THE SNIPER Newsletter

AMERICAN LEGION T.H.B. POST 187

ELMHURST, IL 

​www.americanlegionthb187.org

Second Division, District 11

Chartered September 26, 1919 - Our 105th year.  

December 2024

Pearl Harbor Day, December 7, 1941 

THE SNIPER

Section 1 

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POST ORGANIZATION INFORMATION

Bob Blewett, Dan Bruno, John Scudder, Gladys Novotny,

Mackenzie Aristuk, Toby Scudder, Al Bertolani, Eric Pulia

 Website Editor: Mark Snider 

   2024 - 2025 T.H.B. POST 187 OFFICERS

COMMANDER - Eric A. Pulia

SR. VICE-COMMANDER - Alex Bulley

JR. VICE-COMMANDER - Matt Aldinger 

ADJUTANT- Robert T. Blewett

FINANCE OFFICER - Albert M. Bertolani

CHAPLAIN/SERVICE OFFICER - Robert Gonzalez 

RECORDER - Mark J. Snider 

HISTORIAN - John A. Scudder 

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS - open

T.H.B. AUXILIARY UNIT 187 OFFICERS

PRESIDENT - Leslie Uher

1ST VICE-PRESIDENT - open 

2ND VICE-PRESIDENT - Rene' Trajkovich 

TREASURER - Cher Smith-Conrad 

SECRETARY - open 

HISTORIAN - Sherry Josephus

CHAPLAIN - Rene' Trajkovich 

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS - Terry Boys

SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION OFFICERS (T.H.B. SQUADRON 187)

COMMANDER - David J. Novotny 

SR. VICE-COMMANDER - Mark J. Snider

 JR. VICE-COMMANDER - open 

ADJUTANT - Robert T. Blewett

CHAPLAIN - Robert Gonzalez

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS - open

POST, S.A.L., AND AUXILIARY MEETINGS: 

Post and Sons of Legion Meetings are held together at 6:00 pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month,

January through November. There is not a meeting in December. 

In March, April, May, and June, the Post and S.A.L. may hold meetings to be determined on the second Tuesday of those 

months at 6:00 pm. 

​Post Corporation meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm. 

​​

Auxiliary Unit Meetings are held at 1:00 pm on the second Monday of February, March, May, June,

September, October, and December.  

The regular Auxiliary Board meetings are held the second Monday of March and October at 6:00 pm,

and the last Monday of August at 6:00 pm. 

In the event of illness or death, please contact the Post Home at (630) 833-7800, and ask for one of the available officers listed below. Commander: Eric Pulia; Chaplain/Service Officer: Robert Gonzalez; Auxiliary President: Leslie Uher; S.A.L. Commander: David Novotny; Post Adjutant: Bob Blewett.

THE SNIPER

Section 2 

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PARTICIPATION

10 GOOD REASONS YOU SHOULD JOIN THE LEGION:

1. Your membership card is a passport to friendship and hospitality.

2. Rehabilitation of the Veteran and his family is always our prime concern.

3. The American Legion Legislative Program is your link to your senators and congressmen.

4. The American Legion Baseball Program is second to none. 

5. Premier Boys State is a week to shape a lifetime.

6. Special Olympics is a person to person program.

7. Oratorical is the youth of the day speaking out on the Constitution.

8. Like sports? The American Legion has it.

9. Gifts to hospitalized war Veterans.

10. The tenth and final reason for belonging to the Illinois Department of the American Legion is spelled out in three

little letters...Y-O-U!

MEMBERSHIP ELIGIBILITY DATES:

As of July 30, 2019, the American Legion’s eligibility criteria immediately changes from seven war eras to two: April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government. No other restrictions to American Legion membership are changed.

To Elmhurst and surrounding town residents: If you are a Veteran in your 20's, 30's, or 40's (or any other age), are a son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a Veteran, living or deceased, who served during the above dates, we welcome you to stop by the Post.

We are looking for new members to join the Post, the Women's Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion to take us through the 2020's and beyond. Afghanistan and Iraq Veterans are especially welcome. Members who choose to volunteer can oversee programs, coordinate events, and move into chairperson, leadership, and officer positions that are available for dedicated citizens who want to make a difference in our towns. Or, if you'd rather take time out to relax, attend our events, and meet other members, you are welcome to stop by or call 630-833-7800.   

105 YEARS OF SERVICE

T.H.B. Post 187 honored significant 100th year anniversary dates in 2018 and 2019. The first three Elmhurst World War I residents, Ernest Timrott, killed in action June 3, 1918, Marines; Richard Hintz, killed in action July 19, 1918, Army; and Kinsley Buck, killed in action June 19, 1918, Marines; had 100 year anniversaries in 2018.

In September 2019, the 100th anniversary birthday of the Post occurred. T.H.B. Post 187 was named after the above three men, and the Elmhurst Legion was chartered on September 26, 1919.

See a history of the T.H.B. Post 187 at our Post History tab, and Our People tab, on this web site.

POST VOLUNTEERS

As always, we are looking for volunteers for any upcoming anniversaries, holidays, and events. If you are an Afghanistan or Iraq Veteran, Legion Member, or family member of a past Auxiliary President or Post Commander, we would especially appreciate your contributions. We ask Corporation members, past officers, and the public to provide assistance as well. Stop by the Post or call us at 630-833-7800.  

-- Ed.

WE NEED UPDATES, ARTICLES, AND CURRENT INFORMATION! 

All Sniper contributors who wrote articles previously, and any new contributors, are asked to submit articles now.

Without your help, the Sniper topics will not change. You may drop them off at the Post in Cafe 187, or email

us at fairfield1923@yahoo.com, or mail it to the Post via US Mail. Please put a contact number or

email address in your email for confirmation. Spam will be deleted.  Thank you. 

THE SNIPER

Section​ 3 

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NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS ASSUME POST DUTIES FOR 2024-25 

September 24, 2024 

The Elmhurst American Legion's recently elected officers began their terms on September 24, 2024. They succeeded Commander John Scudder, who did not seek re-election after nine years at the helm, and Rus Strahan, Senior Vice Commander. Eric Pulia, Veteran and Junior Vice Commander, suceeded John Scudder, and Alex Bulley, a Marine veteran and member, suceeded Rus Strahan. 

Also elected unopposed by acclamation was Marine veteran and member Matthew Aldinger to the Junior Vice Commander position. Appointed to the vacant Post Chaplain position by acclamation was Veteran and member Robert Gonzalez.

In other positions, longtime Finance Officer and Army veteran Al Bertolani was elected by acclamation to his unopposed position. Veteran and member Bob Blewett retained his appointed Post Adjutant position by acclamation. Sons of Legion Senior Vice Commander Mark Snider was asked by Eric Pulia to retain his appointed Post Recorder position and accepted same. 

L to R: Chaplain Robert Gonzalez, Commander Eric Pulia,

Senior Vice Commander Alex Bulley, Junior Vice Commander Matt Aldinger.

-- Ed.

THE SNIPER

Section 4 

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ADJUTANT REPORT AND ADDITIONAL POST BUSINESS  

November 25, 2024

Donations of Christmas decor. We have realized that we have minimal decorations for the outside of our Post.  If anyone has any artificial trees, wreaths, or lights in good shape that they are able to donate, please call Bob Blewett and arrange to drop them off at the Post. Thanks for your help.  

Dues Notice Alert!!  The dues notices are sent out by the by the State. Sometimes the notices cross in the mail. Feel free to contact me if you believe there is an error so we can fix the issues.

We are in need of new members! Our membership is declining due to the passing of our comrades, coronavirus, and others not renewing their memberships. Members are men and women who share not only a common past but also help our Veterans get and keep the benefits they need and deserve. Do you have any relatives, friends or neighbors who might be eligible to join the American Legion?  Ask them to join or transfer to our Post.  We will welcome them! Regular dues price is $50.00 per year. 

Volunteers are needed. As you know our post needs volunteers to make activities more successful so if you have one day or evening a month to spare, we could use your help at Fish Fry, Wednesday Night Bingo or any of the various parties we have, or on various projects around the Post Home.  Please give me a call, or stop by the Post during Fish Fry or attend any of our meetings and talk with us.

Post and Sons of Legion Meetings are held together at 6:00 pm on the fourth Tuesday of each month: January, February, July, August, September, October, and November. There is not a meeting in December. In March, April, May, and June, Post and S.A.L. meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm. Check the calendar on the website tab, "Events Calendar", for meeting dates.  If you are present, you could find yourself leaving a bit richer from our “Split the Pot” door prize or the Membership Attendance Drawing (worth $200) if your number is picked. S.A.L. members are most welcome to attend all Post Meetings.

​Post Corporation meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 pm. 

IMPORTANT !!  Please send in your DD-214s if they are not already on file with us.  We need them in case your family cannot find your original.  It will be needed to ensure you receive every benefit to which you are entitled when you pass away.  This has become a problem when members transfer in.  If you need to order a copy, you can go online to http://vetrecs.archives.gov or call the National Personnel Records Center in St. Louis at 1-877-827-9026.

Honor Flight Chicago … Is taking applications for those Veterans from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. I do have the applications for those who are interested.  Honor Flight also will take applications for Volunteers. This is a FREE trip for those veterans. There is a cost for the Volunteers.

-- Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant  630-833-7800 or 815-822-0779.

Congressional Veteran services - U.S. Representative Sean Casten, District IL 06:

January 8, 2023

Greetings,

My name is Humberto Zermeno.  I am the congressional aide for Congressman Sean Casten in the new Illinois Congressional District 06. I am reaching out to all the Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFWs) in the new district to offer our services. 

Our office is here to assist any veteran obtain the status of a Veteran Affairs (VA) claim for service-connected disability, payment of education benefits, or answer any questions the veteran may have about medical care at VA facilities, and other casework issues pertaining to the retrieval of service records and missing awards / medals. 

Please share my contact information with any service member who may need some assistance!

Humberto Zermeno, Congressional Aide

Office of U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06)

800 Roosevelt Road, Bldg. C. Suite 210

Glen Ellyn, IL. 60137

Office (Main): (630) 520-9450   Mobile: (202) 981-3104

https://casten.house.gov/

-- Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant  630-833-7800 or 815-822-0779.

WEBSITE ADVERTISING DONATIONS

January 1, 2024

To the wonderful patriotic citizens and businesses of the Elmhurst area community, join our Elmhurst American Legion Post as an Advertiser, Individual Booster, or Sponsor. 100% of the monies raised are given back to the community. This website is a non-profit volunteer publication of T.H.B. Post 187 for the benefit of Veterans and Members to read about programs and events occurring at the Post. Help us to continue sponsoring Scholarships for our children; give aid and assistance to our local needy Veterans and their families. Help us to continue to support financially worthy community programs and projects. 

If you are a local citizen, business entity, or organization, and would like to advertise on our website, please contact the Post at 630-833-7800. We will have someone get back to you. We will work with you on donation rates, publication terms, and on what category you'd like to appear in (see below), the size of copy (partial page shared with others, or full page self standing), and whether it is in color or black and white. We can also include links to your own website. Per the Legion website administrator, Legionsites.com, the copy should be in a jpeg format for the best appearance on the site. 

We hope you also may consider being a sponsor or individual booster of the Post. See tab "Advertising, Supporters" for our three categories of recognition: Advertisers, Boosters, and Sponsors. 

Thank you in advance for your interest and support of T.H.B. Post 187! 

--Mark Snider, Website Editor       

THE SNIPER

Section​ 5 

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ENROLLMENT/ HOW TO JOIN PROCESS: 

​We invite you to become a Legion Member 

To Elmhurst and surrounding town residents: If you are a Veteran in your 20's, 30's, or 40's (or any other age), are a son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a Veteran, living or deceased, who served during the dates of April 6, 1917, to Nov. 11, 1918, and Dec. 7, 1941 to a time later determined by the federal government, we welcome you to stop by the Post.

We are looking for new members to join the Post, the Women's Auxiliary, and the Sons of the Legion to take us through the 2020's and beyond. Members who choose to volunteer can oversee programs, coordinate events, and move into chairperson, leadership, and officer positions that are available for dedicated citizens who want to make a difference in our towns. Or, if you'd rather take time out to relax, attend our events, and meet other members, you are welcome to stop by or call 630-833-7800.   

Please click below for a membership application, fill it out, and bring it and your dues to the Post.  

48MEM0716-Legion-Family-Applications.pdf (illegion.org)

MEMBER DUES PAYMENTS: 

We have received many questions regarding dues payments. We do not send out notices; they are mailed from the Department of Illinois and may cross in the mail with your payment. If paying online, we do not receive those dues until they are processed by Springfield, so please bear with us. 

It has come to our attention that some members have problems paying their dues because of circumstances beyond their control. It could be a matter of purchasing food, heat, the corona virus, or medicine costs. Some of these individuals are long-time members. If you would like to help them out, add a donation to your dues payment or make an outright donation to other member's dues. If you know someone in need, or if you wish to pay someone's dues, please notify Bob Blewett at the number below.   

--Bob Blewett, Post Adjutant, at 815-822-0779. 

SONS OF LEGION MEMBERSHIP RATES 

September 10, 2024

Greetings Fellow Sons,

NEW LEGION ENROLLEES:  November 2024

New Post and Auxiliary members:  None reported.

New S.A.L. Members: None reported

Transferred in: None Reported.

THE SNIPER

Section 6 

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HEALTH, MEDICAL, AND MEMORIALS

CORONA VIRUS UPDATES VIA msn.com and cdc.gov

December 2024

MSN Coronavirus (COVID-19) (msn.com) provides data and updates from many sources which give you good information and be timely. There are many other good sources on the web as well, including the CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov) 

Our goal is to give our Legion membership reference points for Covid-19 updates. As always, if you exhibit symptoms, please contact your physician.

As of February 28, 2022, all Elmhurst American Legion programs returned to normal operations. The federal COVID-19 PHE (Public Health Emergency) declaration ended on May 11, 2023. We encourage you to wear a mask indoors at the Post if you so desire. We will continue to monitor state and national developments on any recent changes regarding the virus.

VETERANS HEALTH AND ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

January 28, 2024

Our post is offering various sections within our website where you can get the following information. We hope it is a start for you to find what you need. Please click on the topics below that will give you additional initial information. 

VETERANS AFFAIRS, HOME CARE ASSISTANCE, RESOURCES (americanlegionthb187.org)

VETERANS CAREGIVING, HOME LOANS, LIVING BENEFITS (americanlegionthb187.org)

MESOTHELIOMA, ASBESTOS ASSISTANCE (americanlegionthb187.org)

ALLEN FORCE- HEALTHY MINDS HEALTHY BODIES (americanlegionthb187.org)

MEDICAL ALERT DEVICES (americanlegionthb187.org)

SIGNS OF A STROKE (americanlegionthb187.org)

EDWARDS ELMHURST ENDEAVOR HOSPITAL - VETERANS RECOGNITION PROGRAM, UPDATE

July 18, 2024

Paul Tilton of our Post has provided us an update about the Veterans Recognition Program below. 

"I’ve added up my total meetings with the veterans in their hospital rooms for the past 12 months and here they are. For the period June 2023 thru June 2024 (12 months) I met with 110 veterans. The average age is 83. I know that number of 110 sounds unreal but I’m at the hospital every Wednesday for 4 or 5 hours and  usually meet with 2 or 3 veterans each time. Some of the vets will talk your arm off and some talk little but to a man they are very appreciative and sometimes even get a little emotional. After I visit with the vets I do transport, taking patients in wheelchairs from their rooms to their awaiting cars. 

I do other volunteer work but meeting with the veterans is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. Below are a couple of the documents that we present to the vets. They really like the door hanger as it lets everyone know they are veterans." 

The Edwards Elmhurst Endeavor Hospital has a Veterans Recognition Program to recognize patients who are veterans at the facility. The mission of the program is to recognize those veterans in the hospital for their courage and committment to this country. Post Member Paul Tilton is a volunteer in the program. The veterans are presented with a note from the CEO of the hospital, thanking them for their service. A plaque also is placed on their hospital room door recognizing them as one of our nation's heroes. When speaking to these men and women, it is emphasized that Post T.H.B. 187 is being represented also along with the hospital.

Anyone from the Post, Auxiliary, or Sons, who wishes to help with the visits is welcome to volunteer with me. The visits are every Wednesday for 4 to 5 hours. The hospital runs a sheet that lists those patients who are veterans. Their ages run from late sixties to early nineties. In some cases, a family member is present, and they are always very appreciative. You will find the visits rewarding and fulfilling to meet these veterans who sacrificed the utmost in their military careers. This has been one of the most rewarding volunteer efforts I have ever done. 

--Paul V. Tilton, Member and Past Recorder    

GET WELL SOON - NOVEMBER 2024

To our members who have been out ill, in the hospital, or recuperating from injury/surgery:

None currently reported.

IN MEMORIAM - OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2024

October 11, 2024

Dorothy Patronela Pawelski, age 101, of Mayslake Village, Oak Brook, IL. Beloved wife of the late Erwin. Loving mother of John Pawelski, Judy (John) Donner, the late Robert Pawelski (the late Celeste) and the late James Pawelski. Devoted grandmother of Dayna Ringel, Sheri Pawelski, Jennifer (Keef) Weinstein, Lindsay Donner, Ashley (Michael) Fates and the late Paul Pawelski. Cherished great-grandmother of Payton, Grace, Addie, Ethan, Austin, Jack and John. Dear aunt and great-aunt of many.

She worked for many years as a secretary at the University of Illinois – Chicago and Quaker Oats. Dorothy was always a caregiver. She cared for her elderly mother for many years and then cared for her son when he was ill. For many years Dorothy was an active member and volunteer of the Woman’s Auxiliary of the American Legion in Elmhurst.

Visitation was 9 to 11am Thursday, October 10, 2024 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 301-75^th Street, Downers Grove, IL.  Funeral Mass to follow at Mayslake Village Chapel, Oak Brook, IL at 11:30am.  Private Interment St. Adalbert Cemetery, Niles.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the American Legion of Elmhurst appreciated.

Funeral home phone (630) 964-6500. Hallowell & James Funeral Home – Countryside | Downers Grove IL (hjfunerals.com) 

BUSTER MAXWELL USMC MEMORIAL CEREMONY

July 13, 2024

The family of Buster Maxwell, U.S.M.C., recently honored him at the Elmhurst Legion on July 13, 2024. Mr. Maxwell, a Vietnam war combat veteran, recently passed away due to illiness. In his honor, Mr. Maxwell's family graciously donated $1,075.00 to the Post. Thank you from the Post, we greatly appreciate the donation from his family. 

-- Elmhurst American Legion T.H.B. 187

ELMHURST VETERANS MEMORIAL:

The City of Elmhurst has a Veteran's Memorial Commission that oversees the Veterans Memorial in Wilder Park. The former honoring of a Veteran program has been discontinued. However, if there is someone you would like to honor during a planned ceremony, please contact the Veterans Memorial Commission at the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 North York Street, (630) 530-3000. The Veteran you wish to honor does NOT need to be a member of the American Legion. The only requirement is that he or she be honorably discharged, and you have a copy of the Veteran’s DD-214 (or Enlisted Record & Report of Separation).

If you would like to participate in Veterans programs that the city offers, or would like more information or have questions, please go to their website:  www.elmhurst.org/government/boards___commissions/veterans_commission/index.php

THE SNIPER

Section 7 

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CORPORATION AND POST NEWS

RECYCLING BIN AVAILABLE AT THE POST

September 24, 2024

Have any metal or aluminum cans at home that need recycling? Aurora Recycling has dropped off a bin for aluminum and metal cans. It will hold about $200 of cans that the Post will donate towards Boys and Girls State. The bin is in the parking lot at the southwest corner of our building next to the storage shed. You may drop off any quantity of cans during Post business hours, Monday through Saturday (we are open 12-5 pm on Sunday). Thanks for your support.

--Eric Pulia, Commander

VIDEO GAMING MACHINES ARE NOW INSTALLED AT THE POST

August 9, 2024

The Elmhurst American Legion is pleased to announce that video gaming machines are available at the Post! Operating hours are currently 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday - Saturday, and 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sunday. Holiday hours may vary. Six machines were installed in Cafe 187 on November 6, 2023, and were activated on November 7. A new ATM machine was installed to get cash from your bank account to use on the gaming machines. A card will be loaded with your winnings to cash out on the ATM. Stop on by and check them out. The machines were installed by the State of Illinois and are operated and managed via the State's agent as well. Thank you to all who worked tirelessly and patiently on the application and approval process to procure these machines. And, good luck! 

-- John Scudder, Past Commander 

BEARS GAME LUNCHES ON SUNDAYS FOR 2024 REGULAR SEASON

October 18, 2024

We are going to have lunches for Sunday Bears games this year. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be featured for purchase. This will include the noon starts and 3:05 pm. and 3:25 pm. start games. All games are subject to NFL flex scheduling rules explained on this link.  NFL.com | Official Site of the National Football League 

Sept. 8 Titans - Noon

Sept. 22 Indy - Noon

Sept. 29 Rams - Noon

Oct. 6 Panthers - Noon

Oct. 27 Washington - 3:25 pm. (flex schedule revision)

Nov. 3 Arizona - 3:05 pm.

Nov. 10 Patriots - Noon

Nov. 17 Green Bay - Noon

Nov. 24 Vikings - Noon

Dec. 8 San Fran. - 3:25 pm.

Dec. 22 Detroit - Noon

Jan. 5, 2025 Green Bay - noon

As we learn of any date changes we will update. 

-- Bob Daniels, Past Commander

SATURDAY AFTERNOON LUNCHES 

September 8, 2024

Saturday Afternoon Lunches have been reduced to once a month from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm as we do not have a cook. Volunteer cooks are wanted. Carry out is available. Check our "Lunch Menu" tab or "Events Calendar" tab for upcoming lunches when announced. ​​​​

We are trying to have lunches on a monthly basis if possible. Because of this, future Saturday lunches will be posted on the bulletin board near the restrooms in the Cafe 187 lounge and on our exterior readerboard sign. If you wish to volunteer to cook on any Saturday, please contact me (Bob Daniels) at 630-833-7800, or sign up on the aforementioned board. Plan to cook for about 25-30 people. Anything you wish to cook is fine. You will be reimbursed for expenses.

Since September, 2015, the Saturday Afternoon Lunches have generated enough funds to purchase equipment for the Legion amounting to a value of over $10,000. Besides the purchases in past reports, in 2023 we have purchased a frying oil recycler, and a replacement fryer for our fish fry dinners. We have bought 28 items prior to these that I won't list for lack of space here. The list is available on request. 

These items were able to be purchased because of the people who have come in for a good lunch on Saturday (currently $8.00), and also attended prior lunches. We hope to continue the lunches, but without a cook this is not going to happen. 

Thanks to all the people who come regularly for our lunches! 

-- Bob Daniels, Past Commander 

​NORMANDY BANQUET ROOM AND CAFE 187 RENTAL INFORMATION                             

If you are planning an event such as a birthday, wedding or anniversary party, please consider renting one of the rooms at your Post Home. The Normandy Banquet Room is ideal for large gatherings, it can accommodate 220 people. Cafe 187 can accommodate 75 people. Packages are available for buffet or family-style dinners, or dinners "by the plate".

As a Legion member, you will also receive a discount off the cost of the regular room rental. For details and menu items, click our website tab "Normandy Banquet Room Rental Information." Or, call the Post at (630) 833-7800, or stop in any weekday and speak to Pat Klouda, Banquet Manager, for information and to see if the date of your event is available.

-- Al Bertolani, Finance Officer

Corporation 2024-25 Board Member Vote- T.H.B. 187

September 27, 2024  

The Corporation Board of the Legion held their 2024-25 installation meeting, membership vote, and ratification on September 10, 2024, at 6:00 pm after the Post meeting. The Board and Committee elected officers are listed below. 

Corporation Board 2024-25

President                 Robert Blewett                             1 year, 9-25

Vice President         Thomas Augustyn                        2 years, 9-26

Secretary                 Barb Liebe                                    3 years, 9-27

Secretary                 Don Page                                      2 years, 9-26  

Treasurer                 Al Bertolani                                  1 year, 9-25 

Board Member        Rus Strahan                                 2 years, 9-26

Board Member        Thomas Zickus                             3 years, 9-27

Board Member        Robert Daniels                             3 years, 9-27

Board Member        John Scudder                                1 year, 9-25

ad hoc Board Member    Eric Pulia                               Post Commander

Committee members (3 each) were also elected for Indoor, Outdoor, and Bar oversight.

Indoor                              Outdoor                           Bar

Al Bertolani                     Tom Zickus                      Rus Strahan

Bob Blewett                    Don Page                         Barb Liebe

Tom Augustyn                John Scudder                   Bob Daniels 

Thank you to the members of the Corporation Board and Committees for your participation.

-- Al Bertolani, Treasurer

THE SNIPER

Section 8 

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RECENT LEGION EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

S.A.L. MEMBER JAMES ERRERA AWARD PRESENTATION

August 27, 2024

James Errera, T.H.B. Post 187 Sons of Legion Member, was presented on August 27 with the Patriotism Award, the first point of the Five Star Award program available to SAL members. A star for Patriotism is given to a member that shows a knowledge of the history of the Flag, the proper ways of displaying it, and the proper respect due it. James successfully passed the exam for Patriotism on August 2nd and is looking forward to progressing to the subsequent four areas; Citizenship, Discipline, Leadership, and Legionism. Congratulations to James on obtaining the first point in the Five Star Award program! 

Pictured above (l to r), is SAL Commander Dave Novotny, SAL Member James Errera, and Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Shanklin, who is James' grandfather. 

--Ed., photo by Auxiliary First Vice President Gladys Novotny.  

DON CHASTEEN RECEIVES LEGION RIDER OF THE YEAR AWARD

July 23, 2024

Don Chasteen, Jr., who is a volunteer at Elmhurst Post T.H.B. 187, and a member of Naperville Post 43, was honored on July 13, 2024, by the Illinois Chapter of the American Legion Riders. Don was presented with the award for his leadership, public service, and committment to community, state, and nation. The Elmhurst Post participated in part for the award to be presented to Don by recommending him as a candidate. Congratulations to Don, and we appreciate your contributions to the Elmhurst and Naperville Posts.     

--Ed.

HISTORICAL WAR RELICS

January 24, 2024

On January 23, 2024, our monthly Post meeting featured guest speaker Brendan Seyring of Iron & Paper Artifacts who presented a short demonstration on historical relics from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, & War of 1812. It included an original decommissioned Civil War Musket, Revolutionary War Sword, and cannon balls, amongst other artifacts. Brendan holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in early American history and had some relics for sale for anybody interested. The event was an interesting edcuational experience for all. Thanks to 2nd Jr. Vice Commander Eric Pulia who coordinated the event.

--Ed.  

US NAVAL INSTITUTE AUTHOR JEROME CONNOR, WWII PRESENTATION, SEPTEMBER 26, 2023

September 27, 2023

Jerome M. O'Conner, author of "The Hidden Places of World War II" (picture below) spoke at the Post in a 45 minute Powerpoint program about the vast and never destroyed Nazi U-boat bunker bases in France. Revealing the existence of the abandoned but intact bases resulted in Mr. O'Connor being named the 2001 US Naval Institute "Author of the Year." Jerry wrote the book at a rather advanced age, and it has been selling constantly on Amazon for 51 months at a 100% professional approval rating and 96% Amazon reader recommendation. 

A discussion of how U-boats almost won the war before United States entered it was read with excerpts from the book associated with the U-boat threat. Jerry also brought a few books for sale for anyone wishing a copy. The book is also available via Amazon. He also brought four posters of the era, shown below. 

--Eric Pulia, Commander

BASEBALL - MUDDOGS BASEBALL RETURNS FOR 2025  

October 5, 2024

Program Director Mike Biondo has announced that Muddogs Baseball is returning for 2025.

We are planning to get both 17U Junior and 19U Senior American Legion DuPage Muddogs baseball teams organized for 2025. We are looking for Professional Certified Head Coaches that would like to take a 17U & 19U team for next year's 2025 American Legion Baseball Season. Interested high school and college players must play for their local high school or college and come from local schools only. If you are interested please direct message us at 630-270-7749, or email at muddogslegionbaseball@gmail.com .

For more information on the team, go to the Muddogs Facebook page below.  

www.facebook.com/MuddogsLegionBaseball

-- Information provided by program director Mike Biondo. 

FRIDAY NIGHT BANDS / MUSIC / 50-50 RAFFLE 

November 23, 2024 

   The infamous raffle ticket donation fishbowl  

Come join us each Friday for our Friday Night Fish Fry followed by our weekly band, and participate in our voluntary 50/50 Raffle. Your donation is important to our bands and the Post. The donated money and tips raised from these raffles pays for the bands who appear here each week, and gives attendees a chance at the jackpot. Raffle tickets are $1.00 each, or $5.00 for 6 tickets. The total jackpot is split 50-50 between the winner and the band. If you put your name and phone number on the back of your tickets, you need not be present to win. Winning numbers are drawn between 9:00 and 9:30 pm., usually at the band's last break. 

Weekly bands perform on Friday nights in Cafe 187, and occassionally the Normandy Room. A $10.00 donation for admission is sometimes charged to pay for Normandy Room bands. See the "Live Music Fridays, Featured Bands" tab for details and scheduling of upcoming performers.

New bands have been added! Please check the schedule as we also have added occassional Thursday night special shows for new bands.   

Our raffle winner for November 22, 2024, was Ellie W., whose number was chosen as the winner of the $143.00, 50/50 jackpot. The Rockin' Eldorados were able to generate a $286.00 jackpot at the Post. Ellie's ticket number was #143978. Congratulations to Ellie on having the winning ticket! And, thank you to all donors/participants who played the 50-50 raffle or donated tips for our band tonight.       

And on November 15, Alex H. won the $83.00, 50/50 jackpot. Steve Petro generated a $165.00 jackpot at the Post. Alex's winning ticket number was #143513. He had left the Post but did put his name and number on his tickets. Congratulations to Alex on winning the jackpot! Thanks to all donors who helped pay for the band via the 50/50 raffle and tips. Steve Petro's next appearance at the Post is December 6, 2024.     

Please note that winnings can be made into donations to honor birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, donating to the Post, to our band that night, or any other special event that you wish to remember.

As the late Johnny Gray, a longtime performer at the Post would say, "Come visit the American Legion in beautiful south Elmhurst, the vacation capital of the Midwest, and enjoy a delicious Fish Fry dinner and great entertainment." Also, purchase a few raffle tickets, or enter the Queen of Hearts Fundraiser drawing (see "Queen of Hearts Fundraiser" tab on our website). Perhaps YOU will be our next lucky winner! Many thanks to the people who turn out, and to all donors for your support of the 50/50 raffle and admission fundraisers that pay for our bands.

Below are some of the bands who regulary perform at the Legion. Remember to tell all of your friends about our bands, and to come back to the Post soon. We do appreciate your support of these bands and upcoming new bands via our 50/50 raffle contest and admission donations.  

Flash Baxter 

Bruce Gibson Quartet

Fran Marie

Jenny V James, JP, and The Flames

The Fabulous Fabtones

Solid - Aire Band 

The Rockin' Eldorados

Lisa Marie Quartet

Circle of Fifths

Trilogee 

Steve Petro 

Silver Hare Band

QUEEN OF HEARTS FUNDRAISER GAME:

Octotber 5, 2024

The Queen of Hearts game is available to play at the Post. 

Stop by at the Elmhurst American Legion and play our Queen of Hearts game at the Post. You might just win some $$$$ and help the Legion too!  Tickets can be purchased at the bar in Cafe 187. The drawing is weekly on Wednesdays and is generally between 8:00- 8:30 during Bingo. The current weeks' jackpot is on our pylon sign readerboard as you drive by the Post. 

QUEEN OF HEARTS GAME RULES

The game consists of a standard deck of cards with 2 (two) jokers for a total of 54 cards. Cards are shuffled, numbered 1 through 54, and placed face down in the locked cabinet. Tickets are sold for $1.00 (one dollar) each. Print name and phone number on each ticket, then place in the large drum. If the person does not plan on attending the drawing, he or she must write a number of one of the remaining cards on the front of the ticket. If that ticket is drawn, someone from the Post will pull the corresponding numbered ticket from the board.

On drawing day, a random person will pull one ticket from the drum. If present, the person who has the winning ticket will pull a number from 1 to 54. The corresponding numbered card on the board will be pulled. If that number is the Queen of Hearts, then that person wins. If not, the game continues until the Queen of Hearts is pulled. But, if both Jokers are pulled before the Queen is found, the rest of the cards will be removed and a new deck of cards will be put in its place and the game continues. All other tickets in the drum will be discarded. Drawings will be held on Wednesdays, generally between 8:00 and 8:30 pm. 

Payouts are 60% of the money to the winner, 20% back to start the next game, 20% to the Post for improvements to the Post or towards benefits the Post gives out. Payout is in the form of a check from the Legion. Tax requirements are the responsibility of the winner.

GOOD LUCK!  Questions? Call the Post at 630-833-7800.  

-- Ed. 

THE SNIPER

Section 9 

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YEAR ROUND LEGION MEETINGS AND ONGOING EVENTS

MEETING DATES- 11TH DISTRICT and SECOND DIVISION

January 3, 2024

NEW MEETING DATES FOR THIS YEAR:

Please see this link for current calendar: 

Division/District Meeting Dates – American Legion Department of Illinois (illegion.org)

Please see this link for district and division map:

District/Division Map – American Legion Department of Illinois (illegion.org)

--Ed.

HONOR FLIGHT CHICAGO

May 1, 2024

Honor Flight Chicago brings WW II, Korean, and Vietnam vets out to Washington D.C., at no charge to them, to visit the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam Memorials. It is a great organization doing a great job honoring our troops from the above three wars. Please click below to find out more about their organization and how you can be put on the list for a visit.

www.honorflightchicago.org

Our Mission Will Continue - YouTube

To view past and recent Honor Flights go to: News – Honor Flight Chicago 

Podcast: