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TRYON–One of the lines in the American Legion’s Preamble talks about inspiring an individual’s sense of obligation to their community. The American Legion Post 250 and Auxiliary,  located at 43 Depot St. in downtown Tryon, exemplifies that ideal with their work inside and outside Polk County. 

 

The Legion has, over the years, become one of the most consistent contributors to local charities. Each year, they equally support essential community organizations such as Outreach, Steps to HOPE, The Meeting Place, Big Brother and Big Sisters of WNC, and Tunnel to Towers Foundation, donating more than $15,000 a year.  

 

All funds are raised through contributions and their regular Bingo games. The Friday Night Bingo starts at 7 p.m. and has multiple opportunities for players to win money while knowing their money will help fund the Legion and local charities. All events held at American Legion Post 250 and Auxiliary are family-friendly, and are a fun way for veterans and their families to enjoy each other’s company, as well as benefit many organizations.

 

Post Commander Mike Collins says, “We here at the Legion make money so we can give it away.”

A typical meeting for the American Legion, which is open to anyone honorably discharged from the military, consists of prayer, the Pledge, and their Preamble before delving into the long-range planning well suited to former members of the armed services. Upcoming plans for possible dances, charitable donations, and the crucial scholarships that are given out yearly are made. A single table and chair sit alone in the corner to represent and commemorate the POWs, while the patches of multiple companies adorn the walls, including Patton’s Big Red 1. 

 

Another well-known service the Legion provides is its Honor Guard, created to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. ​The dedicated members of the Post 250’s Honor Guard render military honors at an average of 40 funerals and events per year in Western North Carolina.

 

The motto for the Post is ‘Veterans Still Serving,” and these words ring true at Tryon’s American Legion Post 250 and Auxiliary.