The Paden City American Legion Post 86 closed its canteen, or social quarters, Jan. 3, but leaders want to be sure members and area residents know that does not mean the post is ceasing any of its other activities.

“As unfortunate as this is, we, as a Legion Family, will continue to support our Veterans, their families, and our community,” said Post 86 Adjutant Art Oger and Auxiliary Unit 86 President Susan Wade in a letter to the American Legion Family. The charters for all of the Paden City American Legion organizations are not in jeopardy in any way.

“The canteen is just one project of the post,” explained Oger. “It does not define the American Legion. “The canteen has been a losing operation for many months,” said the letter. “The Post Executive Committee regrets this action, but we no longer have the assets to subsidize us any longer.” While the Paden City canteen is closed, that program is still available. All legion members are always welcome at any canteens across the United States and around the world. They simply need to present their membership card for entry.

Some of the post’s other programs include The Gettysburg Address Contest, Boys’ State, high school awards, Governor’s Flag Program, and the important task of presenting the colors at home football games.

The auxiliary will continue with their programs as well. Some of their endeavors are Girls’ State, Children and Youth programs, National Security, Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation; Poppies; Membership Program; Community Service, and much more. They also provided gifts for four families for Christmas and gave out food and fruit baskets for Thanksgiving and Christmas. In November they always honor area teachers during National Education Week.

Indeed, the scope of Legion work is far-reaching and worthwhile. For those programs and more the post still needs member participation and support.

Membership, participation, and community support are key in keeping the projects going. Veterans of at least one day of active duty during recognized American military conflicts and their families are welcome to join the Legion Family at any time. The post holds meeting on the second Monday of each month, 7 p.m., at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church. Membership is $27 per year and veterans must fill out an application and present discharge papers (DD214).

Auxiliary meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at the Paden City Senior Citizens Building beginning at 6 p.m. Membership is $15 per year. Auxiliary members must have a great-grandfather, grandfather, father, husband, brother, son, or grandchild who served in the military during recognized times of conflict. (Step relatives are eligible.) They may also qualify by having served, themselves. If the relative who served during the eligible time period is alive, they must be a member of the American Legion somewhere.

Sons of the American Legion Squadron is sponsored by Post 86. It offers membership to males who meet the same requirements of the auxiliary. That body operates under the auspices of the post while the auxiliary is a separate entity.

“We pray that our members will continue to support us in fund raising and all the programs that we have contributed to throughout the years,” said Oger and Wade. “We deeply appreciate your loyalty and continued support.”