The American Legion of Montana
Legion urges president to reconsider pipeline delay Keystone XL would provide needed jobs for vets.
| 
| 
INDIANAPOLIS (December 8, 2011) – Pointing out that unemployed veterans need jobs now, the national commander of The American Legion is encouraging President Obama to speed-up production of the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline.
“We are very disappointed that President Obama is delaying the approval for this needed project,” said National Commander Fang A. Wong. “This project alone has the potential to create 20,000 construction and manufacturing jobs and stimulate related business activity that could lead to at least 250,000 permanent jobs. Returning veterans are disproportionately unemployed and would undoubtedly benefit from these jobs. Moreover, the United States must reduce its reliance on energy imports that can be disrupted by foreign conflicts, terrorism or piracy.”
The $7 billion privately funded pipeline would carry an estimated 700,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada, the Dakotas, Montana and Oklahoma to Gulf Coast refineries. It has undergone years of environmental review but must be approved by the State Department since it would cross an international border. The oil would be extracted from Canada’s tar sands. Last summer, delegates to The American Legion’s 93rd National Convention in Minneapolis passed Resolution 107 in which they urged all segments of the U.S. government to pursue and grant all required permits for the proposed pipeline “without further delay.”
“President Obama clearly cares about helping unemployed veterans,” Wong said. “He should be commended for recently signing the Veterans Opportunity to Work Act. But the truth is that unemployed veterans need jobs now and the Keystone XL Pipeline has widespread support among members of both parties and unions, who see this as an opportunity for true ‘shovel-ready’ jobs. We urge the president to put our nation’s interests first. Approve the pipeline.”
Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, who favors the project, pointed out on Fox News today that Canada will likely extract the oil whether the United States approves the project or not. “That oil will be produced, it just won’t go here. It will go to Asia or elsewhere.”
2012 Consolidated National Report
Friday, 13 January 2012 15:27 | Written by Administrator |
| |
In addition to the “Consolidated Post Report,” a “Consolidated National Report 2011” has been created to offer a snapshot of the many ways in which, at the national level, your National Executive Committee, National Standing Commissions and Committees, National Officers, and individual Legion volunteers have been working to support your grassroots efforts and initiatives. Additionally, information is provided about the Legion’s direct support and advocacy for American Legion members and their values, as well as programs and services to increase membership, promote quality training, and communications.
Spring District Meetings 2012
Friday, 13 January 2012 11:57 | Written by Administrator |
| |
AARP Salutes Montana Veterans with Free Driver Safety Class
Saturday, 05 November 2011 09:45 | Written by Administrator |
| |
Classes offered to current, former military throughout November Helena, Mont., Nov 04, 2011 – In honor of Veteran's Day and in recognition of their dedication and commitment to service, the AARP Driver Safety Program (DSP) is waiving entrance fees to its classroom courses for veterans in Montana and across the country in November. All military personnel, active duty or retired, are eligible to receive a free DSP classroom course during the month of November (Nov. 1-30, 2011). Military personnel include those individuals who serve or have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, National Guard/Reserves, or Coast Guard. Since 1979, the AARP Driver Safety Program has helped over 13 million drivers learn safety strategies and adapt to physical and cognitive changes related to aging. The course teaches valuable defensive driving skills and provides a refresher of the rules of the road. Plus, under Montana law, participants qualify for an automobile insurance discount by completing the classroom course. Last year 3,900 students completed the classroom course in the state. With classes offered in communities throughout Montana, veterans should have little difficulty finding a class that's conveniently located. Classes are limited in size, however, so those interested should call early to find a class that fits their needs. Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Veterans Crisis Line
Saturday, 05 November 2011 09:46 | Written by Administrator |
| |
Dear Gary White, American Legion of Montana: |