On Sunday, March 22, the local Auxiliary Unit #59 hosted a Legion Birthday Party at the Callaway Legion Hall.

The American Legion was founded after World War I, on March 15 1919, in Paris France. The organization advocates for the needs of Veterans and service members and their families. This year, 2026 marks the 107th year of service of this organization.

ALA Unit #59 President Cora Belew presided over the afternoon's program. Local Veteran Bill Schaad received a Quilt of Valor. The quilt was made and presented by Em Jorgenson, a member of the QOV organization. Ms. Jorgenson conducted the QOV ceremony and explained the history and the mission of the QOV organization.

Guest speaker was Emory Haynes, County Veteran Service Officer for Custer, Blaine and Loup counties. Haynes spoke on new benefits for Veterans and issues in the Legislature concerning the welfare of Veterans.

Certificates of continuous membership were presented to Legion Members by Commander Dale Estergard, with Tom Wilson being honored for 10 years and Ron Roth for 30 years of membership.

President Belew presented continuous membership certificates to Auxiliary members including Eileen Wilson 10 years, Alley Jorgenson 10 years, and Carol Dunbar 35 years.

Gene Hendricks, Custer County Legion Adjutant, and Linnea Eggleston, Custer County Auxiliary President, also attended the event. Refreshments were served to attendees following the program.