American Legion Auxiliary Unit 228 will host National President Diane Duscheck on April 16 during a stopover in her year-long nationwide tour to call on community members. According to a press release, Duscheck will have the opportunity to learn about veteran support efforts in southern Minnesota.

“It’s quite an honor to have our national president visit Waseca,” Unit President Mary Jo Knudson said. “We are excited to hear her message about her projects this year, the five-year ALA strategic plan, and the ALA Foundation programs. We hosted the Legion National Commander earlier this year and it will be great to have another leader of the American Legion family come to Waseca.”

During her visit, the leader of the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization will bring her message to those in attendance, take pictures and entertain interviews. Social begins at 11:30 a.m. with lunch being served at noon. Cost for lunch is $8 and includes a hot beef sandwich, potato salad and dessert.

Reservations can be made by calling the Waseca American Legion Club at 507-833-9935 or contacting Knudson at 507-521-4761 or mjknudson44@gmail.com by April 13.

Duscheck, of Markesan, Wisconsin, was elected national president of the ALA during the 97th ALA National Convention in August. During her term, Duscheck has chosen to highlight ALA projects that will make a difference in the lives of veterans, military and their families both today and in the future, including support for the ALA Foundation Endowment Fund, the release said.

The ALA Foundation, which celebrates its 10 year anniversary this year, is a 501 (c)(3)charitable organization of the ALA.

Duscheck, an ALA member for 56 years, is eligible for membership through her father, Roland Duscheck, a World War II Army veteran, who was a survivor of the Battle of the Bulge.

Founded in 1919, the American Legion Auxiliary helps to advance the mission of The American Legion. With nearly 75,000 members, it is the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization and one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of veterans, military and their families. ALA members volunteer millions of hours annually, with a value averaging $2 billion each year.

From helping to draft the GI Bill in 1944 to advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, the American Legion family has been instrumental in advancing legislation that improves the quality of life for the nation’s veterans. To learn more and get involved, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.