If you’re an active member of your American Legion post, then you’re probably familiar with the Buddy Check system. It asks that you check in on your veteran buddies and other members of your post.
In this time of pandemic, older veterans may feel particularly isolated as they either don’t have access or the know-how to use technology to connect with others.
The American Legion is calling on its members and supporters to contact their representatives and urge them to support legislation creating a “Buddy Check Week” as a way to encourage and remind people to check on one another.
Senate and House bills S.4657 and H.R.2898 are currently making their way through Congress and will direct the Veterans Administration to establish one week for providing educational opportunities on how to conduct personal wellness checks and require increased resources for the Veterans Crisis Line.
To contact your representatives, follow this link to a simple form you can fill out and submit: https://votervoice.net/AmericanLegion/Campaigns/77447/Respond
Author: Jared Morgan
Jared is the senior editor and web team lead for the Department of California and chair of its Media & Communications Commission. He became a member of the American Legion in 2014 when he joined Palisades Post 283 to find stories about veterans issues for a local newspaper while working as its news editor. He was soon brought in as 283's assistant adjutant and historian to help produce the post's award-winning community newspaper. Since then, Jared has used his media skills to help further the efforts of The American Legion in its advocacy of veterans and their families. Jared has also worked for several years to help revitalize the 100-year-old Santa Monica Post 123, formerly as its adjutant and as a member of its executive board, before transferring back to Post 283.