Post 148 Colonial Beach, Virginia

Post 148

Colonial Beach, Virginia

Post 148 Colonial Beach, Virginia

About This Post

Post Namesake

American Legion Westmoreland County Post 148 was chartered on September 24, 1932 with 35 members. Currently the Post has 324 members and 14 PUFL members. The membership initially held their monthly meetings at the Montross High School Auditorium, or the ... READ MORE

Notable Members

Franklin C. Caruthers, first Post Commander was a member of Barracks #2307 Veterans of WWI, elected 2nd District Commander, 1936 was also a member of the American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps Club of Richmond (1936). Francis Earl Baird, former ... READ MORE

What Makes this Post Unique

Our Post is located in a very small town which has a reputation as the "Playground on the Potomac". The Post owns the building, parking lot, beach front and observation deck overlooking the Potomac River. Westmoreland County has a very ... READ MORE

Photos

HISTORY

1930

Initial Meetings

Sep 8, 1931
The Post membership held informal meetings for a year until the Post was Chartered in September 1932.
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First Meeting as a Chartered Post

First Meeting as a Chartered Post

Sep 13, 1932
It was passed that all paid up members be placed on the Charter and the Charter placed in the Westmoreland County Courthouse.
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Meetings Moved To Colonial Beach

Mar 15, 1933
The membership decided to hold their meetings in Colonial Beach. The Colonial Hotel, the Blackistone Hotel, Town Hall, Shirley Miller’s Crab Shore, Ambassador Hotel, Arcadia Hotel, King Cotton Hotel, Black Hawk Dance Pavilion, Curley’s Crab Shore Pavilion, Log House Tea Room (Washington’s Birthplace Historical Site), Lemon’s Hotel & Hotel DeAtley were Post meeting locations until the Post home was built in 1950.
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Meetings Moved To Colonial Beach
Newspaper Clippings of April 1933 Meeting

Newspaper Clippings of April 1933 Meeting

Apr 21, 1933
Department Commander Bristow addressed the membership, urging them to support the President and the country in its economic recovery.
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Poll Tax Resolution

Aug 21, 1933
At the Department Convention, the membership voted to advocate veterans of the World War be exempt from paying the poll tax in order to vote. In 1933 the following officers were elected. F. C. Caruthers - Commander, H. B. Washington - First Vice, Carl Flemer - Adjutant, Charles E. Thomas - Financial Officer, Charles E. Stuart - Service Officer/Historian, George H. Selph - Chaplain, William Kurts - Sergeant-at-Arms, and Thomas Keane - Publicity. The membership..
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Purchase of New Colors

Feb 15, 1936
In February 1936 members pledged to give five dollars from their bonuses received under the Adjusted Compensation Payment Act toward purchasing new and suitable colors for the Post. In February 1936 three colored veterans expressed their interest in starting a Post and the members offered their assistance in organizational works.
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Memorial Tablet Committee Formed

May 15, 1936
In May 1936, the Post formed a Memorial Tablet Committee.
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American Legion Festival

American Legion Festival

Jun 21, 1936
The Post held three day events annually called the American Legion Festival starting in 1936 until at least 1947 with the exception of 1942/3 when the Post held a Defense Parade due to WWII. Besides donations from the business people and wholesalers, the Post received donations from the Town, held dances at Blackistone’s Pavilion, sold soft drinks, sold registration badges, held Most Popular Girl contests, turkey shoots, oyster roasts, and regattas, The net receipts from..
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Franklin C. Caruthers Elected Second District Commander

Aug 26, 1936
Franklin C. Caruthers, Post 148's first Commander was elected Second District Commander at the State Convention. Two resolutions were also passed that year. One urged passage of veteran's preferences in hiring. Another opposed appointment of anyone "who advocated Communism" to anyone in a teaching position. The delegates also voted to amend their Constitution to allow naming of a negro Department Vice-Commander to represent the interest of negro veterans.
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American Legion Festival 1937

American Legion Festival 1937

Jun 15, 1937
A newspaper article from June 15, 1937 in the Free Lance Star regarding the Festival.
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Post Buys Property for Post Home

Nov 6, 1937
The Post paid Mr. Blackistone $50.00 for the option on one building lot on Colonial Avenue on or near the Terrace (back of Brewingtons land) at the price of $1,000 to run for six months from November 6, 1937. Receipt written on Colonial Beach Hotel letterhead which Mr. Blackistone owned.
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Post Buys Additional Property

Apr 20, 1938
April 20, 1938 from Frank D. Blackistone. Lot known as Lot 50, fronting 50 feet on Colonial Avenue and running back northerly between parallel lines 95 feet to Lot 53 to the north, on the revised plot of the subdivision of the Hotel Reservation. Previous owner was Gardner L. Boothe who sold it to Mr. Blackistone December 23, 1920. (In deed book 81, page 357.) Mr. Henry B. Washington loaned $950 to the Post for..
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Adoption of Constitution and By-Laws

Apr 18, 1939
On April 18, 1939 the Post Membership adopted a Constitution and By-Laws.
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Field Piece & Flagpole Erected at Current Memorial

Field Piece & Flagpole Erected at Current Memorial

May 15, 1939
In May 1939 the Navy Department donated a 4.7 field piece to the Post. This gun was transported to the Post Lot on Colonial Avenue across opposite the Dance Pavilion in June. In October 1939 the field piece was moved the triangle of property across from the Catholic Church, said property being owned by the Town. The Post also placed blocks under the field piece painted the field piece in December. In March 1940, the..
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American Legion Festival 1939

Jun 17, 1939
Story from the Free Lance Star regarding the Annual American Legion Festival held in Colonial Beach.
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American Legion Festival 1939

1940

American Legion Festival 1940

American Legion Festival 1940

May 27, 1940
On June 28 - 30, 1940 our Post held its Fifth Annual American Legion Festival and Regatta. This gallery shows the program for the three day event. Highlights include: June 28th - 40 & 8 Dinner at Linwood House followed by a torchlight parade and wreck at the Colonial Beach High School Auditorium. (editors note: I have no idea what wreck means in this context). A Grand Ball was held at Blackiston's Dance Pavilion with..
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American Legion Festival 1940 Free Lance Star Article

Jun 22, 1940
The Rotary Club was placed in charge of soliciting floats and decorating cars for the Grand Parade to be held Saturday at 4:00PM. Published in the Free Lance Star on June 22, 1940.
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American Legion Festival 1940 Free Lance Star Article

Support for the Burke-Wadworth Universal Service & Compulsory Military Training Bill

Aug 15, 1940
In August 1940 the members voted to support the Burke-Wadsworth universal service & compulsory military training bill. The Post Adjutant communicated this fact to the Virginia members of Congress and urged them to support this bill. Historical Note: On 16 October 1940 male residents of the United States between the ages of 18 and 35 registered nation-wide for possible induction into the armed services of the country. It was the first machinery for the introduction..
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American Legion Festival 1941- Request for Entrants for Queen

Jun 12, 1941
Published in the Free Lance Star June 12, 1941.
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American Legion Festival 1941- Request for Entrants for Queen
American Legion Festival 1941

American Legion Festival 1941

Jul 11, 1941
Newspaper article from the Free Lance Star regarding the Annual American Legion Festival held in July 1941. Over 200 Legionnaires registered the first day. Governor Price was to speak Saturday.
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Support for WWII Soldiers

Jun 15, 1943
In 1943 the Post voted to raise money for cigarettes for the ‘boys’ overseas. They raised over $129.00 which at 14 cents a pack came to approximately 92 cartons of cigarettes. The membership voted to have a committee bid good-bye to the boys as they left Montross for induction into the Armed Forces. The Post also held fund raisers for War Bond purchases.
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Post Supports G.I. Bill

Jun 15, 1944
In 1944 the Post supported the G.I. Bill S. 1767 pending at that time before the House Committee on World War legislation. Of note is that at this time Merchant Marine veterans of WWII were not eligible for membership. The Post had to refuse membership for a membership application due to this restriction. Members of the Merchant Marines became officially veterans in 1988. The American Legion had long opposed giving Merchant Marines veteran status. As..
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Building Committee Formed

Jun 15, 1945
In 1945 a Building Committee was formed. The Post sent a letter to Senator Harry Byrd Jr. to protest the American Federation of Musicians Unions President James Petrillo barring service bands from playing at benefits.
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First Female Veteran Frances Karn Welcomed to Membership

First Female Veteran Frances Karn Welcomed to Membership

Feb 15, 1946
The Membership welcomed their first female veteran, Frances Karn in February. The photo was taken February 20, 1945 at the Trade Winds in Washington D.C. Frances Karn (center) was with two friends, Janie Jonas and Edna Snyder. In 1946/47 the Post held basketball games twice a week during November to March at the school gym. The Post also held a washing machine raffle that netted $30. A brick fund drive netted $200.00 These receipts went..
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Dedication of War Memorial

Oct 5, 1947
In May 1939 the Navy Department donated a 4.7 field piece to the Post. This gun was transported to the Post Lot on Colonial Avenue across opposite the Dance Pavilion in June. In October 1939 the field piece was moved the triangle of property across from the Catholic Church, said property being owned by the Town. The Post also placed blocks under the field piece and painted the field piece in December. In March 1940,..
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Dedication of War Memorial
Byron Pepper Elected Post Commander

Byron Pepper Elected Post Commander

Apr 13, 1948
Byron Pepper was elected Post Commander. He sold insurance, Colonial Beach Postmaster 1962 - 1977, Secretary of the Colonial Beach School Board 1952 - 1967, With John Ware, owned The Diner. Stuart Bidgood was chosen to attend Boy’s State. Betty Baranek was chosen to attend Girls’ State.
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Building Committee Offers to Purchase Bell House for Post Home

Jun 15, 1949
1949 - Meeting was held at the Colonial Beach Yacht Club. The building committee offered the owners of the Bell House $2,000. They wanted to use the building as the Post home. The offer was refused. In May, authorized a basement for the Post Home that was to be 40 X 60 feet. The picture is the Bell House which the membership wanted to purchase as a Post Home.
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Building Committee Offers to Purchase Bell House for Post Home

Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 15, 1949
Francis Caruthers & Jesse Miller were chosen to attend Boys’ State. Shirley Taylor was chosen to attend Girls’ State.
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1950

Post Home Built

Apr 15, 1950
By 1950 the Post had saved $4,414.19 in the building fund from fundraisers starting in 1936. In February authorization was granted to start building the Post home 40 X 80 with a basement of 20 X 40 feet, not to exceed $12,000. The Post initiated building Post home in April 1950. In April the Post paid the Town of Colonial Beach $80.00 as the tapping fee for water and sewer. Frackelton Cinder Block Company was..
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 10, 1950
Francis Caruthers & Jesse Miller were chosen to attend Boys’ State. Shirley Taylor was chosen to attend Girls’ State. The membership also authorized bingo games to be held at Jimmy’s Bingo.
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Flagpole Purchased for Oak Grove High School

Jun 15, 1950
The Post and Auxiliary bought a flagpole for Oak Grove High School. A field piece was requested from Dahlgren. The picture is Oak Grove High School.
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Flagpole Purchased for Oak Grove High School
Christmas & New Years Dances in New Hall

Christmas & New Years Dances in New Hall

Dec 11, 1950
The Post held their first social functions in the newly dedicated building, a Christmas Dance on December 23, 1950 and the Colonial Beach Rescue Squad held their New Years Dance in the Post Hall on December 30th. Both events featured Jesse Pyne and his 10 piece orchestra. Published in the Free Lance Star December 11, 1950.
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House Committee Formed

Jun 15, 1951
Teen Record Hop dances started. House Committee was formed. Honor Guard formed. The dance hall was heated by coal heaters. Mr. Tremble offered an oil fueled heater at cost.
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Post Hall Used for Civic Events

Jun 15, 1952
Moose Lodge held meetings here. CBHS held Prom at the Post. Carnival approved. The three day affair was no longer being held. Letter was sent to the Mayor & Town Council that the plaques, gun & grounds be in suitable shape for Decoration Day. Town used the hall for the Potomac River Festival Ball. A shuffle alley was donated by Mrs. Helen Lemon & Sons. Joint Xmas party with CBVFD.
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Halloween Festival

Oct 31, 1952
The Colonial Beach PTA held a Halloween Festival at the Post Hall. A King & Queen were crowned and costumes judged. Other activities included a cake walk, fortune teller and side show. Article published in the Free Lance Star.
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Halloween Festival

Support for Dan Daniels for National Commander

Jun 15, 1953
Discussion of creation of a Post rifle or pistol team. PTA held meetings at the Post. 275 gallon oil tank & heater donated. Central heating plant approved. Discussed creation of a fund to support Wilbur Clarence (Dan) Daniels, the State Commander in his bid to become National Commander. (Elected National Commander in 1956).
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Post Purchases a Television!

Jun 15, 1954
The Post got a television! Eighteen members signed a petition to bar “Red China” from joining the U.N., The petition was sent to National HQs. Sold wax as a fundraiser called the “War Deal”. Started giving members keys to the clubroom. Electric stove, PA system and water heater were purchased. Poppy program was mentioned for the first time. A playground for the south side of town was discussed. (Castlewood Park) A comedy 'Night Court Revue’..
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General Activities 1955

General Activities 1955

Jul 15, 1955
Offered CBVFD & CBVRS use of the building for fund raisers. Mr. William Hall installed the sink & water heater downstairs. The Mayor donated a bust of George Washington. Locust trees on the property were removed. A dinner was held at the Flamingo Hotel. A Veterans Day dance was held. (A bill signed into law by President Eisenhower in 1954 created Veterans Day.) A Commanders banquet was held at Old Point Comfort, Hampton. A talent..
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General Activities 1956

Jun 15, 1956
Offered use of the building to the Boy Scouts. Paid $100 for a lighted sign with the American Legion logo for the front of the building. Mr. Davis & Mrs. Stone raised money for a Post Legion Sign installed by Lloyd Willey Jr. And George Hales. The flag pole was also installed. Voted to reactivate SAL Charter. Motion made to contact Mr. Williams for loan. The Post also held a Homecoming for National Commander Dan..
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General Activities 1956
Festival Ball Held At Post Hall

Festival Ball Held At Post Hall

Jun 16, 1956
The Dixieliners headlined the entertainment of the Potomac River Festival Ball held at the Post Hall from 9:00PM to 1:00AM.
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General Activities 1957

Jun 15, 1957
Asked for volunteers as plane spotters as Colonial Beach was considered a critical area. Reno contributed $100 and Monte Carlo contributed $50 for the playground. St. Elizabeth’s Church donated matting to cover the basement floor. On October 12 the Post Hall was used as a roller skating rink for the kids. Mr. Jerry Sandernberg loaned skates & Mr. Conner loaned small skates. Mr. Tommy Salenger was the manager. A nickelodeon (unknown type) and register were..
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Turkey Shoots Held on Town Pier

Jun 15, 1958
Girl Scouts granted permission to use the building. Mr. Massey ran turkey shoots at the Town Pier. The Post also collected papers for fundraisers. The Leedstown Resolution Chapter DAR also participated in the Veterans Day ceremony sponsored by the Post in November.
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Members Support Senate Bill 279

Jun 15, 1959
The Post supported Senate Bill 279 & House Report 1059, An Act to amend the Act of July 19, 1054, to exempt from taxation certain additional property of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in the District of Columbia, and to provide that the tax exemption granted the property of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States in the District of Columbia shall be effective with respect to taxable years..
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1960

1960 Various Events

Jun 15, 1960
$15 worth of groceries were donated to a needy family. Received a flag from Rep. Howard Smith. A letter was to be written to the School Board to erect a flagpole and flag for the C. B. “colored school”. This school was on Lincoln Street. Held a radio raffle. The Post donated to the Crepe Myrtle fund.
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Flags Purchased for Parking Meters

Jun 15, 1961
With assistance from the Lions Club and the Chamber of Commerce, flags were purchased for the parking meters. Bought a wheelchair. Mr. Massie was granted permission to use the building in connection with the Yacht Regatta Parade. The Post also purchased a new record player.
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Bells Across America

Bells Across America

Jun 15, 1961
On April 19th at 1:00 pm the American Legion nation-wide rang church bells in participation of the “Bells Across America” event. “School, church and bells of all kinds rang in unison for four minutes to remind all citizens of their heritage of freedom, and remind the world that the bells sound, not as a new call to arms, but as a massive voluntary demonstration that America is already armed.... In unity, spirit and deep moral..
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Frances Karn - Legionnaire of the Year

Jun 15, 1963

Permission given to the Hunt Club to use the building for a dance. A dance was held for WWI veterans. The Post purchased 100 pamphlets regarding flag education for the school. Comrade Tommy Lamb requested permission to address the Junior class regarding Boys State and its benefits. Ms. Frances L. Karn was voted Mr. Legionnaire of the year. The Post approached Mr. Cooper regarding waterproofing the building. A flag retirement ceremony was held. The Post..

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Sabin Polio Vaccine Clinics Vaccinate Approximately 5,750 People

Sabin Polio Vaccine Clinics Vaccinate Approximately 5,750 People

Jun 15, 1964
A Sabin Polio Vaccine Clinic held in conjunction with Montross Post 252 vaccinated approximately 5,750 people. It was reported that bingo games were gaining in attendance. Club rules were approved. Club profits were to go to retirement of the debt. Veterans of WWI indicated their Barracks would donated $10 a month toward Post indebtedness. Rifle instruction was given to the SAL. Ms. Frances L. Karn was selected and appointed as a general member of the..
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Thomas C. Rock

Oct 27, 1964
Thomas C. Rock was influential in construction of the Post Home. A WWI veteran who owned a popular hotel in Colonial Beach, Rocks Hotel, he supervised the men who built the Post Home.
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Thomas C. Rock
Coach Leads Team To Championships

Coach Leads Team To Championships

Jan 2, 1965

CBHS Girls Basketball team won 2nd place District Championship, 1965; Photo taken at King Geroge High School Gym. Standing L to R: Lora Lee Newton, Emily Hall, Vicky Clark, Linda Gray, Rosemary Fisher, Zedda Mears, Jeannie Staples, Sandy Conner, Linda Lemmons, Mike LaCalzi. Kneeling front: Susan Newton (Team Captian), Mr.Thomas.

 — with 

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1965 Various Activities

Jun 15, 1965
Club dues were $10 annually and the rules of the Club were to be strictly enforced. A Club member could sponsor one non-Legion member per year. Associate Club members dues were $15 annually. No minutes were in the folder, however, a Post roster, complete with addresses was found.
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WWI Veteran Clyde R. Costenbader joins Post Everlasting.

WWI Veteran Clyde R. Costenbader joins Post Everlasting.

Nov 12, 1965
Clyde R. Costenbader was an outstanding member of our Post. A WWI veteran who served in France, he was also a Life Member of the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department. The Post held a service at the funeral home.
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Santa Claus Visits Post

Dec 17, 1965
The Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce sponsored a Santa Claus visit to the Post. Santa arrived on a fire truck and there was a gift for every child who attended. Article published in the Free Lance Star December 8, 1965.
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Santa Claus Visits Post
Girls' & Boys' State Attendees

Girls' & Boys' State Attendees

Jun 9, 1966
Sandra Conner & Gloria Staples were sponsored by the Post Auxiliary to attend Girls' State at Radford College. Grover Pilley & Michael Li Calzi were sponsored by the Post to attend Boys' State.
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Life Memberships Conferred for Six Members

Jun 15, 1966
A movie was shown as a benefit. Price of admission was canned goods to be used for food baskets for Christmas. The Fire Department in Dahlgren repaired toys to be given to the children. The Police Department agreed to raise and lower the flag outside the Post daily. Ordered 80 Canteen Books for men at McGuire Hospital. Purchased candy to send to the boys in Vietnam. Another play was held in the Hall put on..
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Earl Frances Baird Named Departmental Commander

Jul 24, 1966
At the State Convention in 1966, Earl Frances Baird was named Departmental Commander for the 8th and 10th Districts. Source: Free Lance Star July 25, 1966.
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Vietnam Veterans Recruitment Committee Formed

Jun 15, 1967
Vietnam Veterans Committee was organized to recruit Vietnam veterans. There were two machines, one Coke, one Pepsi that needed to be serviced. The ladies aux donated $150 to the building fund. A surprise sweet sixteen birthday party was held for for Lora Lee. The Valants would use the building every Wednesday. Comrade Earnest Davis was presented Card and Rocket Club of Virginia for having turned in 27 members dues for renewal and new members. Another..
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50th Legion Anniversary Banquet & Other Activities

50th Legion Anniversary Banquet & Other Activities

Jun 15, 1968
Valerie Helen Henry was the Girls’ State representative. The Ladies Auxiliary was given permission to put up a Legionnaires Welcome sign at the Beach Gate. The 8th District meeting was held at the Post. The roof between the kitchen and the main Post building was leaking. Of note is that the Post changed oil companies every year. They used Pearsons, Ware, Cooper, Humble and Norman oil companies. Service Officer Frances Karn moved to have a..
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Frances Karn Presented Legion Citation for Work With Child Welfare

Jun 15, 1969
Donated $10 to the American Cancer Fund upon the death of a comrade’s wife instead of sending the usual flowers. The Loyal Order of Moose held their installation of officers at the Post. The Post held a joint installation of officers for the Post and Ladies Auxiliary. Bingo was was still being held. Veterans Day services were held jointly with the Fleet Reserve. Frances Karn was presented a Legion Citation for her work with Child..
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Colonial Beach High School Homecoming Dance

Colonial Beach High School Homecoming Dance

Oct 31, 1969
Colonial Beach High School held a dance at the Post Hall sponsored by the Monogram Club. This article was published by the Free Lance Star.
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1970

Captain Billy Stanford, Waterman & Spanish American War Veteran Passes

Jun 15, 1970
Flowers were sent to the funeral of Captain Billy Stanford. He was a veteran of the Spanish American War, perhaps the last veteran of this war in the locality. The Ladies Auxiliary paid $400 toward bank note. Principal Burchell requested use of the hall for one of his class functions. Mrs. Arlene Johnson requested the hall for baton twirling class. William S. Thour was elected as Legionnaire of the Year. Note name change of the..
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Captain Billy Stanford, Waterman & Spanish American War Veteran Passes

1971 Various Activities

Jun 15, 1971
Mrs. Warner from the school reported that the school children had selected by secret ballot two boys to go to Boys State. Letters were sent to local representatives voicing members’ objections to relocating McGuire Veterans Hospital to Richmond. Frances Karn received a Certificate of Merit for her work as Service Officer and Assistant Finance Officer. Comrade Housenflunk was named Legionnaire of the Year. Bingo was still being held at the Post. Awards were given for..
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Memorial Day 1972

May 29, 1972
Chaplain J. E. Dowers presented the keynote speech at the Memorial Day ceremony sponsored by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131.
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Post Incorporated

Jun 15, 1973
The Post was incorporated in 1973.
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 18, 1974
Thomas Huxtable, Brent Jones and Bernard Denson attended Boys’ State at Lynchburg College. Mary Ann Reed attended Girls’ State at Longwood College. At Boys' State, LCDR Paul Galanti, POW in Vietnam for more than eight years, delivered the keynote address. Published in the Free Lance Star. Colonel Leroy Barnard, USAF RET spoke at the Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by the Post and the Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131. Lt.Cmdr George R. Hummer, Chaplain at the..
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Memorial Day 1976

May 30, 1976
Captain D.M. Agnew, Jr. Officer-In-Charge Naval Surface Weapons Center Dahlgren was the keynote speaker for the Memorial Day Observance sponsored by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131.
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Colonial Beach Student Selected for Girls' State

Jun 10, 1976
Linda Colby attended Girls’ State at Longwood College.
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Memorial Day 1977

May 30, 1977
Colonial Beach Town Manager Josef Dunn was the featured speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131. Colonial Beach Mayor and Korean War Navy Veteran Eugene Whicker addressed the crowd at the Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131.
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Memorial Day 1978

May 25, 1978
Published in the Free Lance Star. This year a Navy Color Guard, Rifle Squad & bugler assisted in the ceremonies. A jet from Andrews AFB was scheduled for a flyover. Homer Kline, superintendent of the Colonial Beach Schools, was the keynote speaker.
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Memorial Day 1978

1980

Memorial Day 1980

Memorial Day 1980

May 22, 1980
Article published in the Free Lance Star. Ed Coffey of the Fleet Reserve Association, Branch 131 of Dahlgren was Master of Ceremonies. Carleton Carter, Vice Commander American Legion gave the keynote address.
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 15, 1980
In 1980 the Post sponsored James Rollin Morgan III for attendance at Boy's State. Yvonne Landrieux and Janine Weber were selected to attend Girls’ State. Colonial Beach Mayor Ernie Fenwick (World War II Merchant Marine) was the featured speaker at the Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131.
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Veterans Day Ceremony

Nov 11, 1981
Colonial Beach Mayor Charles Garland was the featured speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131.
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Blessing of the Fleet

May 22, 1982
Earl Baird was the Chairman of the Blessing of the Fleet Committee and Carleton Carter was the Master of Ceremonies at this event. Published in the Free Lance Star May 22, 1982.
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Blessing of the Fleet
Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 12, 1982
Sponsored Stephen Rice Colby to attend Boys’ State. Sponsored Valerie Lynne Weber to attend Girls’ State. Unfortunately, in December 1985 Sgt. Stephen Colby was one of 248 soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division killed in a plane crash in Newfoundland, Canada coming home from a six month deployment to the Sinai. Colonial Beach Mayor Elect Sterling B. Huxtable was the featured speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the Post, Fleet Reserve Association Branch..
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State

Jun 11, 1983
Ray Hogan & William Frederick Pemberton were chosen to attend Boys’ State. Kris Michele Jenkins & Mila Weiner were chosen to attend Girls’ State. Mila Weiner was the winner of the Post Citizenship Award in 1983 and 1984. William Pemberton was accepted to West Point in 1985. Shelly Tennyson was awarded an Auxiliary scholarship. Town Manager Roger Baker gave the keynote speech at the Memorial Day ceremony sponsored by the Post.
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Colonial Beach Students Selected for Boys' & Girls' State
Citizenship Award Given to Kris Jenkins

Citizenship Award Given to Kris Jenkins

Jun 11, 1984
Kris Michele Jenkins received the Post Citizenship Award in 1984. Published in the Free Lance Star.
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Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Jun 15, 1986
The Post and Auxiliary awarded scholarships to Leslie Page Ware and Kimberley Dawn Kennedy.
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Scholarship Awarded

Scholarship Awarded

Jun 18, 1986
The Post awarded Leslie Page Ware from Colonial Beach High School a scholarship. Published by the Free Lance Star.
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Hurricane Charley Blows Down Flagpole

Aug 17, 1986
Hurricane Charley was a rather mild hurricane that hit the Northern Neck in August of 1986. Colonial Beach suffered little damage, mostly beach erosion. The most damage caused by Charley was blowing over the Post flag pole.
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Oktoberfest Rolls Into Town

Oktoberfest Rolls Into Town

Oct 23, 1988
The second annual Oktoberfest was held in October 1988. Other events included the Colonial Beach Classic 10k run and a Halloween Costume Parade. The Post sold red cabbage, sauerkraut, potato dumplings and hamburgers. All proceeds from the food sales were donated to the Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department and Volunteer Rescue Squad. The article was published by the Free Lance Star in 1988.
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Memorial Renovated

Nov 7, 1989
From the Journal Press THE JOURNAL, NOVEMBER 7, 1989 Renovation of Colonial Beach War Memorial in progress Donations needed for plaques by L. Coates "Each brick is carefully nudged into place. An eagle eye ascertains whether its a perfect fit. An additional tap causes the bubble in the level to hit dead center. Such precision, such time consuming effort. For several hours each day; off and on over the course of two years, this labor..
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1990

1991 Various Activities

1991 Various Activities

Jun 15, 1991
Co-sponsored Little League Baseball & Football teams. Sponsored puppet shows upstairs. Supported CBVFD & CBVRS with direct donations. Virgil Miller accepted an award from Colonial Beach High School on behalf of the Post for their support of athletic programs at the High School.
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Residents Pack Christmas Boxes for Needy

Dec 19, 1992
A tradition in Colonial Beach is a gathering of residents to pack boxes for the needy at Christmas. Francis Karn, Post Service Officer and Secretary Treasurer of the Chamber of Commerce had been with the program since it started in 1946. Every year the residents gather at the Post Hall to pack boxes. Others deliver gifts and fruit baskets to residents of nearby nursing homes. This year donated items totaled approximately $30,000 in value. The..
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Residents Pack Christmas Boxes for Needy

1995 Various Activities

Jun 15, 1995
The Post continued the traditions of helping the needy and donating generously to the McGuire VA Hospital, CBVFD, CBVRS, Little League teams, college scholarships and the National Emergency Relief Fund (most donations were over $1,000 each).
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Concession Stand Approved to be Restored

Jun 15, 1997
Tried to restore the concession stand.
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Ladies Selected for Girls' State

Ladies Selected for Girls' State

Jun 16, 1999
Karen A. Warner & Terri E. Wingo attended Girls’ State at Longwood College.
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2000

Colonial Beach High School Senior Awarded Scholarships

Jun 13, 2003
Jason Anthony Jenkins was awarded an Auxiliary scholarship for $500.
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Annual Big Band Dance

Annual Big Band Dance

May 8, 2004
The Post held their Annual Big Band Dance. The Fredericksburg Big Band provided the music. Cost was $20 per person. Published in the Free Lance Star.
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Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarship

Jun 19, 2004
Sierra Bianca Pierce received a Post scholarship for $1,000.
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Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Jun 16, 2006
The Post awarded a $1.000 scholarship to Samuel T. Long to attend the University of Virginia. Currently a J.D. Candide at The George Washington University Law School. The Auxiliary presented a $500 scholarship to Brittney Marie Bolin.
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Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Jun 13, 2007
Sarah Sheets was awarded the Post scholarship of $1,000. Jamie Jolene Gutridge received a scholarship from the Auxiliary and a financial aid package from member Tommy Edwards worth over $4,500.
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Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships
Memorial Day Observance

Memorial Day Observance

May 29, 2008
Cmdr. Dennis Quick’s Memorial Day address evoked a lengthy emotional applause from an overflowing crowd of more than 500 at Colonial Beach’s war memorial. Color Guard provided by ATRC.
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War Memorial Restoration

May 9, 2009
It is Project Colonial Beach that has undertaken the restoration of the War Memorial. Through donations from The American Legion, VFW, many businesses and countless numbers of Colonial Beach citizens we raised almost $7,000 last year and began planting around the base of the memorial and thanks to Windland Masonry we have re-pointed the deck and as soon as we power wash the base Chimney Rescue will seal the entire foundation to protect from further..
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Helping the Community at Christmas.

Dec 22, 2009
The Salvation Army & Christmas Group distributed clothes & toys to area residents December 22 in the Post Hall. This annual tradition, started by Frances Karn, is more than 50 years old.
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2010

Memorial Day Observance

May 29, 2012
Captain Peter R. Nette from Naval Surface Weapons Center Dahlgren gave the keynote speech at the observance sponsored by the Post and Fleet Reserve Association Branch 131. Photo by Bonnie Gouvisis
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Memorial Day Observance
Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Jun 10, 2012
Jeremiah Brown, Charles “Jackson” Catlett & Carley Graves were awarded $500 Auxiliary scholarships. Dakota Farley & Carley Graves were awarded $1,000 scholarships.
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Post Hosts EOD Wounded Warrior Event

Sep 27, 2012
The Post hosted an EOD Wounded Warrior fundraiser. Our Post has quite a few Navy EOD specialists. One of our members, EOD GYSGT David Spicer gave the ultimate sacrifice. We have also taken a group of wounded warriors on a fishing trip.
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Post Hosts EOD Wounded Warrior Event
Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Colonial Beach High School Seniors Awarded Scholarships

Jun 13, 2013
The Post awarded $1,000 scholarships to Jonathan Walworth, Madison Gorfida and $500 scholarships to Anne Skinner Denson and Sydney Chancellor. The Auxiliary awarded $500 scholarships to Jonathan Walworth and Madison Gorfida.
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Post Donates Funds For Flagpole

Sep 4, 2013
The membership voted to donate $700 to Joseph Baker for his Eagle Scout project to erect a new flagpole at the Colonial Beach High School. Two years previously this young man solicited funds to place the metal bench which currently at the War Memorial. Special thanks to William Walston from RC Tree Service who operated the rig when the flag pole was erected.
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Post Donates Funds For Flagpole
Scholarships Awarded, Observation Deck Completed

Scholarships Awarded, Observation Deck Completed

Jun 15, 2014
The following seniors from Colonial Beach High School were awarded scholarships: Kora Herrod, Christina Mothershead & Joseph Baker were awarded $1,000 scholarships from the Post. Kora Herrod & Rebecca Beverly were awarded $500 scholarships from the Auxiliary. An observation deck was completed on the Potomac River after jumping through many regulatory hoops. The deck on the second floor was repaired.
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Year End Charitable Donations

Nov 5, 2014
The membership voted to donate to the following organizations: Fisher House - $1,000.00 Wreaths Across America - $1,500.00 MacGuire Veterans Hospital - $500.00 Wounded Warrior Project - $500.00
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Presents for Veterans at McGuire VA Hospital

Presents for Veterans at McGuire VA Hospital

Dec 15, 2014
Thank you to all who donated items for the Christmas for Veterans program this year. All of these items will be taken to McGuire Hospital tomorrow to be wrapped for Christmas gifts. The Auxiliary appreciates your support.
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Second Annual Bike Fest Bike Show

Oct 11, 2015
The second annual Colonial Beach Bikefest Bike Show was sponsored by All American Harley Davidson and was professionally judged by Boston Nichols Bike & Rider Productions. The show contest took place on Sunday Oct. 11 at the Colonial Beach American Legion Paved Parking Lot between noon and 4 p.m. An awards ceremony followed directly after.
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Second Annual Bike Fest Bike Show
Post Receives National & State Awards

Post Receives National & State Awards

Nov 4, 2015
The Post received State awards for Americanism, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation, and Children & Youth. Great work by the Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion. The Post received a National Award for Children & Youth at the Fall Conference held in Williamsburg in October.
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Wreaths Across America

Dec 3, 2015
The Post donated five hundred dollars to Wreaths Across America, an organization that places wreaths at tombstones in National Cemeteries.
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Wreaths Across America

First Female Commander Elected

Jun 10, 2016
Margaret "Trudy" Stiles was elected to serve as Commander of the Post for the 2016 - 2017 term. Trudy is a Army veteran who has overseen such events such as installation of officers, raising of the new flagpole, flag retirement ceremony, and the Legion Riders receiving their new charter.
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3rd Annual Bikefest

Oct 7, 2016
The Colonial Beach Third Annual Bikefest started the three day event with the Veterans riders arriving at the Post at 12:30.
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3rd Annual Bikefest
American Legion Week

American Legion Week

Nov 2, 2016
Commonwealth of Virginia Governor Terrance McAuliffe declares November 6-12, 2016 American Legion Week and the Post received a Certificate of Recognition.
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Legion Riders Receive Charter

Nov 5, 2016
What an absolute amazing day we had at the American Legion yesterday! We became the 41st Chapter of American Legion Riders installed by the State Commander then topped off the evening at the Colonial Beach Eagles F.O.E 4315 for their annual St. Jude children's research benefit. American Legion Riders were the highest bidders through the night and for such a great cause!
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Legion Riders Receive Charter
Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America

Dec 17, 2016
American Legion Riders from post 148 at Wreaths across America in Fredericksburg at Oak Hill Cemetery. Powerful day and we donated $400 to the Fredericksburg Fallen Hero's from the SAL and the American Legion Riders.
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American Legion Post 148 Birthday

Oct 4, 2017
Birthday will be celebrated Oct 7th with cake provided.
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Bikefest 2017

Oct 10, 2017
Wounded Warriors tour bus from Quantico Marine Base, escorted by Stafford, King George, and Westmoreland County Sheriff Departments along with Post 148 ALR leading the escort. This event kicks off Colonial Beach Chamber of Commerce sponsored Bikefest and is open to the public. Beginning at noon, ALR will serve Hamburgers and Hotdogs for $2.00 and DJ Steve will provide entertainment.
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Legion Riders Pay Final Respects

Feb 24, 2018

American Legion Riders of Post 148 paying our respects to a Vietnam Veteran. RIP Uncle Mike


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Legion Riders Pay Final Respects
Blessing of the Bikes

Blessing of the Bikes

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1st Annual Virginia ALR Scholarship Legacy Ride

Jul 20, 2018

Our Post hosted the 1st Annual Virginia American Legion Riders Scholarship Legacy Ride. Post 148 ALR will be hosting a route stop for the ride and served lunch @ 12:00 noon. All members on the ride are Legion, SAL and AUX. 

Since its inception following the 9/11 attacks, The American Legion Legacy Scholarship has been available for children whose parents lost their lives while honorably serving on..

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1st Annual Virginia ALR Scholarship Legacy Ride