I Am The American Legion - Eunice Butts

Eunice Butts didn’t know much about The American Legion before joining it in the mid-’80s. Six years in, she still didn’t know much – until she came across some information about the Legion’s Children & Youth programs. 

“I read the paper, and I said to myself, ‘Oh. Is this what The American Legion is about?’

“That’s where it started for me.”

Since then, Butts has devoted a lot of time to bringing the Legion to the attention of local youth. 

“I find that they don’t know anything about veterans unless their parents were in the service,” Butts says. “I love to go and talk to them (and) give them educational gifts. We’ll also sit and read to them, and let them ask questions of us.”

In addition, Butts is involved with Middleton High School, her alma mater. Her post, Carmichael-Legree Post 167 in Tampa, has adopted the school’s ROTC program, where she is a frequent speaker.

 

“It’s just an awesome feeling, especially when you walk in and they say, ‘Miss Butts, Miss Butts, what are you going to talk about today?’” 

Branch of ServiceAir Force (1965-1966), Air Force Reserve and Alabama Air National Guard (14 years combined)

MOS Supply

Rank Technical sergeant

American Legion Post Carmichael-Legree Post 167, Tampa, Fla. 

Years in the Legion 30

Veterans Activities

  • Central Area commander (2014-present)
  • District commander (2012-2014) 
  • Post adjutant (2003-2004, 2007)
  • Post commander (2002-2003, 2005-2011)