Commanders' Message

As we usher in a new year, we must take the time to reflect on the events of last year and set plans for a highly successful 2021. We must resolve to make the upcoming year our best one yet. Last year Post 52 was recognized for our outstanding membership drive, which included surpassing the National Commander's goal of 103%. We are well on our way with 200 paid members for 2021, but we need to remain committed to our membership goals. Let us get to work and get the remaining 64 unpaid members renewed. I have personally started contacting these members to determine how the Post can assist them in any way.

For the last several months, I have included in my column a request for members to step up and volunteer to serve as officers of Post 52. To date, there has been no response and the time to do it is now since we are in the month of January. Training must be held, and information passed down to ensure a proper transfer of these offices. I personally would volunteer; however, I will not have the time required to perform the duties of Post Commander as I will be running an election campaign for election to Department Commander beginning in June of 2021. I will be spending all my time traveling around the state, visiting Posts to introduce myself to the legionnaires, and securing their votes. Our constitution and bylaws require that we have the required number of post officers in place, so step up and let us get this done now and not wait until the last minute.

The North Raleigh Hilton hotel has informed the Department of North Carolina that they cannot host in-person meetings for the Mid-Winter Conference. As a result, Committee and Commission meetings will be held virtually via Zoom from February 19 to 26. Once the exact dates and times for each session are confirmed, we will release them to everyone. Given these trying times, the American Legion business continues to be conducted as prescribed by the National organization.

On Friday, January 15, 2021, we will prepare for the Brunswick Stew Sale, and on Saturday, January 16, we will sell the stew. We will need volunteers on both days to help make this a successful event. If you can spare some time, please come out and support your Post.

On Tuesday, January 12, at 7 pm, we will hold an Executive Committee meeting in the Post building to conduct Post 52 business. Masks and social distancing will be required.

I would like to recognize and give special thanks to the members of our Auxiliary Unit 52 for the Christmas stockings that they made for the veterans living in our local nursing homes, and to Steve Ijames and his wife Ann for filling them with goodies and delivering them to the nursing homes. This gesture represents tremendous service to our community and its veterans.

My wish is that you all stay safe and well and continue to check on one another to ensure we all stay safe and well.

Should you need to contact me for any reason, you can reach me at 919-270-1479 or mcdonnelly51@gmail.com.

For God & Country, Mike Donnelly, Commander Post 52

Chaplain's Corner

"The LORD will deliver them to you, and you must do to them all that I have commanded you. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (Deuteronomy 31:5-6 NIV)

The children of Israel had experienced much anxiety and fear as they prepared to cross the Jordan River and enter the promised land. They knew it was the land that God promised to them, but they also knew that strong opponents inhabited the land. The people wanted to trust God, but they were fearful; therefore, God gave them a promise of comfort, namely, His continuing presence.

Perhaps, you are facing a fearful situation in this season of your life. Perhaps, your confidence is lacking, and you are beginning to ponder, "Am I even going to make it." Let me encourage you, if you know Jesus as Savior and Lord, you already have the promise that God will never leave you nor forsake you. Your task is to trust and obey His commands until He returns for the church.

My prayer is that we seek and lean on the promises of God in this new year. During this pandemic season, I'm praying for each of you; those who are currently serving; those who have served, and the families represented. "The best is yet to come!"

Happy New Year & God's Blessings, Thomas Reid

Auxiliary Notes

Hello, I hope everyone is doing well. I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Right now, we are on hold, due to the COVID-19 Virus, for the meetings. I will keep you posted with any changes. Please keep Linda and her family in your prayers; they are having a rough time right now. If anyone needs anything, please let me know.

Karen Nowell, President Auxiliary Unit 52

Cold winter weather is here in North Carolina, which is the perfect time for a bowl of hot Brunswick Stew. Post 52 will sell it's famous Brunswick Stew ($8.00/qt) on Saturday, January 16, 11:00 am until all sold. We recommend you pre-order to insure you receive your Stew.

To Pre-Order - Call/Text: Steve at 919 727-0087 or email him at stephen.ijames@gmail.com or Tony at 919 264-1671 to reserve your quarts, giving your name, phone, and the number of quarts. Of course, you can come by the Post on the 16^th to buy your Brunswick Stew.