the MN Thundering Third District American Legion. Click to find resources to help you and your family navigate through difficult times. Mental & Emotional Health Resources for Veterans & Their Families Veterans Crisis Line Confidential, Support 24 hours every single day for Veterans and their loved ones. You do not need to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect. LINK Roger Up Roger Up offers veterans and first responders struggling with mental health a fast action approach to getting on a healthier & safer path. LINK Beyond the Yellow Ribbon BTYR services veterans, past and present and their families in our local communities to provide unparalleled services that help our heros receive the attention they deserve. LINK Our Heroes Tour Our Heroes Tour's mission is to provide opportunities for past and present First Responders, Military, and their families, to engage in unique experiences while providing time to live, laugh, and love together. LINK Hometown Hero Outdoors The mission is to give back to the men and women who serve our nation and community without any intention of receiving anything in return. This includes first responders, veterans, and those currently serving in the military. LINK Gaits of Hope Equine Therapy Offers Military Veterans a therapeutic experience with horses, guiding them through a process to address trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and triggers. LINK Minnesota Veterans Assistance Fund Veterans, families of deployed service members, and surviving minor children are eligible to apply for the grant. LINK Believet Canine Service Partners Believet™ service dogs provide veterans a new lease on life. They offer a path for veterans to grow and hope for a better future. LINK Wounded Warrior Project Every warrior has a next mission. We know that the transition to civilian life is a journey. And for every warrior, family member, and caregiver, that journey looks different. LINK Find the Assistance You Deserve Thank you to all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.