Sons of the American Legion

Pony Express Squadron 359

4826 Frederick Boulevard

St. Joseph, Missouri 64506

 

 

                                          IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

                                          For More Information Call:

                                          J.L. Goolsby

                                          (816) 232 – 2335

 

            FEBRUARY 19, 2001 - - President’s Day is a good day to remember not only great American leaders like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, but to study the institution that is the American Presidency, especially during Americanism Month according to Jerome Goolsby, commander of Sons of The American Legion Squadron 359.

“The presidency was crafted by the framers of our Constitution as a counter balance to the legislative and judicial branches of our government,” Commander Goolsby said. “They definitely didn’t want a king, but recognized the need to have a strong head of state. A President of the United States is not only the head of state; he is commander-in-chief of our military forces and the head of the executive branch of the federal government. However, the creators of our Constitution made sure a president’s power was not absolute. A president can veto legislation from the legislature, but the legislature can override it. A president can sign a treaty, but the Senate must approve it. A president appoints the members of the judiciary, but the Senate must concur. Although the president is commander-in-chief of the military, only the Congress can declare war. These balances among others make this institution so unique. Only 42 men in our nation’s history have held the office of President. We as citizens would do well to learn about them and to study the presidency so we may make wise choices when we are called upon to fulfill our responsibilities as citizens during presidential elections.”

-30-