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

Although I had some scheduling challenges I was able to drop by the Chicken Noodle Feast Fund Raiser January 18^th. There was the gang running things smoothly. I thought I had tasted chicken noodles before but “I got schooled” (pardon the jargon of the young). Jerry Sebert out did himself. If you missed it you missed out. I could only stay for a quick dish and had to scoot. I will report next week how we did raising funds. All proceeds support the local American Legion Chapter and all the things we do in the local community.

Every now and then you have to take care of yourself while you help other folks and the community. It may mean getting good rest at night, eating a proper nutritional meal, and maybe some regular exercise. It is no different with an organization. The Hut is a fine facility that we have now arranged to make available for activities in the community. I will outline details on that in a bit but the point on this part of the conversation is a few “take care of yourself” efforts. It was suggested and explored to install central heating and air at the Hut. I think that is a great idea. Currently someone comes in early to start up the heaters or AC so that when the gang arrives it is bearable. Then you contend with hot and cold areas. This is not efficient performance wise or financially. Our newest member John Doudna, former Army Artillery, happens to work in that craft.  He presented the Band of Brothers a detailed layout of what we should do and the cost. It was obvious he put sometime into this presentation and the offer had plenty of flexibility both in implementation, scope, and cost. This is of importance since the public will be able to use this facility in the future. All contributions (like the Chicken Noodle Dinner) are welcome and needed. If you want to be a part of this contact Jack Cross (treasurer) with your donation to a worthy cause. He can be reached at 918-885-2388.

I have to say that meeting Thursday had some special moments. I always enjoy the Pledge of Allegiance, and opening prayer by our Chaplin Rex Mantooth. I always enjoy seeing Dick Pope and the friendly banter back and forth between the military branches usually instigated by our fearless leader Doc O’Leary. Although Babo “Coasty” Carter takes most of the flak we former air boys (yes you Jerry) take some incoming as well from the ground pounders (yes you Doc). This time around Rex Mantooth brought some relics that brought back memories. His display included a survival knife, an old “practice” bomb, and mess kit. The mess kit was identical to the one I had in the boy scouts in a different era. As a former weapons mechanic (bomb loader) I spotted the practice bomb immediately. Though small it was very heavy used to practice at low cost. It would help in measuring accuracy without the full expense of full sized ordinance.

The Hut will now be available for occasions and events. The facility has an audio visual system, kitchen, rest room and can host up to thirty five participants. Currently for community events the cost is $25 for private events $50 plus a refundable $50 deposit. Everything else is negotiable. If you have a need for an upcoming anniversary, birthday, or any other important fund raiser contact Gary Lanham at 918-510-0032 for more details.

Our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM (Feb 6 & 20^th) if weather does not present a challenge. Our Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings for January is up and running again as normal starting around 0700 till about 0900. Eli and Jerry usually have things set up where we can catch up on each others mischief and story telling. If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story, it may end up in print!