Organizational Structure

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Finance Commission shall have seven (7) members.  The Finance Commission shall consist of the three (3) immediate Past Department Commanders, the Department Finance Officer and one member of the Department Executive Committee to be appointed annually by the Department Commander.   The Department Commander and the Department Adjutant shall serve on the Commission by virtue of their offices (By-Laws, Article III, Section 11, Paragraph H).  The senior Past Department Commander shall serve as Chairman.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Department Finance Commission shall be charged with the preparation of the annual budget and, upon approval of the budget by the Department Executive Committee, the handling of funds under that budget, and such other duties as shall be prescribed by the Department Executive Committee.

The Department Finance Commission shall establish the number of salaried employees of the organization and the terms, conditions, and benefits of employment for all salaried personnel, except as otherwise provided for in Constitution and By-Laws, or by the Department Executive Committee.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Fall Meeting:  The Commission shall meet prior to the Fall Department Executive Committee meeting.  All members are authorized one (1) day.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Commission shall meet prior to the Mid-Winter Department Executive Committee meeting.  The Chairman is Authorized two (2) days and the Members one (1) day.
3. Spring Meeting:  The Commission shall meet prior to the Spring Department Executive Committee meeting.  The Chairman is Authorized two (2) days and the Members one (1) day.
4. Additional meetings may be held upon call of the Department Commander, the Finance Commission Chairman or by any three (3) members of the Commission.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commissions activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.

Committees of the Finance Commission:

Marketing Committee

MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The committee shall have three (3) members appointed by the Department Commander for three (3) year staggered terms. The Chairman shall be designated annually from the membership of the committee by the Department Commander.  In addition to the three appointed members, The Department Adjutant, Department Finance Officer, and Department Commander shall serve as members of the Committee with voice and vote.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall work in concert with all Department Commissions and Committees to build awareness and support for the mission and programs of The American Legion, and other such purposes as may be assigned to it by the Finance Commission and the Department Executive Committee.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Fall Meeting:  The Committee shall conduct a Fall meeting prior to the Fall meeting of the Finance Commission. Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.
2. Spring Meeting:  The Committee shall conduct a Spring meeting prior to the Spring meeting of the Finance Commission. Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.
3. In the event that additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may so authorize upon the petition of the Chairman.  Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall and Spring Finance Commission meetings. The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

REIMBURSEMENT:

1. Vouchers: All expense vouchers must be submitted to the Department Adjutant by the 15th of the Month following the month incurred.
2. Mileage: The reimbursement for the cost of mileage by private automobile shall be at the rate of thirty-five (35) cents per mile, roundtrip.
3. Per Diem: Within the state of Iowa, allowance is $50.00 per day; outside the state of Iowa, allowance is $75.00 per day.  The per diem must be authorized by the Operating Structure and a hotel receipt must accompany the voucher.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Internal Affairs Commission shall have a Chairman and Secretary to be appointed annually by the Department Commander.  They shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Commission shall direct and coordinate the activities of the Internal Affairs Committees.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Internal Affairs Committees, and to report to the Convention. The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day, for purposes of a Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days, for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Internal Affairs Committees, and for the Chairman to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day, for purposes of a Commission meeting.
3. In the event an additional Commission meeting is required, the Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chairman of the Internal Affairs Commission.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

Additionally, it shall be the responsibility of the Commission to maintain a liaison with all Commissions to ensure participation by all appointees in their respective assignments.  Further, to aid the Commander, a roster shall be maintained to ensure that each Department Commission and Committee has the proper number of appointees.  Also, this Commission shall receive all information concerning new programs sponsored by The American Legion and further shall assign the new programs to the appropriate Commission and Committee, or if in their judgment, a new Committee should be established, then this recommendation shall be forwarded in writing to the Commander and Department Executive Committee.

Committees of the Internal Affairs Commission

Strategic Planning Committee
Membership Committee
Leadership Committee
SAL Committee
Legion Riders Committee
100th Anniversary Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have five (5) members appointed by the Department Commander for five (5) year staggered terms.  The Chairman shall be designated annually by the Department Commander.  In addition to the five (5) appointed members, the Department Commander, National Executive Committeeman, Department Adjutant, and Department Judge Advocate shall serve as members of the Committee with voice and vote.

RESPONSIBILITY:  Committee will assist the Department Commander and/or any Commission or Committee as requested.  This committee will establish and define strategic goals of the Department and assist this organization to chart a stronger course for the future.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and reporting to the Department Executive Committee.  The Members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.
3. In the event that additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may so authorize upon the petition of the Chairman at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have eleven (11) members, a Chairman and a Vice Chairman and nine (9) District Chairmen.  The Department Commander shall appoint the Chairman and Vice Chairman annually and they shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention.  The District Chairmen shall be selected by their respective Districts annually.

Department Vice Commanders shall serve as ex-officio members of the Membership Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall administer and implement the Department program for membership.  The Committee shall also develop and implement a program to establish new Posts in Iowa wherever the opportunity arises and to devise and implement a program of Post revitalization.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen and Members shall be authorized for (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and assisting with registration.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Fall Meeting:  Fall meeting is typically held in conjunction with the Department Commander’s homecoming.  All members of the Committee are authorized to attend at mileage only.
4. Past District Commanders’ Rally:  All members of the committee are authorized to attend at mileage only.
5. Spring Meeting:  The Committee shall meet in the spring for budget and planning.  All members are authorized to attend at mileage only.
6. In the event that additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may so authorize upon the petition of the Chairman. Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall plan and conduct the Department Leadership School and the Department Mid-Winter Conference.  The Committee is responsible for promoting the National Legion College and selecting the Department’s candidates for the College.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.  The reimbursement rate for the committee at Department Convention shall be the same as that for other Commissions/Committees.  Committee members will receive round-trip mileage at the authorized rate and the volunteer rate of per diem of $50.00 per day for the number of days authorized.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, reporting to the Department Executive Committee, and conducting the Mid-Winter program.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and conducting the Mid-Winter program.  The reimbursement rate for the committee at the Mid Winter Conference shall be the same as that for Department employees.  Members will be reimbursed for the actual cost of lodging for two (2) days, round trip mileage, and staff per diem rate of $25.00 per day for two (2) days.
3. Department Leadership School:  The Chairman and Vice-Chairmen are authorized to attend the Department Leadership School for two (2) days.  The reimbursement rate for the committee at the Department Leadership School shall be the same as that for Department employees.  Committee members will be reimbursed for the actual cost of lodging for two (2) days, round trip mileage, and staff rate of per diem of $25.00 per day for two (2) days.
4. Mid-Winter Planning Meeting:  The Chairman and Vice-Chairmen are authorized to attend at mileage only.
5. Leadership School Planning Meeting:  The Chairman and Vice-Chairmen are authorized to attend at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall supervise and serve as the Department’s liaison with the Detachment and all Squadrons of the SAL.  Further, the committee shall devise and implement a program to establish SAL Squadrons throughout the state and implement the programs of the Detachment organization.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the Detachment Convention, and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the Detachment Convention.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, the Detachment meeting, and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the Detachment meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meetings:  The Chairman and Vice-Chairmen are authorized to attend the Detachment Spring and Fall meetings at mileage only.
4. The Chairman or a Vice Chairman shall be authorized to attend the Fall and Spring SAL NEC Meeting in Indianapolis at two (2) days each.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen appointed by the Department Commander.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall serve as the Department’s liaison with all Chapters of the American Legion Riders throughout the Department and with the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee meeting, and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee meeting, and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the American Legion Riders Advisory Committee meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF THE COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The committee shall have seven (7) members appointed by the 2016 Department Commander. The members shall be appointed to serve on the said committee until completion of duties after the 2019 National Convention. The Chairman shall be appointed annually from the membership of the committee by the Department Commander.

RESPONSIBILITY: The Committee shall plan and coordinate the Department of Iowa’s commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of The American Legion and will encourage the Posts of the Department of Iowa to plan local celebrations of the 100th Anniversary and compile post histories.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention. The Members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and reporting to the Department Executive Committee. The Members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.
3. Planning Meeting. A planning meeting is authorized to be held between the Department and National conventions for the purpose of planning upcoming centennial events. All members of the committee are authorized to attend at mileage only.
4. In the event that additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may so authorize upon the petition of the Chairman. Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION: The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention. The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Americanism Commission shall have a Chairman and Secretary appointed by the Department Commander.  They shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Commission shall direct and coordinate the activities of the Americanism Committees.  The Commission shall also be responsible for selecting the hosts for the Department Bowling Tournament and the Department Golf Tournament.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Americanism Committees, and to report to the Convention; the Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day, for purposes of attending the Commission meeting.
2. The Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Americanism Committees, and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
3. In the event an additional Commission meeting is required, the Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chairman of the Americanism Commission to be reimbursed at mileage only.
4. The Commission Chairman shall be authorized to select two (2) people to attend the National Americanism Conference sponsored by the National Organization for two (2) days each, less any reimbursement provided by the National organization.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

Committees of the Americanism Commission

Community Service Committee
Children & Youth Committee
Boy Scout Committee
Baseball Committee
Oratorical Committee
Junior Shooting Sports Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Community Service Committee shall plan, supervise, direct, and conduct all Community Service programs of the Department not specifically assigned to other Committees and shall encourage and inspire Post participation in all phases of Community Service.  The Committee is responsible for judging and selection of Department Community Service Award winners from the Consolidated Post Reports.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meeting:  The Committee shall meet annually in the spring to determine the winners of the Department Community Service Awards at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall plan, supervise, direct and coordinate all Children & Youth Programs of the Department, and the Committee shall encourage greater Post participation in Children & Youth programs.  The Committee is responsible for organizing and judging of the Fifth Grade Flag Essay Contest, judging Department Children & Youth Awards from the Consolidated Post Reports, oversight of the Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program, the operation of the Children’s Activity Center at Mid-Winter, promoting the School Awards Program, and the coordination of other Department and National Education Programs.  Further, the Committee shall cooperate fully with the similar committee within the Iowa Department of The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of The American Legion.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meeting:  The Committee shall meet annually in the spring to determine the winners of the Department Children & Youth Awards at mileage only.
4. The Chairman shall be authorized to select one (1) person to attend the National Children & Youth Conference sponsored by the National Organization for two (2) days, less any reimbursement provided by the National organization.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall plan, supervise, direct, and coordinate all American Legion participation in the Scouting program and encourage increased participation by Posts.  The Committee shall be responsible for the selection of the Eagle Scout of the Year, the Adult Cub Scout of the Year, the Adult Boy Scout of the Year, and all Square Knot Awards.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meeting:  The Committee shall meet annually in the spring to determine the winners of the Scouting program awards at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have eleven (11) members, a Chairman and Vice Chairman and nine (9) District Chairmen.  The District Chairmen shall be selected by their respective Districts annually.  The two (2) Department members are appointed by the Department Commander.  Their terms shall be staggered and each new appointment shall be for a term of two (2) years.  The Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairman annually from the two Department members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall plan, supervise, direct, and coordinate The American Legion Senior and Junior Baseball Programs and encourage increased participation by Posts.  The Committee shall establish the rules for the programs and is responsible for certifying teams and rosters and organizing Department Tournaments.  The Committee is responsible for the selection of all awards associated with the Baseball program.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice-Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice-Chairman shall be authorized for (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Members have authorized mileage only for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Fall Meeting:  The Committee shall hold a meeting annually for purpose of planning the program and establishing the rules at mileage only.
4. Spring Meeting:  The Committee shall hold a meeting annually for purpose of certifying rosters and drawing the tournaments at mileage only.
5. Area Tournaments:  One individual is authorized to attend each Area Tournaments (Senior and Junior) at mileage only.  The individual for each Area Tournament shall be designated by the Chairman.
6. Department Tournaments:  The Chairman and Vice-Chairman shall be authorized to attend the Department Tournaments (Senior and Junior) for up to three (3) days each.
7. National Regional Tournament:  The Chairman is authorized to attend the National Regional Tournament (Senior) for up to four (4) days.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have eleven (11) members, a Chairman and Vice Chairman and nine (9) District Chairmen.  The District Chairmen shall be selected by their respective Districts annually.  The two (2) Department members are appointed by the Department Commander.  Their terms shall be staggered and each new appointment shall be for a term of two (2) years.  The Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairman annually from the two Department members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall plan, supervise, direct and conduct the Area and Department Oratorical Contest(s) and encourage increased participation by Posts and students.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice-Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice-Chairman shall be authorized for (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meetings: The Committee shall hold one (1) meeting annually for purpose of planning the program and establishing the rules at mileage only.
4. Department Contest:  All contest officials shall be authorized at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen.  The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall organize and promote the Junior Shooting Sports program with the Department, for the purpose of making information and assistance available to any American Legion Post within Iowa that expresses a desire to form a shooting club for participation in the program.  The Committee shall organize and conduct the annual Junior Shooting Sports Department Tournament.  The Committee shall also encourage participation in the National qualification postal match.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.  The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Annual Meeting: The Committee shall meet annually to plan the Department Tournaments at mileage only.
4. Department Tournament:  All tournament officials shall be authorized at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Committee’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Committee budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Commission shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen appointed by the Department Commander.  The terms of the members of the Commission shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Commission.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The National Affairs Commission shall supervise and coordinate the Department’s activities in support of the policy of the National Organization in the area of National Security and Foreign Relations. The Commission shall monitor the budgets, manpower requirements and equipment needs of the National Guard to ensure that those units are able to meet the requirements of both Federal and State deployments and that the Reserve Forces based in Iowa are sufficiently manned, equipped and resourced to fulfill their federal duties when deployed.

The National Affairs Commission is responsible for coordinating and judging of the Department Law Enforcement Officer of the Year program, the Department Firefighter of the Year program, the ROTC and Junior ROTC Awards program and the POW/MIA program.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the National Affairs Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the National Affairs Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the National Affairs Commission meeting and reporting to the Department Executive Committee.  The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the National Affairs Commission meeting.  The Commission shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. In the event that additional meetings are required, Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chairman at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission shall have a Chairman and Secretary to be appointed annually by the Department Commander. They shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention.

RESPONSIBILITY: The Commission shall direct and coordinate the activities of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Committees. The Commission Chairman, the Health Administration Committee Chairman, and the Department Service Officer shall conduct an annual inspection tour of the Veterans Administration Medical Centers located in Des Moines, Iowa City, Omaha and Sioux Falls and the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown. The Commission shall also serve as liaison to the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs.

The Commission is responsible for selecting awards for the National Economic Awards Program and the Val Likens Post Service Officer of the Year. The Commission is also responsible for all other National and Department Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation awards.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting and to report to the Convention; the Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day, for purposes of a Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days, for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee. The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of a Commission meeting. The Commission shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. In the event an additional Commission meeting is required, the Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chairman of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission chairman at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND DIRECTIONS: The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and the Department Convention. The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

Committees of the Internal Affairs Commission

Health Administration Committee
Veterans Benefits Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen. The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years. The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITY: The committee shall supervise, direct and conduct all programs which deal with the Veterans Administration Medical Centers and clinics serving Iowa veterans including the Veterans Administration Volunteer Services (VAVS) program as well as all programs which deal with the Iowa Veterans Home. The Committee Chairman will accompany the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Chairman and the Department Service Officer on an actual inspection tour of the Veterans Administration Medical Centers located in Des Moines, Iowa City, Omaha, and Sioux Falls and the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting and to report to the Convention. The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee. The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting. The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. In the event an additional Committee meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chairman of the Health Administration Committee at mileage only.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chairman and two (2) Vice Chairmen. The terms of the members of the Committee shall be staggered and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years. The Department Commander shall designate the Chairman and Vice-Chairmen annually from the members of the Committee.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Committee shall supervise, direct and conduct all programs concerning Veterans Administration non-medical benefits including but not limited to education, housing loans, insurance, claims, ratings, burial benefits, veterans preference and employment and all other benefits granted to Iowa veterans by the State of Iowa. The Chairman shall serve as liaison to the National Veterans Cemeteries in Keokuk and Rock Island and the State Veterans Cemetery. The Committee shall recommend to the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission suitable awardees for the National Economic Awards Program and the Val Likens Post Service Officer of the Year.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting and to report to the Convention. The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting.

Mid-Winter Conference: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting and to report to the Department Executive Committee. The Vice Chairmen shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting. The Committee shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.

In the event an additional Committee meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chairman of the Health Administration Committee at mileage only.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Commission shall have four (4) members, a Chairman and three (3) Members.   The Chairman shall be appointed annually by the Department Commander and shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention. The Members shall be appointed by the Department Commander.  The terms of the Members of the Commission shall be staggered, and each new appointment shall be for a term of three (3) years.  The Department Commander shall appoint annually a representative or firm to serve as the Legislative Representative (lobbyist) to the Iowa General Assembly.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Legislative Commission shall: recommend the representative or firm to serve as Legislative Representative to the Iowa General Assembly; prepare and implement bills as required by Department Convention or Department Executive Committee action; and serve as a “watchdog” on all legislation, Federal and State, which affects veterans or The American Legion mandates and program.  The Commission will plan the annual Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the Legislative Commission meeting and to report to the Department Convention.  The Members and Department Commander’s Representative shall be authorized for one (1) day each for the purpose of attending the Legislative Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference:  The Chairman shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the Legislative Commission meeting and reporting to the Department Executive Committee.  The Members and the Department Commander’s Representative shall be authorized for one (1) day each for the purpose of attending the Legislative Commission meeting.  The Commission shall also be responsible for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.
3. Legislative Day:  Members are authorized at mileage only.
4. In the event that additional meetings are required, Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chairman at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Convention Commission shall have sixteen (16) members.  The members of the Commission shall be as follows:

Chairman – 1st immediate Past Department Commander
Vice Chairman – 2nd immediate Past Department Commander
Member – 3rd immediate Past Department Commander
Member – Department Commander
Member – Department Adjutant
Member – Department Finance Officer
Member – Department Commander’s appointee from the DEC
Nine (9) District members – elected at District Spring Conferences for three (3) year staggered terms.

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Convention Commission is responsible for planning and organizing the annual Department Convention.  The Commission will receive and consider bids from potential host cities.  The Commission is not responsible for selecting the site of the Convention.  Site selection is made by the delegates to the annual Department Convention.  The Commission shall draft the Parade Orders for the Department Convention and is responsible for establishing the rules for the Color Guard contests and floats and motorized vehicles.  The commission shall also be responsible for announcing and publishing the results of the contests.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

Department Convention: Members of the Convention Commission have authorized mileage only for the purposes of conducting the Convention Commission meeting to receive bids.

Mid-Winter Conference:  Members of the Convention Commission are authorized mileage only for the purposes of conducting the Convention Commission meeting for planning and budget.

In the event that additional meetings are required, Department Commander may so authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chairman at mileage only.

The Department Commander shall annually appoint four (4) people to the Department Convention’s Credentials Committee (three members and one alternate).  Members of the Credentials Committee shall be authorized one (1) day for the purpose of certifying delegate strength to the Convention and maintaining the delegate strength register at registration.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chairman is required to provide a report of the Commission’s activities to the Fall, Mid-Winter, and Spring Department Executive Committee meetings and annually to the Department Convention.  The Chairman shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  Each American Legion District in the Department of Iowa shall have three (3) voting representatives.  The representatives shall be selected according to the rules established within each district.

This Committee shall exercise the usual functions of such a committee.  This includes promulgation of a listing of announced candidates for the several elective offices to the officers of the Department and to the delegates at the annual Convention.  The Committee shall not select candidates except in the event that no candidate has announced for a particular office by the first day of the annual Convention.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:  This Committee shall meet twice annually – the Department Mid-Winter Conference and the Department Convention and/or at the call of the Chairman upon fifteen (15) days written notice to the members of the Committee.

EXPENSES:  The Committee shall function at no expense to the Department.

OTHER PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall operate under Robert’s Rules of Order unless otherwise determined by a majority of the Committee.

Further, the Committee shall elect a Chairman and a Secretary, at the Annual Convention, from the membership of the Committee as constituted for the ensuing year.

Department Operating Structure (PDF)