John A. Kuzmann: John Kuzmann was killed in action while attempting to take out a sniper position during the invasion of Okinawa. This took place in April, 1945, only a few months before the War in the Pacific came to an end. Pvt Kuzmann had volunteered for that assignment. John Kuzmann was only 19 years old at the time, having been drafted immediately after graduating from Central Philadelphia High School. He would spend his summers in Longport where his family operated a small store and a bath house for "day-trippers" visiting the shore. His sister, Anne, eventually married Tom Reed who became a Longport Commissioner. It is believed that Tom Reed was instrumental in starting the Legion Post in memory of his brother-in-law.

NJ Assemblyman Chris Brown

American Legion Post 469 is a relatively small Post, averaging around 50 members, of which about 15 are active in supporting our programs and events - mostly due to many members no longer living in the local area but still maintaining their membership. Although small in numbers, we are proud of the programs and events we sponsor, including: --- Coordinating and financing Longport's annual Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony and picnic --- Presenting over $1000 in awards to graduates of the local grade school for Character & Citizenship awards as well as winners of our self-initiated essay contest based on the U.S. Constitution. --- Coordinating ceremonies for the community that are held on 9/11 and Veterans Day --- Conducting and annual ceremony to officially and properly retire used and worn American flags. --- Every September since 2012, we sponsor a Wounded Warrior for a one week all-expense-paid vacation at the Jersey Shore, including a welcoming parade and BBQ, a military style ceremony and reception, and dinners and shows in Atlantic City. We do not have our own meeting place, so we meet on the first Tuesday each month (except Dec and Jan) at the Longport Community Center. In 2014 we were pleased to welcome our newly chartered Auxiliary Unit 469 whose members have been a tremendous help in assisting our Post with our programs and events.