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

It is always a distinct pleasure and honor, to sit down with one of our patriots at the Hut and recount their recollections of service to the country. My current time was with one of my favorite guys Dick Pope. Dick always has a tidbit of information for me that greatly helps, as I organize my articles for our wonderful newspaper. He also possesses a humorous slant on different topics.

Mr. Pope was born July of 1923. He is one year older than my Dad, and like him served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII, and as well…post-WWII. He was drafted like my Dad, but man did they make him a travelling man. Pawhuska to Burbank, then to Arkansas and Missouri for basic training, then to New York…all by train. He said that in New York, gals were handing out small sewing kits. He thought was a bit odd, till later. I remember in basic training those kits were indispensable. He shipped out by sea to England, where the cold landscape was rather imposing during freezing meal times. Then off to France, then again by train to various locations, where they were replenishing manpower at strategic points along the way, landing eventually in Frankfurt Germany.

He had very interesting assignments, one of which was repairing the damaged stalls and stables for the famed Lichtenstein Stallions, and work in Nuremburg, Germany where the Nazi War Criminals were being tried for their atrocities. He also worked in Berlin, and served as a Sargent of Information at the Office of Military United States Government, before returning home at the end of his service. What a great list of accomplishments and service. Salute!

Plans remain in place to get together for a flag ceremony on Saturday, the 4th of July, probably at 0900. That’s pretty much is in stone, but let’s keep an eye on the weather. Looks like a chance for storms, but we should have a better idea by the time you read this. There will be refreshments, and some socializing, so be sure to plan to attend. We will be sharing patriotic time with the folks, that extended our independence through selfless service for all of us.

I will be travelling this next week for a while, returning my two grandsons Henry and Thomas to their home in Tillamook, Oregon. They have had a great time in Oklahoma, but I think the heat and humidity took them by surprise as the got off the airplane a few weeks ago. But, they have adjusted well, and we have kept them very busy visiting our local treasures in Hominy, including the Cha’ Tullis Art Gallery. I will endeavor to keep up on things with you, while on the road during this three week journey, but please forgive me if distractions cause me to miss a weekly contribution. Hey, we all get vacations right? Thanks for understanding.

Don’t forget our regular meetings continue the first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:00 PM (July 2nd and 16th). 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”.