**DADE CITY, Fla.** — The American Legion Family at Gordon M. Crothers Post 15 celebrated its first Trunk or Treat on Oct. 24, 2026, welcoming more than 250 children for an evening of Halloween fun, community connections and family-friendly activities.
Located in Pasco County, where residential neighborhoods meet rural communities, Post 15 saw an opportunity to provide families with a safe, welcoming place to celebrate Halloween.
The mission was simple: **create a safe environment where children of all ages could simply be kids.**
The event brought together Post 15 Legionnaires and Auxiliary Unit 15 in a shared effort to serve their community. Legionnaires purchased American Legion coloring books, while Auxiliary members provided crayons and offered children patriotic bracelets or Halloween candy. These gestures introduced families to the values of patriotism, service and community.
Local businesses and organizations donated candy, toys and giveaways, decorated vehicles and hosted activities, helping transform the post into a festive gathering place.
The Dade City Police Department and local fire department joined the celebration, allowing children to meet first responders, explore emergency vehicles and build positive relationships with those who serve their community. Dade City Mayor Scott Black also attended to show his support.
Beyond the costumes and candy, families learned more about The American Legion and Auxiliary, and the welcoming atmosphere even resulted in several new members joining the Legion Family.
The event reflected The American Legion’s four pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism and Children & Youth. By encouraging patriotism, strengthening community partnerships and providing a safe environment for children, Post 15 demonstrated how these principles extend into everyday community life.
For Post 15, the event was about more than handing out candy. It was about bringing neighbors together, creating memories, and reminding families that their local American Legion post is a place where everyone can feel welcome.
With more than 250 children attending, Post 15 hopes to make Trunk or Treat an annual community tradition.
**Because supporting our veterans, military families and communities doesn’t stop at the doors of our Legion home.**
