SAUGUS — The town’s American Legion is making a grand gesture to make younger veterans feel welcome.
Post 210 will dedicate a new flag pole to veterans of the Global War on Terror, a group of veterans younger than most of its current comrades.
John Cannon, an officer of Post 210, said members of the legion hope the ceremony will make younger veterans feel welcome.
“We’re dedicating this flag pole to the vets of the Global War on Terror and we’re hoping that they’ll come to the legion,” said Cannon. “We want them at that ceremony to honor them, but we’re also worried about attrition.”
Post Commander Frank Manning said there are about 1,500 veterans living in Saugus, but there is no way of knowing how many served in the War on Terror. Only one has attended events at the American Legion.
Cannon said he believes many of the veterans are still heavily involved in family life, raising children and working full time. But he’s noticed that not many people have been joining once they’ve become empty nesters, as the post has seen happen in the past.
“I’m 65 years old and I’m the second youngest here,” said Cannon. “The youngest person is three months younger than me.”
Manning said he first joined the American Legion in his late 20s, but stopped going because he got married and had children and suddenly had a lack of extra time. He rejoined in his 50s about 20 years ago.
“The truth of the matter is young kids have everything at home,” said Manning. “I worry when they’re older, they won’t have the same camaraderie I have with my fellow comrades.”
Dedicating the flagpole to the younger generation also helps the Legion address a longstanding sore spot. For as long as he can remember, the post has gone without a flag pole.
“It was the only town building that didn’t have a flag and we’re a vets organization,” said Joe Dion, senior vice-commander.
Manning said he’s not sure when the old pole disappeared, but guessed it went to another town building that needed one. The flag pole, which nearly matches the height of the historic Taylor Street building, will be dedicated in a ceremony planned for Oct. 28 at 9 a.m.
The new addition means the American Legion post is no longer the only town-owned building without a flag pole. Manning said he’s pleased a flag will once again flank the hall that houses 40 to 65 veterans each week for breakfast.
