National President Visits Chamberlain

“As a goodwill ambassador I have an opportunity to visit states that have an organization at the department level,” said American Legion Auxiliary National President Nicole Clapp, “South Dakota asked me if I’d like to come. It’s great to be back.” This will be the second time Clapp has visited the state. Having visited during the time of the 2019 tornado disaster in Sioux Falls, the trip was cut short. While presidents typically serve a single one-year term, COVID-19 has led to Clapp serving two terms. She flew into Rapid City on Sunday, Aug. 30, and has been traveling across the state from west to east. “We’re back to see more of this beautiful state,” she said. In her travels, Clapp has visited Fort Meade, Mount Rushmore, three national cemeteries, three graves of Medal of Honor recipients, multiple veterans organizations and three American Legion posts. Arriving in Chamberlain on Sept. 4, Clapp took time to visit with local Legion Auxiliary members, observe Dignity of Earth and Sky as well as tour the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. Her tour continued on to Mitchell to visit the Corn Palace and will end in Sioux Falls, from
where she will return home. While Legion Auxiliary departments on the state level reach out for these visits, states must also meet certain qualifications. Clapp explains, “We try to look at historical aspects of the state as well as the impact of our mission to serve veterans, military and families.” Chamberlain American Legion Auxiliary members and their families, top photo, are shown with National President Clapp, from left, Gloria Anderson, Lorna DeHaai, Nicole Clapp holding Ryder Bunnell, Tayten Johnson, Connie Speckels-Andera, Robyne Bunnell, Addelynn Hickey and Lila Speckels. National President Clapp, bottom left photo, left, presents Tayten Johnson with a “Good Deed Award” for learning and performing “Taps.”