POST HISTORY
In 1946 a group of World War II Veterans from the Spring Lake area decided to organize an American Legion Post. Meetings were held at Police Headquarters and the Spring Lake Community House. Dr. William D' Elia was selected as temporary Chairman to receive all correspondence and conduct meetings until permanent officers were elected.
To assit in the organizing efforts, John Feldman, County Commander and Ralph Emmons Past County Commander were in attendance at these early meetings.
On October 25, 1946, Commander Feldman and Vice Commander Van Sauter signed a temporary Charter for American Legion Post # 432, Spring Lake, NJ, and on that date the following were elected to office:
Commander.......................................William D' Elia
1st Vice-Commander.......................Joseph Brown
2nd Vice-Commander......................Jules Plangere
Adjuant...............................................Harold Higgins
Chaplain.............................................Charles Rawley
Sergeant-at-Arms..............................Dave Anderson
Finance Officer..................................Walter Clayton
Historian.............................................Larry Brady
Meetings were held at the Community House until February of 1948 when they were transfered to our present Headquarters downstairs at the Spring Lake Municipal Building where we hold our monthly metings now.
In April of 1948, our Color Guard and Firirng Squad were fully outfitted with Legion Uniforms (previously members wore their own service uniforms). These units have been involved in Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Flag Day services at Sea Girt, Spring Lake Heights and Spring Lake for the past 60 years and are available as "Honor Guards" on request.
In addition to it's active support of many Community Service Organizations, the Post promotes Americanism with our many youth programs that include essay contests, coloring competitions, boy's state program, oratorical contests and an annual trout fishing opening day contest.
Presently Post # 432 has 147 members who are proud to carry on the noble traditions of the American Legion and it's ideals.
HELP US AND KEEP THIS HISTORY ALIVE.
©All rights reserved
