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

The Legion-Auxiliary Christmas Dinner was a smash. The Ladies Auxiliary really carried the evening by beautifying the place with style and grace, as well as an array of delicious side dishes. Jerry Sebert performed his magic with smoked ribs and chicken. It was a great joy to share the pledge, as well as a prayer from our Chaplin Rex Mantooth as well. Our MIA were Charles O’Leary who was on duty; but his better half Nancy O’Leary and the rest of the ladies did a great job coordinating things. The quilt raffle that has been running for some time culminated in a maximum ticket sales and the winner drawn for the beautiful crafted art was Johnny Gray. Alice Neighbors crafted this marvelous product and embroidered it personally.

Attendees overwhelmed us with the personal care item requested to donate to the Bryce House in Tulsa that takes care of homeless veterans. Those veterans will find an abundance of personal care items such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, Polident for dentures, jersey gloves (the brown ones) and socks. The Auxiliary will deliver them. Alas, there were no piano players, and thus no Christmas carols. However, I had one great blessing!

What before my eyes appear? Nope, not reindeer, but a dear old friend and former comrade in arms Terry Peckam (Ret CMSgt-E-9) and her husband Dennis “The Menace” and no, he is not a professional wrestler. We both served many years together as full time soldiers in the Oklahoma Air National Guard and, though is separate units, always had a great friendship and respect for one another. After retirement, folks drift apart as we all know; but I would catch her now and then at the Hominy 1st National Bank. Time passes but it all rushes back like no time passed at all when you see a good friend and patriot. You also have a chance to learn things you didn’t know. Like John Field, she was a swabbie! Who knew?

I will be on the road during the season, and wish all readers of our wonderful newspaper a Merry Christmas and pray God’s blessing on your households. Though on the road for an extended period of time, I will still make sure to submit one of my favorite offerings for Christmas of a wonderful happening during the darkness of WWI. It inspired me before and I hope it inspires you as well.

Our regular meetings are the first and third Thursdays at 7:00 PM (18th December right now). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in December are still up (if weather permits) and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. During Christmas week we will still have the Monday morning Koffee Klatch. Thanks to the crew for providing 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.