N.J. American Legion improves vets, troops quality of life

Mike Wilson, the commander of the American Legion for the state of New Jersey, knows that most people think of his organization as a group of veterans sitting around a bar, with little else to do.

Nothing, he said, could be further from the truth.

Instead, these brave and selfless men provide unwavering support for fellow veterans and active troops through a variety of outreach endeavors that seek to improve the quality of life for those who served the nation.

Recently, Wilson received an $8,000 donation from the Spotswood post of the American Legion that will improve and enhance the Menlo Park and Vineland veterans facilities.

The total cost for Wilson's project is estimated at $120,000.

Wilson, who began his one-year term as commander in June, explained that every year the new commander selects his own project, which, in the past, has included providing vehicles and furnishings for the facility in Vineland, as well as Veterans Haven South and North.

The Veterans Haven program is operated for homeless veterans, focusing on their psychological, social and vocational well-being.

The Veterans Memorial Homes in Vineland, Paramus and Menlo Park provide a dignified environment to veterans in need of nursing home services.

"We approached the New Jersey Department of Military Affairs in Trenton to see where donations would make the biggest impact," Wilson said. "And, this year, Menlo Park and Vineland were especially in need. "The last time, Menlo Park got a bus to transport veterans to events in the community, such as baseball games, (and that) was in early 2000 or the late 1990s.

"When I spoke to the director of Vineland, they needed new billiard tables and computers because they are so shot and worn out. You would be surprised at how computer savvy our veterans are. They're on Facebook, using Skype, communicating with friends and family. We are hoping to get 23-inch screen computers that will help them keep the communication going.

"They also requested lounge furniture because it is all pressed wood and very run-down. They deserve better than that. The maintenance department has also asked for all new automatic door openers to make it easier for our veterans to enter and exit because they can't afford them."

Wilson, a lifelong resident of Bayonne, served as an electrician's mate in the Navy from 1973 to 1979 aboard the USS Mount Baker and USS Kiska.

He was inspired to join the military after learning of the experiences and sacrifices made by his father, who also served in the Navy.

"We take these types of things we have for granted. Why shouldn't our veterans in these homes have the same quality of life that we have? Just because they ended up in a veterans home, it's not the end but just a new chapter in their lives. We have to make sure that our veterans have the quality-of-life issues that we take for granted."

According to Wilson, 90 percent of the money raised by the American Legion comes from family events conducted to raise funds.

And 100 percent of every dollar raised by the legion or given in donations goes directly to the projects, not toward administrative or other fees.

"Our goals are just like any other organization," Wilson said. "There is a lot going on in the American Legion that people just don't know about. We are not a post or a building, but it is each member who has earned the right to wear that hat."

Wilson pointed out that, among their many responsibilities, members are involved in family readiness groups, welcoming troops home. They go to the Lyons Campus of the Veterans Affairs New Jersey Health Care System, hoeld regular meetings with the Department of Veterans Affairs and visit the Haven and Memorial Home facilities to assess their needs.

"We go to our congressmen to make sure they are held accountable, sit in on national security meetings in Washington to see what cuts will be incurred to our military, and we are involved in every possible facet of taking care of our veterans and active-duty troops."

After Sept. 11, 2001, the American Legion Riders was founded, with members establishing the Legacy Scholarship Fund. Each year, a motorcycle ride is held to raise money for the children of fallen soldiers so they may have tuition to attend college.

The fund has raised more than $5 million in the past seven years, Wilson said.

Maintaining a number of committees that provide support within the community, such as the Americanism committee, the organization's members help to educate students in local schools about the significance of the American flag and the sacrifices made by veterans and troops.

"During the holiday season, you are going to have a lot of organizations asking for donations. We urge everyone to use due diligence and know who you are giving your money to and research how much of your donation actually goes to doing what your giving your money for," said Gary Cooper, public relations chairman for the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

"Our veterans homes are near and dear to our hearts, which is why all our members and friends are supporting this worthwhile project."

How to help

Donations, which are tax deductible, may be sent to American Legion, Department of New Jersey, Attention: Commander's Project, 135 W. Hanover St., Trenton, NJ 08618.

For more information, call Vince Mento or John Baker at 609-695-5418.