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

I am nearly done with that book I have been sharing over the past few articles. “Unbroken” is a real page turner. It follows the true story of the amazing journey Louie Zamperini’s life took during WWII in the Army Air Corp. He had endured being a castaway at sea and several transfers as a POW suffering interrogation and degradation in various camps, finally in Japan. It examines the emotions and fears, hopes and disappointments the prisoners experienced until their emancipation by the American troops.

The hero of the story is now returned and experiencing the aftermath of emotional turmoil so many did not understand at the time, what we now call Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. So my read has run through the range of emotions and I am sure there will be an inspirational end. I look forward to giving you a closing review I finish this wonderful read of faith and endurance.

As a side note this week in 1946 General Douglas MacArthur established the International Military Tribunal for the Far East in Tokyo to try Japanese war criminals. Also known as the Tokyo Trials, the Tokyo War Crimes Tribunal (or simply the Tribunal) was convened later on April 29, 1946 to try the leaders of the Empire of Japan for three types of war crimes. “Class A” crimes were reserved for those who participated in a joint conspiracy to start and wage war, and were brought against those in the highest decision-making bodies.

“Class B” crimes were reserved for those who committed “conventional” atrocities or crimes against humanity. “Class C” crimes were reserved for those in “the planning, ordering, authorization, or failure to prevent such transgressions at higher levels in the command structure”. Twenty-eight Japanese military and political leaders were charged with Class A crimes, and more than 5,700 Japanese nationals were charged with Class B and C crimes, mostly entailing prisoner abuse.

Our Commander returned from the Mid-West City OK 98^th Mid-Winter American Legion Conference. As they say “No news is good news”. Basically the feedback I got was there was much training for folks holding officer responsibilities at Posts and that things were going well with the Legion in Oklahoma. Let’s hope things remain that way. I am hoping that our local Post will begin to attract more new members, younger veterans who would enjoy hanging around with kindred spirits and keeping the devotion to those who have served our country alive and well.

Don’t forget our regular meetings continue the first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:00 PM (on the 21^st this week). Monday morning Koffee Klatch meetings in January are still scheduled for biscuits and gravy and maybe a waffle or two and always a cup of Joe (coffee to the civilians). Keep your eye on the weather in case things have to be postponed. That will be most likely the case as long as temperatures hit freezing. 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”.