American Legion New Jersey

Family Day benefits COTA

Thu, 01 May 2025 10:20:59 GMT

Another $2,000 raised for Great Cause!

====PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE===

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Children and Youth Chairman, Detachment of NJ

(27 APRIL 2025) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – “The National Executive Committee voted in 2022 to create American Legion Family Day on the last Saturday of April… a day when we are supposed to open the doors of our Post to let the community know all of the good things we do,” spoke Rusty Myers when addressing the event’s attendees. “We can think of no better way to show what we do then by holding a fundraiser to benefit COTA.”

Myers, adjutant for Sons of The American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 in Belleville, was speaking at a picnic that the Post 105 Family held on 27 April to benefit the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, or COTA. This is the second year Belleville’s American Legion Family - veterans, Sons, and Auxiliary members - have held this picnic, though their support for COTA has been something membership has been passionate about for a while. Most recently, in November, the SAL organized a comedy show for COTA.

Supporting COTA is a component of the “The Four Pillars” of The American Legion’s national priorities … working to better the lives of our children and youth. COTA helps remove the financial barriers to a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support.

The day was windy and cold, even though the New Jersey weather had been in the 70’s the week before. Perhaps 80 people came out to the picnic - many of them members of “the Legion” from around the state - to have a fun time with good food and great friends. Between tickets, a 50/50, and basket raffles, the event raised almost $2,000 for kids with transplant expenses.

It’s especially important to note that all of the funds raised in New Jersey stay in New Jersey. Last year, the NJ American Legion Family raised a record $93,000 for the charity.

“Events like this highlight the incredible generosity and compassion that define our Belleville veterans’ community”, noted Belleville Mayor Michael Melham who not only attended, but is an SAL himself. “I commend Post 105 for being a true staple in our township and for their unwavering dedication to helping children in need of life-saving transplants."

The national COTA organization always makes an extra effort to have transplant families attend events throughout the country, so those at fundraisers can put a face to what they are raising money for. For a second year in a row, the Latchman family attended Belleville’s event. Melissa and Dan Latchman, parents of Aliyah, noted that “We are so grateful to those who took the time and effort to put this event together and host our family. Everyone is so welcoming and we truly appreciate each and every person who attended to support COTA.”

Last year, they told Aliyah’s story - “At 9 months old Aliyah received her life saving liver transplant from a donor and we have been forever grateful that she has remained in good health for the most part. COTA has been with us every step of the way and has helped with any transplant related expenses, such as copays for her immune suppression medicine, hospital travel expenses incurred going back and forth to Chop (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) where she spent most of her first year at. While the road to her recovery and transplant journey hasn't been easy, COTA helped put us at ease with regards to the financial burden and I'm so happy they will be there for her throughout her life.”

Lisa Natale, Second Vice President of the American Legion Auxiliary Department of NJ, who donated a kidney herself to save a strangers life, also attended the event. “As a living donor, I’ve firsthand seen the constant doctor’s appointments and testing that children undergo … to have the American Legion recognize this, and help these families with the financial burden, is life changing.”

The final donation, which will include additional donations from the Post 105 Family, will be given at the Department Convention in Wildwood in June.

“The American Legion Family has stepped up yet again to serve our country, and recently to help our most vulnerable citizens – transplant children”, remarked Rick Lofgren, CEO and President of COTA when asked for comment. “The members of the Detachment of New Jersey have helped Jersey kids working with COTA for more than 30 years, and have again demonstrated they believe in service above self.”

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wart ime veterans service organization, committed 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 service members and veterans. Founded in 1932, Sons of The American Legion exists to honor the service and sacrifice of Legionnaires, and is open to all male sons and grandsons of eligible veterans. Completing the Legion Family, in the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad.

Gail's Angels receive donation from Legion Family

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 11:58:38 GMT

Gail's Angels receive donation from Legion Family

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

NOVEMBER 2024 – BELLEVILLE, NJ – The Belleville Post 105 American Legion Family – which includes the veterans of American Legion Post 105, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 105, and the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 – donated this year $2,200 to the Gail’s Angels Foundation in November.

This is the fifth year that the 105 Family via SAL 105 has run a fundraiser that benefit cancer research and support. The first two years that this was run, the charities that benefitted were the Susan J. Komen Foundation and the American Cancer Society, until the Squadron discovered the Belleville-based Gail’s Angels.

The Gail’s Angels Foundation is a non-profit (501c)(3) organization dedicated to providing support to families that have a mom with breast cancer, and also care for their autistic or special needs child. Their sole concern is the welfare of these families as the fight continues to be waged on breast cancer. Gail’s Angels was founded in 2007 to honor the memory of Gail E. Babai who died of breast cancer in 2006. With the slogan “We offer the Wings of Hope to insure you’re Never Alone”, the organization is Belleville-based, with the owner, James Babai, also being the owner of Essex Cigar Lounge on Washington Ave.

“All I can say is I feel so blessed for the concern and generosity [from] you and the entire American Legion Family”, wrote Babai in a note to the Squadron.

SAL 1 ^st Vice Commander Vinnie Ferriole, having had cancer himself, is the chairman of the Cancer Fundraising Committee within the Sons. “As for me I would like to say being a cancer survivor I know how important this is to people … [we] hope to do better every year.”

The bulk of the monies donated come from the Annual Picnic at the Post in September, where the Sons set up a booth accepting donations and holding a raffle. This year, the SAL ordered custom Gail’s Angels shirts, with the Gail’s logo in pink on the back, and the American Flag and a cancer ribbon on the sleeves. The shirts were designed by our friends at National Sportswear in Belleville, where the four owners – the Tartaglia brother – are also all members of the Sons at 105.

With a donation by the SAL, plus donations from the Post, Auxiliary Unit 105, and DAV (Disable American Veterans) Auxiliary Unit 22, the total came out to $2,200. The donation was made in person, with everyone wearing their Gail’s shirts, at Essex Cigar one night to CEO James Babai. A photo was taken with the big check.

“Because of you guys Gail's Angels was able to feed 70 people this Thanksgiving, and will be honored to supply 100 pediatric cancer patients this Christmas with toys and hope” noted Babai.

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The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed 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 service members and veterans. Founded in 1932, Sons of The American Legion exists to honor the service and sacrifice of Legionnaires, and is open to all male sons and grandsons of eligible veterans. Completing the Legion Family, in the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad.

Squadron keeps on giving the gift of life!

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:46:47 GMT

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(24 JUNE 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 of Belleville, NJ hosted its fourth blood drive this year, in support of the American Legion’s core pillar of national security.

New York Blood Center (NYBC) was present at the Post Hall on Washington Ave on Monday the 24th and collected 21 pints of blood.

“We thought you’d be as excited as we are to learn your Whole Blood donation on 2024-06-24 was sent to The Mount Sinai Hospital, Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital (Newburgh). Your donation is a lifesaving gift to patients in need, including cancer patients, trauma victims, newborn babies and individuals undergoing surgery. And these patients are grateful for your donation.”

All four blood drives this year have been coordinated by Blood Drive Chairman Steve Donald. This time, donors received a voucher to see a free Staten Island Ferry Hawks baseball game.

Blood drives are an important way the American Legion fulfils its commitment to one of its four core pillars – National Security. Community Service is a critical element of building a strong national security, and the American Legion’s blood donor initiatives reach all the way back to the days after the attack on Pearl Harbor when World War I veteran members of “The Legion” organized blood drives to support elements of a much-needed civil defense program.

The next blood drive with the NYBC is scheduled for Monday August 19th, from 1-7pm, at the Post’s home at 621 Washington Avenue, next to the Motorcycle Mall. Walk ins are always welcome, but you can also schedule your life-saving donation at https://donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/324404 . Be on the lookout for future blood drives at the Post through public announcements or posts on the Squadrons Facebook page at @SAL105NJ.

New Program Empowers Future Leaders

Tue, 21 May 2024 09:31:29 GMT

We’re here to make the organization back home better

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(2-3 MAY 2024) – INDIANAPOLIS, IN – A group of twelve members of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) from across the country – including one from Belleville, NJ - participated in the pilot program “SAL-U”, or SAL University, during the first week of May at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Indianapolis. The goal of the week was to train the leaders of tomorrow, and students at the leadership conference were from New Jersey to California, and from Wisconsin to Arizona.

I was fort unate enough to be selected for SALU, following a fairly lengthy application process. As adjutant for my home squadron, plus as an officer at the state level, I was unbelievably proud and honored to represent Belleville and New Jersey at this national-level school. Throughout the application process – which was like filling out a college application – we were all given an opportunity to write about our ‘why’, and how attending this course would benefit our detachment and squadron back home. I am eligible for membership in the Sons through my father’s Vietnam service, so my ‘why’ is very important to me. SALU presented an opportunity to do even more within this organization which is such a force for good.

I had never been to Indianapolis, which is where the American Legion’s National Headquarters is. After the first day of session, I took a few hours to walk around the city and check out the sites – which included its fair number of memorials. From what I understand, Indianapolis is second to only Washington, DC in its number of memorials. It was a really neat setting for the two-day University.

“It’s happened – SALU is here. You guys are part of the change”, noted National Commander “JR” Hall, who dropped by the first session to visit and speak. “Take everything you can get out of this … We’re here to make the organization back home better.”

The commander referred to the mission of the SALU leadership conference – to teach folks from around the country information direct from the national organization, and bring that information taught by some of its most experienced member’s home. “SALU hit it out of the park with its instructor selection”, wrote student David Miller from Indiana afterward. “The training received will assist in making me a better leader within the Sons of The American Legion.”

The twel ve accepted students – picked out of the organization’s almost 375,000 members worldwide - were informed of their acceptance via a letter from Membership Training and Development (MT and D) Committee Chairman Mike Cotton of Delaware. “We appreciate the work you have done to participate in the next step of learning for the Sons of The American Legion, SAL U.”

The groups was humorously referred to at the NEC meeting the following weekend as “The Dirty Dozen.”

The curr iculum for the two-days of sessions on-site at the Sheraton in Indianapolis was an immersive set of classes going over every aspect of administration within the organization, plus classes which focused on leadership techniques and etiquette. Classes included detailed instruction in SAL History, Communication and Public Speaking, Resolutions, Constitution and By-laws, SAL Etiquette, Politics, and Policy; Parliamentary Procedure, Mentorship, and Membership Retention – 20 separate classes in total. The instructors for the class were also a who’s who of management and history throughout the organization – including two past national commanders, a past national parliamentarian, past national vice commanders, plus members of the MT and D committee and national committee chairs. “I've long held the belief that educating our membership is the foundation we should build our entire organization on”, noted participant Chris Casey of Nebraska.

The Univ ersity included group work and group free-form discussion as well, which many of the students found extremely helpful. From where I sat, this was the best part – chatting and working with members from around the country, and learning what succeeded for them back home. That was echoed abound the two tables of students as well … “The biggest thing I got out of the experience was the new friends I made through the class - Interacting with everyone both in and out of class gave me new insight into how the SAL operates throughout the entire organization”, added Pennsylvania’s Jason Pepe.

In the end that was one of the goals – to bring together a group of members of equal experience and have them work with one another and bond. In so doing, the two days also included homework and presentations – with half of the class making presentations, and the other half writing resolutions.

Added Indiana’s David Miller, “Even if you have a working knowledge of the topics, the formal training was able to fill in some of the blanks, thus making one a more rounded individual …”

Following the Friday graduation, when each student was presented with a diploma by Past National Commanders David Faust and Greg “Doc” Gibbs, the participants were invited to stay the weekend and observe the National Executive Committee meeting to see the national organization in action. The NEC consists of representatives from all 55 detachments – all 50 states plus Latin America, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, Washington DC, and France – and is very much the legislature of the SAL.

I can ho nestly say that this was an experience I will never forget, with information I’m taking back to New Jersey to make myself more valuable in working towards our “Four Pillars” – Americanism, Veterans Affairs, Children and Youth, and National Security. Those sentiments were echoed by everyone, including by Nebraska’s Chris Casey – “The SAL University is not only crucial for improving the knowledge of future national leaders, but it empowers those leaders to build more effective members in their home detachments.”

Squadron 105 Installs New Officers

Wed, 15 May 2024 09:23:39 GMT

(13 MAY 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ

The newly elected and appointed officers of Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 of Belleville, NJ were installed on Monday 13 May at a brief ceremony by Post Commander Joe Cobianchi.

“You have been chosen to fill the various offices of this squadron. You will, I know, vindicate the trust that has been reposed in you, and fulfill in every way the obligations that trust entails”, began Commander Cobianchi in reading the scripted installation.

The office rs were all elected at the previous meeting in April by the squadron membership, being installed the following month at the regular general meeting in front of those members present which included family.

These offi cers will serve for the 2024-25 administrative year, which will expire next May. The leadership team includes:

· Squadron Commander Steve Sangemino, elected for his sixth term

· Squadron 1st Vice Commander James Elsmore

· Squadron 2nd Vice Comamnder Vinnie Ferriole

· Squadron 3rd Vice Commander Richard Vlasakakis

· Squadron Adjutant and Finance Officer Rusty Myers

· Squadron Chaplain Carl Slaughter

· Squadron Sergeant-at-arms Joe Florenza

· Squadron Historian Anthony Noto

· Squadron Service Officer Robert Hildebrandt

AMERICAN LEGION POST 239 ANNOUNCES ITS JERSEY BOYS STATE DELEGATES

Wed, 08 May 2024 09:29:15 GMT

A WEEK THAT SHAPES THE FUTURE

Tuckahoe, NJ - The American Legion Aaron Wittkamp Colwell Tuckahoe Post 239 announced

The young men who will represent the Post at this year’s American Legion Jersey Boys State.

In June, the Post’s delegates will join nearly one thousand other young men from around the State of New Jersey at Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. According to Post 239’s Commander, Bill Archer, the Post is sponsoring three young men from Ocean City High School.

The Post’s delegates are Connor Berich, Phineas Costal and Tucker Henley.

Bill Archer, Post 239’s Commander and Boys State Committee Chairman stated, “this has been a very successful fundraising season that is allowing us the ability to send these three young men to Jersey Boys State in addition to our other programs to help our young people in our local community.” We are grateful for a very supportive community to make this happen yearly.

Held annually, American Legion Jersey Boys State is a weeklong leadership program for young men in their junior-senior high school summer. Delegates learn the American electoral and political processes by forming city and county governments as well as a mystical 51st State government. Other activities include occupational workshops, guest speakers, competitive sports and a college fair. For more information concerning the Jersey Boys State program,

“A Week That Shapes the Future”, go to www.aljbs.org . If you are interested in helping to send young men to Boys State contact your local American Legion Post.

Bill Archer
Commander
American Legion Post 239

Cookies for VETS

Wed, 01 May 2024 10:11:06 GMT

NOT A SINGLE CRUMB REMAINS!

(04 APRIL 2024) – EAST ORANGE AND LYONS, NJ – “You guys sure are popular around here!” exclaimed Latisha Eaves from the VA’s Center for Development and Civic Engagement to the Girl Scouts and Sons of the American Legion (SAL) delivering cookies to the East Orange VA Hospital.

For the third year in a row, the SAL Detachment of New Jersey’s Children and Youth Commission has completed the highly successful “Cookies for Vets” project, which raises money to purchase Girl Scout Cookies which are in turn delivered to residents of the VA facilities in East Orange and Lyons, New Jersey. This year, 305 boxes of Thin Mints, Trefoils, and all of the favorite Girl Scout cookies were purchased and delivered to our hometown heroes using the VA, to lift their spirits and “make their day a little sweeter.”

Fundraising begins for this in the fall, and this year $1,830 was raised from private donors and American Legion Families from throughout the state. With donations from Posts, Units, and Squadrons in Essex County, all the way to American Legion Families in Ocean and Camden County, this project truly represents all of New Jersey.

“This project is something near and dear to my heart,” said Children and Youth Chairman Rusty Myers. “We have been doing this for a few years now, and I really enjoy having the kids participate in doing something nice for our vets.”

This state-level project is part of the Sons of the American Legion’s commitment to two of its core pillars – Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, and Children and Youth. From fundraising and buying the cookies, to having the Scouts and Young Sons deliver them, to the vets getting a surprise tasty treat, this project embodies the spirit of why the SAL exists.

On a rainy day during their spring breaks, a few members of Girl Scout Troops 20122, 20462, a young Son from Belleville Post 105, and members of the Children and Youth Commission took a few hours to drive to the two VA hospitals, about 45 minutes away from each other in northern NJ. The deliveries are always made in April, which is American legion Children and Youth Month.

The Commission also hands a custom patch to every Scout that participates with the “Cookies for Vets” logo on it for them to put on their uniforms.

“We believe that through an organization such as the Girl Scouts we can achieve greatness and teach leadership, courage, and kindness” wrote East Orange VA Executive Medical Center Director Patricia O’Kane in a letter to the SAL. “It is through efforts of community partners like you that allow us to continue the quality care and services that we seek to provide for our veterans.”

Weekend Events held for COTA

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:53:24 GMT

It's What We Do!

The American Legion Families of Belleville Post 105 and Anthony Wayne Post 174 joined forces during the third weekend in April to raise thousands of dollars for the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, or COTA.

“For more than 30 years, the American Legion Family in New Jersey has helped COTA kids from the Garden State,” stated Rick Lofgren, President and CEO of COTA. “Giving countless volunteer hours and more than $500,000 to help transplant kids and their families, I can think of no better way to continue more than a century of service to our nation that to help kids.”

Though the state has supported COTA for years with picnics, this is the first time in recent memory where two posts have had back-to-back events supporting the charity. The genesis for the idea was when Steve Sangemino, Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Commander of Squadron 105 Belleville, SAL Detachment of NJ Children and Youth Commission Chairman Rusty Myers (also from 105), and Detachment COTA Chairman Greg Shaffer from Squadron 174 got together and talked about how we could do something together to benefit our kids. The two Post families have always been close, being about a half hour from one another – so doing a combined weekend to benefit COTA was a perfect idea.

With the band “Frenzy” donating their time to play, the weekend kicked off with the picnic at Post 174. Though the day started with rain and the band played inside the post’s hall, folks showed up from around the area to support COTA and make donations. As Post 174 has an American Legion Riders Chapter, there were quite a few bikes in the parking lot as well.

The following day, Post 105 held their picnic, with BBQ and music by “The Country Cousins.” Over 150 people attended, with quite a few kids – so games were set up in the parking lot and on the tables, plus a bouncy house.

Aww, it’s over already?” was what 9-year old SAL Jake Myers said when the party at 105 ended. They all enjoyed playing sidewalk shuffleboard, cornhole, ring toss, and drawing on the blacktop with chalk.

One child, Aliyah Latchman, who enjoyed playing and making new friends at the 105, went through a liver transplant herself. At each event, families who have gone through the transplant journey spoke to the attendees, so they can see what they are raising money for. It puts a face to the charity, showing the human impact of COTA’s good work.

“While the road to her recovery and transplant journey hasn't been easy,” reflected her mother Melissa, “COTA helped put us at ease with regards to the financial burden and I'm so happy they will be there for her throughout her life.”

“It warms our hearts to see how we help these children by meeting the families and hearing what they go through”, noted Chairman Shaffer afterward. “To see both young children and grown children healthy and growing is proof that what we do works, and what we do matters ", added Post 174 Commander Michael Smith.

A final number won’t be in until the donations are made at the American Legion Department Convention at Wildwood in June, but between Posts 105 and 174, COTA should be getting somewhere in the area of $7,000.

American Legion Department of NJ Vice Commander Sophia Dmoch attended the picnic as well, supporting the events at two of the Posts she represents at the state level. “We believe that every child deserves access to the resources and support they need to thrive, and COTA is working towards that goal by providing services and programs to children and youth in need … We are committed to being there for our children, and supporting COTA is just one way we can make a positive impact in the lives of young people.”

Belleville Sons Donate $1,000

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:30:58 GMT

Continuing the tradition of helping Veterans

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(21 MARCH 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – For the fourth year, Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 105 of Belleville, NJ has donated to the Detachment Commanders Project, a state-level project benefitting New Jersey’s veteran’s community. The donation this year was for $1,000, which will go to the Paramus Veterans Home to build an outdoor recreation area for the home’s residents.

Each year, the American Legion Family conducts a fundraising drive, where the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), and the Sons of the American Legion raise a significant amount of money to complete a punch list of programs throughout the state. The three organizations create a list of perhaps eight priorities they raise money for, plus each group has a side project they do in addition to the larger project.

Last year, SAL Detachment Commander Mark Natale raised money for the New Jersey Rett Syndrome Association, something that hits close to home for him with a family member being affected by Rett Syndrome. This year, SAL Detachment Commander Keith Barnes wanted to raise money to build a recreation area at the Paramus Veterans Home, so the vets could enjoy the outdoors. Both of these projects were in addition to that year’s $125,000-plus American Legion Department Commander’s Project, which funded things like helping homeless veterans, veteran’s suicide awareness, furnishings and improvements for the NJ’s veterans’ homes, upkeep and maintenance of New Jersey’s war memorials, and the purchasing of service dogs. The goal is to do things each year which directly impact the lives of veterans right here at home in NJ.

Commander Barnes’ goal this year is $20,000 – and Squadron 105 of Belleville voted to do its part by providing $1,000. This project will set up a recreation area at Paramus with permanent outdoor checkers and chess tables, shuffleboard courts, bocce ball courts, a miniature golf area, and more.

“This project is what we do…” stated Commander Barnes in his letter to squadrons throughout the state.

Squadron 105 presented Commander Barnes with the check at his Official Visit to Essex County, along with Department Commander Larry Bishop and ALA Department President Sharon Knight, who both also accepted donations to their projects. In total, Essex County gave just short of $6,000 between all three projects.

After the meeting, members of Squadron 105 took pictures with “the big check” and the Detachment Commander. In total, Belleville’s Sons have given $4,000 since 2020 to the Commander’s Projects, the majority of which has been possible because of fundraising through our incredibly generous Belleville community.

Essex County Sons Return

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:22:20 GMT

Welcome Back!

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(21 MARCH 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – At the Department Commander’s Official Visit to Essex County, the officers of the newly created Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Essex County Executive Committee were installed last week at Post 105 in Belleville.

The Department, or state level, American Legion makes an official visit to each of New Jersey’s 21 counties throughout the year, where the Department Commander and his leadership team meet the members of the Posts, Units, and Squadron which make up the local American Legion. March was Department Commander Larry Bishop’s official visit to Essex and joining him were the Department American Legion Auxiliary President Sharon Knight, and the SAL Detachment Commander Keith Barnes. These three officers, who preside over the approximately 30,000 American Legion Family members in New Jersey, took office in June 2023 and end their term after the Wildwood Convention during the second week of June 2024.

At that March County meeting, SAL Detachment Commander Barnes installed the newly elected officers of the SAL Essex County Executive Committee, which was officially created in the first week of March. In what has been years in the making, the County Committee mirrors what many other counties throughout NJ already have established – an organization made up of representatives from squadrons throughout the county, which meet together in caucus monthly to administer, guide, and assist their fellow squadrons. The county committee is a key element in the successful operation of the organization, and serves as a conduit of communication between state-level initiatives and priorities and the local squadrons.

The creation of a county organization in Essex is a big deal, as one hasn’t existed in perhaps 20 years. In fact, the only National Commander of the Sons of the American Legion to ever come from New Jersey was from Essex County in 1980 – National Commander Ernest Wilson of Newark’s Squadron 152.

The SAL Essex County Committee is made up of the four active squadrons in the county – Squadron 70 of Nutley, Squadron 73 of East Orange, Squadron 105 of Belleville, and Squadron 185 of Caldwell.

Officers installed that day included County Commander Steve Sangemino (Belleville 105), County Vice Commander Kevin Infield (Nutley 70), County Adjutant Richard Vlasakakis (Belleville 105), and County Sgt-at-Arms Ken Ackerman (Nutley 70). Other officers include County Chaplain Robert K. Krupinski (Nutley 70), who is a dual member and a Marine Corps veteran himself, and Detachment Executive Committeeman James Elsmore (Belleville 105). The current DEC is Rusty Myers, also of Belleville 105, whose term ends in June at which point Elsmore will then serve for the three-year term. Myers also serves as the new County Judge Advocate.

The SAL Committee Chairman appointed by the American Legion Essex County Executive Committee is Henry DelTosto (Nutley 70), an Army veteran, Nutley Post 70 Past Commander, and Adjutant for the American Legion County.

Happy 105th Birthday American Legion

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 09:32:18 GMT

Like all good SONs, Squadron remembers Legion's Birthday!

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(15 MARCH 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – The American Legion Family of Post 105 of Belleville, NJ celebrated the 105 ^th birthday of the national organization on 15 March 2024, on a Friday evening at the Post’s clubroom. With perhaps 50 people in attendance, “the 105” had a brief ceremony, a speech by the commander, and of course a birthday cake.

Every year, Posts around the world – around 12,000 local posts in 55 departments – celebrate 15 March 1919 as the official founding of the American Legion. On that day 105 years ago, about 1,000 officers and enlisted men from the Allied Expeditionary Force met in caucus in Paris, France to create an organization which would specifically advocate for the young veterans of the Great War returning home. Some of the more famous founding members included Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, Jr. (son of the president), Sergeant Alvin York (one of World War I’s most decorated soldiers), and Colonel Henry L. Stimson (an ex-Secretary of War).

Since then, the American Legion has grown to be the largest wartime veteran’s organization in the world, with around 2 million veteran members, a million American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) members, and around 400,000 members of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL). The organization has been instrumental over the past 105 years by pushing for the creation of the Veterans Administration, the GI Bill of Rights, the US Flag Code, and many other veterans’ rights initiatives like the federal PACT Act and the “Be The One” campaign intended to destigmatize the need for mental health support thereby curbing the veterans suicide epidemic.

In so many words, the American Legion serves as a force for good in the world.

At a meeting of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105 in early March, the membership voted unanimously to purchase a cake for the following Friday night, when the Post normally celebrates members birthdays. The Sons wanted to do something for the American Legion Birthday to stand in solidarity with the veterans for whom they support.

At 10pm, Post 105 Commander Joe Cobianchi read a prepared speech, after the Pledge of Allegiance was recited and a moment of silence remembering our departed members.

“National Defense, Americanism, Veterans and Youth. These are the bedrock principles that made The American Legion a great idea in 1919 and make it a great organization today”, the commander read.

Following his speech – and photo ops with the cake emblazoned with the Legion’s logo – all of the members stood together to take a group photo, raising their hands holding up their pointer fingers, which has become nationwide the “Be The One” symbol when Legion family members get together for pictures. Many in the photo were also wearing red, which is worn on Fridays – standing for Remembering Everyone Deployed.

Post 105 will celebrate its 105 ^th birthday on 9 September 2024, which is the date in 1919 when it received its charter. The national organization received its federal charter from congress on 16 September 1919 – making Post 105 in Belleville, NJ one of the first Post’s within the organization. 105 years later, we are still serving our veterans – and always welcome any serviceman, veteran, male descendent, or direct relation to a veteran to join as a member of the Legion Family. We are located next to the Motorcycle Mall on Washington Ave, and are terrifically active – and invite anyone who would like to be involved to drop by.

Media Contact: Rusty Myers, Adjutant

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105, Belleville, NJ

862.684.0131 rusty.myers@ymail.com

Photo Credit: American Legion Post 105, Belleville, NJ

Remembering More Then Me

Sun, 03 Mar 2024 23:00:00 GMT

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(25 February 2024) – WASHINGTON, DC – “Remembering More Then Me.”

Those four words are the slogan of this year’s National Commander of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), Donald “JR” Hall of Maryland. They stand as an affirmation of everything we as Sons stand for – that each and every one of us is a member of the organization through our father, or our mother, or a grand- or great-grandparent. We work towards the betterment of our veteran’s lives, and that or of children and community – all because of our veteran’s service … our “why”.

Over the weekend of the 24 ^th and 25 ^th of February, three Sons of Belleville Squadron 105 went to Washington, DC to join hundreds of other members of the Legion Family from across the country to participate in what is called the Washington Conference. The highlight of the trip was participating in a ceremony where the SAL National Commander laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

For 64 years, the American Legion has taken this week in February to push the national organization’s legislative agenda, which revolves around promoting veteran’s rights and benefits. Per the American Legion’s website, the “Conference [also] provides an opportunity for Legionnaires to meet with their respective lawmakers and hear from members of Congress and VA leadership...”

The rest of the American Legion Family – made up of the Sons of the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), and the American Legion Riders – are invited to participate in the weekend’s events, which includes placing wreaths at memorials throughout our nation’s capital.

“We’re here today for great things …” stated National Commander Hall before the participants from the Sons boarded the busses with the wreaths at the Washington Hilton on Sunday the 25th. “A wreath laying is a symbol … we’re here for a reason – to get together to show our passion and our love for our country and our veterans.”

“…think of your ‘why’ … and that’s why you are here today”, he concluded.

The attendees – perhaps 150 Sons, Legionnaires, and Auxiliary members – rode three busses to Arlington National Cemetery afterward to witness the wreath laying ceremony, though the three Sons of Squadron 105 went to the cemetery a day earlier to walk what is called “our nations most hallowed ground” as well. Essex DEC Rusty Myers, and SAL 105 Vice Commander James Elsmore, and Essex County Adjutant Richard Vlasakakis took that Saturday afternoon to reflect on our country’s legacy of service and sacrifice.

“Breathtaking – there is no other way to describe it other than breathtaking” noted Vlasakakis, who has not been to Arlington since he was young. “It is something everyone should experience.”

For all three, this was their first time attending the Washington Conference..

The three toured some of the burials and monuments at Arlington, including the Eternal Flame of President Kennedy and the monument to the USS Maine. They saw the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and visited the graves of Audie Murphy and General “Blackjack” Pershing. The most striking and impactful views, though, were the rows and rows of white marble headstones all standing in perfect military fashion.

“Absolutely humbling…” stated DEC Myers.

On three of the memorials they visited, Belleville’s Sons left challenge coins with the logo of the Sons of the American Legion … on three memorials which have connections to not only New Jersey but to the Nutley/Belleville area. The contingent from Post 105 made a special effort to locate those graves and memorials, and honor their sacrifice. After a short prayer at each, they placed the coin and snapped a salute.

James Elsmore, whose membership is derived from his father’s Marine Corps service in Korea, placed a coin on the grave of Raritan, NJ’s USMC Gunnery Sargent John Basilone, a Medal of Honor recipient from Guadalcanal.

Ricky Vlasakakis, who qualifies for membership though his grandfather’s US Navy service, placed a coin on the USS Thresher Memorial. Seaman Pervis Robinson, Jr., a 22-year old sailor from Nutley, NJ died on the Thresher, when she sank during a dive test in 1963 becoming the first US nuclear submarine loss at sea.

Rusty Myers placed a coin on the memorial for Private Henry Svehla, our Belleville Medal of Honor recipient. Private Svehla joined the Army in 1951, and was deployed to Korea in 1952 as part of the 32nd Infantry Regiment 7th Infantry Division He was killed-in-action at Pyongony, Korea, on 12 June 1952. Through the heroic action of jumping on a grenade to save his brother soldiers in his platoon, Svehla posthumously received the Medal of Honor in 2011. The coin was placed on his memorial, as Svehla himself was never recovered from the Korean Peninsula. Squadron 105 has a special connection with Svehla, as they send a wreath during the holidays to be placed at his memorial.

While walking, the Sons also stumbled upon a memorial dedicated to chaplains who dies in World War II, among which was listed Father Johnathan Washington, a priest stationed at Kearny’s St. Stephens Church – and one of the famed Four Chaplains. Each year, the Post 105 family makes its way to St. Stephens to commemorate his sacrifice at the Four Chaplains Mass.

Other places the Sons laid wreaths on Sunday were at the Korean War Memorial and at the Vietnam Wall, which were equally as powerful. Each state, or detachment, gets to place a single wreath at one of the three memorials – and New Jersey placed theirs at the state’s column at the World War II memorial. Detachment of NJ Commander Keith Branes placed his wreath at that memorial in honor of his grandfathers.

The next day, on Monday, before the three Belleville Sons took an AMTRAK home, they had a chance to tour some of the museums on the National Mall. They visited the Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum, and the Smithsonian American History Museum. At the latter, they viewed the original 1814 “Star Spangled Banner” Flag which flew over Fort McHenry, and walked through an exhibit dedicated to our 250-year history in uniform called “The Price of Freedom.”

Honor and remembrance could best describe what the three members of Belleville’s Sons of the American Legion took out of that weekend. It was an awe inspiring visit, giving the three a chance to redirect and reflect on why the SAL exists … to live up to the slogan of “Remembering More Then Me.”

Giving the gift of Life

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 19:22:31 GMT

submitted by Rusty Myers, Adjutant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

(22 FEB 2024) – BELLEVILLE, NJ – A blood drive - the third since July - was hosted at Belleville American Legion Post 105 by their Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron in coordination with the New York Blood Center (NYBC)

In a letter written by the NYBC to Squadron 105, they said that at the first two blood drives held on 29 June and 09 October “…we collected a total of 67 units of blood which may help save the lives of 201 patients!”

A third blood drive was held most recently on Thursday 22 February, where an additional 32 units of blood were collected.

In their letter, they continued by saying that “By sponsoring a blood drive you have made an important contribution to maintain a stable blood supply. A blood drive is a life-saving event, providing a unique opportunity for people to come together and do a good deed. By creating not only a space for the blood drive but actively supporting the cause, you have helped not just those in need of blood now but the community as well.”

The coordinator from the Sons is Blood Drive Chairman Steve Donald, who became a member about a year ago.

Blood drives are an important way the American Legion fulfils its commitment to one of its four core pillars – National Security – which stands among their other “Four Pillars” of Americanism, Children and Youth, and Veterans Affairs. Community Service is a critical element of building a strong national security, and the American Legion’s blood donor initiatives reach all the way back to the days after the attack on Pearl Harbor when World War I veteran members of “The Legion” organized blood drives to support elements of a much needed civil defense program.

The organization had even passed a resolution in May 1967 designating the week of December 7 ^th each year as “National American Legion Blood Donor Week,” in remembrance of the attack that sent the nation into World War II and gave birth to the program.

Be on the lookout for future blood drives at the Post through public announcements or posts on the Squadrons Facebook page at @SAL105NJ.

HONORING THEIR MEMORY - FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:30:44 GMT

FOUR CHAPLAINS

04 FEBRUARY 2024 – KEARNY, NJ – One of the more emotional moments of the Four Chaplains Mass at St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church in Kearny each year is when the hymn “No Greater Love” is sung during communion.

The refrain says that “There is no greater love, says the Lord, than to lay down your life for a friend.”

No words can better explain the story of the Four Chaplains who were killed on 03 February 1943. Each year, their sacrifice is memorialized at a mass held in their honor at St. Stephens, and the American Legion Post 105 Family, along with other Legion families from throughout Essex County, are honored to attend.

The Four Chaplains - Methodist minister Rev. George L. Fox, Reform Rabbi Alexander D. Goode, Catholic priest Father John P. Washington, and Reformed Church in America minister Rev. Clark V. Poling – all served as US Army Chaplains in the first year of World War II. In January of 1943, they set sail from New York along with 900 other soldiers headed for Greenland aboard the USAT Dorchester, a troop transport which was part of a larger convoy. On the morning of February 3rd, the ship was torpedoed by a German U-boat, with the ship sinking quickly.

The chaplains were seen handing out life jackets and helping soldiers into the water, eventually giving up their own life jackets to save other men. Survivors of the Dorchester, of which there were only 230 out of 904, recall seeing the four men standing arm-in-arm on the ship as it went down, praying and singing hymns. The chaplains all went down with the Dorchester.

As members of the “Greatest Generation”, they made the ultimate sacrifice by helping save as many of their fellow serviceman as they could - a testament to their commitment as officers and men of faith to serve their fellow man.

To honor that sacrifice, veterans, patriotic organizations, and veteran service organizations from around the area gather at the invitation of Saint Stephen’s to attend a mass in the Chaplain’s honor each year on the first Sunday in February. In a remarkable addition to that, descendants of the Dorchester’s survivors from around the country attend, as well as descendants of the chaplain’s themselves – now 81 years after the vessels sinking.

Saint Stephens has the unique distinction of being a church where one of the Chaplains was actually stationed as a parish priest. Originally from the Roseville section of Newark, Father John P. Washington was assigned to Kearny in 1938, before his enlistment in 1941. Because of his connection to the church, there is a large statue outside of the four men standing and praying on the deck of the Dorchester, along with the Sanctuary of the Four Chaplains residing in the church itself.

For the fourth year in a row, the American Legion 105 Family has been invited to attend, along with other Essex County American Legions from Nutley (Post 70) and Montclair (Post 251). In addition, members of the county leadership along with County Commander Terence Scantlebury were in attendance, joining other posts and squadrons from Bergen and Hudson counties. The mass, filled with trumpets, organ, and bag pipe music, is somber in nature celebrating these four lives, representing the very best of humanity. Every moment of the hour-and-a-half mass celebrated their lives and the way in which they died.

In summarizing the mass, Father Joseph Mancini, Pastor of Saint Stephens, noted that the Four Chaplains “…were asked to give it [their lives] up, and did so willingly … with bravery …lovingly … because they knew there was more than this physical existence.”

It is with that sentiment of hope and faith that the American Legion continues to honor the sacrifice of the Four Chaplains, and of all of our veterans past and present, fulfilling their motto “For God and Country”.

Rusty Myers, Adjutant

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 105

Belleville, NJ

American Legion Family of Post 105 donates $1,500 of Girl Scout Cookies to Troops and Vets

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 12:02:53 GMT

It’s about “Making our vets’ day a little sweeter”

28 JANUARY 2024 – BELLEVILLE, NJ – The Girl Scouts posted on Twitter in December 2018 that “Money can’t buy you happiness, but it can buy you several cases of Girl Scout cookies - and that’s kind of the same thing” … and you know what, they are absolutely right ….

The American Legion Family of Post 105 in Belleville, which is made up of the American Legion’s veterans, the Sons of the American Legion (SAL), and the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), donated this year 250 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies to our troops abroad and to our veterans in VA facilities at home. What started with a $96 donation of cookies from the SAL in 2019 has exploded into a collective $1,500 donation from the entire Legion Family of Belleville this year.

It’s about “Making our vets’ day a little sweeter”, as the “Cookie for Vets” program run by the state-level SAL says.

Through donations to Girl Scout Troops 20122 of Nutley and the Daisies of Troop 81250, the Legion Family will be sending $850 of cookies to the serviceman around the world through the “donate cookies” option on the all-to-familiar cookie sheets, plus an additional $650 to give to our veterans who are short or long-term residents of the VA facilities at Lyons and East Orange.

The Girl Scouts say that “Every package is filled with leadership and life lessons”, and in this case, that lesson is to say thanks to those who serve and have served this county in uniform. Last year, Troop 20122 scout Brinley Sullivan summed up the importance of giving cookies to our heroes last year by saying that “…delivering cookies made me feel like I was giving back … A token of thanks.”

The serviceman overseas and around the world receive their cookies by a partnership between the Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey (GSHNJ) and Operation Jersey Cares, where they distribute what the GSHNJ calls “our collected Gifts of Caring.” All donations of cookies will go to U.S. military troops and veterans, with the cookies being included in care packages sent abroad. Said one SPC John Shackelford of the 325th Combat Support Hospital (CSH) via the Operation Jersey Cares website, “Your care packages seem to come at the right time when soldiers are in need. We are so grateful that we not forgotten.” And the US Navy isn’t left out either – deliveries have made their way to ships like the USS Iwo Jima in the past.

A portion of the donation also goes to the state-level SAL Detachment of NJ Children and Youth program “Cookies for Vets”, where the cookies are bought through the Girls Scouts, and delivered to the two NJ VA hospitals by the scouts themselves along with young Sons. Last year, in its second year, $2,200 of cookies made their way to our veterans seeking medical treatment at the two federal campuses in Lyons and East Orange. The drop-off is scheduled for April, which is American Legion Children and Youth Month.

Girl Scouts Abigail and Grace Myers of Nutley went to Post 105 to sell cookies as well– where many of the folks there donated even more boxes to send overseas. The hope is that each bite of a Somoa or a Thin Mint cookie reminds these serviceman and veterans of how much the American Legion Family and Girl Scouts appreciates their service and sacrifice.

Sarge’s Corner

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 11:43:10 GMT

Here is a PAWSOME PSA!

Did you know that I’m a new NALC graduate for 2023?

I graduated with my veteran handler this year and was not sure if others knew ADA laws and how to behave when I’m around.

Laugh if you may, but do you?

Service dogs have a very important job to do, (yes I’m kind of a big deal).

There are several guidelines ’ people should follow when a service dog is present so that the dog and handler remain safe, and the dog can focus on its job.

Disregarding these guidelines can distract the dog, which can create a dangerous situation for the service dog team.

Under the Americans With Disabilities Act, people with disabilities are allowed to be accompanied by their service dog in all places the public is permitted.

Don’t touch, talk, feed, or otherwise distract the while dog he or she is wearing the harness or vest that identifies him or her as a service dog, ignore the presence of the dog.

Do allow the dog to concentrate and focus on its work for the safety of its handler.

Do teach your children to NEVER pet a strange dog- any dog- without first asking permission.

Do teach them to follow your lead.

Don’t allow pets to challenge or intimidate a service dog.

Do allow them to meet on neutral ground when both parties can be supervised.

Hope these tips help to keep you and my Veteran handler safe and me on the job!

Involvement in community continues to grow membership!

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 14:55:01 GMT

Trunk or Treat

Sgt-at-Arms Dennis Reed and Past Post Commander Dennis DeSalvo Pictured above.

On October 24th, Members of Post 239 gave out 675 pieces of candy, 200 American Legion Comic Books and a $250.00 donation to the Upper Township rescue Squad! (Editors note: Great job on your co-sponsoring the event and your first time participating in this event!)

Pictured above: Sr. Vice Commander Ray Lambert, Sgt-at-Arms Dennis Reed and Past Post Commander Dennis DeSalvo

Blue Star Banner Presentation

October 10th,2023

Post 239 presents a Blue Star Banner to Upper Township Deputy Mayor Kim Hayes and husband Shaun Hayes. (pictured first)

Post Commander Bill Archer reads a brief history of Post 239. (pictured second)

Upper Township Mayor Jay Neuman reads the biography of Aidan Hayes who is currently a Fireman in the United States Coast Guard. (pictured third)

I am so happy to see that our Post is participating more in Community Events. We had a nice growth in membership this year.

Bill Archer
Commander
American Legion Post 239

Pictured from L to R in all the pictures: Upper Township Mayor Jay Newman, Shaun Hayes, Deputy Mayor Kim Hayes, Commander Bill Archer and Blue Star Banner Chairman Bill Eisele.

Buddy Check Week

steve@njamericanlegion.org (Steven Fisher) — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 11:02:05 GMT

Today is the last day of the Veterans Administration First Buddy Check Week

Today is the last day of the VA's First Buddy Check Week!

If you haven't reached out...

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

The American Legion has been leading the way for several years. We have been reaching out and performing Buddy checks. Now we welcome the Veterans Administration in their First Annual Buddy Check Week! Join them in their pledge by clicking here . They are asking all of us: Do you pledge to reach up to 10 Veteran friends or family members by October 20th?

We as an American Legion Family need to continue to Reach out to ALL VETERANS and be there for them and their families! Also, a small kind word such as “HELLO, WELCOME HOME!” to a Veteran you see at the supermarket, WAWA, Quick Check, or Home Depot. That one interaction might just save their life. These are our comrades, our brothers and sisters who also wore the uniform.

IF you need more information about Conducting Buddy Checks

Download The American Legion Buddy Check Tool Kit

Visit the Veterans Affairs National Buddy Check Week website

As Commander Larry Bishops says, " VETERANS WE'RE HERE FOR YOU! TEAM BISHOP! "

Post 239 Receives Award

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 10:06:42 GMT

“CHILDREN FIRST” GIFT CLUB - Post Level Award

11 Oct 23

Today at our Post meeting we got a nice surprise in the mail.
We received our Guardian Donor plaque from the Children Welfare Foundation.

This is one of the Post Commander's projects, since taking the reins, the Post sets aside of $100 a month for CWF, in order to send in a donation of $1200 after a full year.

Commander Bill Archer is shown holding the plaque while showing it to the Post members.
#childrenwelfarefoundation #americanlegionpost239 #njamericanlegion

Bill Archer
Commander
American Legion Post 239

For more information on the Child Welfare Foundation visit their website. Home | Child Welfare Foundation (cwf-inc.org)
Download The CWF Awards Brochure

American Legion Post 239 Celebrates Mary Ann Devine

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 10:11:44 GMT

Teacher, Honor Flight Volunteer Retires

American Legion Post 239 Celebrates Mary Ann Devine

It was a special meeting for American Legion Post 239 as they invited Mary Ann Devine to their Meeting, in order celebrate her retirement from teaching and Show Gratitude for the many years of her involvement with Honor Flight and her Appreciation for Veterans overall. One of the best things about her appreciation for Veterans, which had her doing Honor Flight after Honor Flight, is that she instilled that appreciation in her students. Grooming our Future Community Leaders.

Everyone that has gone to Honor Flight was told to wear their Honor Flight shirt if they still had it. It made for a really cool group photo before taking a break from the meeting to have refreshments.

When the meeting resumed, Commander Bill Archer and Sr Vice Commander Ray Lambert presented Past Post Commander Dennis DeSalvo a plaque from National and a 50yr pin, for having 50 Continuous Years in the American Legion.

POW MIA Recognition Day

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 11:13:32 GMT

The American Legion Cares

NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY, reminds us to keep their memories alive, and that America’s sacred obligation is to account for its Servicemen and women who do not return from the fields of battle will never be FORGOTTEN.

THE AMERICAN LEGION CARES

May God Bless America and may God Bless those who continue to serve and defend our freedom.

Larry Bishop

Commander 23-24

Cape May County 4H Flag Retirement Ceremony

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 22:02:52 GMT

This is the 6th year that the Cape May County 4-H Fair has held a Flag Retirement Ceremony.

For the past couple of years our Post has been instrumental in doing the raising and lowering of the flags, cutting the flags and even rounding up fair goers to place a stripe in the burn barrel.

The Post donates the new flag as we retire last year's flag. They invite the local Veterans Organizations to Participate and Post 239 and Post 198 have always had representation. This year the Middle Township Police Honor did the honors.

Bill Archer
Commander
American Legion Post 239

Happy Independence Day!

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Guest post from Frank L Landis Sr.

Chairman Department Americanism Committee

Tuesday, July 4 ^th marks the 247 ^th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our great Nation. The United States of America was founded on the ideals of justice, freedom, democracy, and loyalty. These ideals are on full display throughout the American Legion and its programs, as well as being on display in our own Counties, Posts, and communities.

As we come together to celebrate our Country’s independence, let us also remember to teach our youth why this day is not just about BBQ and fireworks, but it is also about our independence and the freedoms our founding fathers worked so hard for. These are some of the principles that your Department Americanism Committee strives to highlight all year long. We hope that you, your family, and your community have a safe and happy Independence Day.

Be the One,

Frank L Landis Sr

Chairman

Department Americanism Committee

High Point

steve@njamericanlegion.org (Steven Fisher) — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 20:47:20 GMT

74 ^th Annual Highpoint Pilgrimage

Article courtesy of Roger Gengaro (PDC and High Point Chairman)

The 74 ^th annual Highpoint Veteran's Memorial Service will be held on Sunday June 25, 2023 commencing at 1200 Hours. The Highpoint State Park and New Jersey Veteran's Memorial is located at 1480 State Route 23 North, Wantage, NJ .

American Legion Post 213, State Route 23 North will be open starting at 0900. A complimentary BBQ will be served at the post after the service. The uniform of the day will be white shirt, gray slacks, and Legion cap.

The monument is the highest point in New Jersey rising to 1,802 feet and was established in 1923. The land for the park was donated to the people of New Jersey by the late Colonel and Mrs. Anthony Kuser. The monument is dedicated to all who have served in any branch of military service throughout the years.

We are looking forward to seeing you at this special event and hope that you will be able to join us.

For God and Country,

The Highpoint Committee

Thanks for stopping by we are so happy you're here!

steve@njamericanlegion.org (Steven Fisher) — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 11:41:19 GMT

We are live with our new website!

I will be brief. Thank you for visiting our new website! We are busy updating content and resources to serve our veterans and communities more effectively!! Look for information from our Commander Larry Bishop and others from the Department.

High Point will be here soon! Sunday June 25th, 2023 starting at 12 PM. You can register for this free event b clicking here .