American Legion

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Wreaths to Remember

Volunteers Across America and the Globe Warm the Final Resting Places of Our Veterans

Remember. Honor. Teach.  This is the mission of Wreaths Across America.

I was honored to present the U.S. Army Wreath at this powerful event which took place at the Prescott National Cemetery, Arizona on December 13, 2025. 

Gold Star families, Boy Scout troops, Young Marines, Cadets, the Ernest A. Love Post 6 Honor Guard, the Legion Riders, along with numerous VFW and American Legion posts and family chapters, volunteered and supported the effort.

The Ernest A. Love Post 6 Honor Guard

Prior to this year, I was vaguely aware of this annual wreath-laying ritual, but I had no idea of the vast scope, scale and impact of it. 

To remember the fallen, to honor those who serve and to teach the next generation the value of freedom.  This is what I learned were the true passion and meaning behind Wreaths Across America and I was proud of my community and fellow veterans for coming out and showing their support.

Combat Vets Association Volunteer unloading wreaths at Prescott National Cemetery

To appreciate the immense scope of this event, I went to the organization’s website and saw that more than 2 million volunteers and supporters who gathered to Remember, Honor and Teach at more than 5,500 locations in all 50 states, at sea and abroad.   I was impressed to learn that wreaths were presented and laid at the gravesites of our WWI and WWII fallen in all 26 American cemeteries overseas including Normandy, Cambridge, Luxembourg, Monilia, Sicily-Rome, Belgium, the Netherlands, Panama and Tunisia.

It was comforting to me to know that our servicemen and woman who died overseas are not forgotten.

Kermit Hunt and Dan Tillmans

The Christmas and Hannukah season are a challenging time for active-duty military and their families.  It is especially challenging for Gold Star families who lost loved ones.

Veterans present U.S. Army, Marine and Navy wreaths

It is my hope that this annual ritual will bring some warmth and comfort to the many who are grieving. 

It is my hope that the act of laying a wreath or placing a stone on a gravesite while taking a moment to say the veteran’s name out loud will bring some peace to the families because their loved one is not forgotten.  

All five of my senses were strongly engaged during the Wreaths Across America event—the visual presence of red bows, the sound of the bugler playing Taps, the scent of pine, the taste of hot chocolate prepared by volunteers, and the warmth of greetings exchanged with fellow veterans.

Elliott from American Legion Post 6 sounds Taps

Thank you to all volunteers and supporters who helped make this event possible across America and at our cemeteries abroad.

Wreaths to remember, wreaths to honor, wreaths to teach.  

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From Jet Engines to Honor Guard

Joe Weidner is a long time Legionnaire and Honor Guard member who joined Ernest A. Love Post 6 in 2012.  Joe has lived in many places across the world and travelled to numerous countries during his time in U.S. Airforce.

Joe was born in an Austrian refugee camp in 1949. His father was in the German Wehrmacht in WWII and was held in a British POW camp.  After the war, his father worked in a warehouse for the Americans.  

The Weidner family emigrated to Ellis Island in 1950 and lived in Chicago before moving to South California.  Joe attended San Gabriel Mission High School and majored in aerospace engineering in college.  

Joe, like many in his generation, had three friends who died while fighting in Vietnam.  He made a conscious decision to join the U.S. Air Force in 1970 and did his basic training in San Antonio, TX.  Joe was the Outstanding Honor Graduate at his Tech school where he was trained as a Jet Mechanic and initially worked on 1-2 engine jets before advancing to specialize in 4-engine jets.  

Charleston Air Force Base in South Carolina was Joe’s first duty station where he served four years.  As his Air Force career progressed, he worked on 4 engine jets like the C-141.  As an E-5 he had a crew of four.

Joe Weidener supported the 82nd and 101st  Airborne Divisions on multiple jump and cargo missions.

In 1973, he was on a mission that flew to Saudi Arabia for two weeks where they transported an Indonesian peacekeeping contingent for the UN to the Sinai Peninsula after the Yom Kippur War.

Joe spent 90 days on temporary duty assignment (TDY) in Alaska. While stationed there, he was tasked with the solemn responsibility of transporting caskets for servicemembers who had been killed in Vietnam. Each day, Joe witnessed the heartbreaking reality of war, seeing as many as 8 to 10 caskets arrive daily. Reflecting on this experience, Joe described the duty as profoundly difficult, a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by so many during the conflict.

 During his time in active duty, Joe was stationed in Germany two times and did NATO missions in England.  He flew into Vietnam three times on resupply flights.

Joe is known for his innovative thinking and natural curiosity. As a student, Joe excelled in Math and Physics, enjoying these subjects and achieving strong academic results. His proficiency in these areas reflects his analytical mindset and problem-solving abilities, which have been evident throughout his life and career.

To highlight his creative problem-solving skills, Joe shared a story about how he jerry-rigged an O-ring from black top tar and fixed a hydraulic leak on the left landing gear of a C-141 and then had the confidence to sign off on the condition of the aircraft.

C-141 Aircraft

When asked what he liked most about serving in the U.S. military, Joe replied, “the comradery” and then strongly stated, “I would do it again in a heartbeat”.

What did Joe like least about the military?  He said, “Overbearing young officers.”

Joe left the service in 1974 and went on to worked for Pacific Bell where he met his future wife Debbie and were married in July 1982. They have been married for 43 years and have two sons, Mike and Jeff. Mike, the eldest, is a Firefighter and Paramedic working for the City of Colton Fire Department in Southern California and Jeff is a Mechanical Engineer working for a medical equipment supplier.

Joe retired from Pac Bell in 2002 after 30 years.  He specialized in fiber optic cable.

In the 1990s, Joe was an active member and Officer of American Legion Post 72 in Anaheim, CA where he served as Chaplain, Finance Officer, and a member of the Executive Board (E-Board).  He was also the Post’s Honor Guard Commander from 2003-2011.

After Joe moved to Prescott, he met Dan Tillman and has been in the Ernest A. Love Post 6 Honor Guard ever since.  His time and service in American Legion Honor Guard total over 23 years.

Joe remembers a particularly poignant moment at a burial service in Anaheim where the widow put her hand on his when he presented the folded flag. He’ll never forget powerful emotion and energy coming from her trembling hand as her whole world was turning upside down.  

Joe feels that “the American Legion is head and shoulders above the other veteran organizations due to so much community involvement.”  In his experience, the other vet orgs are “all show and no go” and did not help the local veterans as much.

American Legion Post 6 Honor Guard on 9/11/25

In summary, Joe’s journey—from his early academic achievements and military service to his dedication as an officer and member of the Honor Guard in the American Legion—demonstrates a commitment to leadership, service, and community. His experiences reflect not only technical expertise and problem-solving, but also a deep sense of empathy and connection with others. 

Ernest A. Love Post 6 is lucky to have Joe Weidner in its ranks as he serves as a positive force who continues to respect and honor his fellow veterans. 

Joe Weidner at American Legion Post 6
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Prescott Woman Recognized as Legion Auxiliary Member of the Year for Arizona

Lisa Thaler Honored for Outstanding Service and Dedication

The members and family chapters of Ernest A. Love Post 6 in Prescott proudly recognize Lisa Thaler for being selected as the 2025 Auxiliary Member of the Year in Arizona. Lisa’s unwavering commitment and selfless dedication to serving veterans and her community truly set her apart. Through her generous gift of time and attention, she has made a lasting impact, demonstrating what it means to lead with compassion and service.

Lisa hails from Indiana and moved quite a bit between New York, Ohio, and Kentucky before settling in Prescott, AZ.  Lisa studied Mathematics in college and in the late 1980s taught math to 7th-12th graders at Eastern High School, she also served as an ESL tutor and then worked in banking.

She joined Auxiliary Unit 6 in Prescott in 2022 and is a very active volunteer for veterans in Prescott and can often be seen playing cards, doing crafts, or working at the annual Stand Down at US Vets.  

Lisa is a curious person and a good listener and continually asks this important question: “What else can I do to help?”

She has always been eager to help her family and friends since she was young, and Lisa continues this dedication today by actively supporting her family at the Ernest A. Love American Legion Post 6 and aiding veterans within her community. In the past year, she provided service to 36 veterans and volunteered 209 hours.  

As the Unit Member of the Year for Arizona, Lisa was honored to attend the National Auxiliary convention in Tampa, Florida in August.

Lisa appreciates the pillars of the American Legion Auxiliary, which include patriotism, service to others, and reverence of faith, and she lives these values every day to provide aid and comfort to many. Her generous and joyful nature, combined with a lively spirit of optimism, inspires those around her and uplifts the entire community.

When not volunteering, Lisa and her husband Eric Thaler, who is a member of the Sons of the American Legion at Post 6, enjoys bike riding and hiking. 

Prescott and the American Legion are lucky to have such positive and hard-working members in our community.

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James S. Jauregui: An Airborne Signal Story

Sharing stories and experiences is something humans enjoy.

Knowing that their service in the military made a difference in the world is something that most veterans want.

After hearing and learning about James Jauregui’s 20+ years of service in the U.S. Army, it was clear to me that he made a strong and positive impact on his country.

When I was first introduced to James by his brother-in-law, Gil Reyes, I had an instant affinity for him.   Even though we are 38 years apart, I could relate to James’ training in the Signal Corps at Fort Gordon, GA and his experience at Airborne School at Ft. Benning.  He was a paratrooper who jumped out of many different types of Airforce planes including the C-46, C-82, and C-119.

James was born on December 18,1929 in Los Angeles, California and was the eldest of five children. His siblings were named Yolanda, Graciella, Harvey, and Arturo.  His parents, Salvador and Juanita, were born in Mexico and placed a great deal of importance on respect and trust. They were proud, hardworking and ran a business.

James volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army in the summer of 1947.  I found it interesting that he didn’t tell his parents that he was joining the military until after he signed the papers at the recruiting station.  

Inspired by his cousin, Dan Soria, a brave Army Airborne solider who fought in Germany and was captured during WWII, James made sure that he got his jump wings and wasn’t a “leg”.  In the U.S. Army, “leg” is a term used to describe a soldier who is not part of an airborne or air assault unit. It specifically refers to soldiers who have not completed jump school and earned their Airborne wings.

James went to basic training at Fort Ord in California and was trained as a Lineman (MOS -12Q) in the Signal school at Ft. Gordon.  Over his 23 years on active duty, he served overseas many times and was stationed in South Korea post-war, Germany, Panama, and then Vietnam in the late 1960s.  His mode of transportation to Germany and Korea was by ship and he noted that his return home from Germany was by plane. He met his second wife Linda while he was stationed in Germany. He retired in 1970 as a Staff Sergeant (E6).

During his time in the miliary, James started out running communication wires, then he worked the switch boards and later became an expert in the AN/MRC-69 radio terminal set which was used for vehicle-mounted, multi-channel communications, providing trunking at the division level by offering both telephone and teletypewriter channels.  Later in his service career, he trained other soldiers on the new systems at the Signal school at Ft Gordon and was even asked to assist in the construction of a new building. 

James is an adventurous, curious and intelligent man who loved building and flying model airplanes. In school, he enjoyed mathematics and was good at fixing things. He took flying lessons and was skilled in woodworking, electronics.  James is multi-talented and has a knack for repairing and building. 

When I asked what James enjoyed most about the Army, he stated he liked the structure.   The things that he didn’t like about serving in the military was “all the unnecessary chicken-shit tasks” that he and his soldiers were asked to do and he specifically mentioned the often-inane orders of certain junior officers from West Point.

It was my honor and privilege to interview James and document his experiences and stories about his time in the Army.   While taking some photos, my husband Steve encouraged him to don his dress uniform jacket which boldly displayed the airborne wings he earned all those decades ago in Georgia.  I had never seen the orange background behind the badge and it made the wings pop.

Wearing a shirt with a U.S. flag, James is a proud American who served his country honor and distinction.  Two years after the end of WWII, he raised his right hand and volunteered to defend the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.  Little did he know just how turbulent the world would be during the 1950s and 60s.

James S. Jauregui. Photo by Steve Smull

When asked about his overall feelings about serving 20+ in the U.S. Army, he said, “I did it my way!”  He reflected that it was very hard at times and he missed his family, but he enjoyed the adventure, the opportunity to learn new things, and teaching others.  While travelling around the world and the country, James touched many lives and made a difference in the world.

James is a new member of the Ernest A. Love American Legion Post 6 in Prescott, Arizona and I salute and welcome him.   

As the First Vice Commander of Post 6, I have been planning to write monthly Member Spotlight Profiles and was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet James and feature him as our very first Profile to be published in our monthly Post newsletter and submitted to the national Legiontown.org website.

James and his brother-in-law Gil during the interview in Prescott, Arizona

Respect, Honor and Tributes: A Flag Day to Remember
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Respect, Honor and Tributes: A Flag Day to Remember

It was a Flag Day to remember for reasons I did not realize when my husband and I ventured out to Mayer, AZ on the morning of June 14, 2025. It was a temperate and not so windy Saturday and the people who gathered at the Foothills Ranch were glad for it. A huge American flag was raised in honor of many things: the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, Flag Day, and a Missing Rider tribute to a fellow American who spearheaded this event in prior years.

Video by Dave the Drone Guy, Dave Smithwick

A poignant flag retirement ceremony was held thanks to the dedication and hard work of Foothills Ranch owners Wes and Phyllis Holmes. Numerous organizations also contributed to the effort by volunteering and donations, including local Boy Scout Troops, American Legion Posts and family chapters from Prescott, Cottonwood, Chino Valley, and Humboldt, the Ernest A. Love Post 6 Honor Guard, American Legion Riders and local businesses (see below for more details on that part of the story).

A tall white sign with the title What The Flag Means to Us shared what U.S. Stars and Stripes represented to hosts for the day’s event.  Wes Holmes stated, “ I believe it is sacred and should be treated with respect. This is why we host the retirement ceremony- to ensure these flags receive the honor they deserve.”

l. to r. Wes Holmes, Dan Tillmans, Joe Gorraiz, and Sherm Scott. Photo by Steve Smull

The event was powerful and impactful with many moving words, prayers, symbols, and traditions.

What started two years ago with two friends, Mark Meridith and Wes Holmes has grown to a large and amazing event. 

Why hold such an event?

  1. Respect for the symbol of our nation.  Respect for the memory of our family and friends who have passed.  
  2. Honor for those who have served and sacrificed for their country.

Yavapai County is home to many military veterans and patriotic residents, resulting in a significant number of flags that require proper disposal each year. According to the U.S. Flag Code, a worn-out flag should not be placed in a landfill and is recommended to be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning.

The newly built Flag Incinerator. Photo by Steve Smull

What I didn’t know while I was enjoying and appreciating the Flag Day ceremony at Foothills Ranch that day was just how much work, time, sweat, and effort went into it.  Being there in person you could feel how much emotion and passion were poured into the proceedings.

Seeing a beautiful horse named Cash being led out by Phyllis was a touching Missing Rider Tribute to Mark Merdith who passed away six months prior.  Wes gave a heartfelt announcement to those gathered that morning for the ceremony about his friend who was a driving force for the special Flag Day event and asked for a moment of silence.  It was a moving and powerful moment I will never forget.

Cash, Phyllis Holmes, and the Post 6 Honor Guard. Photo by Steve Smull

The American Legion Post 6 Honor Guard played a pivotal role in the Flag Day traditions. Their flag folding ceremony, gun salutes, and sounding of taps presented honor and respect to our nation’s flag as well those who sacrificed their lives for it.

Photo by Steve Smull

The other striking and impressive element of Flag Day 2025 was the large, rusty brown incinerator with its five 9ft chimney stove pipes.  Prior to the flag retirement ceremony, the five hand-welded doors of the converted oil tanker were flung open to reveal over 3,000 flags stacked high.

Photo by Steve Smull

The events leading up to the creation of the incinerator is a story of collaboration, persistence, and generosity.   Plato’s words “Necessity is the Mother of Invention” came to mind when Wes recounted the genesis of the old 33ft railroad tanker car.  There were two main reasons why Wes envisioned the need for an enclosed structure to ignite the flags- the wind and the large number of flags needing disposal (the 2024 flag retirement in a small, open burn pit had to be cancelled due to high winds).

Two weeks prior to the event on 6/14/25, Wes made a call to the Director of the Post 6 American Legion Riders (ALR) stating that if they didn’t get the funds to purchase the oil tanker then the Flag Retirement ceremony would need to be cancelled.  That is when Sandra Tavares, ALR Director in Prescott sprang into action and worked with the Commander and other family chapters of the Ernest A. Love Legion post to pull together the donations needed for Wes to acquire the oil tanker he found on Facebook Market place.  Now he had to drive his truck and trailer to over 375 miles to St George, Utah to pick the 13,000 lb steel metal tank.  It was a harrowing trip back as the length and weight of the tank upset the balance of the trailer.

Once Wes got back to Arizona, multiple local businesses donated steel, stove pipes, welding supplies as teams of welders and other craftsmen provided many hours of skilled labor to rapidly build the incinerator just in time for the big event.

Phyllis and Wes Holmes. Photo by Steve Smull

The following businesses and organizations donated money, supplies and time to the make Flag Day 2025 in Mayer, Arizona a reality.

  • Lamb Chevrolet
  • Mayer Fire Department
  • Ernest A. Love Post 6 Honor Guard- Dan Tillmans, Sherm Scott, Rich Fuller, Joe Gorraiz, Peggy Schmidt, Rich Tuten, Neal Goforth, Dirk Thayer, and Bugler Dede Dexter from Post 25.
  • Ernest A. Love American Legion Post 6 with ALR, Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion
  • American Legion District 8
  • RBS Fab LLC
  • Superior Industries
  • Yavapai Steel
  • Bill Roberts
  • Tom Lowe
  • Jeff Smith
  • Stewart Phelan
  • Yavapai Bottle Gas
  • Ron Lipps
  • Ryan Richard – RR Welding Services
  • Dave Smithwick, https://davethedroneguy.com
  • Boy Scout Troop 303
Photo by Steve Smull

The Flag Day 2025 event was a passionate and patriotic experience with prayers, the raising of a large 50×30 ft American Flag, cannon blasts, honor guard services, singing of our National Anthem, Missing Rider tribute, U.S. Flag Retirement ceremony, and the emotional sounding of taps.  

After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed a BBQ brisket meal compliments of  Phyllis Holmes and American Legion Post 6 family chapters.

Photo by Steve Smull

Thank you to everyone who contributed, supported and attended this meaningful holiday service.  

The honor, respect, and heartfelt tributes made it a Flag Day to remember!

Photo by Steve Smull

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What Really Matters?

How can we make a positive difference in other people’s lives? 

Thirteen members of the American Legion Riders (ALR) of Ernest A. Love Post 6 recently showed us what matters with their actions and deeds.  They embarked on A Ride That Matters.

Raising over $14,000 and riding their motorcycles and trikes over 2,500 miles in the western United States- the ALR team made a huge impact on hundreds of people’s live. Veterans and their families, children and burn victims were assisted in this effort. 

The ALR members of Post 6 embarked on their eight-day journey on May 31, 2025 and rode from Arizona to Nevada, California, Oregon, Idaho, and Utah. they stopped at multiple locations and met with the four non-profit organizations listed below to distribute the donations they collected. 

Members of Post 6 American Legion Riders as they depart Chino Valley, AZ on 5/31/25

Each of these organizations received $3,000 donations from the American Legion Riders:

  • Camp Courage:  Arizona Burn Foundation.
    • Arizona Burn Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for burn survivors and their families in Arizona, while promoting burn prevention advocacy and education. The camp is a week in Prescott, AZ for burn survivors age 6-19 to build courage as they connect with other survivors through horseback riding, swimming, arts and crafts, high ropes, rappelling.
    • https://azburn.org/camps
  • Central Oregon Veterans Ranch
    • Over the past nine years, the Central Oregon Veterans Ranch has touched the lives of veterans and their families through therapeutic, vocational, and agri-therapy programs on our 19-acre working ranch.
    • Supporting at-risk veterans with weekly movement and mindfulness sessions including yoga, tai chi, and gentle aerobics. 
    • https://www.covranch.org/
  • Project Healing Waters
    • A leading nonprofit in therapeutic outdoor recreation, using the sport of fly fishing as an intervention. They help active military service personnel and Veterans in need through a dedicated, developed curriculum of fly fishing.
    • https://projecthealingwaters.org/about-us/
  • Yavapai Big Brothers and Sisters
    • Mentoring: Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”), ages 6 through 24. 
    • Provides families life-sustaining resources like food, shelter, and medical care.
    • https://azbigs.org/what-we-do/
ALR Members present donation check to Camp Courage in Prescott, AZ

In addition to visiting the non-profits, the ALR team stopped at over 10 American Legion Posts along the route of A Ride that Matters. At the June 2025 General Meeting of Legion Post 6 in Prescott, Commander Sam McPherson gave praise and recognition for the outstanding hospitality to five Legion posts who went above and beyond to support and welcome the tired and weary riders.  

Here are the American Legion Posts who welcomed the Post 6 ALR with open arms, big smiles, and warm spirits during their week-long ride.

  • Post 40 in Henderson, NV
  • Post 8 in Klamath Falls, OR
  • Post 18 in Nampa, ID
  • Post 112 in Salt Lake City, UT
  • Post 69 in Kanab, UT

A Ride That Matters was not just a success; it was an accomplishment that shows the strong impact we can have on each other’s lives. This act of goodwill exemplified two of the four pillars of the American Legion – Rehabilitation of Veterans and Youth and Children. The outpouring of love and support resonated deeply with everyone involved, making the world kinder and more compassionate through these efforts.

Thank you to everyone who participated in, supported and donated to this incredible event.

The children, veterans, and families that were helped by this ride showed their appreciation with their smiles and laughter— and that is ALL that really matters.

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American Legion Auxiliary raises thousands to help veterans in Prescott, AZ

The Auxiliary members of the Ernest A. Love Unit 6 American Legion extend their sincere thanks to everyone who generously donated during their annual Poppy drive this year.

Auxiliary Unit 6 Officers Diane Shaffer and Sandy Gorraiz

Armed with bright, red poppies and warm smiles, twelve members of the Unit 6 Auxiliary set up tables outside of True Value and two Fry’s locations in Prescott, AZ.  The goal of the annual campaign around Memorial Day is to not only raise awareness but to raise money for local veterans.  This year the team received $2,148 in donations.

This tradition, deeply rooted in history and patriotism, invited the Prescott community to show their support for veterans while contributing to meaningful programs that directly benefit them and their families.

The Significance of the Poppy

The iconic red poppy has long been a symbol of remembrance and resilience. Its history dates back to World War I, inspired by the poignant poem “In Flanders Fields” written by Canadian soldier John McCrae. The poppy grew in the battlefields of Europe, blooming amidst the chaos and destruction, and it became a powerful emblem of sacrifice and hope. The American Legion Auxiliary adopted the poppy as a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of veterans and as a beacon of support for those who continue to serve.

Supporting Veterans Through Donations

Every poppy distributed by the American Legion Auxiliary represents a story of bravery and endurance. Donations collected during poppy campaigns directly fund programs designed to assist veterans, military families, and active duty servicemembers. These funds help maintain critical services such as rehabilitation programs, housing assistance, job placement initiatives, and mental health support.

In Prescott, the Ernest A. Love Unit 6 Auxiliary is committed to making a difference by channeling donations into local and national efforts that uplift the lives of those who have sacrificed for freedom. When you wear a poppy, you stand as a testament to their service and affirm your dedication to remembering their contributions.

Auxiliary Unit 6 President Glenda McFarland and Connie Turner.

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An Honor to Serve: Prescott’s Post 6 Guard

The Honor Guard at the Ernest A. Love Post 6 American Legion is impressive and dedicated.   For 30 years, they have provided support and comfort to the families and friends of deceased veterans.

Averaging 300 services and events a year, the honor guard is committed to paying respect and providing the final salute to those who have served their country.

The American Legion Honor Guard provides military honors to deceased veterans who would otherwise not receive them, including folding and presenting the flag to survivors, and performing a three-volley gun salute at funerals. 

The 17-member team here in Prescott, Arizona takes its role seriously and can be seen most afternoons gathered next to the old fireplace at the Post 6 building, raising their glasses in a closing toast to the veteran they just honored at the local or national cemetery.

Post 6 Honor Guard pays their respects at the Vietnam Veteran Day Ceremony on 3/29/25 in the Prescott, AZ Courthouse Plaza. Photo by Steve Smull.

When I asked some of the Post 6 Honor Guard members “What is the most important thing you provide to the veterans’ families at these services?”, they all replied, “Our presence”.  

Wow! That simple yet powerful word, presence, hit me hard as I realized that showing and being there for these ceremonies has an immense impact on those who are mourning the loss of a loved one.  Sadly, sometimes the honor guard are the only ones present to pay respects to the veteran.

What these Honor Guard team members do is American Legion exemplified and is greatly respected and appreciated by American Legion members and family chapters as well as the community.

Here’s the history of the group I received from the Captain of the Post 6 Honor Guard:

“In March of 1995, Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home called the Post and asked if we could provide Military Honors for a deceased veteran. Al Tercero, a several times Past Post Commander, and Past Department Commander, said yes. 

Al organized our Honor Guard, consisting of 2 VFW members and 3 Post 6 members. Our first bugler was Leonard Rosie Ross, bugler for General Eisenhower during WWII, and member of Post 6 and VFW Post 541. Our Honor Guard soon began traveling throughout Northern Arizona to render Honors for veterans, from Kingman to the Navajo Nation to Wickenburg the White Mountains. Where we were requested, we went.

In the last thirty years, our Honor Guard has rendered honors for 9,000 veterans, presented Colors at over 1,000 events, and represented Post 6 in nearly 100 parades.

Our Honor Guard is a certified Authorized Provider by the Department of Defense. That means that, when the Active-Duty services cannot provide the Honor Guard for the veteran, we are obligated to do so. Your Honor Guard takes that responsibility seriously and is ready to provide anything needed to honor our veterans.” – Clarence S. “Sherm” Scott III , Captain, Post 6 Honor Guard and Past Post 6 Commander

Taken on Flag Day, 2024 in Prescott, AZ during a flag burning ceremony.

A toast to the members of the Post 6 American Legion Honor Guard!

Thank you for your noble service. Your presence at these ceremonies holds immense significance, offering comfort and solace to those mourning their beloved veterans.

You are the embodiment of honor and respect, and your dedication enriches our community, our Legion, and our nation to which we are so indebted.

Here’s to the Post 6 Honor Guard—may your valor, dedication, and unwavering presence continue to shine brightly, honoring the legacy of those who served.

Cheers!

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What is the American Legion Serving?

Your local American Legion Post serves numerous things- many of which are not well known, understood, or appreciated. Beyond the stereotypical cheap drinks, the Legion actively serves people, young and old, in communities across the country.

My personal experience at the Ernest A. Love American Legion Post 6 in Prescott, AZ, has opened my eyes and warmed my heart- showing me that The Legion is more than a bar, more than a building. 

Post 6 Commander, Sam McPherson, cooking eggs for Sunday breakfast

What are they serving at my post? Thousands of home-cooked meals of soup, sandwiches, tacos, eggs, potatoes, bacon, and pancakes per year. Grilled burgers to warm up the crowd for Queen of Hearts on Thursdays. Sunday breakfast is served with a healthy side of smiles and laughter.

Post, Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion Members keeping spirits high in the kitchen

The local American Legion post is a unique and warm place where veterans and their families can come to relax and share stories. It is a place to sing and dance-  a place that combats loneliness. A place that serves up cheer, good will and support.

What does it mean to serve? Well, there are over 12 definitions of the verb Serve.

Here are three main meanings:

  1. As in to attend to. To help a person to food or drink. To work for or wait on.
  2. As in to act. To be of use. Hold an office. Discharge or perform a duty. Respect and honor.
  3. As in to provide services that benefit or help others. To assist or answer the needs of.  The American Legion Service Officer is a prime example of this role.

I have witnessed Legion members and officers acting in all three of the above listed definitions of Serve.

Like my father (a WWII veteran), my mother (a post Auxiliary member), my husband (Post Photographer), my brother (a Son of the American Legion) and cousins (Vietnam veterans), it is my honor to serve.  It is all about Veterans Helping Veterans.

So what are we serving at the American Legion?

  • We are serving aid to the homeless, the lonely, the sick, and the injured.
  • We are serving connection and support to veterans through Buddy Checks.
  • We are serving as a home and welcoming “3rd place” that people can go to for  comfort and belonging.
  • We are serving smiles, hugs, and laughter.
  • We are serving camaraderie, meaning, and purpose.
  • We are serving history, honor, and remembrance.
  • We are serving traditions, respect for the flag, and Americanism.
  • We are an extended family who looks after each other. Supports and assists when the chips are down.
  • The Legion is light- not heavy (like in the 1969 song  “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother”), lifting up our veteran brothers and sisters. Lifting the burden of loneliness, trauma and grief. Giving a warm and comforting hand when it’s needed most. 

This is what the American Legion is serving!

Post 6 Officer and ALR Member, Rusty Snyder, serving members at annual Picnic in Prescott, AZ

The American Legion had strong and active family units and chapters who extend and expand the service of the post members. The Sons of the American Legion (S.A.L), the Auxiliary, and the American Legion Riders (ALR) all play an important role in the service to the veterans, their families and the community.  They also make awesome bacon guacamole burgers and Denver omelettes!

The Legion is more than a bar. It is more than a building. 

The American Legion Post in the heart and soul of the local community serving veterans and their families.  

by

When Love is Earnest

I knew that Prescott was a veteran-friendly town steeped in rodeo and Wild West history but what I didn’t know until we moved here 5 months ago was just how many strong and brave heroes hailed from this mile-high, Arizona city.

As a U.S. Army veteran, I value and appreciate military history and traditions. From my recitation of the Flanders Field poem in Toastmaster speeches to my affinity for the symbolic red poppy, my active participation in the American Legion and VFW has increased my knowledge and awareness of the sacrifices so that so many U.S. servicemen and women have made for their country and in support of our allies across the globe.

Photo by Steve Smull

I was delighted when I discovered that the American Legion post in Prescott, AZ was named after WWI pilot Ernest A. Love. The airport also bears this home-town hero’s name. What I didn’t realize until I attended a presentation by Air Force veteran and pilot, Dan Baier, at Yavapai College in November 2024, was just how powerful and Ernest’s story was. Mr. Baier was a master storyteller and brilliantly wove the letters, photos from the early 1900’s into an engaging historical and emotional experience that left few dry eyes in the auditorium.

Ernest A. Love is buried in Arlington National Cemetery due to the tenacious efforts of his mother, Etta, who did not wish to have her son laid to rest on enemy soil. What impacted me most about his story were the words engraved on this headstone which read:

“If I am to give my life for this cause, I am satisfied.

There is no way I’d rather go than serving my County.”

Wow, this hits hard and speaks to the loyalty and passion of this young American who graduated from Prescott High School in 1914 and enrolled in ROTC while at Stanford University. He was commissioned a 1LT and was sent to flight school and training in San Diego and then France.

Ernest was an exceptional aviator and flew 22 missions in two and a half months in France. His wood and canvas plane was a SPAD 13 and he was killed in action on September 15, 1918 and his last letter to his Mom, Etta in Prescott was dated September 12th. This letter was not signed.

So many heartfelt letters were exchanged during this time and they are archived and shared at the Sharlot Hall Museum as well as in the display case at the American Legion Post in Prescott, Arizona.

Display case at Legion Post 6 in Prescott, AZ. Photo by Steve Smull

Love of Country. Support of Veterans.

One hundred-five (105) years ago, the American Legion and the Ernest A. Love Arizona Post 2 (later to become Post 6), were founded. 

The four pillars of Veteran’s Affairs & Rehabilitation, Americanism, National Defense, and Youth & Children are still the guiding principles of the nation’s largest veteran organization. 

On a local level in Prescott, the post has been vibrant center of activity and support for veterans, families, scouts, and students. Since getting their physical post home on 202 S. Pleasant Street in 1930, the post has hosted countless dances, dinners, social and community events. 

American Legion was chartered by the U.S. Congress in September of 1919 and the Prescott Post was named after Ernest A. Love that year. 

By all accounts Ernest loved his country. He was friendly, helpful and optimistic about life in America. He was a Boy Scout, supportive son, and neighbor. 

I am proud that members of Legion Post 6 and its family of chapters (Auxiliary, Sons of the Legion, and Legion Riders) pay tribute and respect to those who gave up their lives to defend freedom and liberty.

I am proud the American Legion helps veterans, families, and students in their communities.

I am proud that a group of U.S. soldiers stationed in France after WWI came up with the idea to start this organization to increase the low morale of the war-weary troops.

I am motivated and inspired by Ernest A. Love’s story of duty and honor which are forever inscribed in white marble stone in Arlington: 

I am proud that I am a member, and now officer, of the American Legion post in Prescott that is named Ernest A. Love Post 6. 

“There is no way I’d rather go than serving my Country.”

Prescott’s hometown hero has a life-sized statue of him outside of the local airport which bears his name.  He also has a large memorial display of photos, letters, military service caps, and a burial flag in the main hall of American Legion Post 6 on South Pleasant Street and it was honor to share his story with you. 

Post 6 Members Lou Cappadona, Brenda Smull & John Boyer. Photo by Steve Smull

When love is earnest, it is all the more powerful with its sincere and intense conviction.

1LT Love showed us this in the fields of France in 1918 and his spirit and dedication to country lives on in the extended family of the American Legion.

Photo by Steve Smull

Display case in the hall of Legion Post 6 in Prescott, AZ. Photo by Brenda Smull