Post to note anniversary
 Monday, November 13, 2006

 

LEWISTON - Post 22, American Legion, will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at the old post home located at 190 Bates St. All members are urged to attend and pay their 2007 membership dues before Dec. 31, as they will be suspended automatically on Jan. 1, 2007. The agenda will include a report by Trustee Joseph Paradis and judge advocate report by Richard Giem. Members will discuss bylaws changes, and Adjutant Jerry DerBoghosian will give a financial update. A special segment of the meeting will be used to celebrate the 231st anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Marine Corps on Nov. 10, 1775. Roland Cyr, past commandant of the Central Maine Marine Corps League, will present a history of the corps. Prizes will be awarded to U.S. Marine Corps veterans attending the meeting. Refreshments will be served; donations will be accepted. There will be a special door prize. For more information, contact DerBoghosian at 353-7435 and 782-5700.

 

Chaplain is Sworn In

November 15th, 2006

Lewiston - Paul R. Bernard was sworn in as Chaplain of the American Legion, Post 22 by 3rd District Vice Commander, Kenneth G. Bouchard. Bernard was ordained and accredited as a minister in Kennewick, Washington on June 1st, 1988 and was appointed a State of Maine Notary on April 23rd, 1990. Although the Legion does not require its chaplains to be licensed, ordained or notaries its great to have someone with the training and experience. Bernard is a Navy Veteran and served on the USS Constellation CVA 64 ~ Attack Squadron 165.  Chaplains History

Maine peace activist condemns U.S. military
By Daniel Hartill, Staff Writer
 Friday, November 17, 2006

LEWISTON - The soul of America is drunk with military spending.

The addiction to military jobs - building planes, guns or the Navy's newest destroyers - makes warfare vital and starves the rest of the economy, says peace activist Bruce Gagnon. "We'll be like an alcoholic sitting at a bar, always needing the next drink," said Gagnon, Thursday's speaker at the Great Falls Forum. To Gagnon, a Vietnam-era veteran who entered politics as a volunteer on Richard Nixon's 1968 campaign, citizens need to come to terms with the failings of their government. "It's all about money in the end," he said. It's a message that Gagnon has been spreading for decades. The son of an Air Force serviceman, Gagnon says he became a peace activist while following his father in the Air Force. After spending time with anti-war airmen, he began reading and learning. A few years later, after the military and college, he joined the United Farm workers Union in Florida as an organizer. "I've been organizing ever since," he said. The work that followed, as a writer and activist, has been focused on the environment and the military. In 1987, he led 5,000 people to march on Cape Canaveral to protest the first test flight of the Trident II missile. Much of his expertise since has been focused on space, from Reagan's "Star Wars" program to modern satellite weapons. "Missile defense is a Trojan horse," said Gagnon, who lives in Brunswick. "It's all about offense." It's a message Gagnon delivered with zeal.
Standing in front of 100 or so people at the Lewiston Public Library, Gagnon clasped his hands to either side of a lectern and spoke in an almost evangelistic tone. "The U.S. today is a military empire," he said. It has caused people around the world to treat Americans with a mix of fear and contempt. On a recent trip to India, Gagnon heard the same questions over and over. "Who do you people think you are?" people asked. Addicts, he said. Gagnon believes the entire U.S. economy needs to be changed. "Why can't we convert a place like a Bath Iron Works?" he asked. He suggested revamping the shipyard to build a rail system that might link Maine's more populous cities and towns. Military giant General Dynamics, which owns the shipyard, would never do such a thing, he said. First, like an addict in a 12-step program, the country needs to begin with acknowledgment. "Sort of, 'Hello. My name is America and I am addicted to war and violence,'" Gagnon said.

Chaplains Response

The soul of America is drunk with war?? In what country was activist Bruce Gagnon raised? “The addiction to military jobs - building planes, guns or the Navy's newest destroyers - makes warfare vital and starves the rest of the economy, says peace activist Bruce Gagnon.”

I could mention many instances but with the nearness’ of Pearl Harbor Day I will provide Gagnon with some information.

The Japanese success at Pearl Harbor with trivial losses to themselves can be blamed on the inability of the U. S. political, diplomatic, and military establishments to recognize the capabilities of Japan and the weaknesses in U. S. defense planning. To put it in Gagnon’s terminology, we were not blood thirsty addicts in a bar looking for war. The attack at Pearl Harbor was almost a complete tactical success. But by a matter of divine appointment, of the three of the Pacific Fleet carriers that would normally be at Pearl Harbor that morning, two were at sea on exercises and one was on the U. S. west coast undergoing maintenance. Not knowing the location of these ships commander Admiral Nagumo withdrew before a planned third strike, sparing the Pacific Fleet submarine force, important maintenance facilities and critical fuel supplies.

The survival of the repair shops enabled rapid restoration of the fighting capability of the fleet. The carriers enabled the first blow to be struck against the Japanese homeland in the Doolittle raid, this proved to be decisive in the Battle of the Coral Sea, where the Japanese forces were turned back in their thrust toward Australia, and would prove essential to U. S. success in the Battle of Midway Island, where naval aviation forces from U.S. carriers sank four Imperial carriers.

It was America’s industrial strength and its ability to build planes, guns and ships that saved the world from being divided into three spheres. Gagnon goes on to say; “It has caused people around the world to treat Americans with a mix of fear and contempt. On a recent trip to India, Gagnon heard the same questions over and over.  "Who do you people think you are?" people asked. Addicts, Gagnon said.” I have learned long ago that people cannot make intelligent decisions based on 50% of the information. You need to study both sides and get all of the information. When someone studies and reviews all of the facts on all sides of an issue then and only then can one make an intelligent decision? And as for your response to the people of India, let’s just say that I personally told Pastor Jacob of Guntur India, that we are a God fearing people with God at our helm.

Vets say, you’re Welcome!

Wednesday, November 29th

Lewiston - Pictured: Paul R. Bernard American Legion Chaplain, Post 22 holds two thank you cards from Jon McDonough and Jessica students of Mrs. Reny's history class.

On behalf of the American Legion Family and all veteran organizations we want to thank State Senator, Peggy Rotundo, the newly elected Mayor of Auburn John Jenkins, and Lillian LaFontaine O'Brien Ward III Lewiston City Council for attending the Veterans Day observance held at the Lewiston Armory on Saturday November 11th.

We also want to thank all the youth organizations and high school bands, the just us entertainers and the ROTC students under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Robert Meyer. ROTC cadets were, Jake Childs, Jeff Dury, Kylie Ferland, Branden Forgues, Sean King, Kaprice Montecalvo, Ethan Morency, Austin Polisky, Bill Pullieum, Matthew Reed, Amanda Russell, Joshua Russell, Phillip Sears, Robert Stevens, Gannon Williams and Matt Reed. A special thanks to Mrs. Sue Reny’s history class at the Lewiston Middle School for distributing 6x9 thank you cards honoring all veterans on Veterans Day.

The cards were handed out as people entered the Lewiston Armory for the Veterans Day observance. The cards contained an assortment of thanks such as; “thank you for protecting our freedom”, thank you for your sacrifice for our country”, thank you for your service to our country we honor you today and always. These cards served as a healing to many veterans and were greatly appreciated by all. Anyone interested in participating in next years Veterans Day Observance may contact; Bertrand Dutil at 786-2305

 

All Hands on Deck

November 30, 2006

Lewiston - “All Hands on Deck” is the cry being heard from Chaplain, Paul R. Bernard, Post 22 Chaplain.

An invitation of all hands on deck for the 65th Anniversary Ceremony of Pearl Harbor Day will be held at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 247 Bates Street in Lewiston. The military memorial service will begin at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 7th. All veteran organizations, City and State officials along with the public are invited to attend.

 

 

Veterans to mark Pearl Harbor Day
 Thursday, December 7, 2006

 

LEWISTON - Local veterans will observe the 65th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor at noon today at Trinity Episcopal Church at 247 Bates St.
The public is invited to attend. American Legion Post 22 Adjutant Jerry DerBoghosian will open with the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem. Chaplain Paul R. Bernard will give the Pearl Harbor address and Commander Gerald "Bud" Labrie will speak on the importance of a strong Legion family.

On Dec. 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, leaving 2,403 dead and 188 planes destroyed. Eight battleships were damaged or destroyed and the fleet was crippled. The attack brought the United States into World War II. On Dec. 8, 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt declared the day of the bombing "a date which will live in infamy."

 

Survivors honor Pearl Harbor victims with moment of silence
 Friday, December 8, 2006

 

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (AP) - One by one, aging survivors from ships sunk 65 years ago Thursday in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor laid wreaths under life preserver rings honoring their ships. Nearly 500 survivors bowed their heads at 7:55 a.m., the minute planes began bombing the harbor in a surprise attack that thrust the United States into World War II. "America in an instant became the land of the indivisible," said former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw, the author of "The Greatest Generation," who spoke at the shoreside ceremonies. "There are so many lessons from that time for our time, none greater than the idea of one nation greater than the sum of its parts." The veterans, most in Hawaiian aloha shirts, were honored with prolonged applause at the solemn ceremony near where some of the ships remain rusting and moss-covered under the harbor's waters. Many were treating the gathering as their last, uncertain if they would be alive or healthy enough to travel to Hawaii for the next big memorial ceremony, the 70th anniversary. "It is because of you and people like you that we have the freedoms we enjoy today," Capt. Taylor Skardon said after relating each ship's story at the end of the ceremony. A priest gave a Hawaiian blessing and Marines performed a rifle salute. For many it could be their last return to the World War II attack site. "Sixty-five years later, there's not too many of us left," said Don Stratton, a seaman 1st class who was aboard the USS Arizona on Dec. 7, 1941. "In another five years I'll be 89. The good lord willing, I might be able to make it. If so, I'll probably be here. I might not even be around. Who knows. Only the good Lord knows." Stratton and other survivors were boarding a boat to the white memorial straddling the sunken hull of the USS Arizona, where they will lay wreaths and lei in honor of the dead. "We thank those who lost their lives 65 years ago, and we honor the survivors and their families who are with us here today," said Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle. The Arizona sank in less than nine minutes after a 1,760 pound armor-piercing bomb struck the battleship's deck and hit its ammunition magazine, igniting flames that engulfed the ship. More people died on the Arizona than any other ship as 1,177 servicemen, or about 80 percent of its crew, perished. Altogether, the surprise attack killed 2,390 Americans and injured 1,178. Twelve ships sank and nine vessels were heavily damaged. Over 320 U.S. aircraft were destroyed or heavily damaged by the time the invading planes were done sweeping over military bases from Wheeler Field to Kaneohe Naval Air Station.
Japanese veterans who participated in the attack as navigators and pilots will also pay their respects, offering flowers at the Arizona memorial for the American and Japanese who died. Japan lost 185 men, mostly on dive-bombers, fighters and midget submarines. Some Japanese veterans and American survivors have reconciled in the decades since. Japanese dive bomber pilot Zenji Abe has apologized to American survivors for the sudden attack, ashamed his government failed to deliver a declaration of war in time for the assault. The Japanese aviators who carried out the attack thought the declaration had already been made by the time they started bombing, Abe has said.
 

Trinity Episcopal Church in Lewiston, Maine

I: Pledge to the Flag ~ Commander Gerald Labrie

II: The National Anthem ~ Adjutant Jerry DerBoghosian

Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light,
what so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that Star - Spangled Banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

III: Invocation ~ Father Bennet Barnes, Trinity Episcopal Church

'Heavenly Father, in your hands is the living and the dead; we give you thanks today for all those, our comrades, who have laid down their lives in the service of God and Country.

 

Pictured from left to right; Senator Margaret "Peggy" Rotundo, Mrs. Irene Bernard Pomerleau, Mrs. Dale J. Leonard Bernard, Chaplains wife, Chaplain Paul R. Bernard, and Father Bennet Barnes.

 

At Pearl Harbor the death toll reached 2,403. These are now in your care with no pain, no suffering and no sorrow. May the continued work of the American Legion, the VFW, the Am Vets and all veteran organizations that are seeking justice for the oppressed and peace for all mankind be rewarded with success, so that the sacrifices of our comrades be not in vain. And may we never fail to remember the incredible sacrifices and cost of the freedom which we now enjoy. Be with us today as we remember Pearl Harbor. All this we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

IV: Welcome Pearl Harbor Survivor, Major Edward E. Royal, (86) and State Senator, Peggy Rotundo  by Commander Gerald Labrie. Behind Major Edward E. Royal is Joe Paradis, Korean Veteran.

Major Edward E. Royal served his Country for 24 years in the Army as a military police officer. He served in World War II, where he was a Pearl Harbor Survivor, the Korean Conflict and in Vietnams "Secret War". Major Royal received the Army Commendation Medal.

 

 

V: Hymn ~ Let’s Remember Pearl Harbor ~ Jerry DerBoghosian

History, in every century, records an act that lives forever more. We’ll recall, as into line we fall. The things that happened on Hawaii's shore.

Let’s remember Pearl Harbor, As we go to meet the foe, Let’s remember Pearl Harbor, as we did the Alamo. We will always remember, how they died for Liberty, Let’s remember Pearl Harbor, and go on to Victory.

 

VI: Pearl Harbor Address ~ Chaplain Paul R. Bernard

Sixty five years ago 2,390 Americans lost their lives in a surprise attack at Pearl Harbor.  Today, we have assembled to remember and honor those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor, and also all those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom and liberty during World War II. We pledge to always remember the sacrifices of the brave individuals at Pearl Harbor.  Their selfless service helped deliver a great victory for the cause of freedom and, ultimately, transformed adversaries into the closest of friends.

On that peaceful Sunday morning, our country suffered a vicious, unprovoked attack that changed the course of history. No matter how hard I try, words simply cannot express the horror, the shock, and the revulsion America felt after the dawn on Sunday, December 7, 1941.  It was a 911 event of that time. Though our Pacific Fleet was nearly destroyed, our citizens were inspired by the great acts of heroism from those who survived and from those who did not.

In the days that followed, our grief turned to resolution, and America embarked on a mission to defeat two of the most ruthless regimes the world has ever known.  Naval aviation forces of the Empire of Japan attacked the United States Pacific Fleet Center at Pearl Harbor Hawaii and other military targets. The goal of this attack was to cripple the US Fleet so that Japan could then attack and capture the Philippines and Indo-China and so secure access to the raw materials needed to maintain its position as a global military and economic power. If they would have succeeded this would have enabled Japan to further extend their empire to include Australia, New Zealand, and India. The prevailing belief within the Japanese military and political establishment was that eventually, with the then expected German defeat of Great Britain and Soviet Russia, the world power structure would have stabilized into three major spheres of influence:

 

1) The Empire of Japan controlling East, Southeast, and South Asia and the entire Pacific Ocean. 2) the combined powers of Germany and Italy controlling Great Britain, all of Europe, Western and Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. 3) The United States, controlling North and South America.

The short term goal of the Japanese was to obtain the oil supplies, the rubber, and other strategic materials from the East Indian possessions of the Netherlands, Great Britain, and France. It was Imperial Admiral Yamamoto that conceived, designed and promoted the Pearl Harbor attack. But upon the completion of the attack he is quoted as saying "We have awakened a sleeping giant and have instilled in him a terrible resolve".

The attack was almost a complete tactical success. But by divine providence of the three of the Pacific Fleet carriers that would normally had been at Pearl Harbor that morning, two were at sea on exercises and one was on the U. S. west coast undergoing maintenance.   

Not knowing the location of these ships that could attack the Japanese strike force, Commander Nagumo had to withdraw before a planned third strike, thus sparing the Pacific Fleet submarine force, important maintenance facilities and critical fuel supplies. The survival of the repair shops enabled a rapid restoration of the fighting capability of the United States fleet. The Navy carriers were then enabled to strike the first blow against the Japanese homeland in the Doolittle raid, which would prove to be decisive in the Battle of the Coral Sea, where the Japanese forces were turned back in their thrust toward Australia, and would prove essential to the United States success in the Battle of Midway Island, where naval aviation forces from U.S. carriers sank four Imperial carriers.

That was the Turning Point

Midway proved to be the critical turning point in the course of the war in the Pacific. Its loss would have put Hawaii at great risk of invasion and occupation. This horrendous sneak attack against Hawaii brought an immediate reaction of unprecedented unity from the American people.

Families from every class of society sent their sons and daughters to war, women joined the industrial work force, and no one was untouched by the effort to bring all of the United States resources to bear upon the war effort.  As foreseen by Admiral Yamamoto, it was the industrial strength of the United States and the will and unity and determination of the American people that was the foundation of the United States victory. The use of nuclear weapons brought the war to a quick termination. The final two battles of the Pacific war, Iwo Jima and Okinawa, took place within a span of five months.

Americans were appalled at the staggering number of casualties resulting from these battles on the two islands. After the devastating attacks on Pearl Harbor, President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared, "We are going to win the war and we are going to win the peace that follows." And history records that ultimately, Emperor Hirohito surrendered. America won the war for Freedom. And now in the 21st century, freedom is again under attack, and young Americans, our sons and daughters have stepped forward to serve in a global war on terror that will secure our liberty and determine the destiny of millions around the world. Like generations before, we will answer history's call with confidence, confront threats to our way of life, and build a more peaceful world for our children and grandchildren.

They need us now more than ever. When I saw the events of 911, I wanted to go and fight the war but I couldn’t. I was to old and had to many health problems. But we can fight the war right here by building strong veteran organizations that will be here for those who return home with physical and mental disabilities.

We can serve God and Country by serving in veteran organizations today.

VII: words by Senator Margaret “Peggy” Rotundo

VIII:  Words by Commander Gerald “Bud” Labrie

Many of you know that I have had the privilege to serve as commander on two previous occasions.

And again I am privileged to serve Post 22 as Commander. However I can’t do it on my own. I need the help of all the members. We must remember that the number of active, National Guard and Reserve units deployed will continue to rise. Many families unaccustomed to long separations will suddenly find themselves coping with an array of small problems that can become overwhelming.

The American Legion Family is needed now more than ever.

Our programs to the youth, operation Military kids, the junior Law Cadet Program, the ROTC recognition programs and many other programs along with our on going service to veterans serving veterans, their widows and their orphans. They need the American Legion more than ever. Let us pledge and strive together and stand in unity with our Commanders and build a strong Legion Family that will keep alive the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in previous and present wars and those who will return home with physical and mental disabilities. They need our help now more than ever. Your service of dedication and commitment to God and Country is needed now. Let me close by saying that our next monthly meeting will be held on December 21st at the Multi Purpose Center in Lewiston. I hope to see all of you there. We will serve a light lunch.

IX: Hymn ~ National Anthem ~ Adjutant Jerry DerBoghosian

X: The Lord’s Prayer by Adjutant Jerrie Der Boghosian

XI: Adjutant Jerry DerBoghosian read the email from: Commander Donald Simoneau

To: American Legion Dept of ME

Sent: Tuesday, December 05, 2006 12:10 PM

Subject: Freeport on Sunday

The Wreaths heading towards Washington DC and Arlington Cemetery will travel to Freeport on Sunday at 5:45 PM. The Freeport Flag Ladies will be holding a Candle Light Greeting for them at the same place they stand every Tuesday since 9/11/01 at the Corner of Main and Church Street in Freeport on Sunday! They are asking people to gather on Main St near the Catholic Church to get a Candle for the Greeting between 5 and 5:30 PM. They will have candles for those who can attend!! After the Service/Program  LLBean will have a free meal for the Veterans who attend!

Thanks Commander Don Simoneau, Department of Maine

XII: Benediction ~ Chaplain Paul R. Bernard

Heavenly Father, thank you for this special time that we have spent together. We remembered those who sacrificed all and we remember those who are now serving in the Middle East and around the Globe. We ask that you grant them strength and courage, allow them to be resourceful and capable, resolute and victorious. And let us go forth into our community united and dedicated to God and Country. Guide us in our continued efforts in this community in a way that would forever remember and honor those who gave everything for our freedom.          

We ask this in your name. Amen

XIII: Closing Hymn ~ God Bless America, Land that I love, Stand beside her, and guide her through the night with a light from above. From the mountains, to the prairies to the oceans, white with foam, God bless America, My home, sweet home, God bless America, My home, sweet home.


 Chaplain wrote Senator Margaret "Peggy" Rotundo a thank you note
Dear Peggy

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy schedule in attending and participating in the 65th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day.
Your presence and participation was and is very special to me and all veterans. I know how time consuming it can be just to maintain a household with two children not to mention your commitment to education and serving as a State Senator.
And somehow you found or made the time to attend. I am truly impressed and appreciative your service. I also hear people talking and they tell me, Oh yes, Peggy said, “if there is anything I can do to help let me know.”
Peggy if ever I can be of help to you please let me know.
Sincerely, Paul R. Bernard, Chaplain

Senator Margaret "Peggy" Rotundo responded: Dear Paul

How gracious of you to write! Thank you for your kind words. It is always an honor to be in the presence of the veterans I represent and I feel so privileged to be able to be with them at these events.

Now that I will be in Augusta starting in January, I won't be able to attend as many of the events as I would like, but the veterans all know I am no farther away from them than the phone if they need me - even when I am in Augusta.

Please be in touch if ever I can be of assistance to you. I wish you and your wonderful family a blessed Christmas! Most sincerely, Peggy

61 days later, Major Edward E. Royal dies unexpectedly.

Edward E. Royal
 Saturday, February 10, 2007

 

LEWISTON - Maj. Edward E. Royal, 86, of Montello Heights, died unexpectedly Tuesday, Feb. 6, at his home.
He was born in Lakeview Plantation on March 31, 1920, a son to the late John and Estella (Dutch) Royal. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for more than 24 years as a military police officer.
He served in World War II, where he was a Pearl Harbor survivor, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. While in the Army he received the Army Commendation Medal. He was a member of the United Baptist Church on Main Street, and the VFW. He enjoyed telling stories of his past experiences and spending time with his family.
He leaves the love of his life of 35 years, Rita Spencer; two sons, John Royal, and his wife, Irina, of Wisconsin and Clifford (Bud) Spencer of Oregon; two daughters, Patricia Costello, and her husband, Andrew, of Washington and Carol Jacques of Greene; two sisters, Betty Mannisto and Louise Hearn; seven grandchildren, Ian and Adam Royal, Christopher and Kevin Costello, Robert and Joseph Jacques and Anna Royal; and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by four sisters, Eva, Arlene, Laura and Valentine; and four brothers, Arthur, Clive, John and Malcolm.

 

Laying of the Wreath

Monday, December 4th 2006

 

Lewiston - Members of Veterans organizations and others attended the "Laying of the Wreath" at the Veterans Monument in Memorial Park, Lewiston, on Veterans Day. Kneeling in front from left are Norma Violette, Cyrstina Crowell-Gary and Kenneth Chadwick, Sons of the American Legion; standing, Edward Bishop and Emile Poisson, both of Post 22 American Legion; Joseph Paradis, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Lewiston Chapter; Jerry DerBoghosian, Chaplain, Franco-American War Veterans' Inc., Post 31; Kenny DerBoghosian and Shawn Jackson, Sons of the American Legion.

 

 

Schooner ceremony recognizes veterans
 Thursday, December 7, 2006

The U.S.S. Canberra Association conducted Veterans Day services at Schooner Estates. From left are Harry W. Woodard Jr., former mayor of Auburn; Jerry DerBoghosian, president emeritus, U.S.S. Canberra Association; and Maurice Daigle, U.S. Army, World War II, held prisoner of war by the Germans.

AUBURN - The U.S.S. Canberra Association conducted Veterans Day services for residents of Schooner Estates, a senior citizens facility on Stetson Road. The program opened with the Pledge of Allegiance by the assembly. The invocation was given by president emeritus Jerry DerBoghosian, U.S.S. Canberra Association. Residents who served in the Armed Forces during World War II and Korea were introduced and service songs were sung by the assembly, as well as a sing-a-long of old-time favorites. The program closed with the singing of "God Bless America" by the assembly. Punch and cookies were served after the program.

 

Christmas Party

Post 22, December 21st

Lewiston- Greetings and Happy Holidays

Thank you for attending the December 21st, Post 22 monthly meeting and Christmas party. I realize that tonight's meeting is our Christmas party and the food is ready but!

 

As an American Legion Chaplain, I would be remiss if I did not mention that today is the 17th Anniversary of the United States invasion of Panama, codenamed "Operation Just Cause".

The invasion of Panama by armed forces of the United States deposed general Panamanian military leader, Manuel Noriega on December of 1989, during the administration of U.S. President George H. W. Bush.

We lost 18 soldiers, 4 sailors, and 2 Marines & 325 were wounded.

We need to remember that these fellow comrades gave their lives so as to safeguard the lives of U.S. citizens living in Panama.

Noriega had declared a state of war between the United States and Panama and also threatened the lives of the approximately 35,000 Americans that were living there. These fellow comrades also sacrificed their lives for democracy and human rights in Panama. Panama under the reign of Noriega had also become a center for drug money laundering and a transit point for drug trafficking to the United States and Europe.

It was literally a war on drugs against our children, our sons and daughters.

Noriega had also threatened the neutrality of the Panama Canal. He wanted full control of the canal for his illegal drug trafficking cartel. Noriega was brutal for tortures, disappearances, political killings, appalling sanitary conditions in prisons and detention centers, along with multitudes of violations of humanitarian laws and the list went on. These 18 soldiers, 4 sailors and 2 Marines & the 325 that were wounded put an end to these atrocities and they are to be remembered for their sacrifice and heroic service to this Great Nation. We remember and honor them tonight as we honor all of our comrades who served and sacrificed from the Civil War, through to the World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and Iraq which brings me to our present work in the American Legion.

We are at a new beginning with Post 22 where each one of us has an important, crucial part. Together we must assist our officers and make their work easier and not difficult. We have a greater work ahead of us. Every Legion Post throughout the country has been asked to establish a post "Hero Transition Team". This team must develop an outreach plan to establish a community "Heroes to Hometowns Committee" that would provide the full spectrum of assistance for the returning disabled service members and his or her family to successfully adapt to a successful transition into civilian life.

We will discuss this further at our January 18th, 2007 meeting.

Thank you for your patience and God bless you all. Let us pray.

 

Pearl Harbor to be recalled in ceremony
 Wednesday, December 5, 2007

 

LEWISTON - All veterans and the public are invited to a memorial service commemorating the 66th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The service will be held at noon Friday, December 7, at Trinity Episcopal Church, corner of Spruce and Bates streets.
The program will open with an invocation by the interim rector, the Reverend Bennett Barnes, followed by singing of "The Star Spangled Banner."
District 3 Maine American Legion Public Relations Officer, Paul Bernard will recall the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The service songs will be sung followed by taps by Bugler Richard Leblanc.
The Japanese attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, leaving 2,403 dead and 188 planes destroyed. Eight battleships were damaged or destroyed and the fleet was crippled.
The attack brought the United States into World War II. On Dec. 8, 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt declared the day of the bombing "a date which will live in infamy."
"America in an instant became the land of the indivisible," said former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw, author of "The Greatest Generation."
All veterans attending are asked to wear their caps. For more information, call Jerry DerBoghosian at 353-7435 or 782-5700.
Bernard encourages all American Legion Posts to observe the 18th anniversary of "Operation Just Cause" in Panama when 18 Army soldiers, four Navy Seals and two Marines died and 325 were wounded.
Bernard said there will be no District 3 meeting in December.
Anyone interested in joining an American Legion Post in the district can e-mail 3district@megalink.net. Those wishing can also view upcoming events at www.maineamericanlegion.com.

WWII veterans, Jerry DerBoghosian, Wallace Lewis Dixon, New Auburn VFW 1603, Harry W. Dixon Sabattus Post 135, Armand Bussiere VFW 9150, Richard A. Vallee VFW 9150, Richard Leblanc bugler.

 

 

 

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