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February 1 %u2022 2025 www.VeteransReporterNews.com VETERANS Reporter News 7American Legion Auxiliary President Trish Ward Refl ects on Her Journey and Goals%u25a0 VRN Stafi Trish Ward, the national president of the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), represents the organization across the United States while calling Kansas home. A member since 1999, she is eligible through the World War II service of her father and grandfather. Now in her 25th year with the ALA, Ward has been traveling extensively to meet grassroots members and support the organization%u2019s mission.Since taking offi ce in August 2024, she has visited 22 departments, with plans to reach all 52, including Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. She highlights the dedication of American Legion family members as the most rewarding aspect of her role. Despite challenges like travel logistics, Ward remains committed to advocating for veterans and their families as there are so many great moments as I travel across America. Last week, I visited Nevada, marking my 22nd department visit since I was installed on August 28, 2024, in New Orleans, Louisiana. But the absolute highlight of my year is meeting our American Legion Auxiliary grassroots members and our Legion Family members across the country. Seeing all the amazing work they do on behalf of veterans and their families in both small towns and large cities is inspiring. The American Legion is truly the go-to organization in America to support our veterans and their families. The American Legion Auxiliary has 52 departments, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. So far, I%u2019ve completed almost six months, about 150 days into my term. February will be an extensive travel month, concluding in Washington, D.C., for our D.C. conference, where we advocate for veterans and their families through legislative efforts.Ward also introduced the Department of Excellence Initiative, addressing four key concerns.Small-town America is struggling. This impacts the Legion Family because we were built on small-town America, and we need to support our local communities.Leadership capacity is dwindling. We need more leaders%u2014stronger and more diverse leaders%u2014to guide us into the future.Membership needs support. Our membership is aging, and we must focus on growth through junior members and by honoring family members%u2019 service.The infrastructure of the American Legion is weakening. If our posts aren%u2019t thriving, they won%u2019t be welcoming for future generations. We must ensure that our posts remain the center of their communities.As she prepares for the ALA%u2019s Washington, D.C., conference, Ward aims to support the American Legion%u2019s legislative priorities, ensuring veterans receive the recognition and services they deserve.