Commanders' Message

Make Plans Now to celebrate with us the 104^th Birthday of the American Legion and our annual awards night, Saturday, March 11^thStarting at 6:00 pm. March 15, the designated birthday of The American Legion, is the day in 1919 when the first American Legion caucus, held by members of the American Expeditionary Force, convened in Paris. Like the birthday of the United States is celebrated on July 4 – for the day in 1776 when revolting patriots declared the independence of the British colonies and the spirit of America was born. March 15^th was when the Legion was born in Paris to support our WWI veterans and thus began our journey as an organization. Here are just a few of the Achievements of YOUR American Legion Post for 2022.

1. Monetary Contribution to (VSF.) Veterans Service Fund for VA administration
2. Monetary Contribution to (NEF) National Emergency Fund
3. Monetary Contribution to (CWF.) Children Welfare Foundation
4. Monetary Contribution to Legacy Fund
5. Sponsor young Men to Student Trooper & Boys State Program
6. Sponsor young Men and Women in the Oratorical Contest
7. Place American flags on graves & Conduct Memorial Day Service
8. Post flags in the Town of Franklinton during Memorial, Flag, July 4^th, and Veterans Days
9. Conduct Veteran's Day Service and Family Day
10. Provide Military Honors to the families of Veterans
11. Prepare and deliver Christmas gifts to our Home Bound and Veterans in Rest Homes

BIG THANK YOU goes to those who came out and helped with our Brunswick Stew!

Just as important as the American Legion's birthday is our recognition of the Law Enforcement, Fireman, EMS, and Community Service. Now more than ever, our Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS, and Community need to know we support them and We Will Cover their Back. These people give each day unselfishly to our Community, State, and Nation and go beyond the call of duty in many cases. We are thankful that they serve and protect our citizens, property, and quality of life. Dinner will be seasoned and grilled chicken, potato salad, coleslaw, green vegetable, bread, and dessert. Come out and show your support and thank those who give us so much. Let's pack the house to show our support. Reservations requested.

As a reminder, our Nominating Committee seeks out individuals to serve in all Leadership positions of our Post. I know many of you are capable of serving as an officer. So, if the nominating committee asks you to serve, I hope you will consider and step up, and if you are not asked, Step Up Anyway.

Don't forget to sign up for your FREE $1000.00/$5000.00 AD&D Insurance through LIT 800-445-3269

We need all members to be sure they have renewed their membership. The American Legion needs all Veterans. Thank you for your service to our Nation and the American Legion.

For God & Country, Harvey Satterwhite, Commander

Vice Commander's Message

I received my National Legislative Division Weekly newsletter from the American Legion's Legislative Division. This small group is at the forefront of the Legion's efforts to influence Washington on Veterans' needs. I am pleased to announce that Veterans are again winning elections and continuing to serve us in Washington more than has been for the last 20 years. Veterans were the first choices on the ballots of all levels of government from the early 1900s to around the 1970s. Their civilian peers chose them because Veterans can be trusted, they have pride in their Country, and their lives are/were directly influenced, either good or bad, by the decisions made or not made by non-Veteran politicians. Veterans often find a "better way." Veterans are always more connected to what is happening around them than the general public. We are leaders and followers to the death if need be when Freedom is contested.

Six Veterans have joined the House Veteran's Affairs Committee. Three of these Veterans are former Navy SEALs. The Chairman of this committee, Mike Bost (R-Illinois), is a Marine Corps Veteran. The HVAC is charged with recommending legislation that expands, curtails, or adjusts existing laws relating to Veterans' benefits. The HVAC committee provides influence for us all. I am glad to see that Veterans are stepping up again! I am delighted to see that the civilian public still recognizes Veterans as having the leadership and courage to continue to fight for this Country.

Your first step is to continue your American Legion Membership at Post 52. Then volunteer and support the Post's activities. You may not have aspirations of government or political positions, but Post 52 does need Officers and Executive Committee Members to stay strong and exists for future Veterans. Please consider continuing to serve your Post or becoming an officer for the first time, like I did last year in my 14^th year as a member! It is never too late to make a difference.

Chris Smith, 1^st Vice-commander

Chaplains' Corner

The First Sunday in February is Four Chaplin's Sunday. The USAT Dorchester was in the North Atlantic and 150 miles from the safety of Greenland. Many soldiers had not slept in their clothes and life jackets, as ordered. On 2 February 1943, the Dorchester sank with 902 troops, merchant seamen, and civilian workers on board. The four chaplains brought hope within despair and light to the darkness. Witnesses of that terrible night remember hearing the four chaplains offering prayers for the dying and encouragement for those who would live. Pvt. William Bednar said, "I could hear men crying, pleading, and praying. I could also hear the chaplain's preaching courage. Their voices were the only thing that kept me going." After opening the locker and handing out the life jackets, the four chaplains gave their life jackets to the next man in line. Carl Sandburg observed, "Valor is a gift. Those with it never know whether they have it until the test comes." This Sunday, we remember and admire Valor, not just in the four chaplains, but the Valor of all the others that history has forgotten.

Bring canned goods/ food items for the Methodist food pantry.

Keep the Faith, Harry Barrick, Chaplain

Auxiliary Unit 52 Report

There are a lot of upcoming events that I need to make sure you are aware of:

1. The S.A.V.E. event will occur on Feb 11^th at 10:00 am. Please consider attending this powerful training. (I have seen the slides for the training, so I know!)

2. Mid-winter Conference is Feb 17^th and 18^th. It will take place at the Hilton North Raleigh. Just $5 to attend.

3. The members will be cooking for the Post again! This quarter it will be at the February meeting. Bring your appetite, $5 for dinner, a veteran, and any family members eligible to join the Auxiliary!

4. Our next Executive Board Meeting is Feb 2^nd at 6:00 pm at the Post.

Our next Members Meeting is on Feb 16^th at 6:00 pm at the Post.

Thank you for all that you do to support our Unit and our Veterans!

Velinda Moore – Unit 52 President