It took a year longer than originally planned, but the Becker American Legion was able to celebrate its milestone birthday last Saturday, as a good crowd showed up to mark Post 193’s 101st year in existence. An original celebration planned for last year had been postponed due to the pandemic, but this year many veterans and their families showed up to honor a century’s worth of service to the Becker community.

In addition to a spaghetti dinner with all the fixings, the attendees were able to take a walk through the history of the local club, as pictures and newspaper clippings were on display in the meeting area. Also on display were military uniforms symbolizing the many eras in which Becker residents have served in the country’s Armed Forces.

Post Commander John Riebel welcomed the veterans and their families, while Sons of the American Legion (SAL) Chaplain Andrew Lee led the group in prayer before the meal was served.

Riebel took time to honor several Legion members who were in attendance who have served the organization for over 50 years. Don Hansen was recognized for his 64 years of membership, as he joined the Legion several years after returning from his Army service during the Korean War. Eugene Kolbinger, also an Army Veteran, was honored for his 53 years of service. Mike Weir, 51 years, and Bill Smith, 50 years, were also acknowledged for their decades of membership.

The Becker American Legion, Oscar Peterson Post 193, was originally issued a charter in November of 1920.  The original document lists 15 veterans responsible for the formation of the post: Chas. Rush, Albert Swanson, Harry Spindler, Robert Haberman, James Dore, Charlie Nelson, Vance Kolbinger, Andrew Kolbinger, Louis Beck, Samuel Wells, William Eppard, Roy Thompson, Nels Peter Nelson, Alfred Christensen and Theodore Thompson.

Riebel says there are currently approximately 90 members, but the post is always looking for additional members to help carry the mission. The legion coordinates many important community activities, including having a presence at veteran’s funerals. The post also presents the colors at BHS football games and helps celebrate Memorial Day at many area cemeteries each year.

Any veterans interested in membership can contact John Riebel. Meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. and adhere to a strict one hour time limit.

On behalf of the entire community, congratulations to the Becker American Legion for 100 plus years of service to the Becker area!