American Legion

Went to the post this morning - May 26, 2025, for Memorial Day ceremonies arriving about 0920 hours and noticed activity in the main meeting area. Asked what was going on and was told that the ceremonies would be held inside at 1000 hours. The past 7 years, ceremonies have been held outside by the flagpole. Asked why the ceremonies were moved inside and was told - "American Legion Protocol". Ok, I ordered 1 coke and 1 pepsi for my wife and I and were charged $1.50. Gave bartender $2.00 and did not receive change back - must have been a surcharge for her to wait on us. Anyway, ceremonies started at 1010 hours and consisted of the Chaplain getting up and talking about the casualties in all American wars greatly exaggerating the numbers, for example, he stated "thousands of nurses died in Vietnam". Actually, 8 died, 7 Army and 1 Air Force - only 1 dying from hostile fire, remainder died in airplane or helicopter crashes. He further stated that 58, 000 died in Nam - true - but went on to say "more would have died if I didn't make it back." Well, guess that was true too but if no one made it back from the Nam, 2.7 million would have died. I was told earlier that American Legion Protocol required ceremonies be held indoors. That same protocol, adopted Nov 2023 and contained in the 2024 edition of the American Legion Officers Handbook, states that during Memorial Day ceremonies, the Commander and his Officers will march in and take their place on the stage, the Pledge of Allegiance will be recited by all in attendance, followed by opening remarks, then a tribute to all Veterans with some music etc, then the speaker and finally the benediction by the Chaplain to conclude the inside ceremonies and then all proceed to the local cemetery for further obervances. Somewhere in between, the National Anthem is sung. If Protocol is cited as moving the ceremonies indoors, then I can only say, FOLLOW THE PROTOCOL AS LISTED IN THE HANDBOOK AND DO NOT PICK AND CHOOSE. Very disappointing ceremonies and I noticed that a large amount of people remained behind and did not proceed to the cemetery. They all must not have been in agreement with the changes also.

My siblings and I had the best time here during our celebration trip for my brother’s 60th birthday, all thanks to Kathy, who made us feel so welcome! Thank you Kathy, for the photos and your wonderful, happy energy!

So much drama from this establishment. They are making everything about their issues and NOT veterans anymore. It's absolutely disgusting and sad that grown ups act like this!!! It is really like High School drama here *rolls eyes*.

Always treated so nicely. We finally got our membership. Love the community involvement

This post is AMAZING, community service, Taco Tuesday with many of the best options! One of the few posts that have a greeter, Barb is amazing! Cannot wait to come back for Anastasia's Fish Fry!