Dear Editor,
Now that the legal proceedings have concluded, we felt it was appropriate to issue a statement on Argonne American Legion Post 180’s position on the LaVeta Miller case.  
We are disappointed and saddened at the situation, as Ms. Miller has been very involved in the American Legion Auxiliary over the years and has held a number of positions at the Unit, District, and Department level. However, she was found guilty by a jury of her peers of the charges against her, and we fully support the decision of the court.
As a Veterans Service Organization, we feel that the crime was particularly deplorable. This is due to the fact that funds were stolen that would have provided trips to the WWII Memorial for dozens of Veterans. This was at a time when these Veterans were passing away at a rate of over 1,000 per day. This resulted in a delay for many Veterans to make the trip, and some passed away before they were able to go.
Now that the trial has ended, and justice has been served, we feel that it is time to move forward and put this matter behind us. We would also like to reassure everyone that the matter has been dealt with fairly and swiftly within our organization. We welcome your questions and comments, and we ask for your support as we continue to support the goals of the American Legion, and to carry on for God and Country.
Kat Smades
Commander Argonne American Legion Post 180
Great Bend