A post that's easy to love

In 1919, 15 World War I veterans formed American Legion Post 567 in Orchard Park, N.Y. The post’s traditions of loyalty and dedication continue today.

Every year we are invited to Veterans Day programs at local schools, where we talk about our military service and why we love America. We also visit local nursing homes and honor the veterans who are unable to participate in Veterans Day ceremonies. We know our visits are important to them by the tears in their eyes, as they realize their service to our country is not forgotten. It is especially inspiring to see some try to stand at attention, hanging on to their walkers, as the national anthem is played.

We dedicated a Veterans Memorial Wall that pays tribute to all veterans who served honorably in war time and in peace time. Omaha Beach, Germany, Vietnam, Korea, South Pacific and many other sites of heroism adorn the wall, while the names of Silver Star, Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipients are enshrined on the wall for all to honor. We are extremely proud of this accomplishment. Our members are loyal and dedicated to making Post 567 one of the finest in New York State. They volunteer at all our events, including visiting vets in nursing homes, teaching cildren Americanism, marching in parades, participating in Boys State and Legion Baseball and helping the needy in our community. I’m proud of Post 567 for being involved in our community, helping children in patriotic and physical endeavors, and doing whatever is needed to help our fellow veterans. It is easy to love a post like this. I do.

Gene Blamowski, Post 567 adjutant

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