The traditional color for the 50th anniversary is Gold and the members of Stuart G. Luginbuhl American Legion Post 72 in Mt. Carmel dressed up their hall with lots of Red, White and Blue and Gold for their 50th Anniversary Celebration on April 21st.
In 1962, Stuart G. Luginbuhl had the idea to form a Post in the Withamsville-Mt. Carmel area.
He also served as post commander from 1970 to 1971, said Ron Hartman, post commander.
During the early years, post members met in basements, garages and patios of their homes.
"It's a good thing to bring reality to the younger generations," said Rick "Bob" Gumbert, webmaster and
Paper Editor at the Post.
At the dinner, members recognized people and organizations that contributed to the post over the years. “It’s a testament to our comradeship. We have the dedication of a handful of people who realize the importance of the American Legion working together with the community,” said Gumbert on the 50-year milestone.
Those honored for 35 years of membership were: Lester Blevins, William Jones, Don Mart haler and Jack Sellers.
Those honored for 40 years of membership were:
Milton Binder, Joseph Carpenter, Ron Hartman, Joseph Vance and Don Vrobel.
Honored for 65 years of membership was Jim Brooker. The Union Township Police Department was thanked for years of service to the legion post. Sgt. Anthony Rees accepted the recognition for the department.
The Union Township Fire & Rescue also was thanked for years of "outstanding and dedicated service." Chief Stan Deimling thanked the legion members for their support of the department. He said he first became aware of how much the legion does for the community during the snow storms in the late 1970s because not only was the hall open for residents who had no heat, but members provided sandwiches for them and the firefighters on duty. The Community Press was honored for helping legion members promote their many activities and programs for many years.
Gina DiMario of Union Township Television was honored for producing a weekly show featuring the legion and a new project that will broadcast pictures of township residents in their military uniforms.
Justin Hawthorne of Union Township Television was thanked for his service video taping the legion programs.
Lynn Burger and Jan Burger of Burger Farms in Newtown were honored for their support.
Paula Rundelli, a manager of Longhorn Steak House, was thanked for providing a meal every holiday season for children after shopping with legion members to buy items for their families. Rondelli also provides gift bags for each child. She has provided this service for several years.
Donna McCabe, manager at Meijer, for the continued support of the Legion’s programs for children.
Don Patton, for his work with the Sons of the American Legion.
JoAnn Buell, president of the American Legion Auxiliary. Hartman said the dinner would not have happened without the help of the auxiliary members. Legionnaire of the Year, Gerald Beckman.
The Auxiliary recognized the following for their help: Patsy Taylor, Laverne Smith, Chris Gerth, and Karen Lacey. Linda Stith was presented with a life membership for her years of service.
The Sons of the American Legion recognized Russ and Judy Weyer for their support.
An Honorary Life Membership was presented to Gerald Beckman for his loyalty and dedication to the American Legion.
