AMERICANISM
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EARL CAUTHEN, CHAIRMAN
33411 Coral Reach Street
Dana Point, CA 92629-1556
(949) 240-0984 -- FAX (949) 496-1640

     Americanism is an unfailing love of country; loyalty to its institutions and ideals; eagerness to defend it against all enemies; undivided allegiance to the flag; and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty to posterity and ourselves.

     The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States promulgated this definition of Americanism jointly with other veterans organizations at a conference held in Washington in February 1927. Today Americanism is still around, but not everywhere. That is why the Veterans of Foreign Wars must continue to promote Americanism wherever and whenever we can.

     COMMANDER, when you choose your AMERICANISM Chairman, please make sure you appoint a strong person, who will not only get the job done, but will also submit the reports required by this Program Guide. The Post will then get the credit it deserves.

     The National Citizenship Education Chairman’s Booklet will be distributed directly to each new Commander and President in July. This booklet will provide many potential projects and how to implement them in your post and community. The possibilities are limitless.

     Order the NATIONAL AMERICANISM KIT from our National Organization. Write VFW National Headquarters, Mike Gormally, Americanism Director, 406 W. 34th Street, Kansas City, MO 64111 and request the Americanism kit.

AMERICANISM AWARDS PROGRAM GUIDELINES

     Auxiliary and Post sponsor the Voice of Democracy Program.
     Make presentations of Americanism/Loyalty literature to schools.
     At each Post function, decorate the hall and tables.
     Instruct schools/scouts on Flag etiquette.
     Color Guard participation.
     Transporting voters to the polls.
     Narrate service experiences at schools.
     Implement a Flag Presentation Program.
     Send letters to your legislators.
     Memorial Services for deceased veterans.
     Fly your POW/MIA flag.
     Lead your City or County Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.
     Give awards in your community for Americanism.

REPORTING

     In order to receive credit for Americanism at the Department level, a Post needs to report at least once on the Program Reporting Form (CAVFW FORM-12) .

     To be eligible for Department Awards you must also report at least twice using the Award Recognition Report (CAVFW FORM-11).

     Note: All Reports should be submitted to Department Headquarters.

POST AWARDS

     1st in each membership division will be awarded a plaque.
     2nd and 3rd in each membership division will be awarded a distinctive citation.

DISTRICT AWARDS

     1st in each membership division will be awarded a Plaque.
     2nd and 3rd in each membership division will be awarded a distinctive citation.

OUTSTANDING POST AND AUXILIARY AWARD - THOMAS JEFFERSON AWARD

     The Thomas Jefferson Award will be presented to the Post and Auxiliary who, WORKING TOGETHER, complete the most outstanding programs of Americanism during the reporting year.