Sarah Ebeling | Managing Editor
Although today the Hartford American Legion may not run a bar and restaurant, the organization is alive and well in town.
Four years ago when they closed their bar and restaurant and then decided to sell the building, many in and around Hartford thought that Post 118 was closing too. But, Jerry Price, the Americanism officer of the Legion, said that is the furthest thing from the truth today.
He explained that for the group, having an active post was much more important to them than just having a building. And so, today, the group still hosts monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month, seeing 15 plus at them.
Price said that to the group, the four national pillars, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism and Children and Youth are still just as important to them. The local group takes part in multiple activities throughout the year including Veterans Day programs at local schools and at post home, community parades, performing military honors at veteran’s funerals and much more.
They also co-sponsor events with the Humboldt Legion such as American Legion baseball, oratorical contests, Boys State, flag education and more.
To help the local legion, it does two separate fundraisers a year. The annual dinner, which is held in February, and then they co-host the American Legion State Golf Tournament.
When it comes to what the legion does for its members, Price said, “More than anything, I believe the legion in Hartford provides a sense of comradeship and patriotic belonging for its members. Through performing military rights for veteran burial services and taking part in public programs throughout the year, our legionnaires stay active in the community and enjoy supporting many youth activities.”
Price, who has been with the legion for over 30 years said that about 10 years ago he became actively involved again, is passionate about what they are doing.
He noted that although they sold the Garner Hansen building, they do still have full use of it.
“We would like to get the young veterans, and when I say young, I mean, the Desert Storm vets all the way up through the post 9/11 vets, we need to get them involved,” Price said.
He stated he thinks that a lot of people do not realize that Hartford has an active legion and that there is so much they are able to do for veterans, such as being a conduit to helping them with their benefits.
Price explained that a lot of veterans come home and are briefed on what they can get, but it might be years later before they need their benefits or try to obtain them.
Post 118 is also able to help with other services for veterans such as service connected issues anywhere from medical to mental health to reimbursements.
But the most important to Price? He said, “Our organization provides a “visible symbol” as an organizational body that reminds our community about the past and what it took to make and keep America free. Through Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, along with our participation in various parades throughout the year, our neighbors can take part in the pride that comes with being a US Citizen.”