Kansas Legionnaires to honor Ike for 37th straight year

Kansas Legionnaires to honor Ike for 37th straight year

The Department of Kansas American Legion will hold its 37th annual Eisenhower Pilgrimage Oct. 13, honoring the former president, general and Legionnaire.

The American Legion Riders chapter from Post 240 in Chapman, Kan., will provide a rifle salute for the ceremony starting at 10 a.m. at the Eisenhower Museum and Library in front of General Eisenhower’s statue in Abilene.

A wreath-laying will precede the ceremony. Navy Capt. Mark Oberley, a native of Dodge City, will be the featured speaker.

Each year, the pilgrimage is held on the Saturday closest to Eisenhower's birthday, which was Oct. 14. Dwight Eisenhower, a member of the Abilene post, received The American Legion's Distinguished Service Medal in 1945.

After the ceremony, a vice commander homecoming luncheon will be held at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. American Legion Department Vice Commander Chuck Shoemaker, Department Auxiliary Vice President Paula Sellens and Sons of The American Legion Detachment Vice Commander Tom Wallsmith will be honored.