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

The week started with the Fairfax ‘Veterans Day Parade’ and finished up with a fantastic ceremony at the Hominy High School, on Thursday. The Bucks did themselves proud honoring all veterans, who were present on Veteran’s Day this past week. It was fun to show up and see the gang at the school gathering to support the community’s effort to recognize their service. I have to tip my hat to Jack Cross and Eli Prater, who always run interference in raising the funds; as well as those folks and businesses that did the Vets proud. I want to list them later; so when you drop by to do business or cross their paths in town, you are sure to thank them.

The Mac’s BBQ was fantastic as usual, and we all had a great time. A special treat was seeing our own Dick Pope honored along with Willie Daniels, as Veterans of the Year. They were presented with ceremonial Indian Blankets by Erin Casoose and George Fields, both dressed in traditional tribal clothing. Their presentation was professional and very well done. Now I admit, I had never met Mr. Daniels before the event, but I had the pleasure of speaking and shaking hands with a few family members, who were there for the great honor bestowed. Willie Daniels served in the U.S. Military during the Korean War, and still struck a fine posture as he probably did when in uniform.

Mr. Pope…I have known since joining the crew at the Hut (Post 142). You can catch him mowing around the Post during the summer without being asked, and has given me ideas in my writing on many occasions. I think he helps me keep things straight, asking if the High School had my picture for the Veterans Day event, and feeding me tidbits of information always useful when it comes to writing my weekly offering. Dick served his country during World War II.

The Christmas Parade is next on our schedule. The date is December 6th, Saturday at 0930 (that’s AM for the USAF types). I imagine it will be a chilling and thrilling experience for the youngsters. I know I will be toting a thermos of hot chocolate!

Scuttlebutt is confirmed by the Auxiliary, the Christmas Legion-Auxiliary Dinner will be Friday December 12th at 6:00PM at the Hut. Legion will provide the meat, and Auxiliary/and members spouses/selves will provide the sides. Members are asked to bring a personal care item donation for the Bryce House in Tulsa, that takes care of homeless veterans. They need personal care items such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, Polident for dentures, jersey gloves [the brown ones] and socks. We will have a box set up for the donations and the Auxiliary will take them over. We may do, may even sing Christmas carols! I will sing quietly.

Remember our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM (20th of November). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in November are still up (if weather permits) and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. Thanks to the crew there is usually biscuits and gravy and maybe a waffle or two and always a cup of Joe (coffee to the civilians). If you are a veteran come on by. If you have a good story it may end up in print! Also keep up with us at website “americanlegion142.org”.