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American Legion Post 145…Going Above and Beyond for Brothers and Sisters By Jodie Brownd
f you’ve never stepped inside of an American Legion meeting, you might be overwhelmed by the smiling and friendly faces of men and women of all ages. Aside from their friendliness, they all have two things in common. They each have fought for our country and they all deserve a thank you, for having done so.
The American Legion Post 145 is doing great things in our community and the veterans that populate it. They have recently started hosting monthly meetings, which provide a social opportunity for veterans and their families and serves as a resource for them to receive and provide support to fellow veterans. Butch Wilson, the Finance Officer of the newly established 145th Post, insists there was a chapter set in place in the 1940’s. Celina has a rich military history that is apparent if you’ve had the opportunity to visit the memorial in our beloved square. But for some reason, the group stopped meeting throughout the years and its absence has sparked a new passion for many of our citizens to support its re-establishment. That re-establishment is well on its way thanks to red, white and blue-blooded veterans like Post Leader and Founder Mike Terry, Post Commander Mike Mortenson, Jeff “Squirrel” Redman, Butch Wilson and World War 2 Veteran Robert Anderson. They’re passionate about issues such as the high suicide rate of veterans. Butch states that, “Twenty-two veterans commit suicide every day in the United States.” That number is proof that the need for organizations like the American Legion and Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, a nonprofit that raises money to help veterans and veteran organizations is at an all-time high. Their motto is "Vets Helping Vets" says member Jeff Redman. Who better, in addition to the citizens that benefit from their freedom, to help veterans in need, then those veterans that have fought alongside their brothers and sisters for the better good of our country? As if providing resources and reaching out to meet the needs of other veterans isn’t enough, the American Legion also supports, encourages and invests in the future by way of our youth, providing life changing opportunities that few have the privilege to experience. Upcoming Celina High School Seniors Branden Pierce and Timothy Green know a bit about that. The two were recently selected to attend Boys State at the University of Texas, Austin from June 10th through the 15th. American Legion Boys State is one of the most respected and highly sought after educational programs of government instruction for High School students in the Nation. It is a participatory program that enables students to become part of the “hands on” operation of local, county and state government. At Boys State, Branden and Timothy had the opportunity to learn the rights, privileges and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training centers on the structure of all levels of government and are operated by students elected to various offices with specific agendas. Timothy had the opportunity to create a bill that would restrict information regarding public shootings, while Branden’s group learned about actual campaigning with a special focus on education reform. Both young men spoke of how the experience was life changing and how it empowered and encouraged them to go out and change the world. Celina’s Legion Post 145 sponsored the young men that were chosen by Celina High School Administrators due to their academic successes. Both young men would like to thank The American Legion for their generosity and support. They are grateful for the life-long friendships made, the opportunity to represent Celina and for the veterans that contributed to this once in a lifetime experience. It’s easy to see that good works are in the forecast for Celina, Texas. Whether you are a veteran, a family member of a veteran or a student that has exceeded expectations and deserves recognition, the men and women of the American Legion have made a difference in the lives of all Americans by fighting for our freedoms and continue to do so. You need only visit the Veteran’s Memorial on the Square to see the names of citizens that paid the ultimate price. It’s nice to know that serving your country means more than going to war. It means doing the right thing for good citizens day in and day out… before, during and after…and giving back to the youth that will someday follow in their footsteps as leaders. And that is something worth writing, reading and talking about. If you or someone you know would like to attend an American Legion Post 145, please contact Butch Wilson at: wilsonwendell@sbcglobal.net and follow the Post 45 Facebook page at www. facebook.com/celinapost145. Veterans Crisis Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 (press 1)
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July 2018 WeAreCelina.com