As Commander of American Legion Post 228, I am happy to report that we are still active and involved in important
activities.   Our monthly meeting, the first Thursday, has a steady attendance of the "old faithfuls".  Unfortunately, our Post had four highly  valued Legionnaires
report to the commander of us all.  The loss of Art Buehrer has been difficult

because he was our Service Officer and his efficiency kept us on our toes.  Bob Day's passing also left us with a void because he was a longtime active member.  John Phillips, a highly decorated veteran will also be missed as will Fred Rutz a one-time County Commander.   
     To name a few of our accomplishments: we sent two boys to Boy's State and two girls to Girl's State.  They represented our Post well and reported back with a lot of enthusiasm.  If you have not seen it, try going to our Legion Display that is still in the main lobby at Jonathan Dayton High School.  A contingent from Post 228 attended the Legion State Convention in Wildwood, and at this time we had the Installation of our Officers.  We sold Poppies and put flags on the veteran's graves in local cemeteries to honor them on Memorial Day.  Frank Leite was the Grand Marshall at the Memorial Day Parade that ended at our Veteran's Memorial Park.  Our Post conducted the Memorial Service that was attended by the biggest number of people, all ages, since its dedication in 1972.  The Springfield Veteran's Alliance as a group, has united and voted to put on all future programs held at our Veteran's Memorial Park.  The Veteran's Alliance consists of American Legion Post 228, Veteran's of Foreign Wars Post 7683 and Jewish War Veteran's - Elin Unger Post 273.  Our first united program was held on November 11, 2001 at 11:00AM and it was a memorable Service with a good attendance.  Our second united Service will be "Remember Pearl Harbor" on December 7, 2001.  Post 228 also participated at the Town Hall in a memorial Service for the attack on the Twin Towers.  I am pleased to report, Post 228 has conducted five Military Funerals and memorial Services so far this year.  We also get calls to perform this Service for Veterans that do not belong to any veteran organization as we are known for our compassion and our feedback from the families.
     There is more on the agenda, but I hope this gives you the flavor of what we are doing.  As Commander, I get a lot of support and we work as a team.  I thank my fellow Officers, Vice Commander and husband Bill Smith, Don Auer, keeper of the finances, Ray Schramm, Adjutant, Art Buehrer and replacement Warren Sim, Service Officers, and Herb Quinton, representing the Veteran's Alliance.  I thank all of you for your caring and I am happy to represent you all.  I invite all members to attend our meetings and bring a veteran friend.  Age has caused our ranks to shrink and it is important we keep our Post strong and active.

- Ethel Smith, Commander