MONROE — The American Legion is turning 100, and American Legion Post 84 in Monroe is planning to celebrate.
The post, located in Monroe, was chartered on Oct. 10, 1919, just a month after the American Legion was federally chartered on Sept. 16, 1919. The organization, as a whole, traces its roots to March 15-17, 1919, in Paris, France, in the aftermath of World War I. It quickly became an influential force at the national, state and local levels, dedicated to service to veterans, strong national defense, youth and patriotism. A year after it was formed, The American Legion had chartered more than 5,400 local posts that continue to operate today. Since then it has grown to more than 13,000 posts around the world, and more than 2.2 million wartime-veteran members.
Throughout its first century, The American Legion built a legacy on such accomplishments as leading the way to create U.S. Flag Code, helping start the Veterans Administration, drafting and getting passed the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 — the GI Bill — which transformed America in the second half of the 20th century, and helping veterans receive benefits for health-care conditions based on their honorable service, including acceptance of Agent Orange exposure as service-connected.
Today, The American Legion has nearly 3,000 accredited service officers worldwide who assist veterans with their benefits claims and other concerns. Post 84, named for Zilmer-Riley, currently numbers 189 members plus 173 members in the affiliated American Legion Auxiliary and 16 members in the Sons of The American Legion. Among those whose lives have been touched by Post 84 include Badger Boys State, Monroe High School Athletic Award, Service to Veterans and Active Duty Soldiers, Service and Relief to Veterans, School and Government Day programs, Flag Disposal ceremonies and military services to deceased veterans, provided by the Honor Guard.
“The American Legion Family of Monroe is excited to share both the legacy and the vision of our organization,” said Post No. 84 Commander Ernest Gebhardt Jr. “We’ve accomplished many good things and look forward to upholding the aims and purposes of the American Legion for a second century.”
In commemoration of the 100th birthday of the American Legion organization and Post 84, members, veterans, their families and members of the community are welcome to join Saturday, March 16 for dinner and a program at the post home, 1627 12th Ave., Monroe. Social gathering starts at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. Call Cindy at 325-4244 for reservations by March 11. Donations will be accepted.
