During World War II, Goenner spent 2 ½ years in the infantry. Once home he knew he wanted to stay in touch with other veterans, so he looked into both the American Legion and the VFW. He chose the Clear Lake Legion and has been a member there ever since.

 

“More people were eligible to be in the Legion,” Goenner explained. “And out here in the country you gotta take everyone you can get.”

 

Three years later he married his wife, Lou, and she joined the American Legion Auxiliary shortly after. Together they spent a lot of time over the years at the Legion, going there to eat and meeting with other vets. 

 

“It was an outing,” said Lou Goenner. “He’s really enjoyed it. We both have.”

 

Jan. 30, the Clear Lake Legion held a ceremony to thank and congratulate Goenner for his 70 continuous years of membership.

 

After a brief speech, Clear Lake Legion members Bud Stimmler and Chuck Hoese presented Goenner with a plaque and gift certificate. He was then honored with a salute. 

 

“This is an amazing feat,” explained Bud Stimmler, Legion member. “Very few others in the state have done this.”

 

The Clear Lake Legion, which had been close to being shut down just three years ago, currently boasts 66 members with more joining on a regular basis. The Legion family consists of the American Legion, the Sons of the American Legion, and the American Legion Auxiliary. Together these groups hold several fundraisers throughout the year with the money raised being donated back to veterans, including the St. Cloud VA patient Christmas party, the VA pheasant dinner for veterans and donations to individual veterans in need. Along with the Clearwater American Legion they also provide a color guard for local veterans funerals.

 

The Clear Lake American Legion meets at the Palmer Town Hall the second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. They are always looking for new members and all are welcome.

 

If interested in becoming a member or learning more about the Clear Lake American Legion, call Bud Stimmler at 320-761-5793.