Sabattus American Legion recently held its annual installation of Post and Auxiliary Unit officers for 2018-19. The installation began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the recognition of the POW-MIA chair displayed at the front of the meeting room. The empty chair honors those who are not present by reason of being missing since their time in war.

The first event of the day was the installation of the Legion Auxiliary Officers for 2018-19, conducted by Joan Caron.

2018-19 Unit 135 Auxiliary Officers, front from left are Joan Fournier, sergeant at arms; Jennifer Caron, first vice president; Denise Michaud, president; Debra Devoe, chaplain; Cheryl Shearer, second vice president; and Teresa Bradford, secretary/treasurer). 2018-2019 Post 135 Legion Officers, back from left are Jim Rancourt, adjutant; Amedeo Lauria, service officer; Anthony Culpovich, finance officer; Donald Caron, first vice commander; Joseph Michaud, commander; David Devoe, chaplain; Harvey Moses, sergeant-at-arms; Joe Tetreault, second vice commander; Gordon Smith, historian; and Dominic Santomango, Americanism officer. Contributed photo by Sabattus American Legion

The officers were presented with a pin and sash that signifies the office of their appointment.

The following officers were installed to the Harry J. Conway Post 135 Auxiliary: Denise Michaud, president; Jennifer Caron, first vice president; Cheryl Shearer, second vice president; Teresa Bradford, secretary/treasurer; Debra Devoe, chaplain; and Joan Fournier, sergeant-at-arms;

After the installation of the Auxiliary Officers, Ron Caron was present to lead the installation of Post Legion officers. He is a member, and former post commander, of the Sabattus post. He also is a past department historian. He was assisted in the installation by Kirk Thurston, Rumford Post 24, who acted as his installation sergeant-at arms and David Devoe, post chaplain, acted as installation chaplain.

Each new officer was brought forward by the sergeant-at arms as Caron read their responsibilities and congratulated them on the appointment.

The 2018-19 Sabattus Harry J Conway American Legion Post 135 officers are Joseph Michaud, post commander Don Caron, first vice commander; Joseph Tetreault reappointed second vice commander; James Rancourt, reappointed adjutant; Anthony “Tony” Culpovich, reappointed finance officer; Harvey Moses, re-elected sergeant-at-arms; Gordon Smith returning as post historian; Amedeo Lauria returning as the post service officer; and Dominic Santomango elected Americanism officer.

At the conclusion of the installation, Michaud, the new commander, was reminded by the installing officer that he has the duty of seeing that no one is turned away and is guided by the decisions of members. Caron then presented him with the gavel of his office.

During his speech, the incoming commander talked about the accomplishments of the post and the way ahead for the next year. He envisions a wider array of post programs, increased membership and to continue to make the post a great place from which to serve local veterans and our community.

Those who are eligible wartime veterans, and are interested in learning more about the American Legion, can visit americanlegionpost135.sabattus.net.

For more information, contact Lauria at 375-4004.