As Commander of American Legion Post #125, I have had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Veterans’ dinner scheduled for November 11, 2020.  This is just one more event having to go by the wayside as a means of protecting our members and beyond from possible exposure to COVID-19.

JJ’s Restaurant was to cater the event.  Owner Jennifer Schofield has decided to use the planned Salisbury Steaks and Pork Loin as her dinner specials for Wednesday and Thursday this week.  We appreciate Jennifer working with us during this upside-down year.  She has always served a fabulous meal, but now does so as a tribute to her father, Les Rittgers, who was a dedicated 50-year member of the Legion.

At our dinner, 10 Veterans were to be gifted with quilts from a newly formed local chapter of “Quilts of Valor”.  The honor will still be carried out by this chapter and quilts will be received in the safest manner. The recipients, along with pictures will appear in the next edition of the Kiowa County Press.

I would like to thank my other officers, Secretary-Treasurer, Roland Sorensen and Sergeant-at-Arms, Areta Laird as well as all of our Post #125 members.  Roland works all year round for the Post in several capacities but always comes through exceptionally in organizing our annual dinner.  Areta can always be counted on when honoring the military in any way.

During the year we appreciate several who volunteer their time for placing flags at the cemetery, painting or cleaning at the hall, donate items, work toward grant funding for our historic WPA building or give monetary donations to help our Post continue with its valued purpose.

Since we were unable to meet in person this year, please know that I appreciate each and every one of you for answering your call to duty in the service of our country.

Please be safe and stay healthy.

Dan Richards

Commander

American Legion Post #125