American Legion Birthday Bash a Success

The 100-year Legacy Lives On

by Norm Manley, courtesy of Manson Chamber of Commerce

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.

March 15, 1919 members of the American Expeditionary Force convene in Paris for the first American Legion caucus. May 8 “The American Legion” is adopted as the organization’s official name. The Legion’s draft preamble and constitution are approved. June 9 the National Executive Committee adopts the Legion emblem and September 16, 1919 the United States Congress charters the American Legion. Today, membership stands at nearly 2 million in more than 13,000 posts worldwide.

Manson American Legion Post 108 celebrated this special birthday on August 24 with a “100^th 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). Photo courtesy of – Gary Bégin/NCW Media, (USMC Public Affairs 1978-1984) Member Post 10, Dept. of Washington – Wenatchee, Washington

American Legion, Post 108 was chartered in 1923 with sixteen members. The charter recognized Charles Henry Wilkinson and Pat Beeman, both Army veterans that had recently passed away. Today, membership totals 40. Post 108’s monthly meeting is held on the first Monday of the month starting at 7:00 PM at the Manson Parks building. All veterans are encouraged to join us.

Post 108 holds Memorial Day and Veterans Day celebration at the American Legion Park, across from the Manson Village Center. Trout Inc (Chelan Fruit) donated this space in late 80’s. Larry Eldred, a retired minister from the Manson Methodist Church is responsible for our monument.

Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh with 27 years service to Post 108 and Commander Clyde McCullought, a 50 year member of the American Legion and Commander the past 15 years.

Manson’s oldest active member is Leonard Carlson at 89-years-young. Leonard served in the U.S. Air Force the year after it was founded from 1949 until 1952. He was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska and was a staff sergeant when he left active duty.

Post 108 is active in the Chelan Valley helping not just veterans but our entire community:

Assist Manson Schools with special projects.
Assist veterans and their families in our area.
Christmas and Thanksgiving food baskets to needy.
Hold patriotic celebrations on Memorial and Veterans Day.
Maintain the American Legion Park.
March in various parades.
Proper disposal of American flags.
Proudly displays American and POW flags at the American Legion Park and on special holidays fly flags from all six branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Provide American flags for Manson Schools.
Reach out to veterans in assisted living at Christmas time.
Sponsor AAU sports through Manson Parks.
Sponsors Boys and Girls state for both Chelan and Manson.
Support Chelan Valley Hope.
Support Manger Mall.
Volunteer for Red Kettle fundraiser for the Salvation Army.