PACT Act’s path to victory, more in October magazine 

Check out the October American Legion Magazine for an in-depth look at how the PACT Act promises relief to generations of U.S. veterans exposed to toxicants, as well as features on newly elected American Legion National Commander Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola, mustang therapy for PTSD, the origin of the Legion’s “Be the One” initiative and more. The clickable digi-mag is available through MyLegion.org.

• In “Act of Justice,” Ken Olsen outlines the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, the most far-reaching hazardous exposure legislation for veterans in U.S. history. Millions are expected to receive VA health care and disability benefits for illnesses linked to burn pits, atomic radiation, Agent Orange and other toxicants. Plus, read how the Legion Family’s digital advocacy campaign helped lead to Senate passage.

• Meet American Legion National Commander Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola, elected at the organization’s 103rd National Convention in Milwaukee. A native New Yorker and Navy veteran, Troiola believes service is the key to growing and strengthening the Legion. Showing new members around the post, making Buddy Check calls to ask how the post can help them, identifying at-risk veterans and connecting them to resources through the Be the One campaign – “the more people know what we do, the more will join the ranks,” he says.

• In “Saving George,” Henry Howard shares the story of George Kanaly, a Vietnam War veteran who found peace and healing through Operation Wild Horse, a nonprofit that pairs wild mustangs and burros with those struggling with PTSD. “There have been times I came in with a real bad attitude, and the horse mellow me out,” he says. “It’s given me new ways to address negative stuff.”

• Having lost a brother and fellow Navy SEAL to suicide, Dave Berkenfield says everyone has the opportunity to “Be the One” in The American Legion’s campaign to reduce veteran suicide – veteran, spouse, friend, civilian, caregiver. “Be the one person to recognize that a family member needs some help, or be the one friend who actually makes a phone call and asks someone how they’re doing,” he says. “You just have to be a true connection with someone who needs it. That’s what Be the One is about.”

Members can click here to access the digital magazine.

To join The American Legion and enjoy monthly digital issues of The American Legion Magazine, visit legion.org/join.