Notes from the Department President

Thank You for your confidence in me

From Nina Ketelsen,
2026-2027 Department of Alaska President

I am honored to represent the Department of Alaska American Legion Auxiliary as the Department President for the 2026-2027 administrative year.   This year we will work together to build a strong and cohesive bond between us as members.

My goals are to be a transparent leader through regular communication from myself, department officers and committee chairs.  Through open communication we can build a department that is stronger together even though we are miles apart from one another.  We can accomplish great things with the spirit of “Service Not Self” at the forefront of our programs that we choose to work within our units.  Our mission is to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military and their families, both at home and abroad.

2026-2027 Goals

1. To have a 100% department membership by the national deadline.
2. To raise $2,000 to donate to the Honor Flight in the Name of the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Alaska
3. To have a 100% report rate to the department chairs and impact report

Fundraiser:

This year my fundraiser will be to raise $2,000 to donate to the Honor Flight on behalf of the American Legion Auxiliary Department of Alaska.  The veterans of the Korean War, Vietnam Conflict and soon the War on Terrorism spend one day in Washington D.C. to visit national sites that honor their brave service.  Raising these funds will help with the costs of this trip of a lifetime for these veterans.  Please join me in this adventure during the 2026-2027 administrative year.

Focus:

My focus this year will be to support unit members, as well as leaders within the department and at the unit level to grow our membership. My ask is that you involve our future leaders through programs such as community service, education, children & youth and my favorite ALA Alaska Girls State.  These programs will help increase our membership when we involve our community and our young ones.  Always remember to ask “Are you a member?” Start the conversation because you never know who your next member will be and what great things she or he can do for your unit and for themselves or what your unit may do for that new member.

For God & Country,

Nina Ketelsen
American Legion Auxiliary
Department of Alaska
2026-2027 President

Fare The Well, but not Good-Bye

From Annette Gwalthney-Jones,
2025-2026 Department of Alaska President

Dear Auxiliary Family,

As I reflect on the focus I set at the beginning of this administrative year, I am reminded of the message I shared with you all—one grounded in gratitude, unity, and purpose. Upon returning from National Convention, I spoke of a renewed commitment to our mission and to each of you, our Auxiliary family. Inspired by National President Pam Ray and her theme, “Mission Driven – Family Focused,” I invited each of you to join me in a shared vision of revitalization, engagement, and lasting service. That vision has guided this year—through moments of growth, challenge, and unwavering dedication.

Throughout the year, I had the honor of representing our Department and participating in events that reflect the heart of who we are as the American Legion Auxiliary. Fairbanks was selected as the host location following a tiebreaker vote during the April 2025 Department Convention, leading to a meaningful and impactful Fall Conference where members gathered not only for business, but for connection, training, and mission-focused work. A central focus of our year was supporting the Be The One initiative—working to reduce veteran suicide and eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health. During the Fall Conference, the American Legion Family hosted the Columbia Lighthouse Project Suicide Prevention Training at C. Russell Huber Post 57 in Fairbanks, equipping attendees with the tools to identify risk factors, understand warning signs, and communicate effectively with individuals who may be at risk. The message was clear and powerful: it is OK to not be OK, and we must all be willing to be the one who steps forward. On September 6, we joined our American Legion Family in the Out of the Darkness Community Walk, raising awareness for suicide prevention and reinforcing our commitment to mental health advocacy.

Supporting the Last Frontier Honor Flight was another meaningful highlight, honoring our veterans and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. I also had the privilege of participating in greeting our veterans home and witnessing the powerful and emotional moments that define that experience. During this time, I observed more than a dozen veterans receive their Quilts of Valor, a deeply moving tribute recognizing their service and sacrifice. These moments serve as a reminder of how important it is to welcome our service members home and ensure they are honored in meaningful ways. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of submitting the name of a veteran to receive this incredible gift. We must not let the opportunity pass to recognize those who have given so much, as these gestures carry profound meaning and lasting impact.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this year has been the opportunity to witness the strength, talent, and promise of our youth. In March, I was honored to be invited by our Legion Director of the Oratorical Program to serve as a judge for the American Legion Oratorical Contest. It was a privilege to take part in such a meaningful program, even briefly, and I encourage anyone who has not attended or participated to do so. The preparation, confidence, and passion demonstrated by these young individuals is nothing short of remarkable and serves as a powerful reminder that our future is in capable hands. In February, I also had the opportunity to participate in the Girls State process when our Director of Girls State, Nina Ketelsen, forwarded an applicant for interview. As always, it was a true pleasure, and each year I am reminded just how extraordinary our American youth are. What made this experience especially meaningful was the opportunity to meet this same young lady while judging the Oratorical Contest prior to her interview. During our conversation, I encouraged her, after learning she had missed the opportunity to enter into Oratorical Contest this year, to consider participating in the Oratorical Contest next year. Without hesitation, she committed to doing so, and I look forward to seeing her take the stage and share her voice in the year ahead. Of courseI could not resist talking to the young ladies who I had just heard speak of our constitution, about Girls State. I’m optimistic about seeing them next year again. These experiences reinforce the importance of our programs and the role we play in fostering the next generation of leaders.

This year also brought unexpected challenges that tested our resilience as a Department. During Fall Conference, we received the resignation of our Department Chaplain, Valerie Rose, and within days, Department Secretary Ann Robinson also tendered her resignation. These sudden vacancies required immediate action to ensure continuity of operations and support for our membership. Through these challenges, I was fortunate to rely on the guidance of trusted mentors and past leaders. With their support, I reached out to individuals who exemplify dedication and service. Barbara Nath, Past Department President, stepped forward to serve as Department Secretary, Carrie Hintz answered the call to serve as Department Chaplain, and Diana Estrada once again took on the critical responsibility of statewide membership processing. Each of these individuals answered without hesitation, demonstrating what it truly means to live the principle of Service Not Self. Their willingness required the convening of an emergency Department Executive Committee meeting, where their appointments were formally approved. Months later, we faced another transition with the resignation of Department Historian Chrysti Leigh. Once again, our Auxiliary family responded, and after outreach and thoughtful consideration, Frances Bedel stepped forward to serve, adding to her existing responsibilities as Alternate Sergeant-at-Arms. This appointment was also confirmed through Department Executive Committee action. These moments, while challenging, revealed the strength of our organization, as members continued to rise to meet the need while balancing family, careers, and service.

In addition to leadership transitions, we identified the need to strengthen our financial safeguards. It was discovered that multiple past officers remained listed on financial documents alongside our current Department Treasurer, Pamela Cawley. Working collaboratively with our financial institution, we took corrective action to update and secure all accounts, ensuring proper controls, accountability, and protection of Department resources moving forward.

Throughout the year, I received official requests for visitation, and while it was not possible to fulfill those requests due to the demands of my schedule and family obligations, I remained committed to supporting our Units whenever possible. I had the opportunity to attend and support events such as Unit 28’s Alaska Fest, which was an incredible and engaging community event, as well as Unit 29’s breast cancer awareness auction, where members of our Legion Family came together to raise funds and awareness. These moments reflect the strength and heart of our organization at the local level and the dedication of our members to causes that matter.

Throughout this year, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication, compassion, and resilience of our members. Whether stepping into leadership roles during times of transition, supporting community initiatives, or advancing our mission through programs and outreach, you have demonstrated what it truly means to serve. While not every plan unfolded as expected, the spirit of connection, service, and commitment remained strong.

Only together can we make a difference. This year has reaffirmed that truth in every way. Through unity, service, and a shared commitment to our mission, we have continued to make a meaningful impact in the lives of veterans, their families, and our communities.

With gratitude and determination.

For God and Country,

Annette Gwalthney-Jones
American Legion Auxiliary
Department of Alaska
2025-2026 President