American Legion makes impact in entire community, not just veterans

While many may correctly associate the American Legion as a place for veterans, the organization does work to benefit the community as well.

Monday morning was a good example as the American Legion Post 258 in Comanche gave out a couple of scholarships to graduating seniors and others at the high school awards assembly. Seniors write an essay covering a patriotic topic. Approximately $1,600 in scholarship money was given out.

The post has several fundraisers throughout the year to generate funds to give back to the community. One of the more well-known fundraisers is the annual raffle of a patriotic bed cover that is made by Susan Menges every year for the organization. The winner was drawn at the annual Christmas parade last year.

The handmade crocheted bed cover fits queen and king size beds.

Recently, the post gave her a gift purchased at Cowtown Corner in appreciation for all that she has done.

“She always tells me how excited she is to get started on the next one,” Williams said.

The post has also helped purchase eyeglasses for students.

“We talked to the principals and told them if any student needed glasses and couldn’t afford them to let us know and we would take care of it,” said post commander John Williams.

The post was able to purchase glasses for two students with high school principal Steve Dunham also contributing to the cause.

Also purchased have been 10 computer tablets and 250 ear buds.

Right now, the post is in the middle of raffling off a Kimber 45 automatic pistol and a Model 110 Savage .308. Cost is $5 for one ticket, $10 for three tickets and $20 for seven tickets. They can be purchased by calling John Williams at 580-467-3107. The drawing is Dec. 4 at the Christmas parade.

Tickets for the bed cover raffle are the same price and can also be purchased by calling Williams.