Pistols support OCW program

American Legion Past National Commander Jim Koutz not only delivered checks from the Legion family worth $66,000 for Operation Comfort Warriors during the Legion's Spring Meetings Thursday morning, he also announced the creation of a pistol to support the Legion's flagship wounded warrior support program.

A&A Engraving – who also created the Legion's Centennial Celebration pistol – has created 16 OCW pistols for departments to purchase and raffle off during fundraising events for the program. The OCW pistol is finished with 24-karat gold, antique gold, high polished nickel and black chrome. The Legion emblem is engraved in the custom metal grip, as well as a 50-star U.S. flag, the words "For God and Country," and the OCW logo.

Departments are limited to the purchase of one pistol. Cost is $2,895; a $1,000 deposit is required. Purchase price includes personalized engraving, a certificate of authenticity and a solid oak display case. It does not include sales tax or shipping and handling.

The OCW pistols can be ordered by calling Mark Smith with A&A Engraving at (605) 430-4238 or by email at auguns@hotmail.com Production time for the pistols is 12 weeks after receipt of deposit.

Koutz's home post, Post 200 in Boonville, Ind., will raffle off a pistol in support of OCW. During his year as national commander (2012-2013), Koutz raised more than $1 million for the program.