American Legion Post 62

On Saturday, March 6th, I had the good fortune of riding with members of Post 62.

We had come together to ride in support of the grand opening of the Pat Tillman American Legion Post 117, located at 16428 N 32nd St, Phoenix (south of Bell Rd).

We started assembling at approx 0930 that morning. We had some coffee, talked some about this-and-that, and looked at the latest changes to our bikes. At last count, there was at least 14 bikes there, or about 15-20 people present.

At 1000 hrs, we formulated the route and how to get there safely. One of the members has some experience with riding in groups and shared that with those present. Then it was time to mount up. It was an overcast day, and a little cool but it was expected to improve throughout the day.

We took Loop 101 North to AZ-51 South to Bell Rd and then 32nd St. The traffic was fair for that time of the day and, luckily, uneventful.

It appeared that we were the first group to arrive at Post 117. They were expecting a crowd, so they had a parking area established in a field just to the south to accommodate everyone.

We were greeted by the Post Commander and other member of the Post and Ladies Auxiliary. Post 117 was having a Silent Auction to benefit the Pat Tillman Boys & Girls State. In addition, they were also hosting a raffle; and there were door prizes. We didn’t come there for that, but it was a nice touch and I think we participated sufficiently.

The festivities also included music & karaoke entertainment. Because the place was small, if two people danced, you pretty much danced

(bumped) into/with everyone. I’m prohibited from participating in karaoke due to a restraining order filed by Sheriff Joe on behalf of animals everywhere (long story).

At 12 noon, the ribbon cutting and dedication started. There were various Legion Commanders from local Posts and State (white hats).

Part of the ceremony was to include Senator Jim Waring, but he was delayed for some reason. We didn’t wait for him– it started on time.

The flag was raised, and the ribbon was cut…and we were there.

After that, there was food to be eaten. ..Lasagna, meatballs, submarine (?) sandwich, veggies, etc…and it was good. Thanks once again to Post 117.

I would guesstimate that there were more Post 62 representatives than any other post (25-30), as more members continued to show up throughout the event. We reconnected with Legion members we knew, and embraced those we were meeting for the first time. Two such members traveled from California… I thought the place was crowded. I would guess the maximum capacity at 100 people, and we were probably 10 short of that; with some of the crowd out in the parking lot…and it had nothing to do with Fascinations next door?

And, as with anything that Post 62 supports, we also got a little “sumtin-sumtin.” We walked away with a good share of door prizes and raffle items.

It was a good day to be a member of Post 62… Dave Broyles