Unfortunately, the recent changes in our state regarding the safety of its citizens resulted in the canceling of our scheduled Department Executive Committee meeting and our Southern Maryland District meeting. That being said, the Southern Maryland District President, Carmin Brittain, organized a very important event to focus on our veteran’s needs. On November 14 at 10 am, a small group of volunteers came together at the Greenbelt American Legion to pack 337 comfort care packages for Washington VA Medical Center. In attendance were a past national president, Sandi Dutton, four past department presidents, including Rusty Beeg, Sandi Dutton, Ivy Christoffers, the present department president, Linda Green, the Southern Maryland District President Carmin Brittain, and other department and district officers, chairmen, and volunteers. A total of 14 dedicated people which included some Legionnaires. As quoted by Britain, “Thank you to all the unit members in the Southern Maryland District who came out to help pack comfort kits for the Washington VA Hospital. A special shout out to our Legionnaires Scott Smith (Shorty), Mel Graves, and Stan (Sip One) Shaw for all their support.” It was an awesome example of innovation and dedication.
Two of the scheduled events to be held at the College Park American Legion in the next few weeks will most likely be postponed if everything stays as uncertain as it is today. That is the early bird dinner and the installation of new officers. Until COVID 19, the installation was always held in June and the early bird dinner, for those who paid dues early, was held in October.
The Veteran’s Day observance was held at the post home this year because of the rain. Our new chef, Joe, did a great job preparing lunch for all who attended. A special poem, written by a 90-year-old WW II veteran named George Farr, was shared. It is titled “VETERANS” and followed the life of veterans from induction to the end of their service: a heart wrenching view of a soldier’s life.
Let us stay safe as we cope with these difficult times. May God continue to bless America and all our troops who are in harm’s way.