By Karen Haave
Nine “great veterans were honored by their colleagues recently for 50 years of service to Peotone American Legion Post 392. Past Post Commander David Dralle conducted the ceremony recognizing Allen Blogg, Tom Blogg, Monte Cann, Charles Cline, Michael Jacobson, Roy Flint, Roger Nagel, Randy Swartz, and James Toepper.
“We are here to honor the Legionnaires who have served 50 consecutive years with the American Legion,” Dralle said. “These gentlemen have done, not only a lot for our Post, but also for our country.
“These nine recipients are deeply appreciated for their 50 years of dedication to the American Legion, giving countless hours supporting (its) Four Pillars.
“Their dedication to the Post has been invaluable and appreciated by, not only our Legion Post, but our community, as well. They worked fish fries, bingo, Gifts for Yanks, and many other worthy fundraisers to raise thousands of dollars for all these worthy causes. A huge thank you also to their families for their support.
“To be an American Legion member one must have served during a war or conflict the United States was involved in,” Dralle explained. “The nine men we are recognizing tonight all served during the Vietnam Conflict.
“Tonight’s recipients made the decision to join the American Legion 50 years ago. Joining the Legion, they gave an oath to support the American Legion and the Four Pillars for which it stands:
- Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation: The Legion is the largest advocate for Veterans Affairs. Locally, we support the veterans by visiting and giving gifts and monetary support at the Manteno Veterans Home. Legion members also support the rehabilitation of veterans by supporting homeless veterans at the Prince Home in Manteno.
- National Security: The Legion believes national security is upheld by keeping a well-funded Department of Defense, a good quality of life for troops, and a sensible transition between service and separation.
- Americanism: One of the biggest ways we support Americanism is our Memorial Day Program, promoting patriotism and remembering those who gave the supreme sacrifice to our country. On Veterans Day, we send members to our local schools to educate students about military life and the life of our veterans.
- Children and Youth: Every Christmas we donate and support less fortunate children in our area, providing clothing, a month’s worth of food, and a holiday meal. We also work with and support other worthy causes, such as the Peotone Library, Scouts, youth baseball, and we give away two high school graduate scholarships yearly.”
Dralle presented medals and certificates marking 50 consecutive years of membership to Roger Nagel, Randy Swartz, and James Toepper. He said medals and certificates would be mailed to Allen Blogg, Tom Blogg, Monte Cann, Charles Cline, Michael Jacobson, and Roy Flint, who could not be present for the ceremony.
Pizza and beverages were served at the conclusion of the event.