On April 29, 1919 a meeting of returning WW1 veterans was held at the Elks Club in Silver City New Mexico.The purpose of the meeting was to organize An American Legion Post, in Grant County.On August 25, 1919 the post's application was forwarded to the state's Legion Headquarters. Fallowing the approval of the application instition of Post 18, of the American Legion, the first elections were held on December 1, 1919.
Our history really starts with our name. Allingham-Golding. This was done at the first meeting. The members decided to honor two men who died defending our country during WW1.The two men were Godfrey Allingham and Fredrick Golding.
Godfrey Allingham enlisted in the New Mexico National Guard October 6, 1915. He was in Company H,of the first Infantry. He served on the New Mexico/Mexico border. He mustered out in 1917, at which time he re enlisted and set sail for France on June 8, 1918. While taking part in the capture of the eastern side of the Meuse, which was one of the most heroic events of the war.This battle was on one of the heaviest fortified sites along the Hindenburg Line. Godfrey Allingham was hit in the stomach by machine gun fire and died later that day.
Additional information for Fredrick Golding to be added in the near future.
