EASLEY — The American Legion is turning 100 and American Legion Post 52 in Easley is pulling out all the stops to celebrate.
American Legion Post 52, located at 118A Legion Street in Easley, was chartered Dec. 23, 1953. The organization as a whole embraces its roots to March 15-17, 1919 in Paris, France, in the aftermath of World War I.
The American Legion was federally chartered on Sept. 16, 1919 and 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 accomplishments such as leading the way to create U.S. Flag Code, helping start the Veteran’s Administration, drafting and getting the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (the GI Bill) passed. The bill transformed America in the second half of the 20th century and helped veterans receive benefits for healthcare conditions based on their honorable service, including the 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 52 Easley currently has 208 members and 15 American Legion Auxiliary members. Many local lives have been touched by Post 52’s sponsored events such as Palmetto Boys and Girls State, American Legion Baseball, or our visits to elementary schools and scout troops to share our military stories and flag education.
The American Legion Family of Post 52, Easley is excited to share both the legacy and the vision of our organization. Post 52’s Commander, Jimmy “Bones” Wilson said, “We’ve done a lot of good and intend to keep doing it for a second century.”
That being said, please join the American Legion Post 52 and Freddy’s Frozen Custard for the Legion’s 100 year Celebration at 4845 Calhoun Memorial Highway in Easley on March 16, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
A day of fun and education for everyone is planned: Free bounce house, face painting, Our Country’s Flag comic book and a 4”x6” flag for the youngsters. Also, learn about flag etiquette, the meaning of the 13 flag folds and how to properly fold a flag. Visit the firefighter and the fire engine, law officer and the Police Cruiser and talk with World War II Veterans.
Enjoy Freddy’s frozen custard and lunch while you are there.
