I am a 59-year member of The American Legion. My dad was a World War I wounded veteran, and very proud to be a Legionnaire. He was a past commander of Connor-Trafton Post 119 in Guilford, Maine, as well as a a 20-year service officer, 17-year officer of the day for Memorial Day, and a past state sergeant-at-arms. I started my own Legion history as a member of the Sons, and as a bugler with a bugle-and-drum corps at 11. We were state champions in 1940, by default – we were the only corps to march on a rainy and muddy field. I joined the Legion in 1951, along with my two brothers. I served in the Air Force for 24 years, including time in Korea, Vietnam, the Philippines, Okinawa and Thailand. I retired in May 1973 as a senior master sergeant. My mother, wife and two daughters belonged to the Auxiliary. I am proud to be a member of The American Legion, and remain a member of Post 119 in memory of my parents.
– Blaine A. Kallgren, Zephyrhills, Fla.