[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 3514]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF HARRISON POST 282 AMERICAN LEGION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 4, 2004

  Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Harrison Post 282 
American Legion on its 65th Anniversary. An anniversary celebration was 
held on Saturday, January 17, 2004, at Post 282 Headquarters, 8 
Patterson Street, Harrison, New Jersey. The ceremony was presided over 
by Commander Edwin Marshman, Sr.
  On September 16, 1919, the United States Congress chartered the 
American Legion. The purpose of the American Legion is to serve as a 
community organization sworn to uphold the Constitution of the United 
States of America, to foster and promote the ideals of patriotism, and 
to preserve the memories of wars and battles fought by our courageous 
men and women in uniform. The American Legion is vital to the 
preservation and celebration of American heritage. It understands the 
power and value of our history. Yesterday, these brave soldiers served 
in the Armed Services to preserve America; today, they serve in our 
communities to preserve our heritage.
  Although the majority of the service provided by the American Legion 
is geared towards veterans' issues, its service does not stop there. 
The American Legion is heavily involved in children and youth and 
community service activities. Since its inception in 1919, the American 
Legion has been a supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. Today, the 
Legion is the chartering agency for more than 1,700 scouting units 
involving more then 64,000 youths.
  Harrison Post 282 was formed in 1939 by a group of dedicated Harrison 
veterans who wished to foster the goals of the American Legion in their 
community. Harrison Post 282 received its permanent charter from the 
American Legion in 1941. In its 65 years, Harrison Post 282 has 
continuously upheld the goals of the American Legion, helping countless 
veterans and serving as a pillar of the Harrison community in a variety 
of activities.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the 65th 
Anniversary of the Harrison Post 282 American Legion and in honoring 
its outstanding commitment to veterans and their community.

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