The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE RICHARD DINGLE AMERICAN
LEGION POST 98
______
HON. BETTY McCOLLUM
of minnesota
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, September 21, 2021
Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the centennial anniversary of the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 in Saint Paul Park, Minnesota. Just as it has since 1921, Post 98 welcomes veterans into its membership ranks from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Members are committed to fulfilling the Post 98 mission of implementing the goals, aspirations, dreams, peace, and blessings for their country, friends, and families.
On August 20, 1919, seventeen local veterans gathered in Saint Paul Park to apply for a temporary charter in the American Legion, the fledgling national Veteran's Service Organization which at the time was just one year old. Two years later, on July 2, 1921, Post 98 applied for a permanent charter for the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 in honor of World War I veteran Richard W. Dingle, a private in the U.S. Marine Corps, 5th Regiment, 2nd Division who died during the Battle of Belleau Wood in France. To this day, Post 98 upholds the important work of the American Legion to assist veterans and their families finding careers, expanding their education, applying for health care and other benefits, and providing a supportive community for Saint Paul Park veterans.
Throughout its history, Post 98 has been steadfast in service, not only to veterans, but to the entire community. You may find yourself at a baseball game where the American Legion team is sponsored by Post 98, or at the Legion for dinner at the 328 Grill where you are likely to find families enjoying fun and games on the patio. You can also enjoy the Minnesota tradition of ``booya'' a rich stew cooked over an open fire, at the Legion's annual Booya fundraiser event, or stop by their Lenten Fish Fry each spring. Their long list of service work extends to all comers of the community, through donations to veteran's organizations like the Veterans Camp and Hastings Veterans Home, sending monthly care packages to active service members overseas, purchasing three fire trucks for the local fire department, donating school supplies, band uniforms and sports equipment to local students, and even helping to build city parks. Post 98 is also home to the only Honor Guard in South Washington County, leading them to perform at 11 ceremonies each year on Memorial Day along with their service at veteran's funerals and other ceremonies.
During the past year, Post 98 demonstrated true Minnesota hospitality and solidarity by extending a hand to union workers who were locked out of their jobs at the neighboring Marathon Refinery for more than six months during a contract dispute. Post 98 opened its doors to keep workers warm during bitter winter months and hosted food drives for all members of the community.
Led today by Commander John Dingle, Post 98 continues to be a prominent member of the community as well as a leader in service. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the members of the Richard Dingle American Legion Post 98 on its 100 years of service to veterans and the community.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 163
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