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

Well, it’s official.  All hands have been installed by Lucky and Myrna staying on for another Tour of Duty.  As announced last week they are as follows.  Post Commander Charles “Doc” O’Leary, First Vice President Steve Swinford, Second Vice president Babe Long, Adjutant Eli Prater, Treasurer Jack Cross, and Sgt at Arms Jim Hale, Service Officer Babo Carter, Chaplin Rex Mantooth, and Historian/humble correspondent Gary Lanham.  Representing the Auxiliary Officers are Nancy O’Leary-President; Carla McKenzie-Vice-President; Judy White-Chaplain; Carron Richardson-Sgt-at-Arms and Linda Cross- Executive Committee Member.

What a meal the Auxiliary provided.  I had a bit of everything.  Of course, the chicken was great but the grilled veggies, tabouli, and potato salad I indulged in was remarkable.  I must point out that I was so impressed with the commitment and dedication the women of the Auxiliary possess. I don’t attend the meetings, but I see the influence they have in the men’s lives and the service they have provided.  It is unmistakable and important.  It is important to understand that service men are only one part of the formula, without our partners the mission fails.  Thanks Auxiliary!

Many awards were presented in recognition of service to the Post and Community.  Notable contributions were Babo’s Flag drives and how it impacts our community,  Dick Pope’s tireless efforts to maintain a proper clean and green mowed lawn, and the boys that make sure the Monday morning breakfast times run smoothly.  John Doudna received kudos for his never-ending efforts to bring us into the next century with HVAC (we are air conditioned!).  Special thanks to Dan Rathbun, Jim Hale and Charlie O’ for being the “HVAC helper boys” in helping John install the system.

I was impressed with Lou Hale being presented with the official Legion head wear complete with his Army Vietnam Era and Cold War service accruements with the 45^th infantry.  His father 1SG Louis Hale Sr was the 45^thInfantry full time AGR NCO in Hominy for years; would have been proud of him, as well as his brother Jim Hale, another 45^th Infantry NCO in Hominy. As a senior ranked NCO at retirement, I also recognized a few things some do not.  I heard a recent speaker (civilian) who captured the truth in leadership by the title of his new book, which I have ordered. “Leaders Eat Last”.  As everyone followed our distinguished guests in the line, I awaited to insure all had their plates before beginning a DVD on former Hominy resident Lloyd Pitts’ experiences on Normandy Beach (Omaha) on D-Day.  I don’t mind be last on the line, it’s my nature.  I still take up 3’ X 6’ cot size on my king size bed. Too many years on cots I guess (yes, even in the USAF).  There was our commander, at the end of the line.  Leaders eat last.

So now we forge into the next community series of events, I so look forward to; the Halloween Event downtown, Veteran’s Day Events, and Christmas Day Parade (I know, I know it’s 91 degrees and I’m thinking about Christmas).  Fall is my favorite time of the year!

Our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM.  An added plus is that quarterly the meeting will be a shared event with the Auxiliary (more details to follow, still waiting). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings for August are still up and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. Come by where we catch up on each other’s mischief and storytelling. If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story it may end up in print!