American Legion Greer Post #11 held its monthly meeting on August 17, 2023 with 29 members and eleven guests in attendance. John Crisman introduced his guest, Clark Crisman. John Slaba introduced his guest, brother Larry Slaba. Also in attendance were Legion and Teener coaches Matt Slaba and Sam Metzger. The coaches introduced six of their members who are in attendance tonight; Matt Link, Teddy Slaba, Corbin Slaba, brothers Brady, Joey and Carter Cournoyer and their father Joey. The coaches gave a brief rundown of their respective seasons and also a “thank you” for the Legion’s commitment to the program. Commander Clayton Rados then thanked the cooks for the delicious meal. Chaplain Don Kotab gave the invocation which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Preamble to the Constitution of the American Legion was recited by all members. Commander Rados then called the meeting to order.

Minutes – Adjutant Dave Isebrands read the minutes of our last meeting. The minutes were approved as read.

Treasurer’s Report – Treasurer Dan Gruenewald gave the treasurer’s report with the report approved as read.

Americanism – Americanism Officer Don Kotab stated he is already working on next year’s Boy State now that this year’s convention is over and has a commitment from one young man for next year.

Bingo – Discussion regarding that this year’s sessions may go past Christmas until the first of the year.

Baseball – Jerry Seiner stated that the coaches have been re-imbursed for the expenses they paid out of pocket for the insurance, hats, mileage, fees and registrations as well as a stipend to the coaches for their efforts. The Legion team finished 8-9 on the season. The players and coaches enjoyed the season and look forward to returning next year.

Service Officer – Service Officer Merle Stone was absent so no report.

Legion Riders- Director Bruce Specketer stated a meeting was held prior to tonight’s Legion meeting and everything is in order for this Labor Days’ Veteran Ride on Sunday. The Riders have received a thank you from the Midwest Honor Flight Program for the $500 donated to them from our Riders group from their fund raising efforts.

Veterans Service Officer – Veteran Service Officer Jerry Seiner stated that commissary benefits are available for any veteran with any level of service related disability. This is a lifetime benefit for those members. Call him for any questions. The State Fair will be offering free admission to veterans and service members on Thursday August 31st this year. Jerry is looking for drivers for the DAV program. A round of applause was given to Bob Kisely and Don Kotab who are retiring as current drivers. John Crisman has volunteered to be a new driver.

Old Business- Merle Stone took the Jeep to Scotland for the Stampede Days parade. Commander Clayton, Bob Kucera, Greg Geirman and LaVern Rezac accompanied him. Paul Kucera got the door in the Post needing repaired fixed..

New Business- The membership goal for our Post is 171. Some discussion ensued regarding the numbers The Legion will again have the food stand on Main Street for the Labor Day celebration. C&B have graciously offered to help with a Gator to help with food transportation to the stand from the Post. Mark Roberts will again provide a refrigerator for the stand. The Boy Scout trailer will again be used to store necessary items. More chips, chili sauce and forks will be needed this year as we ran out last year. Greg Mathis does the ordering and has contacted Buche’s already for this year’s celebration.

The District 8 meeting will be held on October 27th with a site to yet be determined. We will meet on the Friday before Labor Day weekend at 4:00 PM to place the flags in the park with setting up of the stand on Main Street to follow. We will retire the flags on Monday at 7:00 PM.

A “Thank You” from Vincent Bechen was read for choosing him to represent Wagner and our Post for Boys State this year. Also, Tom Langrehr gave a $100 donation to the club to use wherever it may be needed.

Monthly drawing winner was Leo Soukup. Chaplain Don Kotab gave the final prayer and we closed in due form.