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The American Legion, since its founding, has strived to assist veterans, their widows and children, and their fellow citizens. The organization was responsible for the creation of the GI Bill of Rights, used by millions of veterans to obtain assistance in education and home loans. The legion, as the largest veterans organization, fought for passage of the Veterans Reassurance Act, designed to correct existing inequities in veterans' claim procedures.
The work of the legion to support the nations' youth continues to grow, as more young people become involved in legion-sponsored programs.
The 150-member local post in Sylva, commanded by Ed Jones, sponsors the Boys and Girls State program. The post sends a selected number of students from the county high schools each summer to Wake Forest University for a study of government's operations.
The post also supports the National High School Oratorical Contest and performs services to the schools and other organizations promoting respect for the flag of the United States.
The post also furnishes a burial detail the colors and color guard, folding the flag, presentation to a family member and the playing of "Taps" for any veteran's family who requests the service.
Membership is the lifeblood of the American Legion. Without members and their collective influence in our nation's capitol, there would be no accomplishment in assistance to veterans, their families and the work they do in the community, state and nation.
Veterans of World War II and later wars are dying at the rate of 1,000 each day. Young men and women who have served our country during the late wars should get involved so we can carry on the honored activities of the legion and auxiliary.
Aside from the comradeship we as Legionnaires enjoy, there are monetary benefits to being a member. With the American Legion Prescription Benefit Plan, provided by RX America, you can save as much as 20 percent on your prescriptions at a participating drug store.
You can get special discount rates on car rentals, hotel and motel accommodations, moving companies and eye wear. Using any one of these benefits can easily offset your entire year's dues.
The American Legion is involved nationwide in community programs such as Temporary Financial Assistance, drug abuse prevention (since 1924), Teenage Suicide Prevention, Missing Children, and the American Legion Child Welfare Foundation.
The American Legion maintains a fullystaffed office in Washington, D.C., to represent the nation's 2.8 million members.
Current officers for Post 104 in Sylva are Commander Ed Jones; Vice Commander Winston Hardman; Adjutant Vernon Hoyle; Finance Officer Robert Blanton; Membership Chairman Clyde Bumgarner; Service Officer John Tyndall; Sergeant of Arms Ernest Bumgarner; and Chaplain Roy Burnette.
Commander Jones extends an invitation to all eligible veterans to become Legionnaires. We continue to dedicate ourselves to work for the well being of veterans of Jackson County and our country. We hold the privilege of having served our country sacred in our hearts.
Ed Jones contributed to this article.
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