POST NEWS
Montgomery Messenger /April 15, 2010/Wade Young, Editor
Legion marks 91 years
It is 91-years-young, and it's local Post is made up of approximately 350 members. On March 13, local members celebrated the American Legion's Birthday Party.
At the party in Montgomery, Post 79 Commander Mike Maxa lead and began the event with toasts to the armed services and what the American Legion stands for.
"Taking care of veterans and their families. For being an important part of the community and teaching our young about patriotism and leading the way in being pround Americans," he said. "Raise your glasses and toast, Happy Birthday American Legion!"
During the celebration, Maxa recognized post officers; Post Adjutant Jim Slavik who posts the meeting minutes and maintains the local legion's website; 1st Vice Shorty Deutsch for helping Maxa and for being the Post gambling manager and volunteer; 2nd Vice Roger Ruhland who is responsible for the financial policy of the Post; Service Officer Ehmyrd Boehmer, the link to the nationwide network of Legion services; Chaplain Gary Ruhland for spiritual leadership; Sergeant-at-Arms Alvin Kaderlik for being the guard of the Post.
"Gentlemen, thank you for your dedication and hard work again this past year," Maxa said. "Each of you play an important role in keeping this organization together and each of you is needed."
Maxa also introduced Post 79 Auxiliary President Jean Keogh, who spoke about the Auxiliary, and Girls' State attendee Ashlea Pan.
He also announced this year's Legionville students Thomas Franek, son of Jeff and Maureen Franek, Jonathan Reak, son of Allan and Becky Reak, Amber Herring, daughter of Fred and Lisa Herring, and Koreena Passa, daughter of Aaron and Kelly Passa.
Maxa thanked the youth for being part of Legionville, a program that trains students to be school and school bus patrol leaders. For their work, the Legion 79 is taking them to a Twins game this spring.
Maxa also introduced Boys Stater James "Mike" Davidson.
In his comments, Maxa pointed out the great things the American Legion and Post 79 does for the community, including the scholarships and sponsorships to student functions at local schools and churches as well as memberships to local and county organizations.
"By the end of May, 2010, our Legionnaires will have donated over $25,000 in the past three and a half years," Maxa said. "Add in the Auxiliary and Sons donations and I would bet Post 79 is the number one donator in our community."
Awards
Maxa also handed out awards for continuous membership in the American Legion. Members received a certificate and recognition.
- Leon Kukacka - 50 years
- Emil Svoboda- 60 years
- Clarence Hruby - 60 years
- John D. Holtz - 60 years
Montgomery Messenger /November 19, 2009/Lori Nickel, Staff Writer
Elementary students: 'Thank you, veterans'
Veterans from around Montgomery were treated to a warm 'Thank You' from elementary school students at the Veterans' Day program Wednesday morning.
Following the program at the high school, members of the American Legion, VFW and Auxiliaries attended the Veterans' Day program at ML Elementary West.
Following the Presenting of the Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance and singing of the "Star Spangled Banner", the students heard a welcome from Principal Dave Dooley.
The history of Veterans' Day and its meaning were then explained through a slide show that was narrated by Mary Kunelius and Peggy Iverson's fourth grade classes.
Dooley further encouraged the students to learn even more about the holiday by studying American history.
"You can learn about the huge impact that the veterans have made on our lives," he said. "Our veterans have made sacrifices so we can live like this today."
He concluded by reminding the elementary students that it would be appropriate to thank veterans when they see them, as well as honor the American Flag.
Students also sand, "America" and "You're a Grand Old Flag".
Montgomery Messenger /November 19, 2009/Lori Nickel, Staff Writer
MLHS honors all who served
Montgomery area veterans, auxilians, students and staff gathered in the M-L high school gym on Wednesday to "Honor All Who Served." The Veterans Day event was led by teacher Brian Mikel, who reminded those in attendance that "Freedom is not free."
We owe a debt of gratitude," Mikel said. "Cherishing the memory of their sacrifice is the least we can do."
The Posting of the Colors was provided by the Montgomery veterans Honor Guard, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the "Star Spangled Banner", sung by the MLHS Choir, with accompaniment from the MLHS band.
Mikel spoke about Defending Freedom, where he told his audience that heroism is attitude as much as action. He explained that when Americans put on the uniform to serve, they are willing to pay the price. Mikel recognized the veterans and auxiliary members in attendance, to which they were welcomed with resounding applause.
Vietnam Veteran Steve Flicek was the guest speaker for the event. He spoke of the generations of individuals who have served for the greater good; and because of their sacrifices, the incalculable numbers who have benefited. He called them "Defenders during time of peace and in war."
Flicek asked for a moment of silence to acknowledge the recent victims at Fort Hood, TX.
"It's vital that we, as grateful citizens and as a people, take responsibility for preserving the histories of our patriots," Flicek exclaimed. "Our sense of gratitude to the veterans cannot sleep. We must be willing to pick them up when they are down, help point the way to a new life when they return home and carry them when they are weary...They served to protect America. They do appreciate a simple handshake every now and then, and a sincere 'Thank you' for doing their duty."
The MLHS Choir followed his meaningful words with "The Navy Hymn." The program closed with "Taps" and the retiring of the colors.
"This kind of makes you think of what they've done," high school student Ben Vlasak said afterwards. "It makes you proud they fought for us."
Montgomery Messenger /June 11, 2009 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its final monthly meeting of the Legion year, on Wednesday, May 13th, at the Legion Club.
Commander, Mike Maxa, called the meeting to order and conducted the opening ceremonies.Ed Keogh, Membership Director, reported that the current paid membership for the 2008-2009 year was at 190 members.
The Post Honor Guard will present the Colors at the Twin’s Game on May 27, July 7, and September 2nd. Any interested member should contact the Commander or the Adjutant to attend this or future games.
Donations were discussed and made to: the Arts and Heritage Center, to support the Tribute to WWII, the Fort Snelling Military Museum, to cover expenses relating to the Tribute to WWII and Kolacky Days in July.
Officers for 2009-2010 will remain the same as the 2008-2009 officers, with ‘Shorty’ Deutsch moving into the 1st Vice-Commander position.The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2009. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Montgomery Messenger /April 23, 2009 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 8th, at the Legion Club. Finance Officer, Bob Rotter, called the meeting to order and conducted the opening ceremonies.
Bill Stangler gave the Housing Committee report and received approval to proceed with a Meat Raffle, which will be on July 25th, as part of the Kolacky Days.
The American Legion Post #79 Honor Guard Dinner will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, at the Legion Club. A social hour will be at 6:00PM and Dinner at 7:00PM.
The next Blood Drive will be held on April 21, 2009, at the Legion Club.
Donations were discussed and made to: the Post #79 Auxiliary and the Park Manor Fund Raiser, which will be held on April 24th at the Club.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2009. Members that have not renewed for the current year, you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting. A light lunch and refreshments will be served at 6:30PM. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Montgomery Messenger /March 26, 2009 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 11th at the Legion Club.Commander Mike Maxa reported that there are one-hundred eighty-eight paid members.
Eymard Boehmer, Service Officer, said that the MN Veterans Administration is planning two additional out-patient clinics for southern Minnesota by the year 2010.
The American Legion Post #79 Honor Guard Dinner will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, at the Legion Club.
The next Blood Drive will be held on April 21, 2009, at the Legion Club.
Donations were made to: the All American Veterans Memorial, Hirdler County Park, Shieldsville, MN, and the LeSueur County Sheriff Drug Education program.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 8, 2009; you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting. A light lunch and refreshments will be served at 6:30PM. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Montgomery Messenger /February 26, 2009 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and Welcomes LeSueur County Veterans Service Officer
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 11th, at the Legion Club.
Commander Mike Maxa, called the meeting to order, and opening ceremonies were conducted.
Alvin Kaderlik, Sgt-At-Arms, reported that the City of Montgomery had requested eight new 3x5 flags for display on the holidays, to replace tattered flags.
Guest Speaker, Jim Golgart, LeSueur County Veterans Service Officer, reported that six veterans have been lost so far in 2009; the 5th Annual Le Sueur County Veterans Golf Classic will be held at the Montgomery Golf Club on Monday, July 20th, 2009, sponsored by Post #79; a new state veteran’s cemetery has been proposed with a location in northern Minnesota, south of Duluth, or a southwestern Minnesota location, along the I90 corridor; and a “Minnesota Honors Vietnam Era Veterans” event to be held at the MN State Capitol grounds on June 13, 2009.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2009; you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting. A light lunch and refreshments will be served at 6:30PM. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Montgomery Messenger / February 5, 2009 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and Welcomes Third District Representatives
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, January 14th, at the Legion Club.
Commander Mike Maxa, called the meeting to order, and opening ceremonies were conducted. The Post currently has 181 paid members for the 2008-2009 year; and welcomed new members John Grimm and Lynn Oveson to the Post.
Service Officer, Eymard Boehmer, reported that the Minneapolis VA Medical Center (VAMC) has been awarded the 2008 Robert W. Carey Trophy Award for performance excellence. The annual Carey Trophy Award, the most prestigious national quality award that VA bestows, recognizes a VA organization that implements management approaches resulting in high levels of performance and service to our veterans. The Minneapolis VA Medical Center cared for more than 80,000 unique patients in the last year.
Alvin Kaderlik, Sgt-At-Arms, thanked the members of the Honor Guard for their excellent attendance at the eight Military Funeral Honors since October 27, 2008, most of which were in below freezing weather.
A special fund donation was made to the Arts & Heritage Center of Montgomery, 2009 Entertainment Series, toward the Special Tribute to World War II program, scheduled for May 23, 2009, which will be high-lighted by a presentation that ‘will be an unbelievable evening for you to experience the personal impact of WWII.’
Guest Speaker, Doug Wendlandt, Third District Commander, thanked Post #79 for hosting the Mid-Winter Conference that will be held at the Club on Saturday, January 31, 2009. The Commander stressed that members should be helping all Veterans that are returning home from active duty, because of the bad economy they are facing and because some returning veterans may have already lost their jobs due to the economy and downsizing by companies. Guest Speaker, John Milbrath, Jr, Vice Commander, Third District, Area 1, congratulated Post #79 for having 181 paid members at this time. He also mentioned that there will be a County Clergy Dinner held on February 17, 2009, at Elysian.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2009; you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting. A light lunch and refreshments will be served at 6:30PM. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.Montgomery Messenger /November 27, 2008 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and listens to plans for World War II Tribute
at A & H Center
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, November 12th, at the Legion Club.
Commander Mike Maxa, called the meeting to order, and opening ceremonies were conducted. The Post currently has 169 paid members for the 2008-2009 year; and welcomed Richard O’Connell to the Post.
A special presentation was made, prior to the Post meetings, to a joint Post #79 and Auxiliary members by Cathy Hermann, describing the Arts & Heritage Center of Montgomery, 2009 Entertainment Series. A Special Tribute to World War II, in May 2009, will be high-lighted by a presentation that ‘will be an unbelievable evening for you to experience the personal impact of WWII.’
Alvin Kaderlik, Sgt-At-Arms, thanked everyone that participated in Veteran’s Day ceremonies on Tuesday, November 11th, 2008. Kaderlik further commented that he thought the speaker and programs were the best in recent memory.
Reminders were made to the membership regarding ‘$Buck Burger Nite’ and ‘Klondike Day’ which would be held on Friday, November 14th, 2008, at the Legion Club.
Ken Goettle made a motion to contribute to the Third District special ‘Commander Doug’s Project,’ which will upgrade Televisions at the MN Vets Home in Hastings, MN.
Post #79 will be hosting the Legion Mid-Winter Conference, in January 2009.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2008; you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting. All members are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Montgomery Messenger /November 13, 2008/by Lori Nickel
Thank you veterans ~ Veterans' Day speaker tells of high cost of freedom
"They will die for you. They don't know your name, but they will die for your freedom, "Vietnam War veteran and guest speaker Gary Gullickson told the crowd of students, veterans, auxiliary members and local residents who attended the Veterans' Day program at the M-L High School gym on Tuesday. Gullickson focused on the sacrifices made by those serving and who have served, and the importance of appreciating the sacrifices made by those in uniform.
Gullickson systematically recognized and thanked veterans of each war, making a special effort to appreciate local Vietman War Veterans Paul Swidorski, Steve Flicek, Bob Rotter and Jim Slavik. He explained that Vietnam War veterans went to war as any other veteran, but did not come home as every other war veteran.
"To me, every day is Veterans' Day," he told his audience. "Our veterans do not have this day off."
He also expressed gratitude to families of those serving who worry and wait day after day and week after week. "In war, there are no winners. There are only losers," he said as he talked about the struggles those who return home must learn to overcome. He mentioned local veteran T.J. Hawkins who graducated from MLHS and is being considered for a silver star for bravery. Gullickson said Hawkins recently returned from war after being wounded and losing a close friend. He commended Hawkin's service, and for paying such a high price for our freedom.
He wrapped up his lively presentation telling the students that his hope is that they will appreciate, thank and respect all veterans. "I hope you don't see today as just time out of class," he said, closing with: "Make the best of this journey. It's not about what you have. It's about what you do with what you have."
In addition to Gullickson's presentation, the program included the posting and retiring of colors by the Montgomery American Legion Color Guard, performances by the high school band and choir, a poem recited by Student Council President Meghan Choudek, a brief presentation by teacher Brian Mikel, ending in Taps played by Band Director Chad Bieniek.
Montgomery Messenger /October 23, 2008 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and plans for Veteran’s Day
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, October 10th, at the Legion Club.
Finance Officer, Bob Rotter, called the meeting to order, and opening ceremonies were conducted. The Post currently has 153 paid members for the 2008-2009 year.
A special presentation was made to a joint Post #79 and Auxiliary members by Lynn Heinzig, representing the Citizens Supporting Montgomery-Lonsdale Schools, regarding information on the November, 2008, Operating Referendum.
Service Officer, Eymard Boehmer, referenced an article regarding possible extra credit on Social Security, due to errors, if a member was on active duty during the period of 1940-2001.
Alvin Kaderlik, Sgt-At-Arms, announced that Veteran’s Day will fall on Tuesday, November 11th, 2008. A ceremony will take place at the Montgomery-Lonsdale High School at 10:00AM. There will be a Veteran’s Day Dinner that evening at the Club, and all Post #79 members and their spouses or guests are invited to attend.
The guest speaker was John Milbrath, Jr, Third District Vice Commander, Area One. The Vice Commander noted that the Third District has established a new website at www.mnthunderingthird.org; a special ‘Commander Doug’s Project’ will buy new TV’s and upgrade TV equipment at the MN Vets Home in Hastings, MN; and that the Fall Conference will be held on October 23-25, 2008, in Mankato.
‘$Buck Burger Nite’ and ‘Klondike Days’ will be held on Friday, November 14th, 2008, at the Club.
A motion was made by Alvin Kaderlik, seconded by Glen Flicek, to acknowledge and thank Emma Pomije for her volunteer efforts in mending damaged flags for the Post. Her donated help has saved the Post countless monies by repairing, rather than purchasing new flags, as they are worn.
Donations made to the Montgomery Community by Post #79 during the 2007 and 2008 calendar year currently total more than $14,500.00.
The next regular meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2008; you can pay 2009 membership dues at this meeting.Montgomery Messenger / September 25, 2008 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and is back to business
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its first regular monthly meeting, since May, on Wednesday, September 10th, at the Legion Club.
The meeting was called to order by Commander Mike Maxa, and opening ceremonies were conducted. A new member, Joe Koldin, was introduced to the Post membership. Current Post membership is at 197. It was noted that five members from this year’s roster have passed away.
Bill Stangler reported that Klondike Days will be held again this year on November 15th, 2008. ‘Shorty’ Deutsch will chair the committee.
The guest speaker for the evening was Jim Golgart, LeSueur County Veterans Service Officer. The Veterans Officer had many points of interest, including traveling to Camp McCoy in Wisconsin to assist with reintegration of veterans returning from duty, in July; Golgart reported that forty County Veterans have passed away during 2008; he has been elected Treasurer of the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers; his office has been working with grant monies provided for homeless veterans in LeSueur County; and he will be speaking in Waterville, MN, on Veterans Day, 2008.
The request for 2009 Exhibit Registration was received from the Minnesota Czech Country Expo, for March 29, 2009. A motion was made by Ed Keogh and seconded by Ken Goettle to pay the registration fee to the New Prague Chamber of Commerce.
Bob Rotter commented that the American Legion Baseball team had a very successful season and that the monies used for the Baseball team went to a very good cause.
Donations made to the Montgomery Community by Post #79 during the 2007 and 2008 calendar year currently total more than $14,500.00.
Montgomery Messenger / June 19, 2008 / Submitted by Jim Slavik
Post #79 meets and elects Officers
The American Legion Post #79, Montgomery, held its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 14, at the Legion Club.
The meeting was called to order by Commander Mike Maxa, and opening ceremonies were conducted.A new member, Fred Krueger, was introduced to the Post membership. Current Post membership is at 196, at the closing of the 2007-2008 calendar year. It was noted that eleven members have passed away during the period.
Service Officer Eymard Boehmer mentioned an article that is in the May 2008 Legionnaire, which points out a Real Estate Tax cut for certain disabled Veterans. ‘The bill will allow those veterans who are 70 to 90 percent disabled, according to the federal VA classification they have been assigned, to exclude $150,000 of the market value of their house for tax purposes.
’Memorial Day Ceremonies were discussed in Sgt-At-Arms, Alvin Kaderlik’s report. Memorial Day Ceremonies will begin with an 8:15AM Mass at Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church; a Parade from the church to the Legion Club, featuring the Montgomery-Lonsdale High School Band; a program at the Legion Club, with guest speaker, State Representative Laura Brod; followed by a luncheon for anyone attending the program.
The May meeting is the last Post #79 meeting before summer. A Nominating Committee consisting of: Paul Vollmar, Ed Keogh, and ‘Sonny’ Dvorak have made the following recommendations for 2008-2009 Post Officers. Post Commander, Mike Maxa; 1st Vice Commander, Roger Ruhland; Service Officer, Eymard Boehmer; Post Chaplin, Gary Ruhland; Post Adjutant, Jim Slavik; Sgt at Arms, Alvin Kaderlik, Membership Director, Edward Keogh; Finance Officer, Bob Rotter; and Facility Manager, Steve Flicek.The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Ken Goettle, was completed for the 2008-2009 Post Officers.
Donations made to the Montgomery Community by Post #79 during the 2007 and 2008 calendar year currently total more than $14,000.00.
Montgomery Messenger / May 29, 2008 / by Wade Young
Memorial Day honors veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice
Before he began reading the list of local veterans who died for our freedom, Michael Maxa, Commander American Legion Post #79, summed it up best when he said veterans are bakers, mechanics, Democrats, Republicans, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, farmers, and lawyers.
"They know the price of freedom. We liken them to Presidents Washington, Lincoln and other proud patriots who have marched through U.S. history books. In our hearts tinged with sadness for our fallen soldiers, we know they are proud members of the United States' most historical society," he said.
Maxa was part of the Montgomery American Legion Post #79 Memorial Day program, Monday, May 26.
The program began with a Mass at Most Holy Redeemer Church that honored area veterans. A somber parade down First Street continued the program. As winds waved gigantic flags carried by the auxilians to the Montgomery American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the small, handheld ones carried by area Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts and Brownies, offered more patriotism to the small crowd of loyal residents who watched the parade with pride.
At the Legion, guest speaker, State Representative Laura Brod, spoke humbly and eloquently about Memorial Day, memorials that honor veterans and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom.
"While the debt to those who made the ultimate sacrifice cannot ever be fully paid, it is good and right their sacrifices are memorialized and honored here today," she said. "The bravery, dedication and courage of our military men and women is what heroes are made of."
Brod spoke about how cities remember their fallen veterans by erecting memorials in their honor. She said she and her husband, Wade, recently attended the WWII Memorial Dedication a few years ago, and said that she was "awestruck, absolutely awestruck, by the sacrifices that individual service people have made for the freedoms we all enjoy."
She added, "At the dedication ceremony in Washington, we sat next to a group of POW's on a blistering hot May Memorial Day who sat proudly in their full wool uniforms for hours. These soldiers, who humbly shared thier stories of bravery, loyalty, and often times most important to them, the stories of their fellow soldiers who did not make it home. The stories were so alive when they told them."
Brod made sure to also remember those who supported the soldiers in times of conflict and those who continue to support the veterans today.
The State Representative brought everything together when she spoke about the meaning of Memorial Day and how the single day brings the nation together.
"Memorial Day binds our country together in remembrance of the heroes from within our midst. And it binds us to a better understanding of the sacrifices of our soldiers and the freedoms we enjoy today because of those sacrifices," she said.
The program ended with a salute to deceased veterans by the Montgomery Area Veterans Honor Guard and "Taps" played by Blanche Zellmer.
Montgomery Messenger / May 15, 2008 / by Wade Young
Legion forms squadron of the Sons of American Legion Post 79
"This is a grand opportunity for those who want to help the veterans and who have not had the opportunity to serve their nation. Your opportunity is here with the Sons of American legion." ~ Mike Maxa, American Legion Commander
The American Legion Post 79 in Montgomery announced recently that it is forming a new squadron of "The Sons of American Legion Post 79" and is seeking charter members who will set the course for its formation.
The Sons of American Legion (SAL) is a program of the American Legion. It was established in 1933 in Portland, OR. Since its inception, it has assisted the American Legion and its veterans with programs and activities.
The program is an extension of the American Legion Veterans, the Auxiliary and junior Auxiliary that promotes, educates, and fosters Americanism and patriotism.
Mike Maxa, American Legion Commander, said that SAL will not only be involved in support the veterans, it will also have its own program to promote, involve and assist the community.
"You will have your own fund raisers to support our veterans, our community and our youth," Maxa said. "You will be a part of a group that will be proud of its organization, proud to be an American and ready to continue the promotion of our American values. You will uphold and defend the Constitution of the U.S., you will honor your forefathers' service to our country, and you will keep freedom alive."
In the past year, the American Legion and Post 79 have contributed more that $12,000 to Legion baseball, Montgomery Post Prom, National Child Safety Council, drug education, Fort Snelling Military Museum, St. John Lutheran Church Sunday School, the Torchlight Parade, Holy Redeemer School Marathon, as well as hockey, chur
