DEPARTMENT OF WISCONSIN
nATIONAL sECURITY
The purpose of National Security is to maintain and promote a strong national defense by strengthening and supporting military service members, veterans, and their families.
Through the 2026-2027 theme, Stars, Stripes, and Service, Auxiliary members are encouraged to honor those who serve, remember those who sacrificed, support military families, and strengthen their communities through meaningful service.
This program encompasses activities that enhance the practical, emotional, and social well-being of military families while promoting law and order, community safety, and national preparedness. Service opportunities include supporting the USO and Operation Homefront, promoting POW/MIA awareness, participating in emergency preparedness efforts, recognizing law enforcement personnel and first responders, supporting the Blue Star and Gold Star Banner Program, and honoring ROTC/JROTC cadets and students entering military service. Units are encouraged to recognize enlisted service members in their communities and submit nominations for the National Salute to Servicemembers Award by the established deadline.
Natalia Genovesi King, Dept Chair
Email: kinggenovesi@gmail.com
2026-2027 District Chairs:
District 1 - Sherri Curzi
District 2 - Carol Szudrowitz
District 3 - Shelley Drager
District 4 - Marge Ciechanowski
District 5 - Linda Bartell
District 6 - Phyllis Schultz
District 7 - Jesse Elmhorst
District 8 - Kay Grosskopf
District 9 - LuAnn James
District 10 - Teresa Steinke
District 11 - Kimberly Larson
District 12 - Barb McDaniel
Together, through Stars, Stripes, and Service, Auxiliary members can honor military service, support their communities, and advance the mission of National Security.
Wisconsin National Security Program Engagement Plan
I invite every Wisconsin Unit to join in a shared mission through our 2026–2027 National Security theme, Stars, Stripes, and Service. This year, we will focus on honoring those who serve, remembering those who sacrificed, supporting military families, and strengthening our communities through meaningful action.
Wisconsin Auxiliary members have a proud tradition of supporting our nation's servicemembers, veterans, and military families. This year, our goal is to increase participation across the state by encouraging every Unit to complete five meaningful activities that demonstrate our commitment to National Security and community service.
I challenge every Wisconsin Unit to:
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Honor
Recognize POW/MIAs at Unit meetings and gatherings. -
Remember
Participate in at least one community activity that raises awareness of POW/MIA issues and the ongoing mission to bring them home. -
Support Military Families
Present at least one Blue Star Banner to an eligible military family in your community and recognize or support a Gold Star Family through a ceremony, outreach effort, or special recognition. -
Recognize Future Servicemembers
Honor students who have chosen military service following graduation through cords, certificates, recognition events, school partnerships, or other meaningful programs. -
Celebrate Service
Submit at least one Salute to Servicemembers Award nomination recognizing a servicemember whose dedication extends beyond military duty into service to their community.
As Units complete these activities, I encourage you to “humble brag” and share your stories, photos, and successes. When using social media, please use the hashtag #alaWInationalsecurity so our Department can track all of your success. Together, we can showcase the incredible impact Wisconsin Auxiliary members have in communities across our state.
Units completing Activities 1 through 4 will be recognized for their commitment to the Wisconsin National Security Program. Units that complete all five activities will be recognized as Stars, Stripes, and Service Units, demonstrating exceptional dedication to honoring service, supporting military families, and strengthening their communities. These units will also be eligible for the Unit National Security Program of the Year Award. The District with the highest percentage of Units that complete Activities 1 through 4 will receive an ALA Table Banner for use at District activities or as they deem fit.
Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that the Stars and Stripes remain symbols not only of our nation's freedom but also of our commitment to service. Together, let us honor the past, support the present, and inspire the future through Stars, Stripes, and Service.
2026-2027 National Security Contest & ZOOM Information
RESOURCES:
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Troopons (Updated Name from Coupon for Overseas Military)
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How to Support Troops & Their Families on Military Installations
POW/MIA
Blue & Gold Star Banners
JROTC/ROTC/Students Entering the Military
AWARDS:
2026-2027 National Security Program Awards Deadlines and Submission Requirements
The American Legion Auxiliary National Security Program Awards recognize units and members whose dedication strengthens our communities and supports those who serve our nation.
Important Deadlines
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April 1: Submit National Security Unit Narrative Reports to the Department of Wisconsin. Reports will be distributed to the Department Chair for review.
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June 1: Submit National Security Program Award entries online through the ALA National website.
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June 1: Submit Salute to Servicemembers Award nominations online through the ALA National website.
As a courtesy, please notify the Department Chair when submitting Unit Award entries and/or Salute to Servicemembers nominations to National.
Submission Guidelines
Please complete all forms thoroughly and accurately. Award certificates will be prepared using the information provided, so complete entries are essential. Be sure to review the award webpage for specific requirements, including narrative length, photographs, deadlines, and points of contact.
Authorization and Publication
Award submissions become the property of the American Legion Auxiliary. By submitting reports or award entries, participants grant the ALA permission to reproduce, publish, and use submitted materials, including names and content, for ALA or commercial purposes without additional compensation or permission.
All national awards will be mailed to the Department Office following the ALA National Convention.
Thank you for your commitment to honoring our servicemembers, promoting national security, and advancing the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary.