Centennial Celebration Dinner Features History Display

Together with our local St. Charles History Museum, the Post created an extensive 100-year retrospective exhibit curated with the help of Museum Director, Alison Costanzo. Our 630-page Post album begun in 1919, was a rich source for the display, as were the collections of many Post and community members. The exhibit will be seen throughout the year at various events hosted by the Post. The Centennial experience was made complete by the location: our 1926 Post home, the Henry Rockwell Baker Community Center, and the "Big Band" period music provided by our generous sponsor, Mr. Ron Onesti, Onesti Entertainment Corp. Ron also provided a moving video featuring several of our local WWII veterans and emcee'd the event in grand style. Our 5th ward Alderman, Ed Bessner read the Mayoral Proclamation. Nine traditional champagne toasts were made by Commander Greg McKinney. Esteemed members who served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War and the War on Terror and other conflicts were given standing recognition and ovations of applause. Guests received a commemorative portrait and gift bag. The event was provided free to our Post members and VIP guests, paid for, in part, by program ad revenues and sponsorships as well as many in-kind donations from our business and private community.