Quota member Debra H. (and member of the American Legion) introduced out March 2024 quest speaker Karen Boehler, the founder of Post 1879 of the American Legion and twenty-nine year, member of the unit. Karen became interested in the organization as a younger person because her father was a WWII veteran. Karen has fond memories of her father showing poignant pictures of his time as a veteran. The pictures had a tremendous impact on her life and how she would eventually give back to her community. Karen stated she “loves supporting vets”.Did you know when the American Legion was founded and by whom?  During Karen’s presentation we learned President Theodore Roosevelt founded the organization in 1919 and Congress chartered the Legion during that time too. As of 2024 the American Legion has 600,000 members nationwide.

Karen then shared the Mission they follow which she explained has four pillars: Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. Post 1879 of Fort Collins, Colorado, meets monthly at CSU and they are very proud that they have raised significant funds allowing members of the Post to support students at CSU as well as many, many organizations in the community. An example of how they raise funds is by selling their famous cookbooks.  Both Karen and Debra stated they believe the earliest cookbook they found was published in 1919. The most current cookbook highlights the 100-year history of the organization honors the American veterans who served in the wars and conflicts.  Another important part of what they strive to do is to provide a safe place for the veterans who are attending CSU.

As you can see the pictures below, Karen is so proud and excited when Post 1879 was awarded the “National Presidents Award for Excellence for SerWe” which is a HUGE honor for all they do for the veterans and those they “serve”. Congratulations!

For additional information on the American Legion Post 1879, visit their Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/LegionPost1879co/