by Ken Juergens
Prior to Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954 hosting the Bills vs. Titans Monday Night Football game, qualified individuals met at the Legion to renew Churchville’s Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Squadron 954.
The Harvey C. Noone SAL Squadron 954 began on May 15, 1984, and was vigorous during the ‘80s and early ‘90s. The charter remained active but in passive status due to lack of activity and membership until October 18, 2021, when seven people met and formed a nucleus to begin the Squadron anew.
Like the Ladies Auxiliary, the SAL is sponsored by the Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954. The National Sons of the American Legion started in 1932 and is a legally constituted organization which is a source of pride for its members and the Legion Post. The 2021 Squadron Handbook says, “By volunteering to assist older veterans and participating in patriotic holiday events, squadrons not only expand the post’s representation but reflects the Sons purpose to foster and perpetuate a true spirit of Americanism.”
The Squadron elected Ron Torcello as Squadron Commander, Joshua Nau as Finance Officer, and Jeremy Nau as Squadron Adjutant. The group also decided on annual membership dues of $25. The Squadron’s first meeting will be on October 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the Legion Post, 6444 Buffalo Road, Churchville. Wayne McConnell and Ken Juergens are Legion advisors to Squadron 954.
The Squadron Handbook lists the following eligibility rules to join: “All male descendants, adopted sons, and stepsons of members of The American Legion, and such male descendants of veterans who died in service during the period of April 6, 1917, through November 11, 1918, or any time from December 7, 1941, to date, who served honorably, as set forth in Article IV, Section 1, of the National Constitution of The American Legion, or who died subsequent to their honorable discharge from such service, shall be eligible for membership in the Sons of The American Legion.” Thus, anyone with a mother, father, or grandparents from either side who were veterans, are eligible to join.
Those interested in joining the Legion team to enjoy the benefits of visiting any Legion Post and serving the community may call 585-293-1364 and leave a message.
