[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 143 (Monday, September 9, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1105]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              CONGRATULATING DUMARESQ SPENCER POST NO. 145

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                      HON. BRADLEY SCOTT SCHNEIDER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 9, 2019

  Mr. SCHNEIDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to proudly recognize the 
100th anniversary since the founding of Dumaresq Spencer Post No. 145, 
an American Legion Post located in my district.
   The Dumaresq Spencer Post was established by World War I veterans 
led by William Burke and its namesake honors the first Highland Park 
resident to be killed in the conflict. It was originally located on the 
second floor of Witten Hall, across the street from the former Alcyon 
Theatre.
   Members of the Post typically took part in patriotic events such as 
the Memorial Day parade each year. They also led efforts to collect 
scrap metal, prepare for possible air raids, and offer comfort to 
families whose sons were killed in World War II.
   Following World War II, the Post gained substantially more members 
and its headquarters was relocated to a larger venue, the second floor 
of the then-Masonic Temple. In the late 1940's, the Post donated $2,400 
to the Highland Park Hospital because of a lack of basinets in their 
nurseries. Post members also assisted disabled veterans at Downey 
Veterans Hospital by frequently visiting them and providing them with 
entertainment.
   The Post eventually constructed its own building at 1957 Sheridan 
Road and its members made enormous financial and material sacrifices to 
this end. This location hosted many events, including Tenth District 
meetings and Scouting events. It was eventually sold and a portion of 
the proceeds funded the construction of the Veterans Memorial on the 
corner of Central and St. Johns Avenue.
   The Post now has approximately 100 members and it continues to serve 
our community and champion the causes of veterans. I congratulate all 
its members on their 100th anniversary, and look forward to working 
with Post No. 145 for many more years to come.

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