As COVID isolation eased, Charlotte and I were looking for somewhere to socialize. Eventually, we visited American Legion Tidewater Post 327.
I’ll call him Byron (because that is his name and I don’t think he’ll mind).
Byron was the 1st Vice Commander, responsible for membership. He welcomed us and gave us the nickel tour.
There was a kitchen, too
A full kitchen. A real chef. Inexpensive dinners. I’ll admit those were selling points.
We joined in 2023. Over time, the connection became much more about community and service than dinner.
Getting involved
Charlotte became American Legion Auxiliary Secretary. I joined the Sons of The American Legion and eventually became Commander of Squadron 327.
We also discovered karaoke. That led to singing, a duet, and eventually one of those evenings when somebody had to do something.
My turn to welcome people
After approximately fourteen years as the Post’s 1st Vice Commander, Byron wanted a break. Eventually, I succeeded him as 1st Vice Commander responsible for membership.
The man who welcomed me through the door handed me responsibility for welcoming others.
That’s a pretty good reason to keep showing up.