The spirit of giving is alive and well in Phoenix, Arizona and it reminds of the many special people who shaped my life.

My mother, Virginia, was a jolly and generous woman whose smile could brighten any room. As an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary in VFW Post 4589 in our hometown and she brought joy to many sick veterans during weekend visits to the local VA hospitals.  She brought the patients treats, books and most importantly, she brought them her loving spirit and warming laugh.

My Mom, Virginia Nason

Although my Mom is no longer on this earth, it comforts me to know that her warm spirit of giving is still alive through me, my siblings and other auxiliary and veteran group members.

This past year, I joined American Legion Post 64 in Ahwatukee, AZ for a host of reasons:

One- It is important to me to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Two- My parents instilled in me a strong sense of obligation to help others in the community.

The foundation of the American Legion’s values is based on four pillars and this holiday season, I was delighted to see two of them demonstrated so clearly by the generous actions of fellow members of Post 64.

The two pillars of Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation and Children & Youth were shown and strengthened by the kind deeds of Deb & Roger Munchbach and Kris & Jim Cetone.  Like my parents did years ago, they visited the Phoenix VAMC and livened up the dreary, white hallways with festive Christmas trees and boxes of goodies that were free to anyone who wanted them.

Deb Munchbach with Jim and Kris Cetone

Another heartwarming holiday project that was spearheaded by the Munchbachs and supported by members of Post 64 involved supporting the Christmas Sponsorship Program at Save The Family in Mesa, AZ.  In this program, participating family members are asked to submit “wish lists” that are shared with the sponsors.

The gifts for our Christmas family

Post 64 sponsored a local veteran family and used the money donated from the distribution of poppies (hand crafted by Roger) along with cash gifts from post members to purchase a sleigh-full of presents (toys and household items).

It is this spirit of giving and caring for others that makes we most proud to be a member of American Legion Post 64.

During this Christmas season I feel merrier knowing that my Mom is looking down at us with her big smile and saying:

“Ho, Ho, Ho! 

Good job on keeping them smiling and laughing!”

Jim, Kris and Roger brightened the Phoenix VAMC