[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 163 (Wednesday, October 16, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1289]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE FREELAND AMERICAN LEGION POST NO. 473 ON ITS 
                           100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 16, 2019

  Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Freeland 
American Legion Post No. 473 on the 100th anniversary of its founding. 
The Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 is a highly respected 
veterans' organization located in Northeastern Pennsylvania. In its 100 
years, the Post has overcome many obstacles, but, through the 
determination and dedication of its members, it has withstood the test 
of time and flourished.
  In December 1919, Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 received its 
chatter from the national American Legion organization. The first 
members were men who served the U.S. during World War I as soldiers or 
in a naval capacity and received an honorable discharge. In fall 1920, 
the first Commander, John Rugens, presided over the decision to name 
the Post ``Freeland Post'' in honor of the 400 Freeland, Pennsylvania 
men who enlisted to serve during World War I.
  The early years of Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 saw low 
membership, but, under the leadership of Commander R.R. Oberrender and 
Commander Thomas Welshko, the post persevered and eventually grew into 
the thriving organization it is today. In 1924, the first Legion Home 
was purchased, though it would not be the last. Through the late 1920s 
into the 1930s, Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 moved its Legion 
Home to several different locations before finally relocating in 2000 
to its permanent home at 532 Centre Street in Freeland.
  Throughout its 100-year history, the Post has been a pivotal force 
within the community. Freeland's Semi-Centennial Celebration was 
sponsored by Freeland American Legion Post No. 473, and its members 
served on several of the event's planning committees. The Post oversaw 
the planting of a memorial grove around Freeland High School with name 
plates on each tree recognizing service members who gave the ultimate 
sacrifice for their country. The Legion Auxiliary was eventually 
organized, first under temporary Chairlady Mrs. R.L. Seitzinger, and 
then Mrs. A.A. Redelin was elected to inaugurally lead the Auxiliary. 
In September 1928, Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 Drum and Bugle 
Corps was organized with thirty men participating, and, by 1930, the 
group would be recognized as one of the leading Bugle Corps in the 
country.
  Today, Freeland American Legion Post 473 is very active and well-
respected in the community. The Post now also encompasses the American 
Legion Riders, who help raise funds for children's hospitals, schools, 
veterans' homes, severely wounded servicemembers, and scholarships. On 
September 28, 2019, the Post donated $1,200 to the District 12 VA 
Canteen Fund, and, recently, the Legion Riders had their 14th Emilio 
Ranieri Run, which is an annual event that benefits the daughter of one 
of their members.
  It is an honor to recognize the Freeland American Legion Post No. 473 
on its 100th anniversary. This is a remarkable achievement, and I wish 
the organization much continued success in the future.

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