American Legion in Edgerton honored Paul Ward for 50 years of service to the Edgerton “Kenneth Kingsley” Post.

Paul joined the Legion after he and his wife Ora Lee returned to Edgerton after living in Wisconsin for a few years. Paul served in the United States Air Force. He enlisted in July 1956. After his training he was stationed in Japan as part of the Fifth Communications Group at Gifu, Japan, and later in Okinawa and Taiwan.

When he returned to the United States, he was stationed at the Chandler Air Force Station, which is how he met his wife.

Throughout his years of service to the American Legion, Paul has served in several positions, but mostly as the treasurer.   As a member of the Legion, Paul has helped with all of their programs, which include the Memorial Day Program, the VEteran’s Day Program, Setting up the Avenue of Flags, and helping with military funerals.

He has also helped loan out the medical and hospital equipment that the Legion has available for people to use – things like walkers, canes, crutches, wheel chairs, and lift chairs.

“When people need these items, it is quite helpful to fill these needs rather than them having to purchase them,” Paul commented.

Paul’s major concern after 50 years of serving the American Legion is that they do not have enough members to carry on their services. He pointed out that they raise funds each year for Legionville and fund two $500 scholarships for seniors that attend high school at either Edgerton Public or Southwest MN Christian high schools.

Legionville is a summer camp and educational center run by The American Legion Department of Minnesota. It’s primarily focused on training school safety patrol and bus patrol officers, teaching them how to effectively manage school crossings and ensure student safety.

“In order to continue this post and these services, we need more veterans to join and to participate in th meetings and functions,” he said.

If you are are a veteran and are willing to serve, contact Legion Commander Duane Baker, Adjutant Cal Groen, or Treasurer Paul Ward.

“It’s really important to keep our post alive,” Paul said.