I have been a member of the Friday Harbor American Legion for over 25 years, serving in various executive committee positions for 22 of those years, including post commander from 1994 – 2001.
I am currently the post’s service officer, Veteran’s Museum director, and past historian. I have been asked, as such, to respond to your published comments regarding your opinion of our traditions on Veteran’s Day 2011. (“Dismayed by indifference”, Journal of the San Juan islands, Nov. 16, pg. 6).
Be assured that the American Legion maintained all protocol as required this Veteran’s Day. Our flag, as well as our local government’s flags, were properly displayed in accordance with US flag codes. We at the Legion, including members of our Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion, also visited and spoke with veterans, children in the community, elderly and disabled veterans.
Some of us spoke privately with a lot of memories, and maybe even shed a tear or two in private as well.
Our Post 163 family, 1,200 plus, have hosted a potluck dinner to honor our nation’s veterans every year since it’s first introduction in 1921, as Armistice Day, meant to celebrate the end of “The War to End All Wars” (WWI).
Yes, sir, you, and all of us, have a right to free speech as afforded by our constitution. However, you must also exercise your moral duty to properly research your perceptions.
You may also consider that if you (or anyone), has a denigrating opinion of someone else, you should first try speaking to those you wish to denigrate. You may find your published opinion should have been left in your own foot locker or to be a simple misperception.
Our Post HQ is at 110 First Street, Friday Harbor (www.post163.org); ring the doorbell, apply for membership (and if you qualify as set forth by the US Congress), present us with a copy of your discharge papers indicating proof of honorable service and eligible dates, and pay your $40 annual dues, (a portion of which supports our community activities).
You are welcome to express your opinion at our monthly meetings, held the third Tuesday of each month, at 5:30 p.m., September to June.
Peter A. DeLorenzi
San Juan Island
