The veterans of the Wiley B. Murray Post will hold its next American Legion meeting on Thursday, November 13th.
New Officers for the 20252026 Year:
• Commander: Jan K. Huffstetler • 1st Vice Commander: C. K. Stephenson
• 2nd Vice Commander: Johnny L. Holder
• Adjutant/Service Officer: Ross J. Cox, Sr.
• Sgt. At Arms: William J. Temples
• Aide de Camp: Dewey L. Hulme
The Legion hall will open its doors at 5:30 PM. A potluck meal is scheduled to be served at 6:30 PM. Members are encouraged to bring their favorite Mexican main or side dish. Other complimentary dishes, such as bread, salad, or dessert, are also welcome. Following the meal, a brief business meeting will be held.
Featured Program: Reflections on World War II and the Pacific Theater
The upcoming American Legion meeting will feature a special program presented by John Craig Stencil, focusing on World War II and the Pacific Theater. The presentation will provide an in-depth look at significant events and milestones, including the conclusion of nearly four years of intense combat in the Pacific, which officially ended on September 2nd of this year. Additionally, Stencil will highlight the approaching 84th anniversary of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, an event that changed the course of history and marked the United States' entry into World War II.
Historical Overview
The victory in the Pacific was achieved through tremendous sacrifice. Nearly two million U.S. troops served in the region, with 108,656 losing their lives in action. The campaign produced five future presidents and saw the awarding of 220 Medals of Honor, underscoring the magnitude of the service and heroism displayed.
Personal Stories and Pearl Harbor
During the program, Stencil will share personal stories about his father, who served in the military and was present during the Japanese surprise attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This devastating event resulted in the deaths of 2,403 U.S. troops and left 1,178 wounded. The attack led to significant losses, including eight ships—five of which were battleships—being destroyed or beached, as well as 374 aircraft either destroyed or damaged.
The new history books are now available for those Legionnaires who ordered one. The book is nearly 100 pages and details the over a century of service in the community. The book comes on the heels of the recent Texas Historical subject marker about the post now located at the City National Bank.
Post History Book Availability
Legionnaires who placed orders for the new post history book are invited to pick up their copies during the meeting. This comprehensive volume, totaling nearly 100 pages, chronicles more than a century of dedicated service to the community.
The release of this book coincides with the installation of the Texas Historical marker at the City National Bank, further commemorating the legacy of the post. In addition to individual orders, copies of the history book will be donated to the local public library, as well as to each of the three school libraries within the county, ensuring broader access and preservation of the post's rich history.
The American Legion would like to remind the public to utilize the flag drop box for all worn flags that need to be retired. The drop box is located between the library and the police department, across from the courthouse.