Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be in Indianapolis next week to speak at the American Legion national convention.
American Legion National Commander Brett Reistad says he’s hoping Pence and Pompeo will address, head-on, the issues on Legion members’ minds.
“Talk to us about the world situation right now, the national security issues as they pertain to some of the countries that we are currently focused on – North Korea, China, Russia," Reistad says. "Some of the challenges that our servicemembers face, some of the challenges our country faces.”
Reistad calls the convention “well-rounded,” talking about everything from legislative issues to practical opportunities.
“Meetings with folks that can help veterans learn how to build resumes and conduct job interviews,” Reistad says.
The commander also says he's excited about a recent change. Previously, military members had to serve during a time of conflict, as defined by Congress, to be eligible for Legion membership – like, for instance, during the Korean or Vietnam Wars, or current Middle East conflicts. But Reistad says new Legion policy opens membership to any current or former servicemember from any time since 1941.
The convention runs through Aug. 29.
Contact Brandon at bsmith@ipbs.org or follow him on Twitter at @brandonjsmith5