Legislative action is everyone's responsibility. (From The: Auxiliary National Commander).

Among Auxiliary members, legislative issues affecting veterans benefits are among the organization's most important responsibilities, and it is up to us to make sure our elected officials do what is in the best interest of all veterans.

Our nation's men and women were ready to do their part when they answered the call to join the military. Through their unfailing efforts and sacrifice, we are blessed with the freedoms we enjoy today. That is why it is so important for every American to help those veterans who need our assistance. It is also important to remember that, even as you read this article, our military men and women are defending the freedom of America. We must never take them for granted, and we must make veterans benefits our top priority.

What can you do to help? Be informed about veterans issues and take action!

There are many ways to learn about veterans issues. One of the best sources is through the DAV web site at www.dav.org. Anytime you need to know what is happening in Washington, you'll find it available through the web site. Once you arrive at the opening page at www.dav.org, click on the bar titled "Legislative Action & You!" When this page opens, click on the underlined area titled "Advocacy In Action." At the bottom of this page you will find a box with an underlined area titled "Action E-List." Click on "Action E-List" to sign up for the Action E-List and be notified when you can make a critical difference on important issues. The legislative portion of the DAV web site includes a variety of information on legislative initiatives, including pre-written letters for you to use. As an Action E-List participant, you'll receive legislative updates and alerts. When you receive an e-mail alert asking you to contact your representatives about pending legislation needing DAV and Auxiliary support, you simply type in your ZIP code, enter your name, mailing and e-mail addresses and click send. It's that easy.

You may also be asked to call your local representative's office or visit them concerning veterans' issues. Visits and phone calls are just as important as letters and e-mails. The most important thing is to take action immediately.

Another great source of legislative information is DA V Magazine. Be sure to check your issue when it arrives. You'll find valuable information about legislative issues. Make sure to share the information at your Unit meetings, and use it to ensure your neighbors are informed about legislation affecting veterans benefits. Public support of issues affecting veterans and their families is vital to our cause, whether the person is a veteran or not. Be sure everyone has the information needed to support legislation benefiting veterans and their families. And don't forget to thank your friends and neighbors and tell them hove much you appreciate their support. A thank you goes a long way.

Legislative information is also available at Unit, Chapter, Department and national meetings, especially the annual DAV Mid-Winter Conference. The 2002 DAV Mid-Winter Conference will be held February 24-27 in Arlington, Va., just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The Mid-Winter Conference is a great opportunity to gain in-depth perspective covering crucial veterans issues. Plan now to join DAV and Auxiliary members from across the country as DAV National Commander George H. Steese delivers the DAV's Legislative Presentation to a joint session of the House and Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee. I also encourage everyone attending the conference to visit with their ,elected officials to share the DAV's message and express your concerns regarding legislation affecting veterans and their families.

When it comes to legislative initiatives, the DAV has no greater ally than the DAV Auxiliary. Let's show our elected officials what a winning TEAM we are in the battle for veterans' benefits.