Submitted by Betsy Turner
The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary Departments of West Virginia, 3rd District, held their annual spring conference on March 12 at American Legion Post 31, Shinnston.
Despite the inclement weather, there were approximately 30 people in attendance from throughout the state.
The joint session opened with a prayer by American Legion Riders Post 31 Director Cliff Shingleton. It was brought to order by 3rd District Commander Joe Loureiro, with welcoming remarks by American Legion Post 31 Commander Bruce Grimes. Dignitaries attending included current American Legion Department Commander William “Bill” Haught; two past Department Commanders, Frank Nicholson and Fred Buchanan; current Auxiliary Department President Cathy Post; past Department Presidents Roxie Nicholson, Susan Brown, Susan Wade, Dortha Parsons, Ann Buchanan and Paulette Anderson; and American Legion Auxiliary 3rd District and Unit 31 President Carla Wilfong.
State Commander Haught addressed the group on membership throughout the state and the group then divided into meetings.
The 3rd District Auxiliary meeting was opened with the presentation of the gavel to 3rd District President Carla Wilfong by Auxiliary Unit 31 1st Vice President Marsha Duckworth, followed by the opening prayer given by 3rd District Chaplain Roxie Nicholson. Next was the Pledge of Allegiance, the Preamble to the Constitution and the Mission Statement of the American Legion Auxiliary. The annual memorial service was held to honor the members who had passed away during the year.
Committee chairmen were introduced by Department President Cathy Post and committee reports were given. Ann Buchanan, state poppy committee, reported on the new Purple Poppy to be unveiled on April 15. The Red Poppy has been used to honor veterans who gave their lives; the new Purple Poppy honors military children.
Committee reports were also given by Paulette Anderson, volunteer services committee, on volunteer hours at both the VA Hospital and caregivers; and Susan Wade, membership committee, on membership within the 3rd District. Susan Brown, Department Secretary/Treasurer was the last to address the group on the ongoing activities in her office and upcoming events.
Nominations and election of 3rd District Officers for the 2022-2023 Auxiliary Year were held and the new officers are Kim Mellie, Post 174, Morgantown, 3rd District President and Lois Layman, Unit 31, Shinnston, 1st Vice President. These ladies will be sworn into office during the summer convention in July 2022.
The groups rejoined for a spaghetti luncheon provided by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31.
