A house RESOLUTION

 

To Recognize and honor the American Legion Post #166 for their involvement in their community, and to congratulate them for over fifty years of commitment to service, camaraderie, and advocacy for veterans.

 

Whereas, the South Carolina House of Representatives is pleased to honor the Goose Creek American Legion Post #166 for their commitment to service in their community and making a difference for veterans, service members, and their families; and

 

Whereas, the American Legion Post #166 was chartered in 1968 in Goose Creek, South Carolina, and is a welcoming home for veterans of every generation who wish to serve their community by connecting with other veterans, volunteering, and making a local impact that lasts. The mission of Post #166 aligns with the four pillars of the American Legion, supporting veterans and their families, investing in youth and education, strengthening national security through community awareness, and promoting Americanism through events that honor shared values; and

 

Whereas, Post #166 members work hard to ensure that no one falls through the cracks, referring veterans to trusted resources, and emphasizing kindness, accountability, and following through, offering services to veterans such as help with a claim, a ride to an appointment, or a listening ear during a tough week. Members share job leads, wellness resources, and practical tips for navigating life after service with helpful Buddy Checks, staying connected prevents isolation and opens the door to timely support; and

 

Whereas, Post #166 partners with local schools, faith groups, and civic organizations to host events such as food drives, blood drives, and family friendly gatherings that bring neighbors together. They organize ceremonies on patriotic holidays that offer moments of remembrance and gratitude that resonate beyond the days themselves, as well as provide respectful military honors at funerals and participate in special observances throughout the year; and

 

Whereas, they offer many opportunities for students and families in the community to learn and participate in meaningful ways that blend service and fellowship, such as coffee gatherings, member meetings, planning sessions, and special interest clubs. Groups like the Auxiliary, the Sons of the American Legion, the Honor Guard and the ALP 166 Riders add energy and expertise to help expand the reach of every project; and

 

Whereas, Post #166 supports many youth programs, the American Legion Boys State and Girls State sponsorships, the Oratorical Contest, scouting partnerships, JROTC recognition, and scholarship opportunities when funding allows, where they encourage young people to grow into confident citizens with hands-on and personal mentorship, giving them a chance to learn, to lead, and continue to strengthen the community; and

 

Whereas, the community greatly benefits from their support and help through programs such as Run for the Fallen Sponsor, Needy Families, Community Outreach, and annual food drives. Post #166 also works hard to be prepared for any crisis that may hit the community by coordinating with local leaders and first responders to have the best plans in place, building reliability and trust within their community; and

 

Whereas, in the almost sixty years of service that the American Legion Post #166 has provided to their community, they have hosted and offered assistance through many significant events, such as Hurricane Hugo support in 1989, the interment of an unknown Marine in 2011, reuniting and presenting a Purple Heart and other wartime medals with the family of Lieutenant William E. Spencer in 2020, the 9/11 Flags Across America event in 2022, and the ALP 166 Commemorative Patio in 2024, that recognized seventy-two Berkeley County service members who made the supreme sacrifice in all wars from World War I up to current times; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives are grateful for the service and engagement that the members of the American Legion Post #166 have brought to the Goose Creek community and look forward to hearing of their future endeavors. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor the American Legion Post #166 for their involvement in their community, and congratulate them for over fifty years of commitment to service, camaraderie, and advocacy for veterans.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the American Legion Post #166.

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