By Betsy Turner
The American Legion Family (Legion, Auxiliary, Sons and Riders) of American Legion Post 31 in Shinnston celebrated the Fourth of July on Thursday, July 4, from 2 – 4 pm with a dinner for members, family and guests. American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31 prepared a picnic style meal of hot dogs with all the fixings, baked beans, a variety of salads and desserts. The event was considered a success with approximately 50 people in attendance.
The highlight of the day was the inaugural meeting of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31 Juniors. For their first activity, the Juniors made 75 cards to be given to Veterans who are going on the Honor Flight and also mailed to Veterans and Service Members. The ALA Junior Activities program inspires active participation in American Legion Auxiliary members aged 17 and under so they will become engaging, productive members who will want to continue their ALA membership into adulthood. Enrollment in the Auxiliary of many daughters of American Legion members prompted the formation of Junior groups within many units.
Junior members do not form a separate organization but are members of the American Legion Auxiliary, grouped separately so they may be given a program within the scope of their years and understanding. Junior membership is the training ground for active Auxiliary membership. Junior activities instill in Junior members the ideals of the Auxiliary and present opportunities to teach the ALA’s founding principles of justice, freedom, loyalty, and democracy.
Junior groups function under the guidance of an advisor and committee from the Senior ALA members. Organized as a committee of the unit, Juniors conduct their own meetings and carry out their own activities. The Junior officers shall be known as honorary Junior officers. Their work should be coordinated with the work of the Senior group, and they should have a role in regular unit activities whenever possible so they will feel they are truly a part of the Auxiliary.
Americanism is the major focus for Juniors and helps teach patriotism, citizenship, and loyalty to American ideals and principle.
Junior membership is offered to anyone under the age of 18 who is an immediate family member of an American Legion member or a deceased veteran.
The next Juniors meeting is scheduled for August 15, 2024, at 6:00 pm at American Legion Post 31.