The 96th Annual Custer County American Legion Convention was hosted by Mason City Post 142 Family on Sept. 8 at Mason City. The joint session was called to order by Custer County American Legion Commander Bill Schaad in the Mason City Community Building.

Opening ceremonies were observed. Guests of County Commander and Auxiliary President Linnea Eggleston were District 6 Commander Burdette Chappelle, District 6 SAL Commander Eric Garrels and Past Department President Barb Myers. County Commander read a message prepared by County Veterans Service Officer Emory Haynes on survivors' benefits.

Comstock Unit 220 provided a Memorial Service remembering all members who had passed away in the last year.

County Commander announced who was selected as Legionnaire of the Year for the County which is Charlie Jorgenson from Callaway and Doug Boldt accepted the award in his absence.

County Commander announced who was selected as SAL Member of the Year for the County which is Rodney Kamarad from Comstock and Casey Doggett accepted the award in his absence.

It was announced that County Government Day will be held in Broken Bow on Nov. 18 with Senator Brewer as guest speaker. Bryce Ritz gave the prayer for lunch and the Joint Session was adjourned with a salute to the flag.

After lunch the Auxiliary remained in the Community Hall for their meeting and the Legion and SAL reconvened their meeting in the Mason City Fire Hall. Roll Call of Post were taken and Post Reports of the last years activities were given.

Commander Schaad gave his report of the last year. Custer County SAL Liaison Ed Lashley gave his report that there are 115 SAL members in the County and gave activities reports for Squadrons that were not in attendance.

District 6 Commander reminded us that Fall Round Up is Oct. 13 in St. Paul and Spring Convention is March 8 in Grand Island. He asked for assistance in getting a strong attendance in March to be able to conduct important business at that meeting.

Committee report that the 97th Annual Convention will be held in Merna on Sept. 14, 2025.

Resolution read thanking Mason City Post 142 American Legion Family for their outstanding job of hosting the 96th Annual Convention.

A Moment of Silence was observed followed by a prayer by Bryce Ritz. Door prizes were drawn that were donated by local County businesses. Closing Prayer was offered by Bryce Ritz and a salute to the flag concluded the 96th Annual Custer County American Legion Convention.

We would like to thank the following fine businesses and individuals for donating door prizes for the 96 Annual American Legion Convention: Highstreet Insurance Agency - Callaway, First Interstate Bank Callaway, True Value - Callaway, Rescue Bar and Grill - Sargent, Chill-n-Fill -Ansley and members of Mason City Post 142.