The American Legion and its over 2 million members are celebrating their Centennial birthday. A caucus of servicemembers meeting in Paris France on March 15 to 19, 1919 is recognized as the birth of The American Legion. Post 298’s Temporary Charter was signed 24 November, 1919 which indicates the post’s birthday.
Sometime near Memorial Day of 1969 a memorial obelisk named the Freedom Flame was erected with a plaque attached that says:
Freedom Flame
Veteran’s Memorial
American Legion
Post 298
1919 – 1969 50 Anniversary
Another 50 years has passed with the strength of The American Legion in supporting Veterans and their communities never wavering. Another plaque has been attached and a ceremonial unveiling occurred 4 May, 2019 at 11 AM at the memorial’s location on the Northwest corner of City Park.
The City Mayor, Nicholas AbouAssaly, participated with Post 298 Commander, Tom Thompson in the honoring of the memorial as well as invited guests.
About 12 living Past Post Commanders attended, as did 3 of the 4 living Past Mayors of Marion, who were also Post members.
