Legion Post 342 Report for December 2014

We must report and observe the passing of Ray Washecka who was the oldest member of our post and a Veteran of WWII.

Raymond Washecka was a member of the American Legion Post 342.  ‘Ray’ is remembered by Past Commander Steve Nicolino as a strong and outstanding family man who was devoted to his Church and his Family.  Raymond at the time of his death was the oldest living Legionnaire from the Freeport American Legion and one of the oldest living Legionnaires in the United States. Ray was 98.

"So Long Comrade"

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Rear Admiral Floyd "Hoss" Miller, Past President of

SUNY Maritime College and Lt. Col. Maxx Godsey,

Executive Officer, Marine Corps District One

Freeport High School NROTC AREA MANAGER'S INSPECTION & Battalion Parade  

The event took place in the Freeport High School Gym on Wednesday, 17 December 2014. 

Major Donald Moore, USMC and the NJROTC Cadets were impressive as the class of Cadets performed precision drill and a stirring pass and review of Colors.

The inspection was held by the Executive Officer of Marine Corps District One, Lt. Col. Maxx Godsey.  Lt. Col. Godsey was Adjutant of III MEF & served with the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.

Also in attendance was RADM Floyd Miller, USN (Ret.)who took the Salute of the Cadets in the Parade.

Freeport High School NJROTC is under the supervision of the Freeport High School Department of Naval Science is commanded by Major Donald R. Moore, USMC (RET.) SNSI & Chief Timothy McShan, USN (Ret.) NSI.

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Battle of the Bulge Observance at the Museum of American Armor took place on Sunday, 14 December 2014.

On Sunday, December 14, at 2:00 p.m., military veterans who withstood the savage World War II German 
counteroffensive known as the Battle of Bulge some 70 years ago this month were honored at the Museum of American Armor, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage Village Restoration, surrounded by the tanks and armored cars similar to those that defended the G.I’s during the surprise attack.

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Pearl  Harbor  Remembrance  

&  Veterans  Observance  Ceremony 

The Pearl Harbor Remembrance & Observance Ceremony took place in the Memorial Room at the Freeport Memorial Library.  Ken Bellafiore, Director of the Freeport Libary was the Master Of Ceremonies, giving a heartfelt welcome to all in attendance and introducing the speaker, Andrew Hardwick, Former Mayor of Freeport.

The conservative gathering of Legionnaires and observers were treated to an impassioned and enlightening oratory on the 'effects' (the changes in man, woman and community) of the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the 'affect' (the difference or result of the changes) it had in the immediate past to the present time.

The conclusion of the Oratory was that Americans living in America have lost sight of the lessons taught by history and wrought by blood, suffering and sacrifice.  Each Legionnaire in attendance left with a renewed sense of dedication to perpetuate Americanism in their local schools and community.

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The William Clinton Story Post No. 342 Christmas party was held at Otto’s on Wednesday night, December 17^th at 7:00 pm.  

Though the spirit of the event was tested but not marred by ill-tempered individuals, the good fellowship and Holiday joy enjoyed by all was a testimony to the powerful comradeship of the Post and the goodwill we share with our community and each other.

We thank Mayor Kennedy for joining us in the merry making and for his comments and his continued support of this Post.

We thank Division Vice Commander Robbins for his fellowship with us at the party and his gracious remarks.  We also want to thank State Senator-Elect Michael Venditto for celebrating with us and assuring the Legion of his support on issues that will effect Veterans of all era’s.  

We also thank Assemblyman Brian Curran for his work in the State Assembly on behalf of the Western South Shore Communities and the Village of Freeport. 

Assemblyman Curran said that he opposes the sale of the Freeport Armory to the Cedarmore Corporation and will encourage the Governor to again Veto the legislation.  

The Commander would like to remind Legionnaires to pay their dues before the end of the year.

Commander Coy Richardson and his wife Pat thank all Legionnaires for coming out for an evening of fun and fellowship and wishes all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and a Happy New Year.

  

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The events of December are on the Video Below.  There will be more pictures and other information on this web site in another area.

Enjoy