One hundred years ago the American Legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most prominent nonprofit groups in the United States. American Legion goals include a commitment to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.
A brief timeline of the American Legion formation in 1919:
15 March – members of the American Expeditionary Force convene in Paris for the first American Legion caucus.
8 May – “The American Legion” is adopted as the organization’s official name. The Legion’s draft preamble and constitution are approved.
9 June – the National Executive Committee adopts the Legion emblem.
16 September – the United States Congress charters the American Legion.
To honor 100 years of community service and dedication to patriotism, American Legion posts across the nation hosted “birthday” events. A few of our local posts shared their events with us:
Wenatchee Post 10
Hosts an annual birthday dinner each March with special guests Wenatchee Apple Blossom royalty. The dinner this year was hosted on 15 March at 6pm. More photos on their website.
Okanogan Post 56
Held an open house event on Thursday, 22 August, at their Post Home (860 Second Ave N., next to Legion Park by the river) from 10am – 2pm, with refreshments, beverages and tours of the facilities for interested members of the public. After 2pm, Representative Dan Newhouse recognized and honored Vietnam Veterans and presented them with commemorative pins.
Manson Post 108
We celebrated this special birthday on 24 August with a “100th Birthday Barbecue” at Singleton Park in Manson. Event organizer, Vice Commander Brian Stausbaugh said, “The celebration not only recognized the American Legion’s 100 years, we acknowledged and gave thanks to those serving in our military, veterans, police, firefighters and first responders that keep our country and community safe. Hamburgers, hotdogs and a variety of salads were on the menu, dessert was a birthday cake!”
Post 108 members assisting with the event included from left to right, Allen Carnahan (Marine), Jim Young (Marine), John Swenson (Navy), Brian Strausbaugh (Navy), Clyde McCullough (Air Force), Jerry Ross (Marine), Leonard Carlson (Air Force), Norm Manly (Navy), and Carole Hanson (Air Force).
Tonasket Post 82
Held an open house event on 12 Dec with the main meal starting around noon.
More…?
Were there other events I didn’t hear about? Let me know so we can get this post updated with more photos and stories from around the region!
