By Kelly Frasca
Question: How does American Legion Auxiliary Unit 127 raise money for local veterans and military families?
Answer: There are many ways the unit raises money for local veterans and their families, such as our annual yard sales and benefit dinners for example, and our annual “Veterans Harvest Dinner” in October. Unit 127 also collects donations from poppy distribution, local sponsors and the community for programs.
We support disabled veterans, veterans rehabilitation, veterans’ families, veterans’ children and youth, homeless veterans, military active-duty, military K-9, and many other programs led by the Florida American Legion Auxiliary Department and American Legion Auxiliary District 17.
Q: How does American Legion Auxiliary Unit 127 serve their local veterans and military families?
A: Unit 127 volunteers and contributes more than 10,000 hours in community service each year, and these hours make a difference in our local veterans’ lives. In addition, Unit 127 together with American Legion Post 127, has fed more than 1,000 veterans and their families annually.
Unit 127 helped local veterans by upgrading Post 127 with a new coat of paint on the post and resurfacing the post’s floors. These improvements were made possible through our successful events, contributions and donations from local businesses, the local community, and with the help of Lake Helen Boy Scout Troop 590.
We also participate in all military holidays, promoting flag etiquette, participating in flag retirement ceremonies, and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance while promoting Americanism.
Unit 127 collects contributions for disabled veterans through the “Poppy Program” (established in 1921) in honor of Memorial Day.
Unit 127 is a small but strong unit. However small, though, Unit 127 is a staple within the Lake Helen community and active with military affairs. Unit 127 currently has fewer than 30 members, with only eight active members. Membership is vital to our veterans, and Unit 127 is looking for new members, including those who are willing to support our veterans.
Q: How can the community join, participate and volunteer?
A: American Legion Post 127 and Auxiliary Unit 127 meeting dates are the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. Stop in for membership information, and join the fun.
Bingo is first and third Saturdays; doors open at noon, and bingo starts at 1 p.m. This is open to the public.
The post is open for breakfast the second Saturday of the month 8-11 a.m. Breakfast plates cost $3 – $7. Open to the public.
The American Legion post can prepare meals upon request for events, and some holidays.
Watch for announcements of other special events open to the public.
