Shrewsbury Bridge, 1945

War was coming, and had already broken out in Europe. The Post had continued with regular meetings, participated in Legion Conventions, Post dances, suppers and many other functions through the late 30s and early 40s. The Post had many members, some in the service by 1943, when it was decided to publish a monthly newsletter of happenings in Town for them. January of 1944, the first edition of the " Shrewsbury Bridge, the Bridge from us to you" was published by Ray Stone American Legion Post 238. The editor was known as the 'Bridge Tender', most likely Paul Goward, a former Sgt. of the MA State Guard, a WWI vet and member. "The Bridge" was first published in January, 1944 and continued thru Issue #14, in November 1945, reporting on marriages, address changes, sport contests, "Al Banx" cartoons, and other things in town. During this time, (1942-46) we had a surge in membership (600+) which caused overcrowding at meetings. The Veterans of WWI formed their own Barracks #1165 in 1958. A committee was formed and funds raised through dances, suppers, raffles and other venues, to construct an addition to the hall. The committee of the Post was able to construct an addition, (1948-49) increasing the size of the hall by 100%. A celebration of rededication, was held on February 12th, 1950.