On Sunday, March 23, a large crowd of Legion members, Auxiliary members and friends gathered at the Legion Hall as the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #59 of Callaway hosted a birthday party to celebrate the National American Legion’s 106th birthday.

Auxiliary Vice President Cora Belew presided over the afternoon program and opened the event with an informative presentation on the history of how the Poppy came to be a symbol for the solemn remembrance of the fallen soldiers. She shared that wounded Veterans began making the crepe paper poppies as part of their rehabilitation therapy and informed the group about the evolution of National Poppy Day with 100% of the donations given benefiting veterans and military members. Cora also presented a monetary gift to Post #59 Commander, Dale Estergard as a birthday gift to the Post and a thank you to all the Post #59 members not only for their service but for their community service as well.

Dan Delong of Beatrice, a 1965 graduate of Callaway High school, Army Veteran, and a life member of Post #59, was the honored guest of the day. Cora explained to the group that Delong has been a longtime supporter of both the Auxiliary and Legion by generously sending monthly checks to help with their expenses in honor of his parents Dave and Phyllis Delong who were active members of the Callaway Legion and Auxiliary. Delong's grandmother, Stella Gray, was a founding member of the Callaway Auxiliary organization so his roots run deep in this community. Delong briefly shared some of his Army experiences and his love for the USA. On display were some of his Army honors and his Quilt of Valor. At the close of his talk, he asked those present to read aloud with him the Gettysburg Address written by Abraham Lincoln on Nov. 19, 1863, and he then explained how that 161-year-old document should still relate to the USA of today. It was a moving gesture to be reminded of the principles this country was founded on.

Cora then presented a patriotic plush blanket to Delong as a 'thank you' gift for his generosity (pictured in basement box on front). Also during the program, continuous membership certificates were given to Legion members Harry Rogan for 45 years and Teddy Stottlemire for 50 years. Auxiliary continuous memberships include Amber Harrison and Melissa Jorgenson, 5 years; Susie Bonde and Peg Hendricks, 10 years; Beverly Beshaler, Lauren Reiff and Carol Wallman, 15 years; Joselyn Reiff, 20 years; Em Jorgenson and Mary Ann Boldt, 45 years; Alice Schoene and Pat Young, 50 years; and Mary Reed, 55 years.

Following the program cake and ice cream were served to the guests.