On December 18, 2021, we held a luncheon as we celebrated Founder’s Day the 97th Anniversary of the Charles T. Norwood American Legion Post 157. The Post was chartered December 19, 1924, five years after the National American Legion received its Congressional Charter. The Post was named to honor Pvt. Charles T. Norwood who served with Company H, 365th Infantry Regiment, 92nd Infantry Division. Pvt. Norwood was wounded on November 11, 1918 just hours before the Armistice to end World War I was set to begin. Pvt. Norwood died from his wounds and Lobar Pneumonia on January 17, 1919 making him the first Black soldier to be killed from Raleigh, North Carolina during World War I. Pvt. Charles T. Norwood was buried in the Raleigh National Cemetery on August 1,1921.
Legionnaire Gabriel Carr, 2nd Vice Commander hosted the event . Honored guest, The Ladies Auxiliary Unit, family members and friends all attended the celebration. Legionnaire Devone Young sang two beautiful songs. Our honor guest was Mr and Mrs Paul R. Jervay Jr. of the Carolina Call Publisher, NCBPA Media Services Director. Mr Jervay was presented with The 2020 News Media Award First Place plaque presented to The Carolinian (Newspaper) for contributions to the public and understanding of the goals and objectives of the American Legion.
During the member recognition of the program Legionnaire Elree Smith was presented with the Certificate of Appreciation for his outstanding assistance and service which contributed to the advancement of the Post. Legionnaire Terry Smith and Legionnaire James Whitaker were presented with Gift Cards for 1st and 2nd place respectfully for selling the most raffle tickets.
In conjunction with the Founder’s Day celebration the post conducted a fundraiser of selling raffle tickets. The event ended with the drawing of 3 tickets and the 2 of the 3 winners were present. The first prize winner was notified of her winnings at her home. The proceeds from the raffle will be used to support the post youth activities programs and the post general fund which provides the funding for a wide range of post activities.
