The old philosopher's motto is "Never Give Up." That's exactly how one of the officers at Legion Post 77 in Strasburg, Va., was. I am a longtime veteran and have never joined anything other than the service, and wasn’t about to join anything else, until I met one of the officers one night at the Legion. I was invited to go there with a friend for dinner, and while there a gentleman named Paul approached me with a hearty handshake and welcomed me to the Legion. I explained to him that I was not a member, just a guest. We talked and talked, and I kept telling him that I wasn't interested in joining, but Paul kept explaining the good points about becoming a member. Later that evening at home, I began to think about everything told to me. A few days later, I made a decision to go and see Paul again and talk some more. I eventually agreed with everything he had told me about The American Legion, and I signed the dotted line. I am now honored that I took the step in becoming a proud member of Post 77. I would strongly recommend that all veterans join The American Legion. It’s a place for veterans to connect and support each other. Becoming a Legionnaire, you are part of a family organization that has one single mission (caring for our veterans). There’s so much more I could tell you about the Legion. Check out this webpage for more in-depth information (legion.org/about/american-legion-family). Or stop by your local Legion, where you’ll meet someone like Paul.

(Article written by Army master sergeant Ed Tooma, retired)