To the editor:
Cpl. Jedh C. Barker American Legion Post 153 was chartered on Sept. 29, 1919. In 1979 the name was changed to the current designation.
Education and Americanism have always been part of the ongoing mission of the national American Legion. The following are just some of the goals of the American Legion: academic scholarships, supporting annual boys/girls state programs, sports’ activities, promoting Americanism and advancing both Boy Scout/Girl Scouting activities.
This Sept. 29 from 1 to 5 p.m. at 118 Ridge Ave., a centennial event will be held. Following a dedication of a plaque marking 100 years, guests will be invited to an open house in the hall that will include various exhibits of historical artifacts, posters, photographs and documents related to the founding of the Pascack Valley Post 100 years ago.
In order to better educate both young and old visitors, a wide array of materials will be available containing information regarding the multi-faceted activities Post 153 promotes.
The handouts will include post newsletters from the early 1920s to the present, including two Pascackles from 1926 and 1928.
Besides the early newsletters, there will be a history of the post’s 100 years of existence, photos capturing activities from the founding to the present, and a list of charter members, as well as past commanders and members.
There will also be a special news article from the 1928 Pascackles issue listing the world famous flyer Floyd Bennet, for whom the airfield was named [in Marine Park, Brooklyn, N.Y]. It is currently being investigated whether he actually was a post member; he was awarded a non-combat medal of honor and it’s possible Post 153 had two medal of honor recipients—because Jedh C. Barker, the post’s present namesake, also received this honor from the U.S. government.
Space does not allow me to detail the collection of World War I photos, a listing of America’s wars and casualties and the mission of our Gold Star Mothers.
Looking forward to greeting a large crowd to join us as we celebrate this anniversary. Light refreshments will be served.