Approximately 200 members and guests attended the Robert H. Burns American Legion Post 16 Open House on Saturday, May 13. The rededication ceremony was held outside at the front entrance to the Legion Hall. Past Commander Dennis Charlesworth served as emcee to welcome everyone and explain the reason for the open house: a celebration of the completion of the hall’s renovation and the 40th anniversary of the building.
Following the opening prayer by Post Chaplain Dick Perl, the color guard posted the colors. The Patriot Pride Youth Group, directed by Marleen Holiday, signed the words as the national anthem was played. Councilman Mark Verret, representing Mayor Mark Johnson, spoke about his family members’ military service and complimented Post 16 on its involvement in the community. John Botsford, the only veteran on the Covington City Council, added complimentary comments about the Legion as a community resource. Post Commander Joseph Untz Jr. concluded the ceremony by thanking the Legion and Auxiliary members and other organizations that made the event possible. He then called members of Post 16 forward to join him, Charlesworth and Councilmen Verret and Botsford in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The crowd was invited to return inside the newly renovated Legion Hall to visit over 30 displays by veteran, veteran service and community service groups. Among them were the event sponsor, Longbranch NORA, and organizers the United States Veterans Administration and Avenues and Victory Recovery Centers. Entertainment was provided by the Patriot Pride Youth Group playing a variety of patriotic tunes on hand bells. Rondell Day of the VA also served as a DJ to add to the festive atmosphere during dinner.
A delicious shrimp pasta dinner was prepared and served by members of Longbranch NORA under the leadership of Linda Couch. Members and alums of Avenues Recovery assisted with serving the meal. Donations by Louisiana Seafood and Coca-Cola added to the popularity of the dinner. The diners enjoyed their meals at tables beautifully decorated by the Pierre De Mandeville Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
The highlight of the evening featured the introduction of the movie "22: The Unforgotten Soldier." Three Post 16 combat veterans, Ignatius DeSandro, Irwin Marant and Chuck Rooney, acted in the movie and shared their experiences of being a part of the film.