Greetings to 2nd District Legion Family, February 1, 2026
I would like to invite you to the 2026 Mid-Winter Conference February 12-15 at Des Moines Airport Holiday Inn. It is not too late to decide to attend. There will be some outstanding speakers to include the National Commander Dan K. Wiley (KS) and lots of educational workshops with topics i.e. County Veterans Service Officer Training, Post Legal Issues, Be The One. For details of the conference, go to ialegion.org/midwinter.
Now, is also the time to keep membership in the forefront, just like Springfield Post 331, Palo Post 679, Center Point Post 297, Monticello Post 209 and Sabula Post 74 for achieving 100% or greater membership by the January 23rd standings. Congratulations! That is outstanding work and a true testament to what dedication and teamwork can accomplish. Therefore, it is now time for every member to encourage “all” members to renew and then focus on potential new members.
I also want to recognize students and sponsoring posts (Madison Randall/Epworth Post 650 and Katelynn Newton/Toddville Post 674) who represented the 2nd District in the Area II Oratorical Contest on January 18th. Madison won the 2nd District competition and placed second in the Area II competition. The 5th Grade Flag Essay Contest was completed at 2nd District on January 5th with Maddy Uy/Post 26 winning 1st place whose essay will compete at the Department level. Again, congratulations to all students and posts who participated in these programs showing that posts are reaching out, staying engaged and showcasing our commitment to our children and youth. Well done.
As we look ahead, please keep these important deadlines on your radar:
*Eagle Scout of the year submissions are due March 1st
*Educator of the year submissions are due April 1st
These programs are another excellent way to highlight community impact and strengthen our connection beyond our Post walls.
Before I close, I also want to share that as the 2nd District Commander, I believe our responsibility is not only to carry forward the work of the American Legion, but to ensure we are united in how and why we serve. It’s important that we share not only the work we do but the purpose that guides us. Therefore, over the past few months I’ve continued to work on goals to help shape a clear, mission, vision and guiding principles for the Second District that reflect servant leadership, strong communication, and our commitment to being a “Family of One”. These statements are meant to support our posts, strengthen our programs and keep our focus where it belongs – on serving veterans, their families and our communities. I invite you to review the attached page outlining these foundational statements that will guide our work together.
Second to None,
Family of One!
Polly R. Graham