To The Reader’s Forum:

Today we celebrate the arrival of the United States of America onto the world stage. As a member of American Legion Auxiliary Samuel L. Derby Post 556, I want to personally thank all servicemembers of the Armed Forces of the United States of America for their innumerable contributions to protecting our freedoms and keeping our nation safe.

I also want to thank the families of deployed servicemembers for their strength and their sacrifice. Our country is great because of you. In your honor, I want to invite everyone in the local communities to take a moment with me today and pause in recognition of those who have fought and those who continue to fight for our freedom. As you enjoy the picnics and fireworks with your friends and family, remember those who went on before and who serve now to continue to make sure we have our independence.

Founded in 1919, the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) helps to advance the mission of The American Legion. With nearly three-quarters of a million members, it is the world’s largest women’s patriotic service organization and one of the nation’s most prominent supporters of veterans, military, and their families. ALA members volunteer millions of hours annually, with a value averaging $2 billion each year. From helping to draft the GI Bill in 1944 to advocating for veterans on Capitol Hill, The American Legion Family has been instrumental in advancing legislation that improves the quality of life for our nation’s veterans. To learn more and get involved, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org.

May God bless you all.

Candy Johnson

Jamestown

Auxiliary secretary/historian

Frewsburg American Legion Post 556