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

If you were not there…you missed out! Chaplin Rex Mantooth was honored last Friday, in a ceremony at the Osage County Inter-local Cooperative facility on Main Street. The list of dignitaries (Besides the guest of honor) included our Senator Eddie Fields, as well as Hominy native and House of Representative for our area Sean Roberts. The list grew as American Legion Commander Charles O’Leary, Vice Commander Steve Swinford, Dick Pope, Jerry Sebert, and this humble correspondent attended. Indeed many family members and friends were there to see the honor. We appreciated a representative from our wonderful newspaper coming out to capture the event for posterity. A special thanks to the Cooperative crew, for extending the use of the conference room that added a special touch.

The award represented acknowledgement of Rex’s service to his country during WWII, and his ongoing service as American Legion Post 142 Hominy “The Hut” Chaplin. Not bad for a young 97 year old. Both the Senate and House endorsed the award and it was signed by our Governor Mary Fallin. The presentation included an American flag flown over the State Capitol. Thanks to our local Representative and Senator for taking time from their busy schedules to work out the details to honor one of our own! Finally, a special thanks to Caleb Humphrey, who worked behind the scene at the Capitol to get things rolling.

This past Saturday our District 1B/1A meeting took place at American Legion Post #1 in Tulsa. The Hut was represented by Commander O’Leary and Vice Commander Swinford, and Historian me. Our Post was recognized as of three that exceeded goals for membership. But, we cannot rest on our laurels, and we are not getting any younger. State Commander, Tim Smith exhorted us to get the word out to young veterans and bring them into the fold. If you know of any veteran recently returned to the area, please pass on this invitation to join us at our schedule events, listed later in the article.

So that leads to my next reminder. Chef Jerry is gearing up for our Chicken and Noodle dinner for the public, and we need your support. At our FUNDRAISER, Saturday May 9th fromm 1100 till 1300 hours right around the corner. You cannot beat the price, $6 for adults (above age 12) $3 (age 12 and below). Age 6 and below are free. Sides include tea, green beans and corn. If you are reading this, you are welcome to join. Come out and support those who supported you in service to our country.

The sea of flags approaches soon. Babo once again will lead the charge in the effort to make sure flags are placed through the Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day honoring our past veterans and those who now serve are remembered. I will give you updates, as many of you participate in this event. Right now it looks like flags begin to go up May 15th and come down May 27th. Target areas would cover Main Street and the Cemetery. If you wish to volunteer, I will post a number next week for you to call.

Don’t forget our regular meetings continue the first and third Thursdays of the month, at 7:00 PM (May 7th and 21st). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in May are still planned (if weather permits) and running starting around 0700 till about 0900. As always, much 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”.