‘Christmas on Duty’ premieres Nov. 1 on the Hallmark Channel.
The weekend before Easter, American Legion Post 112 in South Salt Lake City, Utah, became a Hallmark Christmas movie setting. Production trucks filled the parking lot as a film crew shot scenes inside for “Christmas on Duty,” which premieres Nov. 1 (8 p.m. Eastern / 7 p.m. Central) on the Hallmark Channel.
“The cast, crew and members of the American Legion post in Salt Lake had a terrific time filming on location, using the authentic space and involving actual members,” said executive producer Ryan Murphy, a Marine Corps veteran and American Legion member.
It wasn’t a stretch for Post 112 to stand in as a community hub. While the Legion is only a small part of the film’s storyline – and the post a fictitious one – Post 112’s Legion Family members say they were honored to be included.
Manager Pete Floor, beamed with pride during filming. “I’m very proud our post is going to be featured as a representation of The American Legion,” said Floor, a Sons of The American Legion member whose father served in World War II. “And I love that it’s a story about the military.”
Camden Simmons, Hallmark Media’s director of development, agreed. “It was really special to come into this community as part of making a film about the military,” she said. “There’s naturally a lot of crossover between the Legion community and the Hallmark audience. It’s all about support and appreciation.”
In the movie, lead actors Janel Parrish (“Pretty Little Liars,” “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before”) and Parker Young (“Imposters,” “Enlisted”) play two Marine Corps officers on a mission to deliver toys in a rural area. Winter weather and a need for fuel lead them to a Legion post, where they find a helpful and dedicated community.
For Young, the role has special meaning. “Given my close relationships with friends and family who have served, many in elite units like the SEALs, I strive to authentically represent their experiences and sacrifices,” he said. “Even though this film leans lighthearted, I wanted to balance the warmth of a holiday romance with a genuine depiction of military life.”
Young praised his co-star and the team behind the project. “Collaborating with Janel was a true highlight,” he said. “Her energy and talent made every scene fun and memorable. And working with director Jake Van Wagoner was equally rewarding. He’s an incredibly talented filmmaker, and he kept spirits high on set. Honestly, it was one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve ever had.”
Terry Cain, past commander of Post 112 and site representative during production, said the Legion scenes include a Santa Claus, an elf and a child trying to catch a ride to the North Pole.
“It was a great Christmas vibe, and we had a great time,” said Cain, a Navy veteran. “We put up our decorations, they added theirs, and it all worked out really well.”
Post 112 wasn’t just a backdrop. The bar stayed open, with patrons separated from the set only by a curtain. Some members became background extras. Mary Little, who has worked at Post 112 for more than a decade, admitted she was nervous about appearing on camera. “It was very fun to be a part of,” she said.
Second Vice Commander Anthony Mario Valdez said Post 112’s Legion Family is determined to serve its community in every way it can. “We’ve been successful in that mission for years, and we’ve got great people willing to keep it going,” he said. “It’s a tradition we are thrilled to see featured in a film like this.”
For showtimes or to stream “Christmas on Duty” on the Hallmark TV app, click here.
- Community