The Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954 celebrated 100 years in service with an anniversary dinner on April 24. The Legion invited local political leaders, a guest speaker who is a nationally recognized radio host, and past commanders and their spouses, along with members and guests, who enjoyed a dinner prepared by Nick’s Deli in Chili.
It all began with 15 men signing a National Charter to become American Legion Post 954 back in 1924. Today, the Post is the fastest growing Post in the county, district, and top five in the state. They service veterans and community with support to the Batavia VA Medical Center, the Eagle Star Housing in Spencerport supporting veterans in transition, care packages to military deployed, holiday cards to veterans in veteran facilities, Homeward Bound, the Special Olympics, and community events year round. They were also the first organization in Monroe County to support Wreaths Across America, placing holiday wreaths on the graves of veterans at local cemeteries. They help the community mark patriotic holidays with their annual Memorial Day ceremony and parade, Veterans Day luncheon, and speaking to students at local schools. This support of veterans and community for the last 100 years demonstrates the importance of the Legion and their Family that consists of the Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion.
The event started with Mae Ennis, a senior at Churchville-Chili Senior High School, singing the National Anthem a capella. Ennis was recently accepted to the United States Military Academy at West Point. She is only the second Churchville woman to be accepted since 1993.
Congressman Joe Morelle gave remarks about supporting veterans and the latest legislation that assists veterans. Congressman Morelle presented to the Commander Ken Juergens and Legion a framed Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
Dan Bronski represented State Senator Pam Helming of the 54th District at the event. A framed New York Senate Proclamation commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954 was given to the post.
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello gave a stirring remark about his WWII veteran family member and the respect paid to him during the gun volley of his graveside ceremony and what veterans mean to our country and county. Both Executive Bello and Monroe County Legislator Steve Brew, representing the 12th Legislative District, presented to the Commander and Legion a plaque recognizing the 100th Anniversary and accomplishments of the Harvey C. Noone American Legion Post 954.
The past commanders of the Harvey C. Noone American Legion, starting from the first commander back in 1924 to the present were recognized. Without their leadership, willingness to serve, dedication to the goals of the Legion, the Legion would not be here. The past Commanders in attendance – Dave Ess, Rich Thompson, and Joe Olsovsky – were introduced and received a huge round of applause.
Guest speaker was radio personality and columnist, Bob Lonsberry. He is an Army veteran and an American Legion member. Lonsberry delivered a speech focused on veterans and the nation. He engaged and highlighted veterans and legionnaires in the audience and received a large ovation.
After Lonsberry’s remarks, the cake was rolled out in front of the audience. Commander Juergens, Mae Ennis, Steve Brew, and Dan Bronski cut the cake using the Commander’s West Point Saber in honor of Mae Ennis.
Commander Ken Juergens, on behalf of the Legion, thanked all who came to help them celebrate their anniversary. The Sons of the American Legion Squadron Commander Ron Torcello gave the benediction then the Honor Guard (Joe Olsovsky, Ron Torcello, Jack Linder, and Geoff Larson) retired the colors.
Lastly, Commander Juergens paid tribute to Harvey C. Noone, who at 19 years of age, sacrificed his life in a faraway trench in France for his country’s freedom. He also thanked Noone’s mother, Mary, who donated funds for the Legion Hall in remembrance of her son.
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