Photos: Awards honor White, Black, Winans, Farmer
From Post 702, pictured is the Lady’s Auxiliary
Morrison Hayes Post 702 American Legion family celebrated the 107th Birthday of the American Legion by Commander Yvonne Simmons opening the evening with remarks that included, “we are gathered to celebrate the birthday of this great organization that has stood as a pillar of patriotism, service, and dedication to our nation since March 15, 1919”, “what truly makes the American Legion special is not the buildings or the charters – it is the people”, “It is the veterans who stepped forward to serve our nation, it is the members who volunteer their time for their communities.” She finished by saying “God bless our veterans, God bless the American Legion and God bless the United States of America”. Opening prayer was done by Unit 702 ALA chaplain JoAnne White, then everyone enjoyed a fabulous meal done by L’Italia. After the meal, the following awards were presented.
Post 702 AL Rider Director Bob Toney awarded the 2025 Rider of the year to Dennis White – Sets the example of what an American Legion Rider should be, actively participates in AL Flag Day Ceremony, Most nobly volunteers hundreds of hours for the Reclamation/Maintenance of the Johnson Cemetery including the installation of a new flagpole and entrance sign for the cemetery in 2025. Has taken the lead on Rider Chicken BBQ and annual Holiday Nursing Home Visits.
SAL Squadron Commander Greg Elliott awarded the 2025 SAL Member of the year to Brian Black – He has been a member for 26 years and has held the positions of Commander, 2nd Vice, Adjutant and most recently being 1st Vice and maintaining the very tedious membership for the Sons. Brian has worked countless hours on Fish Fry’s, Clam Bakes, Leek Dinners, Chicken Wings, etc.
Unit 702 ALA President Smith awarded the 2025 Auxiliary Member of the year to Kelly Winans – she demonstrated unwavering dedication to the principals and mission of the American Legion Auxiliary and her commitment extends far beyond attending meetings Her positive attitude and attention to detail inspire those around her and reflect the best of our organization. Her current position for the Unit is 1st Vice, Membership Chairman which for 2026 have already reached our paid membership goal per NYS Department.
Post 702 Commander Yvonne Simmons awarded 2025 Legionnaire of the year to Tom Farmer – he is a proud veteran of the United State Army and currently serves as 3rd Vice Commander and House Committee officer. Tom is the kind of person every organization hopes to have and treats the Post like his home away from home. Tom was also a big part of the new addition in the social quarters, helping improve the appearance and function of our Post for years to come.
These 4 award winners are more than deserving for helping the American Legion Family with our Mission. Congratulations to all of the winners. The evening finished off with SAL Chaplain Dennis White doing a closing prayer and everyone joining hands and singing God Bless America.
