American Legion to Recognize Army Reserve Soldiers on Armed Forces Day

AMERICAN LEGION TO RECOGNIZE ARMY RESERVE SOLDIERS ON ARMED FORCES DAY (MAY 21)
The American Legion, an organization that has long recognized the vital role of the Army Reserve, is sponsoring a program called "Blue Star Salute" on Armed Forces Day (Saturday, May 21, 2005) in communities across the nation. The program recognizes the sacrifices and achievements of all military members who serve the nation in the Global War on Terror. Each Army Reserve Soldier in your command is eligible to receive a Blue Star Salute certificate of achievement at a public event in your community. These events are called Blue Star Salutes after the banner of the same name hung in front windows of homes across the country during previous wars to indicate a loved ones service in the armed forces. In addition to military members, many American Legion posts will also be recognizing the contributions of family members and outstanding businesses toward our national defense.
These events are open to all in the community; many will include military and civilian exhibits, booths, games, music, food and a variety of other activities. As a community event, units may participate in an official role if it is deemed appropriate by the unit commander. Examples of participation may include parades, equipment exhibits, color guard or musical support, or other activities approved by the Joint Ethics Regulation (JER) (DoD 5500.7-R)
In order to participate, you must contact your local American Legion before May 1. In some cases, Army Reserve units may have already been contacted by their local American Legion. For times and locations of your community's Blue Star Salute on May 21, contact the American Legion post nearest to you. For more information about the Blue Star Salute program or the American Legion, contact Joe March at (317) 630-1253 or jmarch@legion.org.