American Legion Post 634 honors members
WARSAW – The American Legion Post 634 in Warsaw wanted to make sure the accomplishments of two of its late members are never forgotten.
The organization accomplished this goal by placing a bench with the names of John Staser and “Doc” James Walker in front of the Warsaw Museum.
“This recognizes and honors the excellent leadership and accomplishments they did in our community,” said Gary Kilpatrick, finance officer of Post 634.
Staser was a barber, trustee and commander of Post 634 for 20 years. He also placed flags, from the Coshocton County Veterans Service Office, on military men and women’s graves every Memorial Day at different cemeteries in the area.
Walker was the Post 634 finance officer, got 4-H clubs involved in putting flags on the graves of veterans for Memorial Day and was the first and only veterinarian in Warsaw.
“I’m very proud of him and I know if he was here he would be very happy,” said Jim Walker, the son of “Doc” and third vice of Post 634.
“Doc’s” grandson James Walker and Staser’s nephew Tim Shrimplin, the flag master for Post 634 also were on hand to watch the dedication of the bench.
The bench honoring these two men was made by FFA students at River View High School and was proudly accepted by Dale Davis, president of the Walhonding Valley Historical Society and a member of Post 634.
“It’s an honor to have it here,” said Davis, after the bench was placed on the museum’s front porch. “We appreciate it gentlemen and will take care of it.”
The post honored Staser and “Doc” during its April 17 meeting and also presented Ernest R. Norris with the American Legion Certificate of Continuous membership for 60 years of service.
“The Legion is real important to me,” Norris said. “I don’t get to come to all of the meetings, but I come when I can. This certificate is a real honor.”
Norris has worked for North American Aviation, Pope Gosser, Stone Container and the Walhonding Valley Fire Department.
“Here at the Warsaw Post 634 we are certainly proud and it’s an honor for Ernest Norris to have been a member for 60 years,” Kilpatrick said. “Congratulations and keep up the excellent dedication. It’s a milestone that very few achieve.”
The post currently has 44 members.
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