Celebrating Service

Celebrating Service
Kristina Stevenson, editor
The Oxford Junction Post

The American Legion Auxiliary was also founded in 1919. In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, they advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace, and security. From helping to draft the GI Bill in 1944 to advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, the nonpartisan American Legion Family is instrumental in advancing legislation that improves the quality of life for our nation’s veterans and service members. Some of the programs supported by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) include: Girls State, Girls Nations, the Poppy Program, Flag Advocacy, Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS), Troop Care Packages, POW/MIA Remembrance Services, Blue Star Banners, and many more. 

Wapsi Auxiliary Unit 473 was chartered on October 13th, 1922, and has not only been involved on the state and national levels but also in our community. In conjunction with the Legion, they have participated in Memorial Day and Veterans Day services in our schools and community. They have also been instrumental in organizing and executing our 4th of July parade year after year and have organized and served at many weddings, funerals, dinners, and other events at the Legion.

The members of the Auxiliary often do not stand out or draw attention to the good works they continue to do for our community. They are often in the background, quietly working to make sure every event is a great success.

In recognition of the years of service provided to our community, listed below are the members of Wapsi Unit 473 with 50 or more years of continuous service in the American Legion Auxiliary. If you happen to see any of these ladies around town, thank them for their service to our military families and our community.

Donna Rehmke – 86

Betty Rehmke – 85

Jean Eganhouse – 82

Nancy Boyd – 75

Lorriane Haag – 73

Carmen Nowachek – 70

Virginia Carter – 67

Lois Juehring – 65

Nadine Ruley – 62

Lesa Simonsen – 61

Loni Koch – 60

Jamie Slouha – 58

Joyce Delong – 57

Jane Picray – 56

Martha Carter – 53

Teresa Fowler – 53

Wendy Larive – 53

Karen Lineburg – 53

Alice Shimanek – 53