(Cutline: New York State American Legion Department Commander Keith Koster tells Andover’s Fred L. Kelley Jr., “You have performed one of the most sacred duties entrusted to our Legion family — honoring deceased veterans with dignity and respect.” John Anderson photo)
By JOHN ANDERSON
During the annual Allegany County American Legion Testimonial Dinner in Belmont on Monday night, the audience heard a lot of moving speeches and the importance of keeping the fundamental values of the American Legion, Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary going.
All three hosted the Allegany County American Legion event at the Herbert W. Delong American Legion Post #808.
After the speeches, gifts and dinner, there was one special recognition.
The Andover American Legion Lynch/Burgett Post #397 had strong showing at the county event.
And to their surprise, the final honor of the night went to Andover’s Fred L. Kelley Jr., for his “Outstanding Dedication and Distinguished Career with The American Legion.”
New York State American Legion Department Commander Keith Koster honored Kelley.
“Your exemplary service includes roles as Allegany County Commander, Post Commander of Lynch-Burgett Post #397, and Aide to the Eighth District Commander. Through your steadfast commitment, you have upheld the values of The American Legion and contributed greatly to its mission,” Koster said. “As a dedicated member of the Honor Guard, you have performed one of the most sacred duties entrusted to our Legion family — honoring deceased veterans with dignity and respect. Your unwavering presence at military funerals, memorial services, and community events has ensured that our fallen heroes receive the tribute they so richly deserve. By standing in solemn respect for those who have served our nation, you have reminded all of the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice that defines our veterans.”
Koster, who talked about the need to keep numbers strong, commended Kelly for his work. The post in Andover is inside the Andover Community Center on East Greenwood Street.
“During your tenure as County Commander, your exceptional leadership resulted in a year marked by remarkable achievements,” Koster said. “Your faithful attendance at Legion Conferences and expertise on both Legion traditions and current issues have made you a trusted and respected voice within our organization. Your contributions exemplify the highest ideals of service, leadership, and devotion to community and country.”
Koster presented Kelley with a plaque that said “with sincere thanks and appreciation for work well done” and the date, Feb. 17, 2025.
Allegany County Legislative Chairman W. Brooke Harris and Allegany County Legislator Dwight “Mike” Healy also honored Kelley with a proclamation from the county. Healy is also the Allegany County American Legion Commander.
“We wanted to recognize Fred Kelley on behalf of the county government for his service to Allegany County over the years,” Healy said. “Not just the American Legion and veterans, but to the entire community.”
Kelley received a standing ovation from the crowd.
The Andover American Legion post was organized in 1921 and was named in honor of Sgt. Thomas M. Lynch, the first Andover man to be killed in action in World War I. On October 1946, the name was changed to the Lynch-Burgett Post, thus honoring also the first Andover man killed in World War II.
From left, Allegany County legislative Chairman W. Brooke Harris, Fred L. Kelley Jr. of the Andover American Legion Lynch/Burgett Post #397, Allegany County American Legion Commander Dwight “Mike” Healy and New York State American Legion Department Commander Keith Koster. Photo by Ella Green @ella.green_photos
