JT Legion celebrates 100 years

This past weekend over 140 people attended the 100th Anniversary picnic for American Legion Post 304 in Jim Thorpe.

The event, which included a catered pig and chicken roast, was held at the Germantown Grove in Jim Thorpe and was attended by members of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, Legion Post 304 Home Association and guests.

While the American Legion was founded in May 1919, just months later on Sept. 5, 1919, 15 men signed a petition for a charter for a Post in Mauch Chunk/East Mauch Chunk.

A standing rule of the American Legion is that no posts be named after anyone living.

When Post 304 finally received its permanent charter in 1922, the post was named Charles J. Dolon Post 304.

Charles J. Dolon was the first person from Mauch Chunk/East Mauch Chunk Pennsylvania who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country during World War I.

Later, during World War II, Robert Lee Jones was added because he was believed to have been the first person from Mauch Chunk/East Mauch Chunk to be a casualty of that war.

However, a short time later it was realized that Joe “Cudgie” Martino was the true recipient of that grim distinction.

In 1948 a charter was issued for Dolon-Jones-Martino American Legion Post 304.

Among those attending the event and making presentations were state Rep. Doyle Heffley and Bill Richards, deputy chief of staff for state Sen. John Yudichak.

Heffley said, “I want to congratulate the Jim Thorpe Legion on 100 years. The Legion is an amazing organization that does so much in the community, and the veterans outreach that they provide is just phenomenal.”

Speaking for Yudichak, Richards said, “He sends his regards and best wishes to everyone and congratulations for 100 years of service and God bless the veterans, the military and the retirees. It’s a great organization.”

Opening ceremonies were conducted by American Legion Post 304 Commander Keith McQuait.