American Legion Post 17 family brings cheer to Army Reservists
The American Legion Post 17 Family continued its support of local soldiers during the Christmas season by delivering gifts and lunch to the 946th Transportation Company of the Cape Henlopen Army Reserve Center in Lewes Dec. 8.
Millitary families are often living on tight budgets which do not contain enough money for providing Christmas presents. However, these families are some of the most deserving during the holiday season. To help thank them for the sacrifices made year-round, members of Auxiliary Unit 17 reached out to service men and women of the 946th and asked them to provide names and wish lists for their children at home. These names were placed on white paper angels, which were used as decorations for an angel tree in the post headquarters on American Legion Road in Lewes. Post volunteers chose their angels, then shopped and wrapped gifts, adding a little extra joy to an active military family’s Christmas.
Prior to the party at the Reserve Center, Auxiliary President Murt Foos and Auxiliary Historian Cathy Butler worked hard to make their quarters more festive, with a large tree, poinsettias and huge gingerbread men from the post’s award-winning Christmas Float. Although the children were not present on this visit, the Reservists’ spirits were high and they joked with their colleagues and the volunteers. It didn’t take long for a portable speaker to be found so holiday music could be piped in for all to enjoy.
More than 30 soldiers participated in a fun raffle, distribution of the children’s gifts and the opportunity to go “shopping” among boxes of donated toys and winter accessories. The hot lunch comprising dishes prepared or donated by Post 17 Food Service Chef Patrick Gibson, Lighthouse Catering and Chick-Fil-A was a big hit, with several men and women boxing meals for later.
The post family helps support the 946th Transportation Company throughout the year. In July, all three chaplains of Post 17 were among other volunteers who participated in the Blessing of the Trucks before the Reservists drove their fleet south for their two-week training in Fort Jackson, S.C. In August, Auxiliary Unit 17 donated boxes of school supplies and backpacks for the military children before their return to school in the fall.
Ultimately, it is an honor for American Legion Post 17 to help local veterans and their families reach and maintain the highest possible quality of life.
