The American Legion Auxiliary Unit #75 Sheridan, Oregon

American Legion Post 10 in Albany destroyed by fire on July 4th 2010

2010-07-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

Fire destroyed the American Legion Post 10 in Albany, OR during the early morning hours on July 4th. It is a total loss. The fire started sometime during the night and the cause is unknown at this time.

Photo from: Don Epperson

As we celebebrate Independence Day

2010-07-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate Independence day, but let us not forget that is our veterans that give us the right to remain a free nation, and also remember that freedom is not free.

On a somber note our hearts go out to Albany Post #10 early this morning their post was destroyed by a 3 alarm fire.

Three-alarm fire heavily damages Albany American Legion building

We stand by you during your time of loss.

Updates

2010-04-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Been quite a while since I have made any updates to the site. I am currently working on a Post fan Page on Facebook. I have added this to side bar so please feel free to become a fan.

It's that time of the year where we are busy working on filling our yearly reports. Spring is here and we all know what that means, it's Poppy time!

Operation Comfort Warriors

2010-02-13T12:33:00.000-08:00

The American Legion is in the running to win a $250,000 grant from Pepsi in the Pepsi Refresh Project competition. Pepsi will award the grant to the top two charities receiving the most votes online. It's fast, easy, and free to vote!

The Legion currently is in 3rd place! Let's push them to the top. You can vote once a day through February 28. Let's help the American Legion win $250,000 for its Operation Comfort Warriors.

Click HERE to vote! It takes only a few seconds to vote via a special Pepsi email or through your Facebook page.

Pepsi is awarding $1.3 million each month to charities receiving the most votes on their Web site. The winner will be named March 1. Please vote every day and spread the word. Let's help our Legion Family help the troops -- thank you!

Pepsi Refresh Project

2010-02-12T12:30:00.000-08:00

Hi, everybody, been a while since our last update, hope everybody had a great holiday season and happy new year!

I came across this Pepsi Refresh Project, and they are offering a $250,000 grant to the American Legion for Operation Comfort Warriors, all you have to do is vote. The American Legion is currently in 3rd place so they need more votes please pass and share, and vote everyday!

http://www.refresheverything.com/operationcomfortwarriors

November Newsletter

2009-10-19T16:10:00.000-07:00

It has been a couple of months since our last update, so let's catch you up on the latest news.

In September The Sheridan Legion Family held our Annual 9/11 Observance at the Post. We also attended the Annual Veterans and Troop Appreciation Day Event held at the McMinnville Armory, on September 12th. A Taco Tuesday Fundraiser event was held.

Veterans Day is approaching, we will be attending the Annual Veterans Convoy which starts at the Clark County Fairgrounds, in Washington State, and ends at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Wilsonville, Oregon on November 8th. Visit Veterans of Oregon for more details.

The American Legion Family is planning a fundraising BINGO on November 13th. We will also be holding an ALL Veterans Dinner on November 21st. I will update at later a date on the details.

We are very proud of Sheridan Sons of The American Legion Squadron #75 for receiving the 2009 Kirby E. Kepler Memorial Rehabilitation Award, Great Job! We don't call you our Slaves And Laborers for nothing. You worked hard for it.

August Update

2009-08-22T11:26:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since our last update so let's bring you up to date.

The Post & Auxiliary Unit decided that we need to work with the Red Cross and get an Emergency Shelter set up in our community, by utalizing our facilities. We met with the director of emergency services from the Red Cross, and local officials to get things started.

We will be hosting a Taco Tuesday, Dinner on August 25th from 4 - 8 PM at The American Legion Hall 125 N. Bridge St. in Sheridan.

Bring your family, friends, neighbors, and appetites. Help support your local veterans.Taco Dinner with your choice of Punch, Coffee, or Tea. Also includes Dessert. Only $5.00 a plate per person. Build your own tacos to your taste.

We are also getting ready for a rummage sale next weekend. August 28-30th

You are invited to join us for our annual September 11th / Patriot Day Observance which will be held at The American Legion Hall, located at 125 North Bridge Street in Sheridan.

We will gather at the hall around 7:00 PM. There will be guest speakers, a Flag Salute, and Candlelight Vigil at dusk, with patriotic music, and prayer. Following the ceremony you are welcome to join us inside the dining area for fellowship, Chili and refreshments.

WE MUST NEVER FORGET!!!

This remembrance is an annual event. We held our first vigil the Friday following September 11th 2001, and they have been held every year on the anniversary of that tragic day.

We hope that you plan to attend, and you are more than welcome to invite friends and family. You are welcome to speak, please pre-arrange this before the ceremony by emailing Post Commander James D. Gordon at jgrus@webtv.net or amleg_sheridan_post75@juno.com

Sheridan Unit #75 June News Letter

2009-07-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

June has been a very busy month for our Unit. We Started off with the installation of our new officers for 2009-2010. A joint installation was held at the Sheridan City Park, and members of the American Legion family were installed.

Our installing officers were Cindy Dahl Department President, and Don Dahl past Department Commander.

We participated in the Sheridan Days Parade. This years theme was "A Step Back in Time 2009" We built a covered wagon which was driven by a giant eagle and we flew the Fort Sumpter 33 star American Flag in honor of Oregon's 150th birthday.

Delegates attended the Department convention which was held in Newport, Oregon this year. Jackie Gordon was a Delegate at Large as she was the District #2 President.

We received a couple of cash awards for Children and Youth and Music activities.

We are looking forward Independence day and Willamina's Old Fashioned 4th.

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day services were held in the west Valley. Services were held at the Grand Ronde Cemetery, Willamina Cemetery, Buck Hollow Cemetery, and Greencrest Memorial Park Cemetary in Sheridan.

Wreaths were placed in memory of all who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Along with the traditional Veterans Honor Guard 21 Gun Salute, this year there was a Howitzer Cannon Salute by the Army National Guard at all the local cemeteries.

There was also a ceremony held at the West Valley Veterans Memorial in Grand Ronde and the latest names were added to the wall.

Site Update and Unit Activities

2009-04-04T12:44:00.001-07:00

Update:

As you can see there has been some changes made to the site. I have been busy lately as District #2 President and this is the first time in a while I have had any time to update. Our Unit activities pick up in the spring so I have to have more to post soon.

Unit Activities:

We are currently working on Easter Baskets for the the National Guard Armory based out of McMinnville. We are putting together around 55 baskets.

Egg coloring kits were donated throughout the community, including local churches and schools for their projects. We also donated coloring kits to a local assisted living facility. Around 300 kits have been delivered in all.

Several quilts are have been donated to the Portland V.A. and we plan on sending a shipment to the Veterans Home in the Dalles.

We hold monthly breakfasts the first Saturday of each month to raise money for our building account.

Community food distributions are held at our post most every Tuesday.

Jackie A. Gordon - President, Sheridan Unit #75

Clowing Around

2008-09-24T16:48:00.000-07:00

The District 2 meeting of The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Oregon was held Sunday September 17th at Sheridan Post #75.

We had a fair turnout of Units and Posts from the greater Salem Area.

Jackie Gordon who is Unit President for Sheridan #75 is also the District #2 President this year. All District Presidents are clowns this year.

Jackie is AEF (American Legion Auxiliary Fund) Fredie. She came out and ran the entire meeting in her clown gear.

Here she is "Maintaining Law and Order":

The first meeting of the year went well.

Jackie will be attending the DEC (District Executive Committee) meeting in Cottage Grove towards the end of October.

National Auxiliary President Desiree Stoy Visits Sheridan

2008-09-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

The National President of The American Legion Auxiliary Desiree Stoy took some time to meet and greet some of our Unit #75 Auxiliary Members. She stopped by after a day touring the Oregon coast on Monday, September 15th.

Desi was first greeted at the West Valley Veterans' Memorial in Grand Ronde, where she and her delegation who included; Department President Cyndi Dahl, 1st Vice President, Cheryl Park, and Past Department President/Distinguished Guest Chairman Darlene McLaughlin, who were all presented with hand beaded Memorial Pins by the Northwest Indian Veterans Association of Grand Ronde.

Desi took some time to look at the names inscribed on the memorial pillars. She is
pictured on the left with James Gordon Post Commander of Sheridan #75.

After visiting the memorial they toured the area a bit before heading over to the Post for a light salad dinner.

Desi's Theme this is year is the acronym "H-O-P-E" meaning Honor-Our-Promise-Everyday.

Unit #75 had a busy week preparing for Desi's visit after we held our Annual 9/11 Patriot Day Observance last Thursday which is held jointly with the Unit, Post, and Sons of The American Legion Squadron

Also on Saturday Unit members attended an Annual Troop and veterans Appreciation Day event that is held every year at the McMinnville Armory.

We are now preparing to host the first District #2 meeting on Sunday at our Post since Jackie Gordon, our Unit President is also the District President

Veterans' Appreciation Days at the Oregon State Fair

2008-08-28T11:55:00.000-07:00

Friday and Saturday August 22nd and 23rd Veterans were admitted into the fair free of charge with a ticket from the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs.

On Saturday there was a parade into the state fair grounds, and The Gordon family of Sheridan American Legion Post and Auxiliary Unit #75 displayed their flag car inside the grounds.

Pictured on the left: James Gordon, Commander of Sheridan Post #75

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Karla Comfort, a Gold Star mother who's son was KIA in Falluja Iraq on Dec. 1, 2005 had her 2006 H3 Hummer displayed in her sons honor, and for 9 other marines KIA based out of Mine Palm, CA.

Veterans' Pow-Wow

2008-07-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

The Grand Ronde Veterans' Pow-Wow was held last weekend, July, 11th-13th at the new tribal grounds located near Fort Yamhill. There was many traditional dancers, music, and grand entries were held each day. Local veterans organizations including the American Legion participated in these grand entries. Veterans were honored and recognized.

The weather was hot, with temperatures at or above 100 degrees during the day. The winds were steady.

Sheridan Post #75 sold chicken dinners for $5.00 a plate which included; chicken hind-quarters, a scoop of beans, and a roll.
The Sons of the American Legion sold their famous "Ham Dogs". Auxiliary Unit #75 sold raffle tickets for a garden basket and helped the the Northwest Indian Veterans Association (NIVA) with T-Shirt Sales.

Willamina's Old Fashioned 4th of July

2008-07-05T13:10:00.000-07:00

Independence Day festivities were held in Willamina. We attended the All Veterans B-B-Q held at the VFW Hall Post #4211

Fred and Bearie Clowned around

There was fun and games for all.

We prepared our float for the Grand Parade. This year we made giant sky rockets.

There was also a Tri-Cities all Veterans float with veterans from all of our local veterans organizations.

There were many wonderful entries in this years parade which included a float by Willamette Valley Marine Corps Family Support.

"Ooh-Rah! - Semper Fi!"

The 90th Annual Department of Oregon American Legion Convention

2008-06-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

The American Legion Auxiliary Sheridan Unit #75 took honors at the Department convention held in Albany, Oregon.

Awards received included: Children and Youth Best Year Round Report for Membership 10-35, Overall Community Service involving the American Legion Family, (The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary, and The Sons of The American Legion) and the Alena Friesen Unit Activities Trophy.

3 delegates from Unit #75 attended convention including: Jackie Gordon - Unit President, Julie Gordon - Vice President, and Marietta Smith.

Not only is Jackie the President of Unit #75 but she was installed as District #2 President at the end of convention. Juanita Gunder, (Past Department President) from Canby Unit #122 is the District #2 Vice President.

Jackie Gordon takes the oath of office as the District #2 President

Cindy Dahl, Department President escorted by her husband Don Dahl (Past Department Commander)

Cindy is from Sherwood, Argonne Unit #56 she was elected the new Department Auxiliary President for 2008-2009.

Sheridan Days: Let’s Celebrate 2008!

2008-06-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

The American Legion Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75, along with the Post & Sons of The American Legion Squadron #75 participated in the Sheridan Days Celebration this year. Post #75 sold Hot Dogs & Pop to raise funds for our Post Hall.

Pictured: Larry Parker, Roy Billington, and James Gordon (Post Commander)

The Auxiliary held a bake sale and sold tickets for our Garden Basket which will be raffled off at Veterans Pow-Wow which will be held July 11th – 13th.

Our “Legion Family” participated in the Sheridan Days Grand Parade.
The theme this year was “Lets Celebrate 2008!” To fit with the theme we decided to “Celebrate Freedom” We towed a float behind a patriotic Mustang Convertable, with a giant eagle.

We are currently getting ready for American Legion State Convention, which will be held in Albany, June 25th – 28th

Installation of Auxiliary Unit Officers

2008-06-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

Sheridan Unit #75 officers were installed Monday.

Front: Vickie Rober - Secretary Treasurer

Starting From the Left: Jackie Gordon - President, Julie Gordon Vice President, Gertrude Reid, Naomi McIntosh - Sergeant at Arms, Tammy B. - Chaplain

Susan Voss from Canby American Legion Auxiliary Unit #122 - District #2 President, pictured with Jackie Gordon was our Installing Officer.

Jackie will also be installed at the new District #2 at the end of the Oregon State Convention which will be held in Albany this year June 25-28th.

ALA Albany Convention

2008-06-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

The American Legion Auxiliary will be holding their state Convention this year in Albany, Oregon June 24th - 28th.

Sheridan Unit #75 has 3 delegates that will be attending.

Jackie Gordon will be installed as District #2 President at the close of convention.

Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial 2008

2008-05-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial 2008

2008 Re-dedication - Salem, Oregon

5 new names were added to the memorial for Oregon soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Gold star families were present at the dedication. There was a large show of support by the Patriot Guard Riders who surrounded the memorial. There was also a fly over with a Black-Hawk helicopter. This is the first memorial in the entire country to honor fallen service men and women killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Memorial Day 2008

2008-05-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day 2008 - West Valley Veterans

Memorial Day photos from Grand Ronde, Willamina, and Sheridan. Including services held at the Willamina Cemetary, Buck Hallow, and Green Crest, by The Northwest Indian Veterans Association, The American Legion Sheridan Post #75, AmVets Post #2000, and VFW Post #4211. Also includes photos taken at the Grand Ronde Veterans Memorial where Oregon's Governor Ted Kulongoski spoke. Governor Kulongoski's name was added to the "Living Memorial" under the Marines.

The True Meaning of Memorial Day

2008-05-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is not about commercialism, and Memorial Day sales, and it's not about the 3 day weekend getaway. It's a time to honor our deceased, veteran or non-veteran. Families drive out to the cemetery to remember loved ones. They place and flowers upon the graves. Each veterans grave is graced with an American Flag, and we honor the service and sacrifices they gave. Following these services it is traditional for families to gather and have a B-B-Q. This is not a time for joyous celebration.

Monday I will be attending memorial services at 4 local cemeteries in Grand Ronde, Willamina, and Sheridan. I will fight the Memorial Day coastal and casino traffic, and on going road construction to attend a re-dedication ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Grand Ronde, where Oregon's Governor Ted Kulungoski will be speaking.

Jackie Gordon
District #2 President Elect
The American Legion Auxiliary
The Department of Oregon.

It's Poppy Time!

2008-05-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Auxiliary, Post, and Sons of The American Legion members sat outside Wal-Mart in McMinnville asking for donations to help aid Veterans. One of our Unit projects is helping to aid local Veterans through our restricted Poppy funds with the assistance set up through a voucher system with Grand Sherimina Community Services in Sheridan. Local Veterans can ask for assistance but must show proof that they are a veteran, such as a DD-2-14 or a VA medical card. If you are local veteran in need of assistance please call American Legion Sheridan Post #75 for more information at 503-843-3165

Veterans Attend Opening of Spirit Mountain Casino Ceder Plank Buffet

2008-05-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

The Grand Ronde Veterans' Honor Guard blessed the opening of the new Ceder Plank Buffet at the Grand Ronde Casino.

Grand Ronde Annual Veteran's PowWow

2008-05-08T18:01:00.000-07:00

Grand Ronde Veterans PowWow July 11 - 13th

All veterans and general public are invited.

Friday: Grand Entry @ 7:00 PM
Saturday: Grand Entries @ Noon and 6:30 PM
Sunday: Grand Entry @ Noon

(Photo by: Jackie Gordon)

Host Drum: Wocus Bay
MC's: Nick Sixkiller and Bob Tom
Whipman: Victor Fry
Headman Dancer: Gilbert Towner
Headwoman Dancer: Jahna Fry

(All drums and dancers are welcome.)

No display, sale or trade of protected species or pipestone. No alcohol, drugs, or political campainging allowed. Not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Chicken Dinner

2008-03-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Sheridan Unit #75 Auxiliary Members held a Chicken Dinner on Sunday March 16th, the turnout was low but the food was great!

Vickie Rober helps in the kitchen serving up deserts.

Gertie Reid looking festive for St. Patrick's day.

Mark Smith member of Sons of the American Legion Squadron #75 enjoying dinner.

Members of Sheridan Squadron #75 pose for a group photo

A Very Special Easter Delivery

2008-03-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

The ladies of Sheridan Unit #75 put together Easter baskets for the families of the local National Guard Unit in McMinnville.

Each basket contains an American Flag and an American Legion Poppy along with all of the other goodies.

We delivered these baskets to the Armory and they will be distributing the baskets to the families.

Great job ladies!

Chocolate Sunday

2008-02-20T16:53:00.000-08:00

A benefit for the Coalition of Troop Support was held at the McMinnville National Guard Armory of Sunday February 17th.

The colors were presented by the Grand Ronde Tribal Honor Guard.

There was musical entertainment.

Kiamichi Isham played her flute beautifully.

And of course there was lots of CHOCOLATE!!

Vietnam Remembered

2008-01-30T13:46:00.000-08:00

A forum honoring Vietnam Veterans was held at the
Grand Ronde Gymnasium. Mark Weipert Commander of Amvets Tri-Cities Post #2000 hosted this event, and Vietnam veterans reflected upon their experiences.

Valentine Prize Bingo

2008-01-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

The American Legion Auxiliary
Sheridan Unit #75 Presents a…

Valentine Prize Bingo
Sunday, February 10th
125 N. Bridge St. Sheridan

Bring your sweetheart and join us for a night of fun, and prizes to be won.

Doors open at 5:30 PM
Games start at 6:00 PM

$.50 a card or
3 cards for $1.00 per game

For more information
please call: 503-843-3773

A visit to the Veterans Home for some Christmas cheer

2007-12-21T14:11:00.000-08:00

The Sons of The American Legion Sheridan Squadron #75 challenged the Legion Post & our Auxiliary Unit, as well as other local veterans organizations; including the AmVets Tri-Cities Post 2000, the VFW Post #4211 and their Ladies Auxiliary, and the Northwest Indian veterans Association of Grand Ronde to help with donations for
150 Christmas stockings.

Our Legion Family helped put these stockings together and delivered them to the vets home, we also took some time to visit with the veterans a bit. Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75 also deliverd 50 blankets for the vets at the home.

Christmas Cheer

2007-12-14T12:09:00.000-08:00

The sons of The American Legion Squadron #75 had a successful Prize Bingo last week bringing in over $650. Thanks to all who came in support of our sons.

The Auxiliary also wishes to thank all who supported our Bake Sale these funds will help with our community projects and programs.

Our Legion Family will be going to the Dalles veterans Home on December 20th weather permitting, to spread some christmas cheer. We have collected blankets and stuffed stockings which we will be delivering.

We have also been helping distribute food to those in our community in need many of whom who went through the floods, making their Christmas a little brighter.

Toys For Deployed

2007-12-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

Our Post, Auxiliary Unit, and Sons of The American Legion Squadron have been working on collecting and distributing toys for military families of the deployed with the Toys for Deployed program. Special thanks to Take Two Video for supporting our project. Now through Decmeber 18th Take Two Video in Willamina & Sheridan will be collecting toys and if you bring in a toy you will get a free Video rental.

Sheridan Flood

2007-12-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

Sheridan flooded Monday, flooding streets and homes. The river rose quickly, and the National Guard was called in to help, providing sand bags.

The American Legion here in Sheridan has clothing and supplies avalible to those in need, as we are prepared to help our community when disaster strikes.

Conatct Commander James Gordon at 503-843-3773 for more information.

You can also contact the Red Cross and FEMA for help.

Click the photo album below for more photos of the flood.

Sheridan, Oregon - 2007 Flood

Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial Dedication Ceremony

2007-11-12T21:19:00.000-08:00

The names of Oregon soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan were revealed at the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial in Salem, Oregon on November 11th 2007.

New names are added every year and the hope is that they will never have to add another name.

Gold star families from 5 states gathered for this event, honoring all 99 soldiers from Oregon that were killed in Iraq and Afghanistan

I-205 Blue Star Memorial/Veterans Memorial Veterans Convoy

2007-11-05T12:04:00.000-08:00

The 8th annual Veterans convoy was held on November 4th. 2007. Hundreds gathered at the Clark County fairgrounds in Vancouver, Washington for this annual event. The goal of the convoy is to create a chain of cars that stretch the entire span of the I-205, which is about 30 miles of vehicles.

The convoy ended at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Willsonville, Oregon where everybody was treated to a free salmon feed.

There was also medal presentations for the Oregon Veterans Medal. The highest ranking person to ever receive this medal was President George W. Bush and over 7000 medals have been presented, these medals have been received for veterans as far back as the civil war. 47 states have adopted this medal program.

There was also a "Field of Honor" of American flags honoring veterans and all 99 Oregon soldiers killed in action in Iraq and Afghanistan.

I-205 Veterans Memorial/Blue Star Memorial Highway Veterans Convoy

Click the link above to view more photos

Welcome Home Lance Corpral Garrett Jones

2007-09-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Garrett was on foot patrol in Iraq in July and lost his left leg when
terrorists detonated a buried artillery round. Fortunately, the terrorists
buried the explosive too deep, and this is probably what saved Garrett's
life. Thanks to Garrett's fellow Marines, the terrorists are now buried deep.

Many gathered to welcome Garrett home with a show of support throughout Newberg, and Dundee waving American flags as he passed by.

Welcome home Garret, 'SEMPER FI'!

Troop Appreciation

2007-09-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

The following are photos that were taken during the "Troop and Veterans' Appreciation Day" event held at the McMinnville National Guard Armory on September 22nd, 2007.

There was rock wall climbing,

and a re-enachment of of Iwo Jima by the Young Marines.

Brigadier General Charles Yriate of the Oregon Army National Guard, and Jan Mallaney of the Coalition of Troop Support.

The Civil Air Patrol.

Color Guard: 2-18 Bravo Bat. Oregon Army National Guard

Jim Willis, Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs.

1st LT. Oscar Quijano, Oregon Army National Guard

Tom Wiggins, Army Ranger (Ret.) and Purple Heart recipient.

Jereme Coker, Arkansas Army National Guard (Ret.) and Purple Heart recipient.

5th Annual Troop And Veteran's Appreciation Day September 22nd

2007-09-12T14:57:00.001-07:00

9/11 Remembered in Sheridan

2007-09-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

Last night we held our 6th Annual 9/11 community observance. James Gordon commander of The American Legion Sheridan Post #75 was master of ceremonies.

Paula Brown spoke on behalf of the Oregon Department of Veterans affairs, as Jim Willis the director had another event to attend.

Cheryl Park 2nd Vice President for The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Oregon spoke.

Bill Lewis past Detachament Commander for the Sons of The American Legion also spoke.

The Sheridan, Willamina, and Newberg fire districts were present, but many of Sheridan's crew had to leave as they had a call out.

A candlelight vigil was held at dusk honoring those who were killed on September 11th 2001 and Prayer was offered.

We had a Baagpiper from the Sheridan Fire District play Amazing Grace for us during our vigil.

Susie Vous, The American Legion Auxiliary District 2 president, and her Granddaughter lit a candle in memory of those who were killed.

We had a chili feed inside following the event, and many of the fire fighters
returned after the call out.

The American Legion National Convention Reno, Nevada 2007

2007-09-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

Members from our American Legion Post, Sons of The American Legion Squadron, and Auxiliary Unit #75 of Sheridan, Oregon attended the American Legion National Convention in Reno, Nevada.

We participated in the National Convention Parade down Virginia Street.

We watched as President George W. Bush addressed the Convention.

We also attended the National Commanders Banquet.

And of course hit a few casinos when we were not in meetings.

We had a great time at National representing our Post, Sons of The American Legion Squadron, Auxiliary Unit, and the Department of Oregon.

Grand Ronde Veterans PowWow

2007-07-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

Here are the photos you have been waiting for from the Grand Ronde Veterans PowWow.

Steve Rife marched in after his "Tail of Tears" walk.

There was a "Feild of Honor" of US Flags honoring our veterans.

There were medal presentaions for the "Warriors Medal of Valor", and the "Oregon Veterans Medal".

We enjoyed Grand entries where flags were marched in. We also enjoyed the dancing and the sound of the drums playing.

If you have not been to the Veterans Pow-Wow I suggest you make an effort to come out next year, you won't regret it.

Willamina's Old Fashioned 4th

2007-07-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

We participated in the annual Willamina 4th of July celebration.

We attended an all Veterans B-B-Q outside the VFW Post #4211

There was fun and games for everyone, and the kids enjoyed digging for coins in the sawdust.

Floats were prepared for the Grand Parade, which we participated in.

We are looking forward to Veterans Pow-Wow this weekend in Grand Ronde and we will update after Pow-Wow.

Astoria Convention

2007-07-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Astoria, Oregon for the 87th Annual American Legion Auxiliary Convention Wednesday evening and we attended the joint memorial service.

Thursday morning was our joint opening to our convention at the Astoria High school, and the Auxiliary started their meetings Thursday afternoon at the Middle School.

We attended The Commanders Banquet, held at the Fairgrounds.

Friday morning we sat through more meetings and awards presentations, we took 2 cash awards. A $5 cash award for Music, and a $10 cash award for Children and Youth. We also had a report that was sent on to National for National Security/Military Support.

We elected our new Department Officers. Ellie Buell is our new Department President. First Vice President is Cyndi Dahl, and 2nd Vice President is Cheryl Park. Julie & Jackie Gordon are now Alternate delegates to National Convention in Reno Nevada. We also won the daily attendance prize drawing for a $5 cash award. Making for a total of $20 in cash awards.

We attended a Crab Feed in the evening, and then we attended the District 2 open house at the Red Lion Hotel.

Saturday we concluded our meetings and we took a trophy for Unit Activities, for the 2nd year in a row. We did not stick around for the installations, but Jackie was asked by our new District 2 President Suzie Vous to be the District 2 Sergeant at arms.

The S.A.L, Sons of The American Legion Squadron #75, had a good time as well with their convention with 3 delegates in attendance. Charles Fragoso, Dustin Rober, and Jeff Gordon. Jim Gordon was an alternate.

Jeff had competition as he was running for Area Commander but in the end was was elected Area Commander for Area 2, for the Detachment of Oregon. Jeff is also our Sqaudron Commander for the Son of The American Legion.

Jeff sold lots of tickets for the S.A.L. blanket raffle which will be held at The Grand Ronde Veterans Pow Wow next week.

Thanks for a great year. We all worked very hard. I am very excited about National convention, and our report that will be judged by National.

Jackie Gordon J.P.P. (Junior Past President)
Vice President - The American Legion Sheridan Aux. Unit #75

Sheridan Days: Memories Will Carry On...

2007-06-17T12:56:00.000-07:00

This years theme for Sheridan Days was "Memories Will Carry On..."

We used the theme for our Auxiliary float in the parade. "Memories Will Carry On... Thanks To Our Veterans Past Present And Future" We took 2nd Prize under our catergory. We had 2 Poppy Princes on our float who are members of our Sons of The American Legion Squadron.

There was also a Tri-Cities Veterans Float with Veterans from local veterans organizations represented. The American Legion Sheridan Post #75, VFW Willamina Post #4211, and AmVets Tri-City Post #2000.

MEMORIES from this years parade WILL CARRY ON.

Installation of Officers

2007-06-12T10:17:00.000-07:00

Installation of our Unit officers was held on June 11th at the Sheridan City Park. Pam Seeleye our District 2 President was our Installing Officer, and Julie Gordon was "crowned" our new Unit president for the 2007-2008 term.

Our newley elected Unit officers are; Julie Gordon - President, Jackie Gordon - Vice President, Vickie Rober - Secretary/Treasurer, T. Brotton - Chaplain, and Louella Baskins - Srgt. At Arms.

Pictured left to right: Julie Gordon, Jackie Gordon, Louella Baskins, Gertrude Reid, and Vickie Rober

Memorial Day 2007

2007-05-29T09:21:00.001-07:00

There were memorial services held at four local cemetaries in our community.

The first was the Grand Ronde Tribal Cemetary at 8:30 AM

Next was the Willamina Cemetary at 9:30 AM

Followed by the Buck Hollow Cemetary at 10:30 AM

Then at Green Crest Memorial Park at 11:30 AM

Bud Abbott, Chaplain of Willamina VFW Post 4211, and Sheridan American Legion Post #75 offered the benidiction at these services

Julie Godon, Vice President of The American Legion Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75 places a poppy wreath in honor of our deseased veterans.

She also placed poppies upon the graves our deseased members.

A memorial service was also held at 3:00 PM at The Grand Ronde Veterans Memorial.

IN FLANDERS FIELDS

2007-05-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

In Flanders Fields

By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918)
Canadian Army

IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/flanders.htm

McCrae's "In Flanders Fields" remains to this day one of the most memorable war poems ever written. It is a lasting legacy of the terrible battle in the Ypres salient in the spring of 1915. Here is the story of the making of that poem:
Although he had been a doctor for years and had served in the South African War, it was impossible to get used to the suffering, the screams, and the blood here, and Major John McCrae had seen and heard enough in his dressing station to last him a lifetime.

As a surgeon attached to the 1st Field Artillery Brigade, Major McCrae, who had joined the McGill faculty in 1900 after graduating from the University of Toronto, had spent seventeen days treating injured men -- Canadians, British, Indians, French, and Germans -- in the Ypres salient.

It had been an ordeal that he had hardly thought possible. McCrae later wrote of it:

"I wish I could embody on paper some of the varied sensations of that seventeen days... Seventeen days of Hades! At the end of the first day if anyone had told us we had to spend seventeen days there, we would have folded our hands and said it could not have been done."

One death particularly affected McCrae. A young friend and former student, Lieut. Alexis Helmer of Ottawa, had been killed by a shell burst on 2 May 1915. Lieutenant Helmer was buried later that day in the little cemetery outside McCrae's dressing station, and McCrae had performed the funeral ceremony in the absence of the chaplain.

The next day, sitting on the back of an ambulance parked near the dressing station beside the Canal de l'Yser, just a few hundred yards north of Ypres, McCrae vented his anguish by composing a poem. The major was no stranger to writing, having authored several medical texts besides dabbling in poetry.

In the nearby cemetery, McCrae could see the wild poppies that sprang up in the ditches in that part of Europe, and he spent twenty minutes of precious rest time scribbling fifteen lines of verse in a notebook.

A young soldier watched him write it. Cyril Allinson, a twenty-two year old sergeant-major, was delivering mail that day when he spotted McCrae. The major looked up as Allinson approached, then went on writing while the sergeant-major stood there quietly. "His face was very tired but calm as we wrote," Allinson recalled. "He looked around from time to time, his eyes straying to Helmer's grave."

When McCrae finished five minutes later, he took his mail from Allinson and, without saying a word, handed his pad to the young NCO. Allinson was moved by what he read:

"The poem was exactly an exact description of the scene in front of us both. He used the word blow in that line because the poppies actually were being blown that morning by a gentle east wind. It never occurred to me at that time that it would ever be published. It seemed to me just an exact description of the scene."

In fact, it was very nearly not published. Dissatisfied with it, McCrae tossed the poem away, but a fellow officer retrieved it and sent it to newspapers in England. The Spectator, in London, rejected it, but Punch published it on 8 December 1915.

American Flag Appreciation Dinner

2007-05-25T07:28:00.001-07:00

An American Flag appreciation dinner was held at Coyote Joe's Restaurant in Willamina to honor those who purchased American Flags for Sheridan's "Walk of Honor" which honors our Veterans past, present, and future. All the Veterans organizations in our surrounding community purchased flags.

Mike Breed was the main coordinator of this project. (pictured left)

Sheridan City Mayor, Jim Baker spoke on behalf of Sheridan and wants other cities to follow in suit.

Walk of Honor Debuts in Sheridan

2007-05-24T19:05:00.000-07:00

Our American Legion Family; Post, Unit, and Sons of The American Legion Squadron sponsored an American Flag in hornor of all Veterans from all conflicts past, present and future.

There are benches which honor our Armed Forces; Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Marines.

Val Adamson director of Adamson's Funeral Home puts up American Flag on a light pole on Main Street.

May is Poppy Month

2007-05-19T17:57:00.001-07:00

It has been a tradition for our unit to sit in front of Walmart and take doantions to help our veterans every Armed Forces Day weekend. This year was no exception. Raising over $750 on Friday alone, and with the help our Sons of The American Legion Squadron on Saturday, taking in around the same amount, give or take.

We honor our Armed Forces and our Veterans, Past, Present & Future. What a perfect time with Memorial Day next weekend.

For God, and Country.
God bless our Veterans, Past, Present, and Future.

Jackie Gordon,
President,
Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75

2 - 218 Fires Battalion: Commanders Certificate of Appreciation

2007-05-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

A certificate of appreciation was presented to The American Legion Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75 by the 2 - 218 Fires Battalion.

The certificate reads: For your support of my Battalion during this Easter season. Your generous contribution to our Easter Egg Hunt was greatly appreciated by my soldiers and their families. I wish to thank you and your organization personally for the support given to my Unit.

Mark S. Parrish
LTC FA
Commanding

Here we are when we delivered the Easter Baskets to our local National Guard Armory. We are honored by this Award. God bless our Guard, and their families.

Jackie Gordon
Unit President,
Sheridan Unit #75

Opportunity House

2007-04-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

Today we donated a humidifer to the Oportunity House Alternative School here in Sheridan for use in their nursery. Carol Harper accepted our donation and was extreamly thankful. She said many of the babies had been congested lately. Many parents attend the opportunity House to continue on with their schooling while raising their kids.

Update:

2007-04-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, most of our reports for state convention are sent in to the department chairmen. Just have 3 more that are due in the next couple of weeks. Did naratives for Americanism, National Security, Legislative, Children & Youth, Music, and Community Service.

Still working on Poppies, Unit Activies, and Post & Unit Unity reports.

For God, and Country

Jackie Gordon, Unit President

Welcome

2007-04-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

This blog is to inform our Unit members of our activities. You will notice in the right hand side bar a list of our current officers.
There is also a calender of events.

We are curently working on reports for State Convention for "Trophies and Awards", which must be in by May 1st. May 1st starts our next years activities.

For God and country,

Jackie Gordon,
President - Sheridan Auxiliary Unit #75