Second Lady Karen Pence honored with American Legion Auxiliary Public Spirit Award

8/30/19 - INDIANAPOLIS - Second Lady of the United States Karen Pence was presented with the American Legion Auxiliary Public Spirit Award at the organization’s 99th National Convention.

Mrs. Pence, whose military-related focus has been on art therapy and the sacrifices made by our military and their families, was humbled as she accepted the award in front of 1,500 members and guests attending the ALA’s convention.

“I can say without a doubt that the strength of our nation does not just come from the people in uniform who fight to protect our freedoms,” she said. “The spouses and families, who serve alongside them, also make tremendous sacrifices to the greater benefit of our country.”

As Second Lady, Mrs. Pence has hosted and participated in numerous events to honor and recognize all of those in the Armed Forces.

“As members of the American Legion Auxiliary, I admire your commitment to the cause of freedom,” she said. “Through your programs, you help to educate citizens, of all ages, about the vital role that our servicemembers and their families play in the defense of our nation.”

Mrs. Pence discussed the importance of organizations like the American Legion Auxiliary and the employment challenges and their solutions that military spouses face.

She is a Blue Star mom with a son, Michael, in the United States Marine Corps. Her husband, Vice President Mike Pence, briefly joined her on the ALA stage before heading over to address a joint session of The American Legion Family.

Each year, the American Legion Auxiliary presents the Public Spirit Award which recognizes elite leaders for their contributions that positively impact our communities. We especially honor those whose efforts and contributions benefit our military, veterans, and children.

Accepting the Public Spirit Award places Pence among an elite group that includes filmmaker Stephen Peck; former United States Secretary of State Madeleine Albright; Former United States National Security Advisor Colin Powell; and 40th President of the United States Ronald Reagan.

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ALA Mission
Statement

In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.