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 Chair.

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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair or by any three (3) members of the Commission.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Internal Affairs Commission shall have a Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days, for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Internal Affairs Committees, for the Chair to report to the Department Executive Committee and for the Chair to assist with the Programs Fair.  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 authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Internal Affairs Commission.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chair 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 Chair shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting. 

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.

The Committees comprising the Internal Affairs Commission shall be:

1. Strategic Planning Committee
2. Membership Committee
3. Training Committee
4. Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Committee
5. American Legion Riders 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 Chair shall be designated annually by the Department Commander.  In addition to the five (5) appointed members, the Department Commander, National Executive Committee Member, 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 Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days 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. If additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may authorize upon the petition of the Chair at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and a Vice Chair and nine (9) District Chairs. The Department Commander shall appoint the Chair and Vice Chair annually and they shall serve from the time of appointment until the close of the following Department Convention. The District Chairs 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 Chair 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 Chair and Members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, making a report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.  The Vice Chairs and Members shall be authorized for (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and assisting with registration.
3. Fall Meeting: A fall meeting is authorized between the Department Convention and National Convention for the purpose of establishing the membership program for the year. 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.  If additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may authorize upon the petition of the Chair. Reimbursement shall be at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice s annually from the members of the Committee. Graduates of the two most recent National Legion College classes from the Department of Iowa shall serve as ex-officio members of the committee with voice and vote.

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 Chair 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 Chairs and ex-officio members shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting. 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 lodging allowance of $50.00 per day for the number of days authorized.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair 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 Chairs and ex-officio members shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and conducting the Mid-Winter program. Reimbursement rate for the committee at the Mid-Winter Conference shall be the same as that for Department employees.  Members will be reimbursed for actual cost of lodging for two (2) days, round trip mileage, and staff lodging allowance rate of $25.00 per day for two (2) days.
3. Department Leadership School: The Chair, Vice Chairs, and ex-officio members are authorized to attend the Department Leadership School for two (2) days. 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 actual cost of lodging for two (2) days, round trip mileage, and staff rate of lodging allowance of $25.00 per day for two (2) days.
4. Mid Winter Planning Meeting: The Chair, Vice Chairs, and ex-officio members are authorized to attend at mileage only.
5. Leadership School Planning Meeting: The Chair, Vice Chairs, and ex-officio members are authorized to attend at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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 Chair 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 Chairs 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting, the Detachment meeting, making a report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Internal Affairs Commission meeting and the Detachment meeting.
3. Annual Meetings: The Chair and Vice Chairs are authorized to attend the Detachment Spring and Fall meetings at mileage only.
4. The Chair or a Vice Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

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

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair 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 promoting and selecting the hosts for the Department Bowling Tournament and the Department Golf Tournament.

 AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, including the Americanism Committees, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for the Chair to assist with the Programs Fair. 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 authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Americanism Commission to be reimbursed at mileage only.
4. The Commission Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

The Committees comprising the Americanism Commission shall be:

1. Community Service Committee
2. Children & Youth Committee
3. Boy Scout Committee
4. Baseball Committee
5. Oratorical Contest Committee
6. Junior Shooting Sports Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs.  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 Chair and Vice Chais annually from the members of the Committee. 

RESPOSIBILITY:  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 Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.  The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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, promoting the School Awards Program, selection of the Educator of the Year recipient 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. The chair of the committee is responsible for signing any requests made for grants from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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. The chair of the committee is responsible for signing any requests made for grants from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.  The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and Vice Chair and nine (9) District chairs. The District Chairs 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 Chair and Vice Chair 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. The chair of the committee is responsible for signing any requests made for grants from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

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

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and Vice Chair and nine (9) District Chairs. The District Chairs 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 Chair and Vice Chair 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. The chair of the committee is responsible for signing any requests made for grants from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

 AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee, for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair and for conducting the Department Oratorical contest.  The Vice Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting and conducting the Department Oratorical contest. All contest officials shall be authorized at mileage only.
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. National Contest: The Chair shall be authorized to attend for two (2) days.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTION:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs annually from the members of the Committee. 

RESPONSIBILITY:  The Committee shall organize and promote the Junior Shooting Sports program within 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. The chair of the committee is responsible for signing any requests made for grants from the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.

 AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Americanism Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.  The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Americanism Commission meeting.
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.
5. The Committee Chair shall be authorized to select one (1) person to attend the National Junior Shooting Sports Conference sponsored by the National Organization for two (2) days less any reimbursement provided by the National organization.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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 Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the National Affairs Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the National Affairs Commission meeting, reporting to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the National Affairs Commission meeting.
3. If additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chair at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair, the Health Administration Committee Chair 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 Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days, for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for the Chair to assist with the Programs Fair. The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of a Commission meeting.
3. In the event an additional Commission meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND DIRECTIONS: The Chair 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 Chair shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

 The Committees comprising the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission shall be:

1. Health Administration Committee
2. Veterans Benefits Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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 Chair will accompany the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission Chair 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 Chair 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 Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation Commission meeting.
3. In the event an additional Committee meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Health Administration Committee at mileage only.

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs 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 Chair 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:

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

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE:  The Commission shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs annually from the members of the Committee. The American Legion’s representative on the Iowa Commission of Veterans Affairs will serve as an ex officio member of this commission.

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 Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of conducting the Legislative Commission meeting, reporting to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair.  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.
3. Legislative Day: Members are authorized at mileage only. 
4. If additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chair at mileage only.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND/OR DIRECTIONS:  The Chair 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 Chair 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:

• Chair – 1st immediate Past Department Commander
• Vice Chair – 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 is responsible for establishing the rules for the Color Guard contests.  The commission shall also be responsible for announcing and publishing the results of the contests.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS: 

1. Department Convention: Members of the Convention Commission are authorized mileage only for the purposes of conducting the Convention Commission meeting to receive bids.
2. 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.
3. If additional meetings are required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon the petition of the Chair at mileage only.
4. 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 Chair 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 Chair shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

MEMBERS OF COMMISSION AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Marketing Commission shall have a Chair 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. The Department Adjutant, Department Finance Officer, and Department Commander shall serve as members of the Committee with voice and vote.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The Commission shall direct and coordinate the activities of the Marketing Committees.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chair 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 Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days, for purposes of conducting a Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for the Chair to assist with the Programs Fair. The Secretary shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purposes of a Commission meeting.
3. Quarterly Meetings: The Commission shall meet quarterly, and members shall be reimbursed at mileage only for in-person meetings.
4. In the event an additional Commission meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Marketing Commission chair at mileage only for in-person meetings.

OTHER AUTHORIZATION AND DIRECTIONS: The Chair 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 Chair shall annually submit a proposed Commission budget to the Finance Commission before the Spring DEC meeting.

The Committees comprising the Marketing Commission shall be:

1. Promotions and Revenue Enhancement Committee
2. Media and Communications Committee

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs annually from the members of the Committee.

CONSULTANTS:  There is authorized to be affiliated with this committee as many consultants as deemed appropriate and necessary which may include members of The American Legion and non-members of The American Legion. The consultants shall be recommended to the DEC by the Chair and shall be appointed for terms of one year each, or until the close of the following Department Convention.

RESPONSIBILITIES: To work in concert with all American Legion commissions and committees to build awareness and support for the mission and programs of The American Legion.  To promote The American Legion to active-duty military, Guard and Reserve components, military veterans and retirees, and the public.  To build awareness of and support for the primary mission and purpose of The American Legion, especially among individual citizens, public officials, state and local government agencies, and corporate America.  To raise funds for The American Legion, Department of Iowa, through fundraising, donations, corporate partnerships, and grants.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of attending the Marketing Commission meeting and to report to the Convention. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Marketing Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Marketing Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Marketing Commission meeting.
3. Quarterly Meetings: The Committee shall meet quarterly, and members shall be reimbursed at mileage only for in-person meetings.
4. In the event an additional Committee meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Promotions and Revenue Enhancement Committee at mileage only for in-person meetings.

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

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE AND APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE: The Committee shall have three (3) members, a Chair and two (2) Vice Chairs. 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 Chair and Vice Chairs annually from the members of the Committee.

CONSULTANTS:  There is authorized to be affiliated with this committee as many consultants as deemed appropriate and necessary which may include members of The American Legion and non-members of The American Legion.  The consultants shall be recommended to the DEC by the Chair and shall be appointed for terms of one year each, or until the close of the following Department Convention.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The responsibilities of this committee include but are not limited to the following: To work in concert with all American Legion commissions and committees to build awareness and support for the mission and programs of The American Legion. To educate, motivate and inspire The American Legion family of the mission and programs of The American Legion.  To establish and execute a media plan for The American Legion of Iowa to include the department website, the Iowa Legionnaire, an electronic newsletter, and social media.  To conduct annual media contests for the Department of Iowa.  To provide communication training and resources to American Legion family members.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:

1. Department Convention: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for purposes of attending the Marketing Commission meeting and to report to the Convention. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Marketing Commission meeting.
2. Mid-Winter Conference: The Chair shall be authorized for two (2) days for the purposes of attending the Marketing Commission meeting, to report to the Department Executive Committee and for operating an informational table at the Programs Fair. The Vice Chairs shall be authorized for one (1) day for the purpose of attending the Marketing Commission meeting.
3. Quarterly Meetings: The Committee shall meet quarterly, and members shall be reimbursed at mileage only for in-person meetings.
4. In the event an additional Committee meeting is required, the Department Commander may authorize said meeting upon petition by the Chair of the Media and Communications Committee at mileage only for in-person meetings.

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

MEMBERS OF COMMITTEE 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 if 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 Chair 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 Chair and a Secretary, at the annual Convention, from the membership of the Committee as constituted for the ensuing year.

MEMBERS OF THE CLUB: Membership in the Iowa American Legion Past District Commanders’ Club will be open to any current member of The American Legion, Department of Iowa, who has served a term as District Commander.  Members in the Past District Commanders’ Club will be considered current if their current dues are paid.  The Past District Commanders’ Club will annually elect a President and Secretary at the annual Department Convention meeting from the current paid membership.  The Department Executive Committee shall ratify all officers.

AUTHORIZED MEETINGS:  The Past District Commanders’ Club will meet twice annually, at the Department Mid-Winter Conference and the Department Convention and/or at the call of the President upon fifteen (15) days written notice to the members.

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

FINANCES:  All funds of the Past District Commander’s Club shall be administered by The American Legion, Department of Iowa.  The association shall submit a budget annually to the Department Finance Commission and Department Executive Committee (DEC) for approval.

Department Operating Structure (PDF)