Rusty Strait | Senior Reporter
The American Legion Post 53 at 124 N. Ramona Street in Hemet is heading toward 400 in membership. The new Canteen is rapidly gathering in popularity among veterans, active service members and their families. Bar prices are considerably more affordable than in the local pubs about town where a beer can hit you for $6 dollars or more. Commandant invites local veterans to attend. The Canteen opens at 11:00 and remains open 6 days a week.
The American Legion Post 53 was chartered in 1919 (the same year Congress granted the National Charter to the American Legion).
All dinners at this post are open to the general public. Also, the American Legion Hall is available for rentals.
On March 25th the Legion will be hosting a Welcome Home Vietnam Vets. For this and all event details call (951) 658-2436. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the day the last U. S. Combat troops departed from Vietnam, closing the curtain on a long and complicated time in World history. National Vietnam War Day has been observed since 2017 when President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act.
Legion National Commander Vincent “James” Trolola is urging more young people to choose a military career. Recruitment numbers are alarmingly down across all branches of service. Commander Trolola says, “Unfortunately, too many young people today do nit know the value of military service. That means young people are not aware of enough good reasons to take the oath at a time when industry, academia and government are all in competition for the best and brightest. A ‘war for talent’ exists in America. We need to work harder to promote those good reasons.”
According to Marine Corps Brigadier General Stephen Lightfoot has asked Legionnaires to “provide that spark” to future generations and encourage them to start their journeys with military service. The benefits are numerous: Tuition Assistance, industry-specific training for those about to discharge through such programs as DoD Skillbridge, GI Bill education, VA Home Loans high-quality care and superior insurance and banking through USAA, the American Legion’s preferred provider. Plus, there is the opportunity to establish life time friendships, traveling to all corners of the world to understand how other countries compare to the American experience. You young men and women who are anxious for adventure will find this a great way to enjoy life before a government paid for college education. Just aayin’.
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