Coffee with the commander

When J.W. Smith joined American Legion Post 29 in Siloam Springs, Ark., in 2006, membership was declining. It was at a low 63 members in 2010 when Smith was elected post commander. As post commander, Smith grew membership to 121 active members and last year the post reached 202 members. "Coffee with the Commander" is one of the many reasons Smith, now Department of Arkansas commander, credits membership growth.

Every Saturday from 8:30-10:30 a.m., Post 29 holds a "Coffee with the Commander" for all veterans – Legion membership is not required – in the community to attend. The event, which also provides free donuts, is designed to familiarize local veterans with the programs of The American Legion and the activities of Post 29. But it’s also designed to provide camaraderie.

"What’s really kept me involved with the Legion is our ‘Coffee with the Commander,’" Smith said. "We tell war stories, jokes. I really enjoy the camaraderie.

"The primary focus is to bring veterans together and to share the many programs and services The American Legion offers. If a veteran is interested in membership, we provide it."