[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E655-E656]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BENNETT-WELLS AMERICAN LEGION 
                               POST 1780

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, July 9, 2026

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and 
congratulate the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780's 80th 
Anniversary. This historic milestone is a testament to the enduring 
strength, spirit, and service of African American Veterans throughout 
our nation.
  Founded on June 2, 1946, in honor of Private James Bennett and 
Lieutenant Johnson C. Wells, the first two African American soldiers 
from Buffalo, New York, whose lives were lost in the line of duty 
during WWII. The Post was organized to meet the needs of African 
American Veterans throughout Western New York who didn't have a place 
to gather.

[[Page E656]]

  Over the decades, the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780 has 
served as more than a veterans organization--it has been a cornerstone 
of fellowship, advocacy, and community service for generations of 
veterans and their families. The Post has remained committed to 
honoring the sacrifices of African American servicemen and women, while 
creating opportunities for mentorship, civic engagement, and support 
throughout the Western New York community.
  Through its programs and community outreach, the Bennett-Wells 
American Legion Post 1780 has continued to provide critical support 
services such as veteran assistance, youth mentorship initiatives, and 
remembrance ceremonies honoring fallen service members. Community 
members throughout Western New York cherish the Bennett-Wells American 
Legion Post 1780's resilience and unwavering dedication to preserving 
local history, and ensuring that the contributions of African American 
veterans are recognized and passed down to future generations. The 
Post's continuous drive to support both the African American community 
and the wider Western New York community has allowed the organization 
to strengthen ties while upholding its founding mission of honoring 
service and sacrifice.
  Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 
1780's 80th anniversary, may we all take pride in its history, 
leadership, and service, and may we look forward with hope to all that 
it will continue to be. On behalf of a grateful community, we thank the 
Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780 for its leadership, 
inclusivity, and example. Its extraordinary contribution to Buffalo's 
rich tapestry of cultures has served as a beacon of light and we are 
all better because of it.

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