for American Legion Post #142; Hominy, Oklahoma.
>>> by Gary Lanham

Post Commander Jim Frazier wants to remind everyone that we are
approaching a significant time in the next few weeks. He hopes as I do,
that we will find volunteers to help place flags for our Veterans at
the cemetery for Memorial Day. We will begin placing flags at 9 AM
Friday May 24th. Boy Scout troops and any other Civic groups are
welcome to help and will be recognized for their devotion to our past
heroes. Please contact Babo Carter at 918-885-6041.
Thanks Babo for your passion to remember those who served.

I am torn this week to reflect on our so soon past Mother’s Day, and our
approaching Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day. So on reflection I decided
to focus on all (hold on for the ride!). One reflection I have of my
own youth and my mother was that military service was pretty much
expected. My Mom and Dad came from the “Greatest Generation”. During
WWII my father served under Gen. Mark Clark traveling and fighting from
North Africa through Italy into Germany, where he was wounded and
returned with a Bronze Star for valor and a Purple Heart. Everyone had
a duty then from the Soldier, Sailor, to ‘Rosie the Riveter’, and the
Victory Gardens. Duty was expected.

Recently, my grandson joined the service after seeking my advice. At
first his Mom was not happy. You should have seen her face though at
his graduation from Basic Training. She was glowing with pride. As we
approach Armed Forces day it is important to applaud and recognize
those that serve. On this pending Armed Forces Day we realize that many
may never see the horrors of combat but the fact is they, at one point,
raised their hand and swore an oath. They signed an open check that
said at the most I will give my life to defend the Constitution. These
are our current heroes.

A week later many will be on the lake, fishing, grilling, and having
fun. Memorial Day. This day represents an occasion to honor those who
fell at some point, whether in combat or the end of life’s mortal coil,
to the hands of the Master. Babo and the rest of our crew will be
honoring their service. We hope you will join us.

Now I realize that Veteran’s Day is November, matching Armistice Day
(WWI). To me the week that bridges Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day
should be deemed Veteran’s Week. Though dusty uniforms or medals sit in
the closets of veterans with memories good and not so good, they remain
to bridge the gap between those serving and those who served till the
last roll call. They will place the flags honoring those who have go on
to the last Bivouac. They fill the gap for those who, after serving,
look for guidance and fellowship with kindred souls. Maybe we should
call it American Legion Week.

Our Post Commander Frazier also reminds members, on June 6th, we will
have the election of officers, and that all positions are open for
election.

Also a reminder, we are approaching Memorial Day weekend and Armed
Forces Day. We find ourselves in need of donations to replace display
flags so we can honor our past patriots. If you are a current patriot
that believes in recognizing the service of our past defenders of
freedom and want to contribute call Babo at 918-885-6041.
It will be appreciated!

Our regular meetings are the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at
1900 hours (7:00 PM) and our Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings
waffles (and maybe biscuits & gravy for me and Rex) where we keep up on
each other’s mischievous doings run generally from 7 am to 9:30 am.
All veterans are welcome!