Rhen Hilkert Post 21 is committed to veterans and Hoosier youth

In a quiet but impactful way, Post Commander Tim Hansford has become an essential part of ensuring the future of youth programs and veteran services supported by the Indiana American Legion Foundation. Recently, Rhen Hilkert Post 21 contributed $4,200 to the foundation, a significant donation that reflects the post’s dedication to causes its members believes are vital to the veteran community.

“We don’t run a lot of the programs that the American Legion offers,” Hansford shared in a recent interview. “So, this is a way for us to give back.” He explained that his post has begun engaging more directly in local initiatives, including working with Westville Elementary School to provide flag education to fourth graders, an important program designed to instill a sense of patriotism and respect for national symbols in young students.

But Post 21’s support for the foundation goes beyond just local involvement. The donation his post made is a testament to their belief in the broader mission of the Indiana American Legion Foundation: to support 11 different youth programs and initiatives that benefit veterans across the state. Hansford shared how educating the post’s older members about the foundation’s structure; specifically, that 100% of donations go directly to programs, was instrumental in gaining their support. This transparency helped to overcome initial hesitations some members had about contributing.

“It helped with some of the older membership not wanting to donate,” Hansford explained. “When I sat down and showed them all the details... that definitely helped sway their decision.”

For Hansford, the significance of supporting the foundation is clear. He hopes that the funds will help sustain vital programs and prevent any from being lost due to lack of funding. “All the programs are very important and vital,” he emphasized. “It does great things for our kids and veterans.”

As the American Legion continues to support veterans facing homelessness and issues like veteran suicide, providing grants to programs like Mission 22 and other suicide prevention programs has become more important than ever.

Hansford noted that his post recently learned about the foundation’s involvement in supporting Mission 22, which aims to combat the veteran suicide epidemic. “Nobody else is helping our veterans,” Hansford said, highlighting the growing challenges that veterans face.

Equally important to Hansford is the Legion’s role in educating and empowering the next generation. He expressed concern over the decreasing number of veterans returning to their communities to serve as role models and leaders, placing the responsibility on organizations like the Legion to fill that void. "I think that puts it on the Legion’s shoulders to go out and educate our children," Hansford said.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Legion’s youth programs, according to Hansford, is watching young people develop leadership skills and a sense of responsibility. Whether through Boys State, the oratorical contests, or flag education, these programs plant the seeds of leadership in young minds, encouraging them to believe in their own potential. “Programs like this, they build the kids up and teach them that you do matter,” Hansford said. “Your voice does carry.”

The future of the American Legion’s mission, in Hansford’s eyes, relies on fostering leadership in youth and continuing to provide critical support for veterans. His hope is that through donations like the one from his post, these programs will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact on communities across the state.

By leading with conviction and educating others about the importance of these efforts, Tim Hansford and Post 21 are ensuring that the American Legion’s work will live on—empowering youth, supporting veterans, and building stronger communities for generations to come.