American Legion Open House is Dec. 9

Editor's note: The following is a press release issued by the Plainfield American Legion:

Plainfield American Legion Post 13 is gearing up for a membership open house event from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday Dec. 9. This event is open to all military service persons both active and veterans. 
 
Organizers hope the event will rekindle a faded spark of interest in the American Legion, especially those veterans who served in the Vietnam war and the many Middle East conflicts. 
 
Currently Post 13 has about 279 members, most of which are inactive, according to Commander Gary Taylor. However, Taylor explained few members are veterans of the more recent wars. 
 
“Our ultimate goal is new members,” said Vice-Commander Donald Bennett. To qualify for acceptance in the American Legion, one must serve actively in the military during years that are considered wartime. The most recent qualification period stretches from 1990 to today, and encompasses the United States’ ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Bennett confirmed that the Legion is especially interested in attracting veterans both male and female from the Vietnam war era through the Middle East period. However, he stressed his organization is happy to induct anyone who qualifies, no matter what age. 
 
The open house will include a brief history of the American Legion and Post 13, along with its commitment to the Plainfield-area veterans and all veterans who have served our great country. 

However, Bennett stresses there will be no arm twisting during the event and guests only need to be involved if they would like. Current members and post representatives will be on hand to answer specific questions from individuals. 
 
Light refreshments will be served and beverages will be available from the legion's newly opened bar. 
 
All veterans are asked to consider coming to the open house, as The American Legion is the place to help your buddy and for your buddy to help you. Founded in 1919, it is the largest veterans organization in the United States with over three million members.