By Betsy Turner
The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary Departments of West Virginia, 3rd District, held their annual spring conference on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at American Legion Post 31, Shinnston.
The 3rd District Auxiliary meeting was opened with the presentation of the gavel to 3rd District President Kim Mellie by Auxiliary Unit 31 President Marsha Duckworth followed by the opening prayer given by 3rd District Chaplain Betsy Turner followed by the “Pledge of Allegiance” and 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 3rd District President, Kim Mellie, and committee reports were given by Carla Wilfong, State Poppy Committee and Volunteer Services Committee, on volunteer hours at both the VA Hospital and care givers; and 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 2024-2025 Auxiliary Year was held and the new officers are Margaret Yost, Unit 31, Shinnston, President, and Sandra Harper, Unit 174, Morgantown, 3rd District President. These ladies will be sworn into office during the summer convention in July 2024.
Legion, Sons, and Riders attending joined the Auxiliary for a pulled pork bar-b-que luncheon provided by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31.
This year had a record turnout of approximately 100 people from throughout the state.
The day’s activities progressed into Sunday, March 10, 2024, with
American Legion Post 31, the American Legion Family (Auxiliary, Sons, Riders) along with their families and friends and American Legion and American Legion Departments of West Virginia dignitaries celebrating the American Legion’s 105th birthday. The celebration was held at American Legion Post 31, Shinnston, WV.
Tom Willis, Adjutant, Post 31, presented the POW/MIA Service in remembrance of those military service members who were prisoners of war or still missing.
The afternoon continued with introductions of Department of West Virginia, 3rd District Officer, and American Legion and Auxiliary Officers, Post 31.
Following the program the attendees enjoyed a dinner of Baked Steak, Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes/gravy, green beans, tossed salad with rolls/butter prepared and served by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 31.