On August 9, 1919, twenty-eight local veterans gathered in Menomonie and organized the American Legion post that would become Hosford-Chase Post 32.

The original handwritten minutes survive today and record that applications were received from 28 “ex-service men,” who immediately became members. They elected officers, formed committees, began recruiting additional veterans, and started planning activities associated with the Dunn County Fair.

The founders temporarily referred to the organization as the “Dunn County Post” while they worked to include veterans from communities throughout the county before selecting a permanent name.

Five days later, the August 14, 1919 edition of the Dunn County News announced, “AMERICAN LEGION POST IS FORMED.” By that time, the newspaper listed 47 men who had signed membership applications. The names represented Menomonie and communities throughout Dunn County.

The Post’s number also tells part of the story. Wisconsin American Legion post numbers were assigned sequentially as posts applied for charters. Post No. 32 reflects how early Dunn County veterans became involved in the American Legion movement. The permanent name Hosford-Chase was adopted later.

Today Post 32 is working to create opportunities for veterans to connect with one another and with the community.

Recent and developing activities include:

• Legionnaire Night at Wakanda Park this past June with the Menomonie American Legion Baseball Team

• Coffee & Conversation informal gatherings being planned for area veterans

• Support for Youth: Badger Boys State, scholarships, American Legion Baseball

• Our Veterans’ Stories Project: to preserve veterans’ experiences and family histories

• Veterans Fly Casting Social planned for this fall

The Post is also working to strengthen relationships with community organizations, public safety agencies, local veterans groups, schools, and other organizations serving veterans and families.

The goal is much the same as it was in 1919: bring veterans together, serve the community, and make sure the next generation has an opportunity to carry that work forward.

Post 32 welcomes veterans who may not have previously considered joining the American Legion. Anyone who served at least one day of active duty and received an honorable discharge may be eligible for American Legion membership. (Note: this reflects new eligibility requirements). Post 32 can help with the application process.

Dues are currently $45/year. Meetings are held every other month at Stout Craft Co (1501 N Broadway).

Veterans interested in Post 32, its activities, or American Legion membership can email me at [email protected]

Jon Brutlag lives in Menomonie and serves as the Commander of Hosford-Chase American Legion Post 32.

Source: submitted article