The end of World War I was still in the hearts and minds of 15 men who wanted to continue their military comradeship by creating the Jay Wilson Post 112 of the American Legion.
More than 100 people participated in an anniversary celebration on Saturday night.
Charles Stennis, past state commander, was the main speaker and commended the group for maintaining the organization for 100 years.
“There is no way a Post can survive for 100 years without strong leadership,” Stennis said.
He said during his time leading the state organization he had the unpleasant task of closing three American Legion Posts.
“The worst thing is to have me, or someone like me, come and close your post,” Stennis said.
He also credited the Post’s Auxiliary and Sons organizations that make a Post healthy. He asked the women in the auxiliary to stand and be recognized with an ovation.
“The Sons play a big role,” he said.
Stennis also credited the organization for helping area groups even when it was a major sacrifice.
“You guys have stuck your necks out and supported your community,” he said.
Stennis also said American Legion posts survive when they adapt.”This Post has done a great job of adapting with change,” he said.
Ray Meister, post commander, said he was honored to lead the organization during the 100-year celebration. He said he has been a member for more than 30 years and likes being able to help the community through donations and service projects.
Post adjutant Mike Evangelista gave a history of the organization. He said the group became a reality in December 1923. He said the Post used several rooms in a building in Madison and bought property in the early 1960s to use as an American Legion.
The Post was named Jay Wilson Post 112 in honor of a soldier from Thompson Township who was killed in action in 1918 during World War I.
___
(c) 2023 the Star Beacon
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
