Many graduates of the Wisconsin American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy (WALLECA) have been hired in to law enforcement agencies throughout the state. 2023 WALLECA graduate Haylee Zawislan was recently hired as a Deputy Sheriff in Wood County Wisconsin. Pictured below left is Cadet Zawislan at the WALLECA graduation ceremony with WALLECA chair John Wolfe. Photo on the right is Deputy Zawislan at her swearing in ceremony. Congrats Haylee, the Wisconsin American Legion is proud of you! 2025 WALLECA is scheduled June 23 - 27, 2025. (fb)

Brownie's Bark in the Park and Statue Unveiling at Wisconsin Veterans Home at King MADISON – The Wisconsin Veterans Home at King and Kelly Nelson, author of Brownie the War Dog, will host 'Brownie’s Bark in the Park' on Friday, May 2 on the grounds of the Veterans Home. After telling Brownie’s remarkable story in her book, Nelson led the fundraising effort to create a statue in his honor and have it placed on the King campus. Made possible by donations from local businesses and individuals, the event will unveil the statue and celebrate the community’s dedication to “a veteran’s best friend” Brownie. What: Brownie Statue Unveiling, Puppy Parade, Activities, and More! When: Friday, May 2nd, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., with the ceremony to begin at 4:00 p.m. Who: Speakers include Wisconsin Veterans Home (WDVA) Secretary James Bond, Wisconsin Veterans Home at King Commandant Tammy Servatius, the author of Brownie the War Dog, Kelly Nelson, and Waupaca Historical Society Director Tracy Behrendt. Where: Wisconsin Veterans Home at King, N2665 County Road QQ, King, WI 54946 Attendees are encouraged to bring their dogs for the puppy parade! Brownie was a beloved companion, serving alongside troops in WWII until an injury sends him home. Seeming restless, Brownie’s family began bringing him to the Veterans Home at King. There, he found a new purpose serving alongside veterans as a devoted support companion. Beyond the statue unveiling, the community will have the opportunity learn more about Brownie through games and stories. Brownie’s service to our veterans is an admirable one. Join us as we honor his legacy in the ways a dog would like, fun and games. Click here to learn more about Brownie the War Dog. To read the Wisconsin Veterans Museum blog post about Brownie, click here. For pictures of Brownie, click here to view our Flickr album. Guests are also encouraged to bring their dogs for a puppy parade and costume contest. (fb)