Senate Resolution No. 2426

BY: Senator RITCHIE

CELEBRATING the Centennial of the American Legion
Post No. 61, Watertown, New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to convey its
grateful appreciation in recognition of this historic anniversary of an
organization that has brought veterans of different generations together
and honored our nation's historic military; and

WHEREAS, It is with extreme pride that this Legislative Body records
the Centennial Anniversary of the American Legion Post No. 61,
Watertown, New York; and

WHEREAS, The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 as a
patriotic veteran's organization, originating with Theodore Roosevelt
Jr., son of the 26th President of the United States, when he was in
service in France; and

WHEREAS, The local American Legion was formed July 31, 1919, as a
charter member of the national organization with the name Watertown
Legion Post, before being renamed Army & Navy Post 61 in 1926; and

WHEREAS, The American Legion Post 61 in Watertown was headquartered
at the former Herring Mansion, a stone house built in the early 1800s,
which was also used as a USO club during World War II and would later
become the American Legion Club Rooms; and

WHEREAS, In July of 1959, Post No. 61 moved to its new and current
building at 138 Sterling Street in the City of Watertown, continuing its
mission of an organization for patriotic veterans by hosting gatherings
of veterans who wanted a permanent fraternity of people from nearby who
had served in the Army, Navy or Marines; and

WHEREAS, Today, the American Legion Post No. 61 has grown to become
a true member of the Watertown and North Country community, helping
veterans obtain critical information on issues such as healthcare and
job searches, while also hosting family fun events and ceremonies to
honor local military members of the past and present; and

WHEREAS, The American Legion Post No. 61 continues a legacy of
longevity, resiliency, dedication and passion for our veterans and
others in its community and truly merits the tribute of this Legislative
Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the Centennial of the American Legion Post No. 61, Watertown,
New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the American Legion Post No. 61, Watertown, New York.