[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1686]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  BROOKSIDE AMERICAN LEGION 50TH YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 1996

  Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 
American Legion Brookside Post 837 on its 50th anniversary. In 
commemoration of this special event, it is my pleasure to bring the 
history of this post to the attention of my colleagues.
  The dedication of the members of Brookside Post 837 and its many 
members have brought it to this proud moment. Fifty years ago in 1946, 
a group of World War II veterans from the Brookside and North End 
sections of Wilkes-Barre gathered to begin plans to organize a chapter 
of the American Legion. Contact was made with Commander Renfer of 
District 12. He advised the group and provided charter application 
information. The application was submitted with only 20 signatures and 
the charter was granted. An election of officers was conducted, and the 
group chose Nick Maliborsky as the first commander.
  Over the years the membership declined and the charter was in 
jeopardy. A reorganization of the post began. Paul Makuch was elected 
second commander of the post. Commander Makuch's resilience and good 
leadership were instrumental in bringing a number of members back to 
the post. There are now approximately 185 members.
  Brookside Post 837, ``The smallest Post that does the most,'' is 
known for its support of Legion affairs such as; military wake services 
and funerals, parades, community sponsored activities, and strong 
comradeship.
  Their history would be incomplete if not for the dedication of the 
women of the Ladies Auxiliary. These ladies must be acknowledged for 
their tireless efforts on behalf of the post and their spouses.
  Mr. Speaker, the beginning years were difficult for this post, but 
due to the solid foundation of loyal members past and present, 
Brookside Post 837 now proudly celebrates 50 golden years of dedicated 
service to God, country, and the community. I am pleased to have been 
asked to be a part of this milestone celebration and send my best 
wishes to these proud Legionnaires for a prosperous future.

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