My father’s name was Edward Gagan. He grew up during the Depression in very meager surroundings common to that time. In high school, like so many teenagers of the Greatest Generation, he sensed the impending conflagration that would result in World War II. Rather than waiting to be swept up into the maelstrom, he decided to be proactive. He dropped out of high school, enlisting in the Navy in September 1941. He saw combat throughout the Pacific, serving with distinction.
One of our family’s proudest moments was when, shortly before my father’s death a few years ago, the Philippines Ambassador to the United States awarded him one of that country’s highest commendations for his efforts in liberating the Philippines. The last three words of his obituary were “Anchors Aweigh, Grandpa.” I was, and still am, very proud of him.
My mother grew up with her six brothers and six sisters in the small town of Crystal Falls, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Five of her brothers served simultaneously in World War II. The sixth brother had polio and was unable to serve. Three brothers saw extensive combat. My mother’s brother Don, her last surviving sibling, was a paratrooper who served in the Pacific. Don still lives in Crystal Falls. He is 91 years old but still active. I golfed with him last year. I’ll miss him very much when he’s gone.
Most State Bar members either served themselves or have family members who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. As lawyers, we justifiably are proud of the part we play in ensuring that our nation continues to be one that is governed by democratically created laws implemented under the Constitution. However, such a government could not exist in the absence of a military that is periodically called upon to defend it. Those who selflessly serve to protect our country are to be commended.
“I urge all of our members to at least consider volunteering a few hours a year to assist a veteran.”
Your State Bar continuously strives to show support for our veterans through many programs that have been implemented over the years. We help fund the Veterans Law Center (VLC), a free legal center staffed by volunteer lawyers, paralegals, and law students in downtown Madison. The Wisconsin Legal Assistance for Military Personnel program is a project of the State Bar Volunteer Lawyers Program. This particular program enlists the help of lawyers for purposes of providing pro bono legal services to veterans and their immediate families.
In conjunction with a directive from the state of Wisconsin, the State Bar recently amended its bylaws to grant a one-year dues waiver to newly admitted lawyers who are veterans. (See State Bar of Wisconsin Bylaws, art. I, § 2.) Other programs and benefits exist and can be accessed merely by contacting the State Bar.
I urge all of our members to at least consider volunteering a few hours a year to assist a veteran. In doing so, you will be joining many of your fellow Bar members in both quietly and unselfishly helping our veterans. It is a small price to pay for their sacrifice.
Finally, sometime in 2015, make it a point to thank a veteran.
