Family and post 84 arriving to receive Ira Hayes’ retired flag.

 

Veteran of the Month for October 2026

Peoria, AZ

October 1, 2026
The American Legion John J. Morris of Arizona, Post 62, was honored to select its next Veteran of the Month, recognizing a veteran whose service and sacrifice represent the highest traditions of our nation.
Following the retirement of the flag honoring Ira Hayes, the Honor Guard and Color Guard performed the solemn ceremony of lowering and folding the American flag. As the flag was carefully folded, the meaning and significance of each fold was presented by Noah B. McMullen, commander of American Legion Post 62,
reminding all in attendance of the honor, sacrifice, and devotion represented by our nation’s flag. The folded flag was then respectfully presented to the Hayes family.
Honoring Robert John Dickey
Our Veteran of the Month is Robert John Dickey, born October 5, 1924. At the age of 18, Robert John Dickey Jr. answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy on April 20, 1943, during World War II. He served in submarine-related assignments and attained the rank of Quartermaster Second Class (QM2c).
Robert also served aboard the USS Entemedor (SS-340), a Gato-class submarine. The Entemedor deployed to the Pacific and departed on her first—and ultimately only—World War II combat patrol on July 24, 1945.
Robert was honorably discharged from the United States Navy on March 13, 1946. Like so many members of “The Greatest Generation,” he answered the call when his country needed him, standing against tyranny and defending the freedoms we continue to cherish today.
In recognition of his service, the Honor Guard was summoned to perform Taps and Call of the Colors. The American flag was then raised and will proudly fly throughout the month in honor of Robert John Dickey.
We salute Robert John Dickey for his honorable service, his courage, and his dedication to our nation during a time when freedom itself was at stake. May his service and sacrifice never be forgotten.
Submitted by:
Arlene Morris
, Honor Guard Historian


Honor Guard Post 62 retiring Ira Hayes flag.

Barney Becklund, Captain of Honor Guard 62. Presenting Ira Hayes’ flag to his family.

Buglers George Thomas, left and Greg Wiseman, right play echoing taps during the retirement of Ira Hayes’ flag.

Honor Guard Post 62 preparing to raise the flag for October Veteran of the Month.
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