Dysart Myers-Gordy-Pippert American Legion Post 335 Commander Kevin Eikamp honors three Legionnaires with appreciation/service awards during the Post’s Thursday, March 19 meeting held at the Dysart Community Fire Station. From left, Legionnaire John Miller is honored for 70 years of continuous membership; retired Post Commander Fred Koch is honored; and retired Post Adjutant Charles “Chuck” Cranston is honored. PHOTOS COURTESY BILLIE VAN EGMOND

DYSART – A trio of Dysart area veterans who continue to answer the call to serve were honored on Thursday, March 19, during the Dysart Myers-Gordy-Pippert American Legion Post 335 meeting.

Those celebrated during the meeting included Legionnaires John Miller who recently surpassed 70 years of continuous Legion membership; retired Post Commander Fred Koch; and retired Post Adjutant Charles “Chuck” Cranston. All three were honored by Post Commander Kevin Eikamp and Post Adjutant Billie Van Egmond.

The Telegraph is publishing below each outstanding honoree’s award announcement read during the meeting by Commander Eikamp.

John Miller: A man who carries himself with dignity and humility

The Meyers-Gordy-Pippert Post 335 can claim a few Legionnaires who have reached the notable 50-year mark of continuous membership; and fewer have attained the elevated mark of 60 years.

PHOTO COURTESY BILLIE VAN EGMOND

Reaching the status of 70 years of continuous membership as a Legionnaire with the Meyers-Gordy-Pippert Post 335 – or any other American Legion Post in our nation – can certainly be heralded as Hall of Fame status.

The characteristics of such a Legionnaire include loyalty, dedication, and longevity. These qualities are held by John Miller, a man who carries himself with dignity and humility.

We are grateful to have John among us.

Fred Koch: Truly a leader by example

The Meyers-Gordy-Pippert American Legion Post 335 is indebted to the dedicated service of Fred Koch. Fred has served as Post Commander for two decades and continues serving veterans whenever called upon.

PHOTO COURTESY BILLIE VAN EGMOND

Always thoughtful and caring, Fred contacted fellow Legionnaires and other veterans by phone and in person just to see how they were doing. He also reached out to organize rifle squads and flag bearers to perform military rites for our fallen comrades.

Fred’s self-imposed duties also included the storage, care, and maintenance of the 350 flags posted each Memorial Day at area cemeteries.

Fred is truly a leader by example for whom we hold our respect and gratitude.

American Legion Post 335 has been the beneficiary of Fred’s experience and hard work and diligence over the years, and hopefully for years to come.

Charles Cranston: Faithful servant even amidst seasons of decline

PHOTO COURTESY BILLIE VAN EGMOND

The Gordy-Meyers-Pippert American Legion Post 335 is indebted to the dedicated service of Charles Cranston. His service to this Post has extended over a period exceeding five decades.

Before retiring from his official role of Adjutant, Chuck had simultaneously performed the additional duties of Finance Officer, Sergeant-at-Arms, Vice Commander, Service Officer, and Armorer. He faithfully assumed these responsibilities for over 20 years to keep this Post viable in the presence of declining membership.

Chuck continues to support the Post by sharing his depth of experience with fellow Legionnaires, thus earning the lasting gratitude of Post 335.

Join the Legion!

The Dysart American Legion is actively seeking new (or returning) members. Those who have served at least one day of active military duty since Dec. 7, 1941, and were honorably discharged, or those who are still serving on active duty honorably, are eligible for membership in The American Legion.

The American Legion is the nation’s largest veterans service organization, advocating for veterans, service members, and military families while fighting to end veteran suicide. Veterans of all ages have found purpose, camaraderie, and support through The American Legion.

To learn more, including information about local membership, contact Post Commander Kevin Eikamp, or Adjutant Van Egmond at dysartamlegion@gmail.com.

The next meeting of the Dysart American Legion is scheduled for Thursday, May 14, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Dysart fire station.