The American Legion dispatch [Volume 19, No. 2 (October 23, 2009)]

Full Speed Ahead -- Advance funding signed by Obama -- National Commander's Message: Open the channels of communication -- From The Desk of the National Adjutant: COP Keating fund is Legion at its best -- Winners of History Contests announced -- 2009 Samsung American Legion Scholars selected -- Supreme Court remains divided over Mojave Cross -- "Taking Chance" -- 76 Freedom Car earns pole position at Iowa Speedway -- Urban warfare in a rural setting -- Key resolutions of the 2009 Fall Meetings -- Commander's Challenge winners named -- Children especially need support in wartime -- Chaplains play important role in helping homeless vets -- Marine Corps veteran encourages wounded warriors -- Annual golfing event benefits veterans and families -- Obama signs off on advance appropriations legislation -- Legion calls 2010 defense bill "Unfinished Business Act" -- Maryland launches state version of legislative council -- The American Legion calls for "transparency" at VA -- Post excellence awards created -- Post start-up/revitalization success stories -- Incentives added for district commanders -- Hill to award "challenge" pin