This article appeared in the Marietta Journal on April, 23, 1949.
Safeguarding the Flag from Horace Orr's Casket
Impressive dedication ceremonies of Marietta's new Legion home, Saturday afternoon, were highlighted by the unveiling of Horace Orr's portrait, and the presentation of the flag that had been draped around the hero's casket. Horace Orr, after whom Marietta's post is named, fell in France during World War I.
A member of Orr's family accepted the flag from Post Historian Fred E. Morris, and then returned it to the post for safe-keeping.
Principal speakers were state commander for the American Legion Earl Cocke, and the chairman of the Legion's state Americanism committee, Walter J. LeCraw.
Superb leadership and American Legion homes have been the two mainstays of the organization, Cocke explained. "An American Legion home is there for the community, not the legion post only, " Cocke said.
LeCraw's topic was "Americanism" which he described as "the unfailing loyalty to fundamental principles upon which our country was founded."
"The Legion stands for government that stands on the track," LeCraw asserted. He explained the organization's program for furrthering principles of Americanism in the schools, and outlined the Legion's anti-subversive work against Communism.
Mrs. O. L. Dickerson, who painted Horace Orr's portrait, presented it to the Post. A. L. Crowe, the post's first commander, introduced the speakers. Retiring commander Chuck Ward was lauded for his work getting the home built.
On the lighter side, ceremonies were proceeded by a big barbecue, renditions by the MHS band, and were followed by two dances in the evening.
