The Becker American Legion, Post 193, met last Thursday and took action to continue to support community causes.

As they do each meeting, the Legion members began their meeting by saluting the flag and then reciting the Preamble to the Constitution of the American Legion.  That document begins: 

“For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations in all wars; to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will on earth; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.”

From there, Commander John Riebel welcomed their first visitor, Becker Food Shelf Coordinator Marilyn Danielson.  She explained some of the changes her organization has implemented in the past few months and noted that demand remains strong.  The members then unanimously approved a $1,000 donation to the food shelf, and Danielson noted that because it is the month of March, that donation will receive matching funds.

Becker Robotics Head Coach Alex Jurek then addressed the members, asking for their support in early April to come and present the colors at the Inaugural Granite City Robotics Regional in St. Cloud.  Jurek explained that he has been working to bring the prestigious event to the area for nearly a decade and it will shine a spotlight on the amazing robotics programs in Central Minnesota.  He said that he, the coaches and the entire team would like nothing more than to have the Becker post at the opening ceremony to present the colors in front of thousands of people.  

The members responded that out of courtesy they will inform the St. Cloud Legion Posts and then get back to Jurek with concrete plans.

The Becker American Legion has been in existence for over 100 years and continues to welcome and seek new members to keep the tradition alive, including with the local chapter of the SAL, or Sons of the American Legion.