On Sept. 4, the renowned organization celebrated its centennial and the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a resolution designating Sept. 16 as “American Legion Day.”

“When the American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919, it was directed to lead as a patriotic service organization focused on the needs of our United States service-members, veterans, and communities,” Iowa Veterans Home Commandant Timon Oujiri said. “One-hundred years later this commitment is clearly demonstrated in the respect, charity and the gift of their members’ time they share with IVH residents throughout each season and year. Our American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary volunteers are counted upon, appreciated and contribute greatly to IVH’s mission of selfless service to those Iowans who have proudly stood in contribution to our freedom. I thank them for continually remembering our residents. Their concise and profound motto, ‘For God and Country’ resonates with members and non-members alike.”

Randy Kessler, commander of the local Frank Lewis Glick American Legion Post No. 46, and a U.S Air Force veteran, said post members enjoy the camaraderie while also working to address community needs.

“It is important veterans have an organization where they can have fellowship with other veterans, because sometimes it is another veteran who understands them better than anyone else,” he said. “We are there to help any veteran in need.”

T-R FILE PHOTO Artist Ray “Bubba” Sorenson of Greenfield poses with the Marshall County Freedom Rock during its painting approximately five and one-half years ago. A construction methods class from Iowa Valley Community College District built an enclosure for Sorenson so he could work inside despite winter temperatures.

Over the years, Post 46 has worked closely with UnityPoint Health-Marshalltown and its auxiliary in assisting non-insured and under-insured veterans receive needed medical care.

Known as the “Heroes Fund,” it is coordinated by UnityPoint Health-Marshalltown staff and hospital auxiliary.

“It is also important the organization be part of the community, and be able to reach out and help in time of need,” Kessler said. “For example, a number of our members embraced the ‘Rebuild the Coliseum’ project. They have served on fact-finding committees, helped raise badly needed funds and provided manpower for the Jason Brown concert.”

A post member and Vietnam veteran took on a major effort to remember fallen comrades-in-arms.

Ron Estabrook of Marshalltown coordinated a three-year long effort to have the Marshall County Freedom Rock installed on Legion grounds.

Five Marshall County servicemen are depicted on the rock painted by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen of Greenfield including:

• Sgt. Frank Lewis Glick, the first Marshall County casualty of World War I.

• Adm. Jack Fletcher, a Marshalltown man who fought in the Battle of Midway in World War II.

• PFC Harry C. Phipps, the first casualty of the Korean War from Marshall County.

• Lance Cpl. Darwin Judge, one of the last two U.S. Marines killed while evacuating Vietnam.

• Sfc. Scott Nisely, who died during the War in Iraq.

“Our rock is beautiful,” said U.S. Air Force veteran and Post 46 commander Randy Kessler at the ceremony. “It’s a beautiful sight, it’s something Marshall County can be proud of.”

He added it was an honor to have the rock placed at the American Legion post in Marshalltown.

Vietnam veteran said Steve Storjohann said the Freedom Rock is a product of teamwork.

Earlier this year, member and U.S. Army veteran Kevin Huseboe of Marshalltown coordinated a fund-raising effort to have a sidewalk installed from the Freedom Rock to the Phantom F-4 jet – flown during the Vietnam War by local resident Joe Latham – which has been exhibited on the grounds for many years.

“The sidewalk was needed because many of our veterans and residents found it difficult to walk an extended period over the grass to the F-4,” he said. “Now, even wheel-chair bound veterans and residents can easily make it over.

Additionally. Huseboe and team worked diligently to place memorial benches and American flags along the sidewalk.

The Freedom Rock and F-4 jet have become tourist destinations, according to Chamber of Commerce officials, and interest in the two monuments is only expected to increase.

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Contact Mike Donahey at 641-753-6611 or mdonahey@timesrepublican.com