“News from the Hut”
for American Legion Post #142; Hominy, Oklahoma.
>>> by Gary Lanham

As I write this on Sunday, I recall the US Navy destroyer, the USS Cole, refueling in Yemen on October 12th, 2000, suffered an enormous explosion in a terrorist attack. Initial reports had at least 6 sailors killed with 11 missing. The death toll was revised to 17. The 8,600-ton Cole was returned to the US aboard the Norwegian ship Blue Marlin. In 2001, a video tape by “Al-Sahab Productions” circulated among Muslim militants with footage of the bombed vessel. The Cole returned to active duty in 2003 following $250 million in repairs. This memory is vivid in my mind as my wife and I saw it on television while in an airport terminal while flying across country to Ft Polk, Louisiana. I told her “This is just the beginning”. Sadly, I was right. Eighteen months later I had begun deploying forty eight of my troops to Bagdad.

Now to happier thoughts. Flags were flying on Columbus Day thanks to Babo and the crew. I was a bit still under the weather due to “pre-existing conditions” reporting to sick call. I am so proud of the dedication the crew shows to our country and community, reminding them that freedom is not free. Other cities have their hired help and employees place flags otherwise it probably would not happen. Not so in Hominy.
The Legion hats are in, both summer mesh (low profile) and winter hats (regular profile). We voted earlier to give the hats free to WWII and Korea vets and sell them to members. We are still doing the math to figure out a fair price for all others. I’m sure after the 16th of October, Thursday evening meeting, we will come up with a figure that will cover costs, and put a little in the coffers for all the things we do. That candy for Main Street Treats 30 October “ain’t” cheap (said with a smile).

Speaking of which The Main Street Treats downtown event is been planned for Thursday, October 30th to avoid conflict with the Friday night football game. I always enjoy this activity because the kids come from all over and pack both sides of the street. There are always a few outrageous and creative costumes. Thanks to the Hut’s Auxiliary volunteers, the candy table is always busy. It kicks off at 6:00 PM; so get in line!

Post members are invited to the Fairfax Veterans Day Parade, on November 8th, put on by Retired Seaman Leon Hendrix and Eva Donovan [formerly married to a USMC veteran] from Fairfax. Details are in this paper, so as I have covered it in the past; I won’t belabor the details. Suffice to say American Legion Post 142 will represent in a robust manner. Sounds like lots of fun and food so come on out!
I am still trying to gather dates for your calendar over the next few weeks for the remaining season’s activity. Christmas Parade will be the next item on the horizon. I will be inquiring, if a date has been established so we all can mark our calendars with date and time.

And our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM (16th October). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in October are still up and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. Thanks to Jerry and Dick Pope there is usually biscuits and gravy and maybe a waffle or two. If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story it may end up in print!