Auxiliary celebrates anniversary

Jan Getz, past president of American Legion Auxiliary Post 662, knows a great deal about the organization, but it is when she talks about the ways the group gives back that the excitement in her voice can be heard. "We support programs at the Coatesville and Lebanon VA medical centers," she said.

On Oct. 12, the auxiliary held an anniversary celebration at the New Holland American Legion Conestoga Post 662 banquet center. The centennial began at 4 p.m. with a social hour. The program started at 5 p.m. with dinner and speakers, who included Tim Bender, mayor of New Holland, and Rep. Keith Greiner of the 43rd District.

According to Getz, most of the auxiliary members who took part in planning the centennial celebration are surviving past presidents. Members of the committee included Getz, Sandy Beyers, Paula Houck, Michel Hughes, and Sue Noll. Current auxiliary officers are president Sheila Barber, first vice president Linda Buchanan, secretary Ann Brill, treasurer Dale Mendenhall, chaplain Autumn Berrier, sergeant at arms DeeDee Martin, and historian Heather Stern.

Getz detailed some of the activities the auxiliary organizes that involve the VA medical centers. "We participate in the country fair at the Lebanon hospital," said Getz. "We do a bingo pizza party for the guys up there, and we do holiday boxes with treats in them." Locally, Getz noted that the organization helps with a homeless veterans effort run by the American Legion.

The auxiliary also gives scholarships to area students including two given out every year to Garden Spot High School students as well as some students from other school districts who are entering a health care related field.

The American Legion Auxiliary Post 662 held a Trunk or Treat on Oct. 20 in the parking lot across the street from the New Holland American Legion Post. The auxiliary also organizers other seasonal events for the children of New Holland. "We're doing a Santa Secret Shopper where they can shop for gifts for family members and pets," stated Getz. Santa will visit the post at 35 S. Hoover Ave., New Holland, during the event on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Getz said that the Post 662 auxiliary has more than 600 members. The date of the group's framed charter, which hangs on the wall at Post 662, is Nov. 24, 1924. Individuals who wish to join American Legion Auxiliary Post 662 must be the spouse, daughter, or granddaughter of a veteran. The auxiliary meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Post 662.

More information about the New Holland American Legion Post may be found at http://www.newhollandlegion662.org or by searching for "American Legion Auxiliary Post 662" on Facebook.